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NATO calls on Russia to de-escalate and reduce tensions

A NATO official told Europe Time that Nato continues to follow the situation very closely and calls on Russia to de-escalate and reduce tensions. We are ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia. We reiterate our long-standing invitation to Russia for a meeting of the NATO-Russia Council in the near future. We have seen the Russian proposals, and all 30 NATO Allies agreed to a joint statement on December 16th that addresses them: “We are aware of Russia’s recent European security proposals. We are clear that any dialogue with Russia would have to proceed on the basis of reciprocity, address NATO’s concerns about Russia’s actions, be based on the core principles and foundational documents of European security, and take place in consultation with NATO’s European partners. Should Russia take concrete steps to reduce tensions, we are prepared to work on strengthening confidence-building measures. The OSCE is also a relevant platform. " At a press conference with the Bulgarian Prime Minister earlier today, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also spoke on this: "We have received Russia's recent proposals." We are clear that any dialogue with Russia would also need to address NATO's concerns about Russia's actions, be based on the core principles and documents of European security, and take place in consultation with NATO's European partners, such as Ukraine. NATO Allies have also made clear that should Russia take concrete steps to reduce tensions, we are prepared to work on strengthening confidence-building measures. " We continue our strong political and practical support for Ukraine, and we also continue our consultations. President Zelensky visited NATO on December 16 for talks, and US Assistant Secretary of State Karen Donfried also briefed the Council on her recent meetings in Kyiv and Moscow. We continue to follow the situation very closely and call on Russia to de-escalate and reduce tensions. We continue to follow the situation very closely, and call on Russia to de-escalate and reduce tensions, "a NATO official told Europe Time. Russia sets out tough demands for a security pact with NATO. Russia has published draft security demands that NATO deny membership to Ukraine and other former Soviet countries and roll back the alliance’s military deployments in Central and Eastern Europe.

The U.S. Embassy spokesperson: Russia should focus on honoring its 2008 ceasefire commitments before proposing new discussion platforms

In a comment to Europe Time, the U.S. Embassy spokesperson said that Russia should focus on honoring its 2008 ceasefire commitments before proposing new discussion platforms the U.S. Embassy spokesperson was asked about the "3+3" format. „As we’ve said before, Russia should focus on honoring its 2008 ceasefire commitments before proposing new discussion platforms“, - The U.S. Embassy spokesperson said. The first meeting of the so-called 3+3 regional consultative mechanism in the South Caucasus took place in Moscow on December 10, attended by deputy foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Russia, Turkey as well as Director-General of Iran's Foreign Ministry. Despite the absence of the Georgian side, the Russian ministry called the format '3+3'. It is noted that the representatives of participating countries expressed interest in Georgia's joining the platform and stated 'the door remains open“. Georgia earlier rejected the idea.

The U.S. Embassy spokesperson: We will continue our military cooperation and joint military exercises to help Georgia further develop its defense capabilities

The United States will continue its military cooperation, ship visits, and joint military exercises that aim to help Georgia further develop its defense capabilities and interoperability with NATO forces. In a comment to Europe Time, the U.S. Embassy spokesperson said the Georgian Defense Readiness Program, which recently concluded after four years, yielded significant accomplishments and a platform upon which the Georgian Defense and Deterrence Enhancement Initiative (GDDEI) can further the U.S. - Georgian defense and security partnership. „GDDEI consists of two components. One component focuses on organizational change to build Georgia’s institutional capacity in the defense sector. The second focuses on strengthening GDF capabilities to train and employ brigades in combined arms operations necessary for territorial defense. GDDEI also builds on the progress achieved under GDRP by enhancing deterrence and territorial defense capabilities, fostering interoperability with NATO, and enabling institutional reform and modernization through organizational change management. The United States remains committed to strengthening Georgia’s ability to defend itself and contribute to international security. We will continue our military cooperation, ship visits, and joint military exercises that aim to help Georgia further develop its defense capabilities and interoperability with NATO forces“, - U.S. Embassy spokesperson said. As for the other topic, the U.S. Embassy spokesperson was also asked about the "3+3" format. „As we’ve said before, Russia should focus on honoring its 2008 ceasefire commitments before proposing new discussion platforms“, - the U.S. Embassy spokesperson said.

