“Following recent revelations, every donor country is now under suspicion of misusing foreign aid, making transparency in foreign funding essential,” Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili posted on social media.

Papuashvili contends that “diplomacy must reclaim its place, previously occupied by the distorted practice of foreign aid.”

“For years, foreign aid has shifted from assistance to extortion, from charity to a political tool, and from a means of development to a weapon of influence. Unlike diplomacy, which fosters compromise and mutual interests, foreign aid has often served to implant external agendas within political parties and civil society. These agendas were then portrayed as the people’s will, granting foreign actors significant leverage over national affairs.

Moreover, in this context, foreign ambassadors have often acted not as collaborators with host countries, but as political instructors—seeking to impose authority rather than cultivate trust. This approach refers to Soviet-era practices when Moscow-appointed officials occupied key positions in local governance.

Recently, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio emphasized that foreign policy should prioritize common interests rather than incite confrontation. However, this principle has long been compromised by the misuse of foreign aid.

The Georgian government has consistently condemned the distortion of foreign aid, and now the United States has begun to address this pressing issue. The extent of corruption and manipulation within foreign aid programs is staggering.

In light of these revelations, donor countries must ensure complete transparency in foreign funding. Governments are bound to investigate all suspected violations and disclose their findings.

As for Georgia, we will adhere to our mandate by fortifying our democracy against undue external interference. The Parliament will soon introduce legislation aimed at protecting national sovereignty and ensuring transparency in foreign funding,” Papuashvili stated.