“The demands made to Georgia are not aligned with the country’s interests. They say we need to bring in money, and it’s none of your business what money we bring in,” stated Gia Volski, the First Vice-Speaker of the Parliament, in an interview with GPB First Channel regarding visa-free travel.

According to him, Georgia has valid reasons to view these demands as a form of blackmail.

“They insist that supporting LGBT rights is a key indicator of Georgia’s commitment to European values. However, there is currently no discussion about violating minority rights. They argue that Georgia’s foreign policy deviates from that of the European Union because we do not participate in sanctions. If you express an opposing view on this matter, it seems you are in conflict with the European Union. We believe this is nothing but blackmail.

Research and ratings show that Georgia is ahead not only of other candidate countries but also of several EU member states. These indicators reflect Georgia’s European orientation and its aspiration toward the European Union, not statements made by Marta Kos or others, who suggest that Georgia should turn a blind eye to everything they do on its territory,” Volski said.