NATO Secretary General and Prime Minister of Georgia discussed the security situation in the region

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili to NATO Headquarters on Wednesday (15 December). They discussed political and practical cooperation as well as the security situation in the region. According to NATO, the Secretary-General reaffirmed NATO’s continued strong political and practical support to its partners and reiterated Allies’ firm support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Secretary-General underlined that Georgia is one of NATO’s closest partners and thanked Georgia for contributing to NATO’s efforts in Afghanistan over the years. The Secretary-General addressed the security situation in the region, including Russia’s military build-up in and around Ukraine and its destabilizing activity in the Black Sea region. The Secretary-General emphasized that "any future Russian aggression would come at a high price and have serious political and economic consequences for Russia". The two leaders also addressed Georgia’s domestic reforms and implementation of the Annual National Programme. The Secretary-General underlined, "it is vital that the work on judiciary reform, media freedom, and accountability of the security sector continues".

Elections were generally well administered, but complaints of voter and candidate intimidation remained, NDI says

Georgia elections dominated by National level rhetoric overshadowing local concerns, Elections were generally well administered but complaints of voter and candidate intimidation remained, NDI says. „According to an analysis of Georgia’s October 2021 municipal elections issued today by the National Democratic Institute (NDI or the Institute), while the elections were generally well administered, deep flaws in the electoral and, significantly, the political environment, adversely affected the process. The municipal elections took place in the context of a protracted political impasse in the aftermath of the 2020 parliamentary elections and were seen by many as a litmus test for Georgia’s democratic path. While the municipal elections are typically the occasion for citizens to focus on local concerns and community leadership, the events of the previous year, including an expectation that snap parliamentary elections would be called if the ruling party did not reach 43 percent of the vote, raised the political stakes for all parties. Harsh rhetoric and exchanges of insults dominated the campaign period, while the focus on national-level narratives overshadowed local-level concerns. The responsibility for public skepticism is shared across the political spectrum as partisan gains appear to have been prioritized over the needs of the Georgian public. Public faith in democratic institutions and processes continues to be undermined by the approach of political actors before, during, and after elections. It is a political imperative that, in the period between elections, elected representatives fulfill their responsibility to represent the interests of voters. Those who occupy the seats of government bear particular responsibility to bring about inclusive, pluralistic exchange, which is essential to responsive governance that improves people’s lives. Good faith efforts to work across the political divide and internal political reflection are required to ensure public confidence in the democratic political process ahead of the next electoral cycle“, NDI said.

Charles Michel: EU offers expert mission to support border delimitation between Armenia and Azerbaijan

On 14 December, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, hosted the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, for a discussion on the evolving situation in the South Caucasus and ways forward regarding EU relations with both countries. President Michel commended steps taken by both leaders to ensure de-escalation, in particular, the establishment of a direct communication link between the Ministers of Defence of both countries, facilitated by Michel. The President of the European Council also welcomed the recent release of ten Armenian detainees by Azerbaijan and the handover of all remaining mine-maps by Armenia and called for the full and speedy resolution of all outstanding humanitarian issues. President Aliyev and Prime Minister Pashinyan agreed that in the context of the planned launch of negotiations on the delimitation and demarcation of the state border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, further tangible steps will need to be taken to reduce tensions on the ground. Michel said the EU would make available an expert mission/consultative group to support the border delimitation and demarcation issues by providing technical assistance to both countries.

Ambassador Degnan urged the Georgian Government to continue working on a transparent and consistent National energy strategy

Energy security is national security. During the South Caucasus, Free Energy Forum Ambassador Degnan urged Georgian government representatives to continue working on a transparent and consistent national energy strategy through important public consultations. „While Georgia’s commitments to reducing gas pollution and building a transparent, competitive electricity market from scratch are commendable, the work needs to continue for the country to achieve energy independence. This can be done through an incentive scheme tailored to local markets and building new renewable energy generation that decreases Georgia’s dependence on electricity and gas imports and protects the country from malign actors who wield energy and gas as geopolitical weapons“, - said U.S. Ambassador to Georgia, Kelly Degnan.

U.S. Department of Defense: We are aware of media reports regarding an Aerial Reconnaissance flight in the Black Sea region. This was a normal air space de-confliction to ensure safe flight in controlled airspace

„We are aware of media reports regarding an Aerial Reconnaissance & Targeting Exploitation Multi-Mission Intelligence System (ARTEMIS) flight in the Black Sea region on Dec. 3. There was no emergency and at no time were lives at risk. This was a normal air space de-confliction to ensure safe flight in controlled airspace“, - Department of Defense Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Anton T. Semelroth said in an exclusive comment with Europe Time. „We routinely conduct these types of flights and all operations are conducted in full coordination with countries in the region. Security cooperation activities such as these demonstrate a shared commitment to maintaining a safe and secure Europe“, - Department of Defense Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Anton T. Semelroth said. According to Russian media „Russia hands note of protest to US warning of consequences of US, NATO provocations“, a letter of protest was sent to the US Embassy in Moscow in response to air incidents in the Black Sea. According to Media, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation pointed out that the „unacceptable and dangerous activity of NATO aircraft, when warplanes belonging to the US and its allies conduct flights without radio communication, without providing flight plans to or obtaining permission from air traffic controllers, poses severe risks to the safety of civil flights“.

