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Georgia will become a NATO member, when allies assess that it is prepared to fulfill the obligations that come with membership, John Bass says
Ambassador John Bass, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, answered the question by Europetime. Q - „At the NATO summit held in Bucharest in 2008, allies decided that Georgia would join NATO. The decision was reaffirmed at the subsequent summits. During your tenure as U.S. ambassador to Georgia, we have repeatedly heard your comments regarding the integration of Georgia into NATO. How do your earlier assumptions and expectations align with the present dynamics and process of the country’s integration into the Alliance?” A - „I would first say that for many of us who spent time in Georgia or working with Georgians, particularly in the aftermath of the conflict in 2008 in which, yet again, Russia was attempting to determine how a neighboring country should live, dictate whether or not that country should be free to choose its own security relationships with, in this case, NATO – having been there in that period, it’s been very disturbing to see the evolution in recent years and particularly in recent months of the Georgian Dream government. And if someone were to ask straight up, as I think is implicit in the question, when will Georgia become a member of NATO, the answer is that Georgia will become a member, I think, when allies assess that it is prepared to fulfill the obligations that come with membership, including upholding principles – core principles of democratic governance, including the fundamental principle that people are free to choose their own leaders. And unfortunately, since I was ambassador in Georgia, we have not seen Georgia progress to meeting those objectives. And unfortunately, we’ve seen quite a bit of work, quite a bit of retrograde, if you will. And as the U.S. ambassador who worked quite hard to ensure that there were the conditions in place to allow Georgian Dream to compete fairly in the parliamentary elections of 2012, it is deeply disturbing to see that same group now eroding the foundations of democratic governance and society. And as a final observation, I would say it is both deeply disturbing and saddening to see the aspirations and dreams of an entire society being held hostage to the grievances of one individual: Bidzina Ivanishvili.“ John Bass was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on December 17, 2021, as the Under Secretary for Management. The Secretary of State designated John Bass as Acting Under Secretary for Political Affairs on March 23, 2024. A career Senior Foreign Service officer, he served as Senior Advisor at the Foreign Service Institute from 2020-2021, U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan 2017-2020, U.S. Ambassador to Turkey from 2014 to 2017, Executive Secretary of the State Department from 2012 to 2014, and U.S. Ambassador to Georgia from 2009 to 2012. He began his diplomatic career in 1988 and has also served in positions in U.S. missions in Iraq, Italy, Belgium, and Chad.
The United States is already implementing the Black Sea Strategy, the state department says
Europetime receives confirmation from the US State Department that the Biden administration has already begun implementing a comprehensive strategy for the Black Sea region. According to Europetime, the strategy is centered on the goal of the US administration and calls for more political and diplomatic engagement as well as other significant actions. “The United States is already implementing this strategy, and we will continue to coordinate closely with allies, partners, and civil society to advance this strategy in pursuit of shared objectives. The timeline for implementation will depend on the goal or activity. Some of our objectives, such as increased political engagement and messaging are ongoing; likewise, support for defense modernization of our Allies and partners has already begun. Our strategy provides a whole-of-government vision and framework through which we can continue current efforts, develop future initiatives and make funding requests to support implementation. What is the Black Sea Strategy? In the FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act, the NSC was required by the U.S. Congress to develop and implement a strategy to support a Black Sea region that is secure, prosperous, interconnected, and free from malign influence, economic coercion, and threats to territorial integrity. The NSC delegated the drafting of the report to the State Department in coordination with interagency. The Black Sea Strategy encourages agencies across the United States government to work with allies and partners bilaterally and multilaterally to increase political and diplomatic engagement, ensure regional security, boost economic cooperation, provide clean and secure energy, strengthen rule of law, promote respect for human rights, combat corruption, and counter disinformation. Through this Strategy, the United States is strengthening our partnerships to promote peace and prosperity for all. The Strategy also outlines our approach to addressing the immediate and long-term repercussions brought upon the region by Russia’s brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine,“ a State Department spokesperson told Europetime.
