Irakli Kirtskhalia: We are open to discussions based on the principle of equality; we desire European integration, but not at the cost of our sovereignty
We desire European integration, but not at the cost of our sovereignty. While European integration is our constitutional choice, the pursuit of such integration does not negate Georgia’s authority—as an independent state—to protect its own constitutional order, cultural identity, and democratic institutions. This statement was made by Irakli Kirtskhalia, leader of the parliamentary majority, during a plenary session of Parliament.
According to Kirtskhalia, events that unfolded last week have once again highlighted fundamental contradictions existing within the relationship between Georgia and the European Union.
In this context, Kirtskhalia drew attention to the European Commission’s new report, noting that it contains entirely baseless and unsubstantiated assessments regarding the judicial system, legislative amendments, and ongoing political processes in the country. Irakli Kirtskhalia also commented on the visit of the Vice President of the People's Republic of China, stating that the Georgian government is prepared to further deepen these relations at all levels.
"First of all, I would like to address the visit of the Vice President of the People's Republic of China to Georgia and highlight the significance of this high-level visit within the context of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Georgia and China. On behalf of our parliamentary team, I wish to convey to our partners that we value and cherish this high-level relationship, and that we remain committed to further deepening it at all levels.
Furthermore, the events that unfolded last week have once again brought to light the fundamental contradictions that exist within the relationship between Georgia and the European Union.
These contradictions are not limited to specific laws, the European Commission’s report, or diplomatic statements. The issue runs much deeper, concerning state sovereignty, the significance of a democratic mandate, the protection of national interests, and the principles governing relations with international partners.
Georgia’s European integration is our constitutional choice; however, the pursuit of European integration does not negate Georgia’s authority—as an independent state—to safeguard its own constitutional order, cultural identity and democratic institutions.
The latest European Commission report has once again highlighted significant differences between the positions of the Georgian government and the current institutions of the European Union. The report presents entirely unfounded and unsubstantiated assessments regarding the judicial system, legislative amendments, and the political processes currently unfolding in the country.
The European Commission’s report raises several fundamental political questions that require direct answers: Who makes decisions in Georgia? Who determines our laws? And where does the line lie between partnership and interference in the affairs of a sovereign state?
In exchange for European integration, we are being asked to repeal laws—such as the law on transparency, anti-LGBT legislation, laws concerning family values, and legislation on the protection of minors—yet no one has asked the Georgian people whether they wish for these laws to be repealed.
There is talk of "unfairly detained" individuals—but who are these "unfairly detained" persons? Are they the very individuals whom the European Court has confirmed to be the architects of a system of torture?! Who are these "prisoners of conscience"? The very people who maimed police officers and attacked state institutions during protests orchestrated from the outside?! In the homeland of Merab Kostava, the designation "prisoner of conscience" carries profound historical and moral significance. It cannot be used as a mere political label to substitute for actual evidence.
We are open to discussions based on the principle of equality; our aspiration is European integration, but not at the cost of our sovereignty. A prerequisite for dialogue must be [respect for] Georgia’s independence and constitutional order”, said Irakli Kirtskhalia.
