“Corruption is a serious challenge everywhere, including in European countries,” said Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze while commenting on the report published by the European Anti-Corruption Research Center, which examined the causes and trends of corruption risks across Europe.

According to Kaladze, Georgia is leading in implementing reforms to combat corruption.

“In general, corruption is a serious challenge worldwide, including in European countries. As for Georgia, we are taking concrete preventive measures, and I am pleased that the country is leading in terms of reforms implemented in this area. All international statistics and studies conducted in recent years by fair organizations indicate that Georgia is moving forward, implementing reforms, and taking the right steps,” said Kakha Kaladze.

Regarding critical statements from some European Union representatives, Kaladze believes the criticism stems from directives that the Georgian government chose not to implement in the country’s interest.

“We shouldn’t pay too much attention to this criticism. We understand why it arises—the main reason is that we did not follow certain orders, did not open a second front in the country, and did not create the disaster that, unfortunately, is happening in Ukraine today. Additionally, there were calls for sanctions that we did not follow because they would have been destructive and damaging to our country, its economy, and the families and workers contributing to it. We remained firm and made decisions based on what our country and its future required. This policy will continue, which is why we hear criticism,” Kakha Kaladze noted.