The U.S. Embassy spokesperson: Countries must stay vigilant to identify and respond to disinformation so that it does not adversely affect or influence its citizens

In a comment with Europe Time, The U.S. Embassy spokesperson talks about economic ties between the U.S. and Georgia. The topic of the comment was also Russia and the threats posed by it, which remain the main challenge for our country. According to an Embassy spokesperson economic ties between the U.S. and Georgia continue to deepen and improve and the trade relationship between the two countries last year approached $1 billion. As for Russia and the threats posed by them, the U.S. Embassy spokesperson mentioned that the countries must stay vigilant to identify, classify, and respond to disinformation so that it does not adversely affect or influence their citizens. ET: What are the prospects for the implementation of the US-Georgia Free Trade Agreement, what does its realization depend on? The U.S. Embassy spokesperson: Economic ties between the U.S. and Georgia continue to deepen and improve. Our trade relationship last year approached $1 billion. United States Trade Representative (USTR) has the lead on starting Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with Georgia or any other country. ET: Russia and the threats posed by it remain the main challenge for our country as well as a disinformation campaign that is becoming increasingly difficult to deal with. The United States has done a lot to promote civil society and media development in Georgia. What can you say about how the country can deal with these threats even more effectively together with our allies? The U.S. Embassy spokesperson: Disinformation is pervasive, not just in Georgia, but throughout the world, including in the United States. Countries must stay vigilant to identify, classify, and respond to disinformation so that it does not adversely affect or influence its citizens. That is why an independent, pluralistic media is so important. Government should make every effort to safeguard journalists, both physically and in the media space, so they can accurately and objectively inform the public and hold institutions accountable.

PACE co-rapporteurs to make monitoring visit to Georgia

Titus Corlăţean (Romania, SOC) and Claude Kern (France, ALDE), co-rapporteurs of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) for the monitoring of obligations and commitments by Georgia, will make a fact-finding visit to the country from 8 to 10 December 2021. Discussions will mainly focus on the recent political developments, the October 2021 local elections, the reform of the judiciary, and the issue of minorities (ethnic and religious minorities, and the LGTBI) In Tbilisi, Mr. Corlăţean and M. Kern will have high-level meetings with representatives of the Georgian authorities, the Georgian delegation to PACE, and the political factions in the Parliament. The co-rapporteurs are also due to meet representatives of the judicial authorities, the Coalition for an independent and transparent judiciary, the Ethnic Minorities Council, the State Agency for Religious Issues, as well as representatives of the LGTBI community, the diplomatic community, and NGOs.

Peter Wiebler: USAID supports democratic development and the rule of law in Georgia

100 entrepreneurs from Tbilisi and the surrounding communities participated in a Holiday Fair on December 5, 2021.USAID’s programs have supported hundreds of these entrepreneurs with financing, training, and mentoring. USAID empowers Georgia’s entrepreneurs to build successful businesses and create jobs in their communities. Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan and Peter Wiebler, Mission Director of USAID/Georgia were attending a holiday fair. In an exclusive comment with Europe Time, Peter Wiebler, Mission Director of USAID/Georgia said that USAID supports democratic development in Georgia through many programs. „Democratic development and economic growth are connected. So, for example, today we are trying to highlight young entrepreneurs to develop young and small businesses. It is important to help the middle class in Georgia because the middle class is essential in helping to drive democratic values. As you know, USAID also supports democratic development programs in Georgia through a number of programs, including civil society, independent media, helping local Governance, and others. The rule of law is, of course, important. We have been supporting judicial reform and the rule of law in Georgia for many years“, - Peter Wiebler told Europe Time. USAID began operating in Georgia in 1992. For 27 years, the American people have provided over $1.8 billion in assistance to Georgia through USAID. Building on this successful partnership, the U.S. Government dedicates approximately $40 million annually to 50 wide-reaching programs that support Georgia’s democratic, free-market, Western orientation. Initiatives stimulate economic growth, develop democratic institutions, enhance energy security, mitigate climate change, improve education, and foster the increased inclusion of minority and disadvantaged people in Georgia, including those living across ethnic and geographic boundaries.

