Vice Speaker Tsilosani: When convenience conflicts with patriotism, Georgians choose patriotism

“Visa-free travel is indeed a significant convenience, and the Georgian Dream has facilitated this for our people by fulfilling the obligations required for the European Union to grant us this privilege,” stated Nino Tsilosani, Vice Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia.

According to Tsilosani, Georgian citizens rightfully deserve visa-free travel.

“We have earned this privilege; no one bestowed it upon us without reason. However, when convenience comes into conflict with patriotism, I have no doubt that the Georgian people will prioritize their patriotism. Historically, the Georgian people have always demonstrated unwavering loyalty to their country and will continue to do so in the future,” she asserted.

Nino Tsilosani emphasized that Georgia stands as one of the most exemplary candidate countries in fulfilling its international obligations.

“The use of sanctions against Georgia has been characterized as a punitive measure, a form of influence. Why should Georgia and its citizens be punished? We have demonstrated exemplary commitment among candidate nations regarding our obligations. All while pursuing a peaceful policy that avoids creating discomfort for our partners in the European Union amid the risks of war. Our country has also shown impressive economic growth.

Since the Georgian Dream took office in 2012, we have worked to uphold human rights. From this point forward, we will safeguard all fundamental human rights. In light of this, it is incomprehensible that sanctions targeting Georgian public officials are imposed, especially when many of those imposing the sanctions are from countries where notable human rights violations occur and where figures from the United National Movement enjoy free movement as if Mikheil Saakashvili were a revered icon.

As such, it is clear that these sanctions are aimed at a specific goal. Ultimately, the sanctions are levied against the Georgian people for their refusal to reelect the United National Movement into power,” Tsilosani concluded.