**Georgia’s Parliament Chairman Blasts EU MEP Over Bidzina Ivanishvili Statement**
The chairman of the Georgian parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, has hit back at a European Union (EU) member of parliament, Michael Gahler, over comments he made about the country’s billionaire businessman, Bidzina Ivanishvili.
In a Facebook post, Papuashvili accused Gahler and others who support confiscation and expropriation as having “deeply Soviet thinking”. This response comes after Gahler suggested that if Ivanishvili has assets in France, certain measures could be taken against him.
**A History of Confiscation**
Papuashvili’s statement is a reference to the former Soviet Union’s practice of confiscating property from its citizens, which was a hallmark of communist rule. The Georgian parliament chairman believes that Gahler’s suggestion has echoes of this past practice.
**What Does This Mean for Georgia and the EU?**
The comments made by Gahler, and Papuashvili’s response to them, highlight the complexities of the relationship between Georgia and the European Union. The country has been seeking closer ties with the EU, but the involvement of powerful business interests, like Ivanishvili’s, adds a layer of complexity.
**Commentary**
The exchange between Papuashvili and Gahler is not just about personalities or politics; it speaks to a deeper issue. It raises questions about how far the EU is willing to go in supporting its member states’ internal affairs, particularly when powerful individuals are involved.
In this context, Papuashvili’s words carry significant weight. He points out that confiscation and expropriation were once associated with communist regimes, but now seem to be being discussed in the corridors of power within the EU. This is a stark reminder that history can repeat itself if we do not pay attention.
**Analysis**
The statement made by Gahler about Ivanishvili’s assets suggests that there are those within the EU who believe in using economic means to influence political outcomes. However, this approach risks undermining trust and stability within member states.
By responding as he did, Papuashvili is not just defending his country; he is also drawing attention to the potential dangers of a Soviet-style approach being adopted by some EU officials. This debate will likely continue, with implications that go beyond Georgia’s borders.
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