Hubert Knirsch: The last few days have seen a remarkable development in Georgian politics

In an exclusive comment with Europe Time German Ambassador to Georgia, Hubert Knirsch talks about the ongoing processes in the country. „The last few days have seen a remarkable development in Georgian politics. Political actors have taken steps away from the brink. There have been words and actions of pragmatism and responsibility. It was important that opposition protests remained non-violent, as announced. I believe that no one is losing anything through this tendency, and if it becomes a trend, the country could win a lot“, - Hubert Knirsch said.

Ben Hodges: It will take firm resolve by NATO and our partners, including Ukraine and Georgia, to make it clear to the Kremlin that we will not tolerate further violations of the sovereignty of European nations and international law

In an exclusive interview with Europe Time, Ben Hodges - Pershin Chair in Strategic Studies at CEPA (the Center for European Policy Analysis) (Commander of the US Armed Forces in Europe 2014-2017) talks about the ongoing processes on the Belarus-Poland border, the building-up of Russian troops on the Ukrainian border, and about the need of firm resolve by NATO and partners as well as a strategy by NATO, and by the USA, for the greater Black Sea region, including Georgia. ET: Good day Mr. General, thank you for finding the time to talk to us. There are so many things happening, I do not know where to start asking questions from. If we look closely at the current events, everything is interconnected. Beginning from refugees on the borderline between Belarus and Poland used as a threatening tool by Lukashenko in response to sanctions to the deployment of Russian troops and military equipment along the Ukrainian border. Against this background, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland are starting to talk about the enactment of NATO Article 4 of. The statements of the NATO Secretary-General regarding Ukraine are also noteworthy. How would you assess these processes, given tensions have reached a peak, both in the South Caucasus and in Eastern Europe? An expansion of the current kinetic conflict in Ukraine is not inevitable…but the pieces are increasingly being put into place should the Kremlin decide to act. It was important for Secretary-General Stoltenberg to welcome Ukraine For Min Kuleba and to express NATO’s concerns about the situation. ET: What does Georgia look like and where is it in the current political landscape? The processes are quite disturbing and full of challenges in the country as well... As you know, the third president of Georgia is on hunger strike in prison, and for almost 14 days now, Georgian MP Helen Khoshtaria has been on hunger strike too demanding to take Mr. Saakashvili to civil hospital. This entire situation highlights the need for a strategy by NATO, and by the USA, for the greater Black Sea region, including Georgia. Georgia is an anchor on the eastern end of this strategically important region and is the place which should be the gateway between Europe and Eurasia. So, the US Government and NATO have an interest in seeing Georgia stable, secure, democratic, resistant to the Kremlin’s malign influence, and living up to its potential as a liberal, democratic society. I don’t easily comment on the internal politics of other countries, especially of friends like Georgia. But I am concerned by the terrible, disrespectful treatment of former President Saakashvili. Regardless of whether or not he is charged with offenses, to publicly humiliate him like this is unbefitting a nation that wants to be respected and wants to be a part of Europe. I am disappointed to see this shameful behavior. ET: The recent aggravation of the situation in Ukraine, the refugee crisis on the Belarusian-Polish border... How can events develop? I see the latest developments in and around Ukraine as a continuation - the next phase of what happened in and around Ukraine back in the Spring. Since that time, despite the false statements of Minister Shoigu, I think it is clear that there never really was a return of those Russian Federation (RF) forces back to their barracks - Russia left a lot of logistics in place after the Zapad 21 exercise. And there has been a lot of very sharp/blatant messaging over the last few months by President Putin and questioning or boasts by others about the future of Ukraine and its legitimacy. And now the latest movements/deployments… In other words, a steady escalation of capability and pressure in the region that never really stopped. This has implications for Georgia as well, given its proximity to Crimea and the Sea of Azov. We know that the Russians only stop when they are stopped. It will take firm resolve by NATO and our partners, including Ukraine and Georgia, to make it clear to the Kremlin that we will not tolerate further violations of the sovereignty of European nations and international law. ET: France has made a concrete and very clear statement of support for Ukraine in relation to Russia… In general, the EU is not really passive… I think that the weaponization of migrants along the border of Belarus with Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia is connected somehow to the RF activities in and around Ukraine, not coincidental, either as reconnaissance or disruption or distraction or all of the above. Very senior Latvian officials told me recently that they see this at least as reconnaissance. They've observed BLR (or RF?) Special Operations Forces out there timing the responses of Latvian border security forces to attempted incursions by migrants. They also think this could be a distraction, something to draw attention away from what they're doing in/around Ukraine. I was in Kyiv and Odessa on two separate trips in the last few weeks. They are very uneasy there. I think the EU is finally taking serious steps about the migrant issue on the border but their attention should be much more on the Kremlin, less so on Lukashenko. Lukashenko deserves any sanctions and other negative actions that come his way but there’s not much more to do to him. The key to the migrant/border crisis is the Kremlin, and right now they are feeling no pressure and have no incentive to stop it. Of course, Turkey is very unhappy that the EU is blaming them in part for the flights of migrants into Belarus which also plays into the Kremlin scheme exacerbating divisions inside the Alliance and/or between Turkey (key to the Black Sea) and Europe. The Suwalki Corridor is also a key part of this. I think that the weaponization of migrants along the border of Belarus with Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia is connected somehow to the RF activities in and around Ukraine, not coincidental, either as reconnaissance or disruption or distraction or all of the above. Very senior Latvian officials told me recently that they see this at least as reconnaissance. They've observed BLR (or RF?) Special Operations Forces out there timing the responses of Latvian border security forces to attempted incursions by migrants. They also think this could be a distraction, something to draw attention away from what they're doing in/around Ukraine. I was in Kyiv and Odessa on two separate trips in the last few weeks. They are very uneasy there. I think the EU is finally taking serious steps about the migrant issue on the border but their attention should be much more on the Kremlin, less so on Lukashenko. Lukashenko deserves any sanctions and other negative actions that come his way but there’s not much more to do to him. The key to the migrant/border crisis is the Kremlin, and right now they are feeling no pressure and have no incentive to stop it. Of course, Turkey is very unhappy that the EU is blaming them in part for the flights of migrants into Belarus which also plays into the Kremlin scheme exacerbating divisions inside the Alliance and/or between Turkey (key to the Black Sea) and Europe. The Suwalki Corridor is also a key part of this. This narrow bit of Polish-Lithuanian territory between Belarus and Kaliningrad is strategically vital because, as you know, it is the land-link between our Baltic Allies (LTU, LVA, and EST) and the rest of NATO/EU. If it were cut/blocked by RF and BLR forces then we’d have a real problem. There is the potential (not inevitable) but the potential for this situation with the migrants on the border of BLR (which is entirely a creation of BLR and RF) to escalate into a major issue, perhaps with kinetic action, at which time the RF might decide it has to step in due to the “humanitarian crisis” or something and, in the process “temporarily” close the Corridor, with its two roads and one railroad. Not likely but it’s completely feasible in my view. So, all in all, this is classic Russian “warfare” - use of all sorts of tools, leverage, threats, language, disinformation, migrants. ET: Energy resources and Russian gas are also one of the main tools of Russia, the example of Moldova is enough for it... Russian gas is clearly a “weapon” and that is part of the overall Kremlin mix as well, all of which is to unsettle/destabilize the EU, present Ukraine to the West as a “failed state”, and keep us all off balance. As a cold winter approaches and while Germany is led by a “care-taker” government until the new Coalition government is in place...hopefully by mid-December. The US administration is right to be concerned about this and I'm glad that Secretary Blinken is finally speaking plainly, and that Secretary of Defense Austin has spoken so plainly, including when he was in the Black Sea region a couple of weeks ago.

