Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvii Monday said “now is maybe a time when the Western society and democratic society could really send a sign of solidarity to the Ukrainian people but also to the people of Georgia and Moldova in their aspiration to become part of the European family.”

During a press point with his Norwegian colleague Masud Gharahkhani, Papuashvili continued: “And to send the right signals to Russia that democratic aspirations of the people and aspirations to be the part of democratic society could not be prevented by any country.”

The Speaker believes “traditions Norway has in a parliamentary democracy are something you can share with us and we can learn a lot from your experience.”

“Norway is one of the closest partners of Georgia in the framework of NATO, and of course, the biggest supporter of Georgia and building of the Georgian military and we appreciate this support. Georgia, as a country still in the transition, really appreciates the support from Norway in the development of democratic institutions and the Georgian people really appreciate this support.

Speaking about the regional and security challenges, you mentioned that we both visited Ukraine and met our colleague. I think it is important that this development which was, on the one hand, maybe not so easy to predict; On the other hand, it was something which could be predicted. Having in mind the Russian aggression against Georgia in 2008, Russia’s aggression in Ukraine in 2014 but still, now is maybe a time when the Western society and democratic society could really send a sign of solidarity to the Ukrainian people but also to the people of Georgia and Moldova in their aspiration to become part of the European family and to send the right signals to Russia that democratic aspirations of the people and aspirations to be the part of democratic society could not be prevented by any country. So, in this regard, I again thank you, Norway and the Norwegian people for the support,” as delivered by the Speaker in Norway.

Pleased to meet @MasudGh, President of the Norwegian Parliament. Discussed the complex regional security, Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations, possibilities of strengthening 🇬🇪-🇳🇴 parliamentary bonds. We count on support of our Norwegian colleagues for the Georgia’s cause. pic.twitter.com/J8rbH4w4k4

— Shalva Papuashvili 🇬🇪 (@shpapuashvili) June 13, 2022