Law Blocks Georgia's EU Path, Parliament Says
The European Parliament has adopted a non-binding resolution urging the European Union to postpone accession negotiations with Georgia until the country repeals its "Law on Transparency of Foreign Agents."
This decision reflects concerns amongst EU lawmakers regarding the law's compatibility with European values and its potential to hinder Georgia's aspirations of joining the bloc, as reported by EUToday.
A significant majority of 425 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted in favour of the resolution, with only 25 voting against and 30 abstaining.
The resolution explicitly condemns the reintroduction of the "Law on Transparency of Foreign Agents," stating that it contradicts the core values of the European Union. The resolution further emphasises that the law undermines Georgia's hopes of joining the European Union, damages the country's reputation, and jeopardises its progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration.
The European Parliament's stance underscores its position that the EU should refrain from initiating accession negotiations with Georgia as long as the law remains in force.
Widespread protests have erupted in Georgia in response to the government's move to adopt the "Law on Transparency of Foreign Agents," which bears a resemblance to Russia's legislation on "foreign agents." While the President of Georgia has pledged to veto the law, there are concerns that the Parliament may override her veto. Currently, the bill has only passed its first reading.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