EU Spokesperson: We are supporting the three South Caucasus countries, including through the Eastern Partnership

In an exclusive comment with Europe Time Peter Stano, EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy spoke about statements relating to the proposal of a 3+3 format of cooperation for the South Caucasus. „The EU is aware of reports and statements relating to the proposal of a 3+3 format of cooperation for the South Caucasus. On our side, we are supporting the three South Caucasus countries, including through the Eastern Partnership. The EU remains committed to work on supporting peaceful and stable South Caucasus and it is actively engaged contributing to peace-building and post-conflict rehabilitation. It has played an important role in the release of prisoners and the handing-over of minefield maps. The EU has also supported people affected by the conflict with more than €17 million in humanitarian assistance, including for demining and early recovery. The EU is also ready to support border de-escalation and delimitation by providing technical assistance, as needed by the sides, and encourages connectivity and the reopening of economic cooperation in the South Caucasus. Looking ahead, a comprehensive settlement is necessary to put an end to more than three decades of conflict and suffering. To achieve this goal, the EU will continue to be in active contact with relevant international partners, particularly the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, and fully supports them in carrying out their mandate by working with Armenia and Azerbaijan on a comprehensive solution to all outstanding issues“, - Peter Stano said. Related article US Secretary of Defense: As regards the 3-3 proposal, Russia should focus on honoring the 2008 ceasefire commitments, before promoting any new discussion platform

US department of state: We urge Armenia and Azerbaijan to cease fighting and resume substantive negotiations immediately

In an exclusive comment with Europe Time State Department spokesperson urges Armenia and Azerbaijan to cease fighting and resume substantive negotiations immediately. `We’ve seen concerning reports today of active fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We urge Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately cease fighting and resume substantive negotiations, including under the auspices of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs to find comprehensive solutions to all outstanding issues related to or resulting from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict`, - state department spokesperson said.

