Georgia has already achieved a lot on the path of European integration, but everything can be lost in the blink of an eye. Such a statement the Lithuanian Foreign Minister made at the joint briefing after the meeting with the President of Georgia.
“In a free world, the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms as well as civil society are critical assets, not liabilities. Only non-democratic regimes see repression as a way to maintain power. I sincerely hope that Georgia will not go in this direction. The first day of our arrival here is to express our support and solidarity towards all those who are fighting for the democratic and European choice of Georgia, for the European future of Georgia. Georgia belongs to the Georgian people and it should not be hijacked by anyone. Our second goal is to send a very clear message to the representatives of the ruling party, both in the parliament and in the government - Georgia will face risks and serious consequences if they continue to follow this very dangerous course. Georgia has already achieved a lot on the path of European integration and has never been so close to opening EU accession negotiations as it did last December, after the European Council decided to grant Georgia candidate status on the understanding that it would take into account the remaining recommendations.
However, neither past achievements nor future prospects can be taken for granted, too many years and many efforts have been needed, but everything can be lost in the blink of an eye. It is our duty to tell it to you as it is. Let me be very clear - the adoption of the foreign agents law, as well as continued pressure on Georgian civil society, will halt Georgia’s progress towards the EU and NATO”, - said Gabrielius Landsbergis.