The US is exploring potential investment opportunities in infrastructure to advance strategic projects in the Trans-Caspian Corridor
The US is exploring potential investment opportunities in infrastructure to advance strategic projects in the Trans-Caspian Corridor. In response to a question from Europetime, the State Department states that in order to actually advance important projects in the Trans-Caspian Corridor, the „US is currently evaluating potential areas for infrastructure investment.“ „Generally speaking, we welcome and encourage multilateral efforts in support of regional connectivity in Central Asia and South Caucasus westward to Europe. Such efforts contribute to the creation of a more secure, resilient, and prosperous region. In close coordination with our European counterparts, the United States continues to support initiatives that enhance connectivity and diversify the economies of our Central Asian partners, including the EU Global Gateway Investors Forum, the Commercial Law Development Program’s Trans-Caspian Trade Route Coordination Platform, and USAID’s Trade Central Asia. Through the C5+1 diplomatic platform, we continue to promote regional cooperation and dialogue that helps the region address shared security and economic challenges while reaffirming the autonomy and sovereignty of our Central Asian partners. During the inaugural C5+1 Presidential Summit in September 2023, President Biden affirmed continued U.S. support through PGI to scale infrastructure investment and accelerate the economic development, energy security, and connectivity of the Trans-Caspian Corridor. Through PGI, the United States is currently evaluating potential areas for infrastructure investment where the U.S. Government could contribute project advisory technical assistance, project preparation, and/or financing to tangibly move forward strategic projects in the Trans-Caspian Corridor,“ a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. Bulgarian Ambassador: After an agreement on the resumption of ferry traffic is signed, more concrete and cooperative action is needed
EEAS Spokesperson: Together with our US colleagues, we have been working on how to address the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine across the Black Sea region
Peter Stano, lead spokesperson for the foreign affairs and security policy of the European Union, said that the EU and US share common interests in the Black Sea region. According to him, they cooperate to support partners in the region to bolster their resilience to increasing hybrid and cyber challenges as well. „Together with our US colleagues, we have been working on how to address the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine across the Black Sea region - both in the short and the long run. We have focused on supporting Ukraine, but also helping the region address the wider fallout of Russia’s war. We have done this in many fora, including the EU-US Security and Defence Dialogue, the UN, the G7, etc. The EU and US share common interests in the region to: (1) increase coordination with partners; (2) deepen economic ties; (3) strengthen energy security; (4) support efforts to bolster democratic resilience, including fighting false narratives and Russian state-controlled propaganda, in accordance with our shared values; (5) support partners in the region to bolster their resilience to increasing hybrid and cyber challenges. We cooperate to help accelerating Ukrainian grain exports, notably after Russia’s unilateral withdrawal from the UN-Türkiye-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative. The Leaders have been unequivocal in their Joint statement following the US-EU Summit on 20th October 2023 in Washington D.C. We continue to pursue the Solidarity Lanes objectives to increase efficiency and reduce transport costs. The US collaboration with the European partners in Constanta, Romania’s largest port city on the Black Sea coast, is a good example of that. The EU has deployed a Multipurpose Maritime Operation in the Black Sea, involving the EU Agencies with Coast Guard functions (Frontex, the European Maritime Safety Agency, European Fisheries Control Agency), riparian EU Member States, and also other EU Member States. Georgian officials were invited to observe various activities in this context. Furthermore, the EU has supported capacity building, including for Georgia, through the Black and Caspian Sea I project and its current successor Black and Caspian Seas II, implemented by the European Maritime Safety Agency. Looking ahead, the EU is working on the 4th implementation report of the EU Black Sea Synergy. This stock-tacking exercise will also help us identify key trends and findings, which could factor into future EU thinking on the Black Sea cooperation. At its core there are issues of connectivity, energy, digital transformation, blue economy, environment, fisheries and maritime security, resilience and the protection of critical infrastructure,“Stano told Europetime. The US sees Georgia as a critical security partner for the Black Sea, James O’Brien says
US Embassy: The U.S. government has and will continue to expose Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic elections around the world
EXCLUSIVE The United States has become aware of a trend in Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic processes globally, according to the US Embassy in Georgia. Europetime was told in the embassy that the U.S. government has and will continue to expose Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic elections around the world. The United States on Friday released a U.S. intelligence assessment sent to more than 100 countries that found Moscow is using spies, social media and Russian state-run media to erode public faith in the integrity of democratic elections worldwide. The assessment was sent in a State Department cable dated Wednesday to more than 100 U.S. embassies in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa for distribution to their host governments. Europetime was curious as to whether there has been communication over the aforementioned matter with the Georgian side via the embassy. “The United States has become aware of a trend in Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic processes globally. It is well-documented that Russia seeks to influence the outcomes of democratic elections globally in favor of specific candidates and political parties. In response, the U.S. State Department has briefed more than 100 democracies on these Russian efforts and steps we can take in response. We also are speaking openly about these findings. The U.S. government has and will continue to expose Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic elections around the world. We are seeking to increase public awareness of and resilience to these Russian activities. It is critical that we work together, as democracies, to counter these Russian efforts. In our cable to the governments invited to the Summit for Democracy, we notified each country, privately, on whether we assess Russia had sought to degrade public confidence in elections held in their country. We are keeping these briefings confidential, even as we act transparently by sharing our general findings with the public,“ the U.S. Embassy said.