Georgia failed to protect woman from gender-and honour-based violence, UN women’s rights committee finds

Georgia’s failure to investigate and prosecute gender and honor-based violence against a woman, who was severely beaten by family members in front of her young children, contributed to her death, the UN women’s rights committee has found. In the Views published today, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) deplored both the failure of the Georgian authorities to arrest and prosecute family members who had beaten the victim, Khanum Jeiranova, senseless and their decision to return her to her relatives. She was subsequently found dead. The Committee issued its findings after considering a complaint filed by Jeiranova’s two children, who were 11 and 7 when their mother died. Jeiranova, an ethnic Azerbaijani and a Georgian national was accused of having an extramarital affair by her husband’s relatives. On 16 September 2014, three of her husband’s relatives rounded on her, dragged her along the village, beating her so hard that she lost consciousness several times. That night, the village governor and police officers were called to the victim’s father's house where they saw her crying and begging for help as her family members wanted her to take a jar of rat poison. They didn’t make any arrests and didn’t send her to the hospital. The village governor took her away for the night but returned her to her mother the next morning. One day later, Jeiranova’s mother found her dead, her body hanging by a rope in the garden shed. The mullahs who prepared Jeiranova’s body said that her clothes were covered in blood and that her body had been “beaten to a pulp”, according to a witness statement. However, the police did not conduct a forensic examination of the location after the family refused to allow it. An investigation was opened but quickly closed, the prosecutors concluded that the victim had committed suicide as a result of her, what they described as, "shameful" and “dishonorable” behavior. “Ms. Jeiranova was a victim of intersecting discrimination related to ethnicity and stereotypical attitudes of the police and judicial authorities,” said Committee member Genoveva Tisheva. “Had the Georgian authorities adequately protected Ms. Jeiranova against the gender-based violence inflicted on her, she would still be alive today,” she added. The Committee found that Georgia had failed to provide effective protection and had not taken all appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination against Jeiranova. It also concluded that Georgia had violated its obligation to investigate and punish those responsible for the assault on the victim and her death. The Committee urged Georgia to conduct a prompt, thorough, and independent investigation into Jeiranova’s death and to prosecute those responsibly. It requested Georgia to provide appropriate reparation, including adequate compensation, as well as an official apology to Ms. Jeiranova’s children. It urged George to ensure that all legislation, policies, and measures that address domestic violence also include honor-based violence. In addition, it asked the State party to strengthen measures to ensure the right to life of women and their freedom from torture, with special attention to communities that are isolated, closed, and where honor-based norms apply.

MEP Andrius Kubilius: Keeping Saakashvili imprisoned is bad for everyone, including the ruling Georgian Dream, but most of all for the European dream of the Georgian people

In an exclusive comment with Europe Time MEP (EPP, Lithuania), Co-President of the Euronest PA Andrius Kubilius said that the government should allow Saakashvili to be treated in a civilian hospital. „I also plead with Mr. Saakashvili to discontinue his hunger strike, which to my knowledge affects his health heavily. Keeping Mr. Saakashvili imprisoned in Georgia is bad for everyone, including the ruling Georgian Dream, but most of all for the European dream of the Georgian people. For some time now, this dream and the progress achieved on this road are being demolished by national political divisions. This is painful to watch for friends of Georgia, of whom you have many in Europe and in the USA. There is still a way out through dialogue and discussion. The government must realize the pro-European mandate given to them by the people. The opposition must also make a deep revision of their political vision and strategy. The goal for all responsible politicians must be to keep Georgia on its European path, as this is the only way for Georgia to develop in a stable, prosperous, and democratic way and as this is what the Georgian people want. Following the latest developments, it now becomes a question of a European future for the Georgian people“, - MEP Andrius Kubilius said.

US department of state: The United States and Ukraine intend to coordinate our work to advance mutual priorities

In an exclusive comment with Europe Time State Department spokesperson said, with the new Strategic Partnership Commission (SPC) Charter, the United States and Ukraine intend to continue to use the SPC to coordinate their work to advance the mutual bilateral priorities set out in the September 1 Joint Statement on U.S.-Ukraine Strategic Partnership. "The refreshed Charter will reflect the elevated nature of our strategic partnership as we work together to tackle 21st-century challenges. The new Charter will address, among other topics, the threats to Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity that flow from Russia’s aggression", - state department spokesperson said.

