**Georgian Government Urges EU to Engage in Dialogue Amid Visa-Free Travel Threat**
The Georgian Dream government is calling on European Union institutions to engage in dialogue, amid warnings that the EU may suspend Georgia’s visa-free travel status if certain recommendations are not met. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze made this plea, expressing frustration with what he described as a “Soviet approach” from Brussels.
According to Kobakhidze, instead of talking to Georgian authorities, the EU sends letters or “telegrams,” which he finds outdated and unproductive. He suggested that the EU should adopt a more open and communicative approach, saying, “We are open to dialogue because we believe we are absolutely right.”
**EU Recommendations Spark Controversy**
The EU Commission has made several recommendations to Georgia, including repealing laws targeting civil society, such as the so-called foreign agents law. The government is also being asked to revise legislation restricting LGBT rights, known as the Law on Family Values and the Protection of Minors.
When questioned about these recommendations, Kobakhidze dismissed any connection between them and the controversial legislation, instead accusing Western ambassadors, including those from the EU and the US, of inciting violence during street protests in Tbilisi. He claimed that their ambassador was responsible for the unrest and therefore had no right to comment on the government’s handling of protesters.
**Kobakhidze’s Remarks Spark Debate**
Kobakhidze’s comments sparked debate among observers, with some arguing that his remarks were an attempt to deflect criticism and shift attention away from the government’s human rights record. Others saw it as a sign of growing tensions between the Georgian government and the international community.
The controversy comes as the country prepares for municipal elections, with Kakha Kaladze being nominated by Georgian Dream as their candidate for a third term as Tbilisi mayor. The election is scheduled to take place on October 4.
**EU Visa-Free Travel Status at Risk**
Georgia’s visa-free travel status with the EU is at risk if the government fails to address the EU Commission’s recommendations by the end of August. The EU has warned that it may suspend this status, which would have significant implications for Georgian citizens traveling to Europe.
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