We, WEG, are deeply concerned over the statement of the Prime Minister of Georgia rejecting the financial assistance from the European Union. The preconditions for this assistance were implementation of Judiciary system reforms and observance of an agreement reached under EU mediation several months ago, which the Georgian government did not comply with and chose to give up on EU support and to worsen the relations with the key strategic partner.

In the context of the coronavirus pandemic and related economic crisis, the loss of EU support impacts the citizens of our country, severely affecting their well-being, health, employment, and prospects for a proper future. In addition, non-compliance with the conditions for receiving assistance is a sign of worsened EU-Georgia relations and undermines the prospects for country’s EU membership, which was the main pre-election slogan of the ruling team. We see this as a path towards authoritarian rule, reversal of the political course and a return to Russian orbit.

We call on the government to immediately start working on the reforms envisaged in the April 19 agreement restoration of relations with the EU. We want to be sincerely proud of our government and support it in advancement of our country. Narrow group interests of any kind should not become the reason for giving up on 30 years of struggle for the country's independent democratic development and dignity.