MEP Rasa Jukneviciene: Russia`s plans are very clear. I would be very careful when Russia is on the side of one or another alliance

Diplomatic Crisis among Turkey and other western countries, the 3-3 proposal, and Russia`s role, EU-Georgian relations, and other issues were the topics of the Europe Time interview with MEP Rasa Jukneviciene, Lithuania Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) Member, Vice-Chair of the EU-Georgia Parliamentary Association Committee. Rasa Jukneviciene is a Lithuanian politician, who has been serving as a Member of the European Parliament since 2019. She served as Minister of Defense of Lithuania from 2008 to 2012. _Do the upcoming elections have a special importance to the EU-Georgia relations? Every election is important if it is democratic. The EU members carefully follow the elections, including the quality of elections, in the member states. Of course, we are interested in the outcome of the election within the EU, because it touches upon us directly, but we are also closely following the situation in the countries like Georgia, in our Eastern Partnership states, because the political situation is not stable along our borders. Of course, like every nation, my country - Lithuania - also experiences political instability from time to time. But the situation in Georgia is different: the process of creating stable European-type political parties that are able to talk to each other and find compromise - that is taking very long. Political parties are too tied to personalities and their conflicts, instead of being focused on certain issues. So, the election is important for the future of Georgia and especially in terms of how ruling parties, (I mean everywhere, be it in Ukraine, Belarus, Russia or Georgian and other countries) conduct the election: whether they manage to refrain from using administrative resources, how they treat the opposition, and whether they act in a democratic way. So it is very important for Georgia and every country and we are following what is going on. _In this regard, what issue deserves special attention from Georgia`s partners? Judiciary System, the behavior of the ruling party, because they have a lot of resources, especially administrative ones, how money is issued and attitudes toward the opposition and justice. Supremacy of law is most important for every democracy, so here are the fundamental rights of a citizen, a fundamentally important issue for the future of Georgia. Without that, there is no possibility to think about membership in the EU and other democratic alliances. _It is noteworthy here that Georgia is preparing to apply for full EU membership in 2024. We were very much supportive when we got this message from the ruling party about their expectations and promises. As I understand it, they have decided to put it into their program. It is a very important message, but one thing is to make a good presentation or to make a good statement but another thing is to act as European. This is very important for politicians, for all sides to try to act as European, to demonstrate to the European Union partners that they are ready to apply for membership. Myself, I believe that the Georgian people deserve such decisions and you have friends in the European Union and they are very much in favor. Unfortunately, sometimes your politicians don`t understand that for your friends in the European Union it does not matter so much which political party is in the government. The most important is what they are doing. Sometimes I think that some politicians in the ruling party think that if we are criticizing them, it means we are working for the opposition. Of course, it is not like this and we would just like to have Georgia together with us in our family. So, I am hopeful. And I saw the results of the opinion poll that more than half of Georgians are in favor of the European Path and want Georgia to become a member of the European Union in the future. But for that Georgians need successful European reforms. And if Georgia is not back to the path of these pro-European reforms, especially the rule of law, it will be very difficult to believe that Georgia will be ready for such an appeal in 2024. _Acceleration of European integration is the goal of the Association trio countries Georgia, Ukraine, and Moldova. How do you evaluate their ambitions? We work very hard here, in the European Parliament to convince the politicians from different political groups that the Association Trio strategy is the only way to have the breakthrough in the Eastern Partnership. But it depends mainly on the countries. Today I see that Moldova is becoming a front-runner in its aspirations. Ithas very strong aspirations and the political will to become a European country by making the reforms. They are Europeans, but have to come as as close to the European Union as possible. Georgia has always been a front runner. Georgia has been the leader in the democratization in the region, but now many friends among the Greens, Liberals, Social Democrats, Conservatives at the European Parliament are very disappointed. Eespecially, after the agreement brokered by the EU’s Charles Michel's was rejected: when one opposition party refused to sign it and afterwards the ruling party annulled it. In such circumstances, what can the EU do for Georgia? The proposal from the highest level was rejected. Now everyone hesitates to try to do something. Of course, the Trio is very important, but disappointment is making the situation worse. More needs to be done. The EU aspirations are inseparable from the democratization of the country, justice, the rule of law, the fight with corruption, the necessary reforms. _The country also aspires to NATO membership. The experience of your country is also interesting in this regard. NATO is also an organization for democracies. So, this is also very important. I remember our aspirations to become a member of NATO before 2004, we had the same requirements on the table. NATO membership is not only about military reforms, it refers to the state efforts, including many other challenging issues. If Georgia gets back to the path of successful pro-European reforms, it means that Georgia will be closer and closer to NATO membership. So, this is almost the same process, but I am very much in favor of Georgia and Ukraine to become