State Department: Russia is seeking to undermine democracies from within, the IC found that this Russian activity is global in scope
Russia is seeking to undermine democracies from within. The IC found that this Russian activity is global in scope, a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. „We have long known that Russia is seeking to subvert democratic processes around the world, and we are raising awareness that, as part of these efforts, Russia is pursuing operations to degrade public confidence in the integrity of elections themselves. To better understand this threat, the U.S. Intelligence Community undertook a review of Russian operations to undermine public confidence in democratic elections that took place between January 2020 and December 2022. The IC found that this Russian activity is global in scope. Russia is seeking to undermine democracies from within. In response, the U.S. State Department has briefed more than 100 democracies on these Russian efforts and steps we can take in response. We also are speaking openly about these findings. The U.S. government has and will continue to expose Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic elections around the world. We also will continue to work with other democracies to further these efforts. We are seeking to increase public awareness of and resilience to these Russian activities. „We will continue to work with our fellow democracies to advance these actions, including through new policy initiatives – like this multi-part exposure campaign,“ - a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. The United States on Friday released a U.S. intelligence assessment sent to more than 100 countries that found Moscow is using spies, social media and Russian state-run media to erode public faith in the integrity of democratic elections worldwide. The assessment was sent in a State Department cable dated Wednesday to more than 100 U.S. embassies in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa for distribution to their host governments. US Embassy: The U.S. government has and will continue to expose Russia’s efforts to undermine democratic elections around the world
State Department: It’s important the Georgian government to ensure the Anaklia port project will be transparent and adhere to the rule of law
The State Department answered the questions by Europetime regarding the priorities of the Black Sea strategy. Europetime asked where the Anaklia port project fits within this plan. According to a spokesperson, the United States has been a strong supporter of the Anaklia deep water port for years, as it is projected to be a very important contribution to Georgia's economy and the development of the Trans-Caspian transportation corridor. The State Department has submitted a report to Congress describing its strategy for the Black Sea region „On the Anaklia project, The United States has been a strong supporter of the Anaklia deep water port for years as it is projected to be a very important contribution to Georgia's economy and the development of the Trans Caspian transportation corridor. It’s important the Georgian government ensure the project will be transparent, adhere to the rule of law, and take into consideration the long-term security and prosperity of Georgia’s citizens. On the Black Sea Strategy: The Black Sea Strategy is a vision for a Black Sea that is secure, prosperous, interconnected, and free from threats to territorial integrity, economic coercion, and malign influence. It encourages agencies across the United States Government to work with partners bilaterally and multilaterally to ensure regional security, boost regional economic cooperation, provide clean and secure energy, strengthen rule of law, promote respect for human rights, combat corruption, and counter disinformation. Through this Strategy, the United States will strengthen our partnerships to promote peace and prosperity for all. The Strategy also outlines our approach to addressing the immediate and long-term repercussions brought upon the region by Russia’s brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine,“ a State Department spokesperson told Europetime.
