Your vote will be very important in these elections, show us, tell us, what kind of future you want for Georgia. With these words the President of Georgia addressed the diaspora.
“Today is May 27th, and as usual, it was expected to be Diaspora Day. However, it seems that a decision was made not to celebrate Diaspora Day this year for reasons unknown to me. Nonetheless, as the president of this country, I firmly believe that the more than one million of our compatriots living abroad are integral to the development of our nation; they are our citizens, and it is unacceptable not to celebrate Georgia’s independence with them on the day following May 26th.
I"m aware that many of you observed the celebrations in Tbilisi and other cities yesterday. I trust you’re also familiar with my plans for our society and my vision for the coming months to guide us through the current situation. The diaspora is integral to this plan. We’ve never witnessed such active participation from our diaspora as we do today, particularly evident in various European capitals. While those of you in different European countries or the US might have been less engaged in our past elections, your involvement is now crucial in determining our country’s direction, whether towards a European future closely allied with our partners or an isolated Georgia leaning towards neo-Russia. Your role in this decision-making process will be essential. I believe your concern and interest will drive you to participate directly, shaping more than just elections but a referendum on our country’s future.
I would never interfere in election matters beyond ensuring their fairness, as it’s not the president’s role. However, the constitution grants me the mandate and obligation to protect our country’s course, its orientation, and European integration. It’s my duty to do everything within my power to support and maintain this European integration path, as explicitly stated in the Constitution. I am committed to this responsibility and will continue to fulfill it with you. I have faith in you.
The full mobilization of our diaspora is crucial; our future lies in your hands. Your vote is significant, and we eagerly anticipate your participation, whether you return to Georgia or engage from your current country of residence. Show us and share with us the kind of future you envision for Georgia”, - said Salome Zourabichvili.