members of NATO. I think it was a mistake when in 2008 those countries were not invited to a membership action plan. But this is history now. Today, your country has to do even more to convince the leading countries in NATO to make this decision because we have Russia next to our borders, which is very much against NATO enlargement. It makes matters much more complicated.. So you need more successful reforms than before. It is a hard job. You need more active work to do in capitals.. Without good messages to the reforms of your country, it will not be a good environment to make decisions. If the countries in the European Union or NATO will see that they might admit into the club some trouble makers, some countries with big problems that are permanently in the political crisis, well, the politicians that are making the decisions might not have the best feelings about that. First of all, you need to have some kind of an agreement among the political parties, at least to start to speak. At least to start trying to find a common ground for this very nice nation and its future. At least to have a signature on a common statement, for example about NATO and EU membership, to elaborate necessary steps that the country needs to take in terms of the reforms and the political environment in the country. Without that agreement among the politicians from all sides of the political spectrum, with such battles when the leader of oppositions is in prison, when the former president is in prison, when justice is under the concern, you can make one appeal statement after another on how you want to become a member of NATO. If it is followed by bad news from Georgia, I am not sure if any politician will be happy to make such decisions on MAP or membership. Maybe I sound pessimistic, but I know that in the long term Georgia will be part of NATO, EU. However, on the other hand, today I don´t see a responsible political society, be it one or another political group to go together for that. And Russia, the Kremlin is doing also their job. They are trying to keep this chaos going. And this is what concerns you mainly, because we, your friends at the European Parliament, cannot even do more for Georgia when we, for example, are attacked by your Prime Minister. _You mentioned Russia and I`d like to ask you about the 3+3 format. As regards the 3-3 proposal, our international partners say that Russia should focus on honoring the 2008 ceasefire commitments, before promoting any new discussion platform... Russia`s plans are very clear. They want to keep Georgia far from NATO and the European Path. They think this is an alternative for Georgia. So it is Georgia`s choice to go or not. So I would be very careful when Russia is somewhere inside, on the side of one or another alliance. Georgia has to be back on the path of successful pro-European reforms and does not have to fight against European Union or someone in European Parliament. It is hard to say how to be back on the same track as it was proposed by Charles Michel and how to deal with European Union Leadership, but this is a task for your government. On the other hand, I think that Georgia needs some kind of restart at the highest political level, a new drive. Before your leaders take responsibility and stop this very brutal fight between Ivanishvili-Saakashvili, it will not be easy to overcome the situation. And only Russia will benefit from that situation. It will also depend on the people, if there is enough wise understanding of the importance of the free media, a stable political system, and the rule of law. It is up to the people. I understand that many people think about how to survive in the current economic situation, but Russia will not provide a better economy to Georgia. There is a different statehood in the European Union. Look at the Baltic states - today and before the membership. _How will NATO member Turkey's recent tensions with the West affect its future relations, given that Turkey supports Georgia's membership in the alliance? I think it will be solved. As I see, every side wants to deescalate the situation. Turkey is a very important country geopolitically. I am happy that Turkey is a great supporter of Georgia’s NATO membership and you have to keep this going and good relations with Turkey for Georgia are crucial. But on the other hand, we have to be very careful when it is something new with Russian participation, I mean Kremlin participation. I understand that some kind of disappointment comes when still MAP was not provided for Georgia, but you have to be patient. Of course, the time will come. Of course, NATO decisions are taken by all countries together, so it is not enough that, for example, Lithuania and the USA are supporters. We need consensus to make decisions. All countries are important in NATO.

US Department of State on Turkey's decision to expel the U.S. envoy: We are seeking clarity from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

US Department of State commented on Turkey's decision to expel the U.S. envoy and nine others. In an exclusive comment with Europetime State Department Spokesperson said that they are seeking clarity from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. `We are aware of these reports and are seeking clarity from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, - State Department Spokesperson said. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that he had told his foreign ministry to expel the ambassadors of the United States and nine other Western countries for demanding the release of philanthropist Osman Kavala. Seven of the ambassadors represent Turkey's NATO allies and the expulsions, if carried out, would open the deepest rift with the West in Erdogan's 19 years in power. Kavala, a contributor to numerous civil society groups, has been in prison for four years, charged with financing nationwide protests in 2013 and with involvement in a failed coup in 2016. He has remained in detention while his latest trial continues, and denies the charges. In a joint statement on Oct. 18, the ambassadors of Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Finland, New Zealand, and the United States called for a just and speedy resolution to Kavala's case, and his "urgent release". They were summoned by the foreign ministry, which called the statement irresponsible.