The State Department comments on the establishment of a strategic partnership between Georgia and China
The State Department comments on the establishment of a strategic partnership between Georgia and China. „We have no objection to investments or engagements by any other country, including from the PRC. The concerns we have had are making sure these activities are done transparently and according to the rule of law, with sustainable financing, and with respect for the autonomy of aid recipients so there are not any political strings attached. Ultimately, countries will make their sovereign decisions about with whom they want to do business or invest. The PRC often makes many promises in exchange for diplomatic recognition that ultimately remain unfulfilled. We will continue to monitor next steps closely“ a spokesperson at the State Department told Europetime. The Administration of the Georgian Government published a joint statement on the establishment of a strategic partnership between Georgia and China.
The Romanian Ambassador to Georgia welcomes a new ferry service between Romania and Georgia: It strengthens the connection between our countries and the two shores of the Black Sea
The Romanian Ambassador to Georgia, Razvan Rotundu, welcomes a new ferry service between Romania and Georgia. „It strengthens the connection between these countries and the two shores of the Black Sea“, ambassador Rotundu told Europetime. „We are really happy with the launch of the ferry line between Constanta and Poti. It strengthens the connection between our countries and the two shores of the Black Sea. The potential of this corridor is high, as it may connect the wider regions the EU as well as the South Caucasus and Central Asia.Constanta port offers a direct connection with the Danube, allowing the cargo to be transported to Central and Western Europe. We are also satisfied that the ferry offers service for both cargo and passengers", - ambassador Razvan Rotundu told Europetime. Some background There is now a brand-new ferry service running between Georgia and Romania. On June 27, 2023, the first voyage was place, leaving from the port of Constanta and arriving at the port of Poti after two nights at sea. The ferry service, which transports both people and goods, is run by the Georgian business E60 Shipping. A document establishing the Black Sea-Caspian Sea Freight Transport Corridor was signed in March 2019 by Georgia, Romania, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, creating new opportunities for connectivity and regional development in the area. They stated that this new corridor will be the shortest, most profitable way to connect Central Asia to Europe through the two seas. Read more: State Department: We recognize the opportunities for Georgia to play an important role in connecting Central Asia to Europe through the middle corridor
The United States supports Georgia’s NATO aspirations and urges Georgian officials to advance the vital democratic reforms that are essential for NATO accession
The United States supports Georgia’s NATO aspirations. The United States continues to work with Georgia on building its interoperability with NATO and to urge Georgian officials to advance the vital democratic reforms that are essential for NATO accession. A State Department spokesperson told Europetime. "Since taking office, the Biden Administration has prioritized restoring American leadership on the world stage and revitalizing our alliances, including by strengthening NATO. Thanks in part to his leadership, NATO is stronger and more united than it has been in decades. He looks forward to showcasing that unity in July at the Vilnius Summit. Georgia is a steadfast NATO Enhanced Opportunities Partner, a category reserved for NATO’s closest partners, and has served alongside American and other NATO troops. The United States supports Georgia’s NATO aspirations. The United States continues to work with Georgia on building its interoperability with NATO and to urge Georgian officials to advance the vital democratic reforms that are essential for NATO accession, " a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. In July, NATO Leaders will meet to address the most pressing challenges for the Alliance, further strengthen NATO's deterrence and defence and bring Ukraine closer to the Alliance. Previewing the Vilnius Summit at NATO Headquarters on Friday (7 July 2023), Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the meeting of Allied leaders “will send a clear message: NATO stands united, and Russia’s aggression will not pay.” “I expect Allied leaders will agree a package with three elements, to bring Ukraine closer to NATO,” said Mr Stoltenberg. The package will include a multi-year programme of assistance to ensure interoperability; upgraded political ties – with President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural meeting of a new NATO-Ukraine Council; and a reaffirmation that Ukraine will become a member of NATO, with unity on how to bring Ukraine closer to its goal. Allies will also take major steps to strengthen deterrence and defence, with the adoption of three new regional defence plans to counter the two main threats to NATO: Russia and terrorism. The plans will be supported by 300,000 troops on higher readiness, including substantial air and naval combat power. Allies are also expected to endorse a Defence Production Action Plan to “aggregate demand, boost capacity, and increase interoperability” and a more ambitious defence investment pledge to invest a minimum of 2% of Gross Domestic Product annually on defence. The Secretary General welcomed that NATO’s new defence spending estimates, released today, show a real increase of 8.3% for European Allies and Canada in 2023. "This is the biggest increase in decades, and the ninth consecutive year of increases in our defence spending," said the Secretary General. "So European Allies and Canada will have invested over 450 billion extra US dollars since we agreed our defence investment pledge in 2014." The leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea, as well as the European Union, will also take part in the Vilnius Summit. This will be Finland’s first Summit as a NATO Ally, the Secretary General noted, adding: “we look forward to Sweden joining as soon as possible.” Following a constructive meeting of senior officials from Türkiye, Sweden and Finland on