It is hypocrisy to express concern about a “democratic backsliding” while at the same time encouraging radical forces that reject elections; to claim support for the Georgian people while demonstratively distancing oneself from the government elected by that same people; and to speak about the rule of law while simultaneously seeking ways to bypass law and justice — this is what Georgia’s Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maka Bochorishvili stated in her speech at the 135th session of the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers.

In her address, the minister noted that criticism is a natural part of democracy, “however, when political goals are placed above facts, it no longer serves to strengthen democracy, but rather to undermine trust.”

She also focused on media freedom, noting that representatives of three Georgian television channels were denied entry to Moldova and were prevented from carrying out their professional duties while attempting to cover the Council of Europe ministerial session.

“Today, journalists from three different Georgian television stations who wished to cover our meeting were denied entry to Moldova and the ability to carry out their professional activities. It is concerning when freedom of expression and media freedom are interpreted selectively,” Bochorishvili said.

The minister also spoke about the situation in Georgia’s occupied territories, emphasizing Russia’s disregard for international obligations and steps toward the annexation of Georgian regions.

“Occupation, effective control, and Russia’s responsibility for serious human rights violations have been confirmed by international courts, including the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights. Despite this, Russia continues to disregard its international obligations and is taking steps toward the annexation of Georgian regions. Evidence of this is the so-called ‘Treaty on Alliance and Strategic Partnership,’ signed on May 9, 2026, in Moscow and Tskhinvali between the Russian occupation regime,” the Foreign Minister stated.

She also spoke about the challenges facing Europe, noting that war and conflict are not the only threats undermining the foundations on which Europe is built.

At the same time, she highlighted the ongoing war in Ukraine and stressed that no country can be truly secure if international law is applied selectively.

“Today, as war continues in Ukraine, we see even more clearly that no country can be truly secure if international law is applied selectively, if occupation over time becomes a ‘new normal,’ and if force is placed above law.”

In conclusion, the Vice Prime Minister reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflicts and stressed that the country is doing everything to maintain peace, stability, and security in the region.

“We know the price of war well and understand that peace is not only the absence of military escalation, but also responsibility toward one’s own people, the region, and the common European future,” Bochorishvili stated.