Gia Volski: We expect the European Commission’s report to be harsh, but in what way are we "less European"—whether in our conduct or our refinement—than anyone else?! In what sense have we shifted into the orbit of Russian policy?! Do we purchase the same volume of gas or energy resources as the Europeans do?!

They should take a look at what is happening in Europe, and only then consider what formulas to use to attack a small country that is defending itself—a country where 20% of its territory is under occupation. In what way are we "less European"—whether in our conduct or our refinement—than anyone else?! In what sense have we shifted into the orbit of Russian policy?! Do we purchase the same volume of gas or energy resources as the Europeans do?! –First Vice-Speaker of the Parliament Gia Volski stated while speaking to journalists in response to a question regarding the European Commission’s enlargement report.

According to him, the report is likely to be harsh.

“We expect the report to be harsh—much like the European Parliament’s resolution—but it suffers from one serious flaw: it broadly alleges a shift in Georgia’s foreign policy course and attempts to exclude the Georgian government from international forums and formats—an effort that has failed. Consequently, in my view, the resolution will be even more severe precisely because they failed to achieve certain objectives they had planned.

As for their demands, I hardly think any representative of the radical opposition will step up to the podium and declare: ‘Yes, indeed—lack of transparency and "dark money" are necessary! Yes, it is essential that our children be exposed to LGBT propaganda, that gender-reassignment surgeries be performed, and that same-sex marriage be permitted.’ Let someone—even one of our opponents—come forward and say that! These demands are entirely groundless. We have an anti-discrimination law that protects everyone’s rights. It is not as if we are against any individual—regardless of the minority group they may belong to; they are our citizens, and the law protects everyone—but we keep telling them that in Georgia—a traditional country—this will inevitably lead to confrontation.

There is nothing substantial behind these demands. They themselves are currently adopting a law on ensuring transparency.

Moreover, their law is significantly harsher. Why?! They should take a look at what is happening in Europe before deciding on the rhetoric to use against a small country that is defending itself—a country with 20% of its territory under occupation. How can they justify such an attitude? To what end?! In what way are we 'lesser' Europeans—whether in our conduct or our refinement?! They have leveled an accusation that we have shifted into the orbit of Russian policy. How so?! Are we purchasing as much gas or energy resources as the Europeans are? Have we acquired more 'strategic' commodities than they have? Or are we, like them, engaged in backroom dealings?! Consequently, such accusations are directed not merely at the government, but at our entire society—including those who, at this moment, fail to grasp the reality of the situation," stated Volski.

For information, the European Commission will publish its report on enlargement on November 4.