Thursday, Mr Stoltenberg will meet with President Erdogan and Prime Minister Kristersson in Vilnius on 10 July, as the next step. At the Vilnius Summit, the allies will reiterate support for Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty within its internationally recognized borders, said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the press conference in Brussels. „Well, our message has been for a long time – and was reiterated at a previous Summit – that we need to strengthen our partnership with partners that are vulnerable for Russian interference and under pressure. At the Summit, Allies will reiterate our support to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders. Allies will also, I expect, reaffirm Georgia’s right to decide its own future and foreign policy, free from outside intervention.Therefore, we call on Russia to withdraw its forces it has in Georgia – without any consent from the Georgian government – and to end its recognition and militarisation, of course, and South Ossetia. And I think, also, we have to recognise, once again, the importance that Georgia plays in also strengthening the partnership between NATO and Georgia, and the commitment to Euro-Atlantic security. So we will address also other partners than Ukraine. Of course, Ukraine will be at the top of the agenda, because there’s a full-fledged war taking place in Ukraine, but we will also address the importance of strengthening our partnership with a country like Georgia.“
State Department: We recognize the opportunities for Georgia to play an important role in connecting Central Asia to Europe through the middle corridor
The United States welcomes a new ferry service between Romania and Georgia. „We recognize the opportunities that these ferry routes create and the opportunities for Georgia to play an important role in connecting Central Asia to Europe through the middle corridor" a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. „The United States has long supported Georgia’s economic development, along with other countries in the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Europe. We recognize the opportunities that these ferry routes create, and the opportunities for Georgia to play an important role in connecting Central Asia to Europe through the middle corridor“, a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. Some background There is now a brand-new ferry service running between Georgia and Romania. On June 27, 2023, the first voyage was place, leaving from the port of Constanta and arriving at the port of Poti after two nights at sea. The ferry service, which transports both people and goods, is run by the Georgian business E60 Shipping. A document establishing the Black Sea-Caspian Sea Freight Transport Corridor was signed in March 2019 by Georgia, Romania, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, creating new opportunities for connectivity and regional development in the area. They stated that this new corridor will be the shortest, most profitable way to connect Central Asia to Europe through the two seas. Read more: The Romanian Ambassador to Georgia welcomes a new ferry service between Romania and Georgia: It strengthens the connection between our countries and the two shores of the Black Sea
The United States recognizes the opportunities for developing the Middle Corridor concept and supports the EU-EBRD study
In response to the questions of Europetime, the State Department stated that the United States supports the EU-EBRD study and looks forward to its results. „The United States has long supported Georgia’s economic development, along with other countries in the post-Soviet space. We recognize the opportunities for developing the infrastructure necessary to further develop the Middle Corridor concept. We support the EU-EBRD study and look forward to its results“, - a State Department spokesperson said. The United States has long supported Georgia’s economic development and recognizes the opportunities for developing the needed infrastructure to support the Middle Corridor concept. According to a State Department official speaking to Europetime, the United States strongly supports the development of the Anaklia deep-water port, which is critical infrastructure for Georgia to develop. State Department: The United States strongly supports the development of the Anaklia deep water port, which is critical infrastructure for Georgia to develop
The United States urges the Georgian government to implement the necessary reforms to acquire EU candidate status
In response to the questions of Europetime, the US State Department urges the Georgian government to implement the necessary reforms to acquire EU candidate status. „From the beginning, the American people have stood in solidarity with the people of Georgia and their desire to be a free and sovereign country within its internationally recognized borders. Over the last 30 years, we have become strategic partners, working together toward our shared vision of Georgia, fully integrated into the Euro-Atlantic family of nations and part of a Europe whole, free, and at peace. The United States has allocated more than $6 billion in assistance funds to Georgia, training tens of thousands Georgian soldiers, and sending thousands more to the United States for cultural and education exchanges. We have helped promote economic growth, the rule of law, and democratic governance, among many other initiatives. We are open with the Georgian government about the need to strengthen democratic institutions and processes, the rule of law, and human rights for all. The democratic backsliding we have all observed over the last several years is taking Georgia away from its stated goal of Euro-Atlantic integration, but even more importantly, weakening its own democracy. Our assistance goes to improve the quality of life of Georgians. We listen to the people of Georgia to determine where our assistance goes. We work with the government but also work with the people to reach all corners of the country, to help and support the people in realizing their dreams. We will continue to partner with the people of Georgia as they pursue a democratic, prosperous, peaceful, and Euro-Atlantic future and we urge the Georgian government to implement the necessary reforms to acquire EU candidate status; we stand ready to assist the government in doing so“, the State Department said.
