One Day, Two Messages: Georgia’s Speaker Criticises EU, Praises France

Georgia’s Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili delivered two sharply contrasting messages to Europe on the same day — accusing the European Union of interfering in domestic politics, while voicing optimism about resetting relations with France.

Speaking to journalists, Papuashvili said Georgia’s sovereignty was being undermined by foreign interference. He pointed to comments made by the EU ambassador during the 2024 election campaign, when the diplomat described one party’s banner as “disgusting.”

According to the Speaker, such remarks amount to taking sides in Georgia’s political contest.

“When [the ambassador] talks about the banner of one party and the election strategy or tactics of one party, it means that he is engaged in a campaign against this one party,” Papuashvili said.

His words reflect an increasingly uneasy dynamic between Tbilisi and Brussels. While EU officials insist their statements are meant to support democratic standards, Georgia’s ruling party often frames them as interference.

The tension comes at a sensitive time, as Georgia continues to seek progress on its EU membership bid.

Hours later, Papuashvili’s tone shifted during his first meeting with France’s new ambassador to Georgia. He described the talks as “very productive” and expressed confidence that bilateral relations could return “to the point we want them to be.”

The Speaker emphasized Georgia’s interest in keeping relations constructive.

“We, a country of 3.8 million people, cannot spoil anything in such relations,” he said, adding that mutual respect and respect for sovereignty should be the basis of cooperation.

France is a key voice in EU foreign policy, and a reset in ties could help Georgia maintain momentum in its European path despite frictions elsewhere.

A balancing act
The two statements: criticism of Brussels and optimism toward Paris spotlight Georgia’s balancing act in foreign policy. The government is keen to assert independence in the face of what it views as political pressure, but also recognises the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue with European partners.

The challenge for Georgia is to defend its sovereignty at home while keeping the European future open abroad.

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