“We did not refuse to provide grants to the British Embassy. The Ambassador personally met with me, and we discussed legislative regulations,” Head of the Anti-Corruption Bureau Razhden Kuprashvili said.

Speaking to journalists, Kuprashvili clarified that the Bureau has no authority over the approval of grant expenditures. He explained that the Bureau is only responsible for monitoring how grant funds are used, not for approving them.

“We have clarified all relevant regulations. It is important to note that the education sector, humanitarian aid, and economic initiatives are entirely exempt from the FARA obligations. Regarding the expenditure of the grant funds, this is not within the discretion of the Anti-Corruption Bureau. The decision lies with the government. It is the government that receives applications for approval and issues consent before spending the funds. Our role is to oversee the proper and intended use of the funds, ensuring they are spent correctly. I cannot specify who should or should not give consent, as this is solely at the discretion of the government,” stated Razhden Kuprashvili.

Kuprashvili also noted that the meeting with the British Ambassador, initiated by the Embassy itself, was held to learn about the Bureau’s policies.

“The purpose of the meeting with us was to introduce them to our policies. They found the discussion engaging. Since they initiated the meeting, I view it as a very positive development and welcome their proactive engagement. I have held numerous meetings with representatives of diplomatic missions. Additionally, I would like to note that through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomats are officially informed about the benefits and freedoms established by the FARA law. We have made every effort to ensure that all this information is accessible to them,” stated Razhden Kuprashvili.