State Department: Our first priority must be to ensure Ukraine defends itself against Russian aggression
According to a State Department spokesperson, there is no question that the biggest threat to the Black Sea region is Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine. According to the comment, Russia’s war has turned parts of the Black Sea into a warzone. Missiles fired by Russian warships in the Black Sea have hit Ukrainian towns. Russian forces blockaded Ukrainian ports, causing the worst global food crisis in years. „Our first priority must be to ensure Ukraine defends itself against Russian aggression. At the same time, we continue to deepen our already multifaceted engagement in the region. The United States and NATO have expanded our presence in in the Black Sea region since February 24, 2022. NATO Allies Romania, Turkiye, and Bulgaria especially contribute to the security of the Black Sea area“, - a State Department spokesperson told Europetime.
EEAS Spokesperson: The recent poll only underlines what was obvious all along – the overwhelming majority of the Georgian population has clear European aspirations
Peter Stano, lead spokesperson for the foreign affairs and security policy of the European Union, said that the recent poll only underlines what was obvious all along – the overwhelming majority of the Georgian population has clear European aspirations. „Only yesterday the Foreign Ministers of the EU Member States discussed in Luxembourg (together with Georgia’s Foreign Minister) the historic opportunity in terms of Georgia’s European perspective, but also the need to strengthen the principles of democracy in the country, and encouraged the Georgian authorities to continue the important work on reforms and send positive signals to Brussels and to Member States’ in delivering on the set of priorities on the accession process, which will be important for assessing the possibility to grant Georgia candidate status“, - Stano told Europetime. A new nationwide poll conducted in Georgia by the International Republican Institute’s (IRI) Center for Insights in Survey Research (CISR) shows strong support for EU membership, disapproval of Russian citizens within the country, and a lack of faith in political parties, IRI Georgia reports. According to IRI, when asked about the European Union (EU), 89% of Georgians either “fully support” or “somewhat support” joining the alliance. This represents an increase of four percentage points from the most recent poll, matching an all-time high. "It’s explicitly clear that Georgians want to join the European Union and continue their integration with Western, democratic institutions," said Steve Nix, Senior Director for Eurasia at IRI. "It’s now incumbent upon leaders in the government to deliver what the people want." "Georgians are also weary of the Russian presence in their country. 79% oppose visa-free travel for Russians, Russians registering businesses in Georgia, or Russians buying property in Georgia. This survey was conducted on behalf of IRI’s Center for Insights in Survey Research by Dr. Rasa Alisauskiene of the public and market research company Baltic Surveys/The Gallup Organization between March 4 and March 23, 2023. The fieldwork was conducted by the Institute of Polling and Marketing. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews in respondents’ homes. The sample consists of 1,500 Georgians aged 18+ and eligible to vote. The data was weighted for age, gender, region, and settlement size. The margin of error is plus or minus 2.5 percentage points and the response rate was 63 per cent. This survey was made possible by the generous support of the American people through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)," reads the press release.
