**German Ambassador Attacked by Georgian National in Batumi**
A shocking incident occurred in Batumi, Georgia on May 18 when the German Ambassador to Georgia, Peter Fischer, was verbally attacked and sworn at by a local man. The alleged attacker, later identified as GD supporter Kochiashvili, proudly posted a video of himself using obscene language against the diplomat on TikTok.
According to eyewitnesses, nearby Georgians pointed out Mr. Kochiashvili’s behavior and he quickly left the scene. The police were not present at the time of the incident. The German Embassy confirmed the incident in a statement, thanking those who supported Ambassador Fischer as a guest in their city.
**Opposition Leaders Condemn Incident**
The opposition leaders have strongly condemned the attack on the diplomat. Giorgi Vashadze from Strategy Aghmashenebeli party described the incident as “shameful,” “unacceptable,” and “anti-Georgia behavior.” Mamuka Khazaradze of Lelo called it a “crime” that requires an urgent reaction, emphasizing that the GD government bears responsibility for fueling anti-Western rhetoric and propaganda.
**GD Fueling Anti-Diplomatic Rhetoric**
In recent times, the ruling party has taken aim at diplomats, particularly German Ambassador Fischer. The GD parliament speaker, Shalva Papuashvili, has been vocal in his criticism of Fischer, accusing him of trying to influence the judiciary. Papuashvili claimed that the ambassador’s presence at a court hearing was an attempt to “pressure” the judge.
However, Batumelebi online publication contradicted this claim, stating that they conduct all interviews with ambassadors in front of a poster demanding the release of their director, Mzia Amaghlobeli. The publication also rejected Papuashvili’s claim that Fischer was unaware of the court proceedings, noting that the ambassador was provided with written translations.
**GD Officials Targeting Diplomats**
The ruling party’s propaganda media have also targeted Ambassador Fischer. On May 16, IMEDI TV aired a report claiming that the ambassador was providing “instructions to radical opposition activists.” This is not an isolated incident; since Zaza Shatirishvili’s letter urging the GD government to curb diplomatic missions in Georgia, the ruling party has intensified its attacks on diplomats.
**Germany Calls for End to False Narratives and Attacks**
In response to this incident, Germany has called on Georgian Dream to end false narratives and cease attacks on Ambassador Fischer. This is a timely reminder that diplomats play an essential role in promoting peaceful dialogue between nations and should be respected and protected from such verbal abuse.
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