“A diplomat has no right to interfere in the internal political affairs of a host country. If I’m not mistaken, ambassadors from three countries attended a court session, which I consider a direct and gross interference in judicial proceedings,” the Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said in response to a journalist’s question.

The question was: “We watched footage showing the German Ambassador in Batumi speaking with activists opposing the government, none of whom responded to questions about the nature of the discussion. What could be the purpose of such activity and a meeting with activists?”

“It’s not surprising that they avoid disclosing the details of these conversations. Doing so would expose a blatant violation of the Vienna Convention. Diplomats are strictly prohibited from interfering in the internal politics of their host country, particularly in the judiciary. The presence of ambassadors at a court hearing constitutes a direct attempt to influence the administration of justice. Such actions violate not only the Vienna Convention but also the Constitution of Georgia. We will respond firmly to these provocations and consistently uphold our sovereignty and judicial independence. No ambassador has the right to interfere in our internal political affairs or undermine our judicial autonomy,” Kobakhidze stated.

Asked what kind of response he had in mind, Kobakhidze clarified: “Primarily, I am referring to public statements and assessments of such conduct. What we are witnessing is a clear violation of both international and constitutional norms, which is entirely unacceptable. Foreign interference, including in electoral processes, was a key topic discussed at today’s summit. While EU member states condemn such interference, we are witnessing the same behaviour here in Georgia, perpetrated by European diplomats and officials. This is unacceptable. Before the elections, we observed direct interference, and now we see it extending into judicial affairs, which our state cannot and will not tolerate.”