State Department: The United States stands with the government and people of Georgia in their efforts to advance transparency, fight corruption, and further democratic governance
According to a State Department spokesperson, the 7031c actions send a strong signal that the United States stands with the government and people of Georgia in their efforts to advance transparency, fight corruption, and further democratic governance. As a general matter, we do not comment on pending litigation. The 7031c actions send a strong signal that the United States stands with the government and people of Georgia in their efforts to advance transparency, fight corruption, and further democratic governance. We are committed to helping Georgia realize its full economic and democratic potential on its path to Euro Atlantic integration, by tackling endemic corruption and fostering an impartial and independent judiciary“, - a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. Mikheil Chinchaladze, Levan Murusidze, Irakli Shengelia, and Valerian Tsertsvadze under Section 7031(c) visa restriction authorities, due to their involvement in significant corruption. Section 7031(c) provides that officials of foreign governments about whom the Secretary of State has credible information of involvement in significant corruption or a gross violation of human rights and their immediate family members are ineligible for entry into the United States. The law also requires the Secretary of State to publicly or privately designate such officials and their immediate family members. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has released a statement on public designations of Mikheil Chinchaladze, Levan Murusidze, Irakli Shengelia and Valerian Tsertsvadze. According to the statement, the above individuals abused their positions. “Today, the U.S. Department of State is publicly designating Mikheil Chinchaladze, Levan Murusidze, Irakli Shengelia, and Valerian Tsertsvadze under Section 7031(c) visa restriction authorities, due to their involvement in significant corruption. These individuals abused their positions as court Chairmen and members of Georgia’s High Council of Justice, undermining the rule of law and the public’s faith in Georgia’s judicial system. The United States continues to stand with all Georgians in support of democracy and the rule of law and will continue to promote accountability for those who abuse public power for personal gain. We stand with all judges who have the integrity and courage to act impartially and independently. Officials designated under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2023 (Div. K, P.L. 117-328) (“Section 7031(c)”) and their immediate family members are ineligible for entry into the United States”, reads the statement.
EEAS Spokesperson on US Sanctions against four Georgian Judges
Peter Stano, the spokesperson for the external affairs of the European Union, said on Thursday that the European Union has its own legislative framework for adopting sanctions that are always discussed and agreed upon by all 27 member states of the EU in consensus. „There is currently no EU sanctions regime in place for Georgia, and no sanctions decisions have been made related to the people mentioned below in the US sanctions" he told Europetime. „There is currently no EU sanctions regime in place for Georgia, and no sanctions decisions have been made related to the people mentioned below in the US sanctions. As a general rule, we do not comment on sanctions decisions by others, the EU has its own legislative framework for adopting sanctions that are always discussed and agreed upon by all 27 Member States of the EU in consensus“, - Peter Stano said. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has released a statement on public designations of Mikheil Chinchaladze, Levan Murusidze, Irakli Shengelia and Valerian Tsertsvadze. According to the statement, the above individuals abused their positions. “Today, the U.S. Department of State is publicly designating Mikheil Chinchaladze, Levan Murusidze, Irakli Shengelia, and Valerian Tsertsvadze under Section 7031(c) visa restriction authorities, due to their involvement in significant corruption. These individuals abused their positions as court Chairmen and members of Georgia’s High Council of Justice, undermining the rule of law and the public’s faith in Georgia’s judicial system. The United States continues to stand with all Georgians in support of democracy and the rule of law and will continue to promote accountability for those who abuse public power for personal gain. We stand with all judges who have the integrity and courage to act impartially and independently. Officials designated under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2023 (Div. K, P.L. 117-328) (“Section 7031(c)”) and their immediate family members are ineligible for entry into the United States”, reads the statement.
State Department: We would be concerned if flights between Russia and Georgia resumed
According to a State Department spokesperson, "The entire Western community has distanced itself from this brutal regime—now is not the time to increase engagement with Russia“. "Many Western nations, including the United States, prohibit Russian planes from entering their airspace. We would be concerned if flights between Russia and Georgia resumed, given the possible sanctions exposure for companies at Georgia’s airports if they were to service aircraft subject to additional import and export controls. "The entire Western community has distanced itself from this brutal regime—now is not the time to increase engagement with Russia," a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. According to the chairman of Georgian Dream Irakli Kobakhidze, if the unilateral sanction imposed by the Russian Federation regarding flights to Georgia is lifted, it will be welcome in the interests of fellow citizens and countrymen. Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili stated that restoring direct flights between Georgia and the Russian Federation is unacceptable given the international community’s and all Georgia’s partners’ solidarity with Ukraine. On Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, speaking at a news conference on the performance of Russian diplomacy in 2022, said he hoped that Russia and Georgia would soon be able to resume direct air service. Russia suspended direct flights to Georgia in 2019. On June 20, 2019, thousands of people protested against Russian lawmaker Gavrilov, who took the speaker’s seat in the Georgian parliament at the session of the 26th Orthodox Inter-Parliamentary General Assembly in Georgia.
