MEP Andrius Kubilius: Georgia needs effective parliament

16:47, 10.12.2020

I always say that it’s better to negotiate strategic issues instead of refusing to negotiate, the member of European Parliament Andrius Kubilius wrote on Facebook.

“Our beloved Georgia is still at a political crossroads. It is not long since the parliamentary elections are over. International observers said the election was competitive, although there were many shortcomings. The opposition called these shortcomings serious and demanded new elections. The ruling Georgian Dream party, led by Bidzina Ivanishvili, has refused to comply with such a request from the opposition. The opposition, which will own 60 seats out of 150 in the new Parliament, threatens to boycott the new parliament,” Andrius Kubilius wrote.

According to him, the EU and US ambassadors facilitated a dialogue between the ruling and opposition parties to avoid a deep political crisis.

“During these weeks, I have personally talked to representatives of Georgian political parties – both ruling and opposition. I always say that it’s better to negotiate strategic issues instead of refusing to negotiate. Unfortunately, as far as I know, it has become impossible to reach a final consensus in Tbilisi. Although significant progress has been made, in particular in changing the election law, no agreement has been reached on holding new elections,” Kubilius said in a statement posted on social media.

He notes that now is an important period for Georgia on its path to Euro-Atlantic integration. “In my opinion, we can not forget another important argument in favor of why Georgian parties should agree on the effective work of the parliament: this is a special period on the path of Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration. International media reports that NATO Headquarters is considering granting a NATO Membership Action Plan to Georgia shortly. For its part, Georgia’s ruling party has said it is ready to submit a formal application to the European Commission in 2024 to begin EU membership talks. It is a big and important goal that needs consensus between the parties. NATO and EU integration agenda is strengthening. It is a historical opportunity for the state of Georgia. An effective parliament is needed in Georgia to make effective use of these opportunities. Both the ruling party and the opposition are responsible for this,” Andrius Kubilius added.

By - Tamar Tabatadze

Politics

Andrius Kubilius