State Department: The United States strongly supports the development of the Anaklia deep water port, which is critical infrastructure for Georgia to develop
The United States has long supported Georgia’s economic development and recognizes the opportunities for developing the needed infrastructure to support the Middle Corridor concept. According to a State Department official speaking to Europetime, the United States strongly supports the development of the Anaklia deep-water port, which is critical infrastructure for Georgia to develop. „It would be a huge contribution as Georgia develops its role in the Middle Corridor, to bring goods from Central Asia to Europe. Development of the port would also bring jobs to Georgia and the region. We hope to see the Government of Georgia move forward to tender the project. In addition, the Development Finance Corporation supported the expansion of the Pace Terminal at Poti Seaport through a $50 million loan. The terminal expansion, which opened in January 2022, more than doubled the cargo capacity for the terminal, an important step that moves Georgia closer to its goal of becoming an East-West trade hub“, - A State Department spokesperson said Ambassador Degnan: We strongly support the development of the Anaklia deep water port Exclusive interview on Europetime with the US Defense Attaché Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili revealed on 12 December that the long-awaited deep sea port of Anaklia will be built with the government’s participation, which will subsequently own 51% of it. The Prime Minister noted that an international competition will be announced to select the partners and companies which will participate in the project. „we strongly support the development of the Anaklia deep water port, which is critical infrastructure for Georgia to develop. It would be a huge contribution as Georgia develops its role in the Middle Corridor, to bring goods from Central Asia to Europe. Development of the port would also bring jobs to Georgia and the region. We hope to see the Government of Georgia move forward to tender the project and select a qualified developer through a transparent and competitive process“, - US Ambassador to Georgia Kelly Degnan told Europetime. In addition, NATO welcomes the development of infrastructure of strategic importance, such as the port facilities on the Black Sea coast. „We welcome all steps undertaken by the Georgian authorities to promote its economic development and security. According to a NATO official speaking to Europetime, this includes the development of infrastructure of strategic importance, such as the port facilities on the Black Sea coast. "The Anaklia Deep Sea Port is a great opportunity," said Philip Reeker, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, during a visit to Georgia in June 2021. Senator Rob Portman also stressed that it is extremely important that more countries invest in Georgia. „We should encourage more direct investment in Georgia. One would be infrastructure, specifically a particular port project, which is a huge opportunity for infrastructure investment. But also, there are so many other opportunities in agriculture and other commodities, including mining, including manufacturing,"-Senator Rob Portman said in an exclusive comment with Europetime. The construction of what should have been the country’s first deep sea port began in the village of Anaklia close to the de facto boundary with Georgia’s breakaway Abkhazia region in 2017. While the government previously was ready to invest $100 million, control was to be held by private investors.The Georgian government canceled the $2.5 billion contract with Anaklia Development Consortium, the main contractor, in early 2020, alleging it had failed to attract sufficient investments while placing heavy and unrealistic demands on the state to underwrite huge loans from international financial institutions.
State Department: We Will continue to work with allies and partners to identify and provide Ukraine with additional capabilities
We will continue to provide Ukraine with security assistance for as long as it takes and will continue to work with allies and partners to identify and provide Ukraine with additional capabilities, according to a State Department spokesperson. „We are not in a position to comment on internal deliberations regarding specific systems requested by Ukraine. As a general matter, we will continue to provide Ukraine with security assistance for as long as it takes and will continue to work with allies and partners to identify and provide Ukraine with additional capabilities. As Russia’s war against Ukraine has evolved, so too has U.S. military assistance, and we will continue to calibrate our assistance to align with Ukraine’s current and future battlefield needs, - a State Department spokesperson told Europetime. According to the Ukrainian Chargé d'Affaires in Georgia, Andrii Kasianov, Ukraine's request included the Javelin systems transferred by the United States of America to Georgia, and regarding the latter, there was not only consent from the United States but even a proposal to replace them with new complexes.
