Georgia’s Prime Minister Calls for Reset in U.S. Relations Amid Aid Halt and Controversial Law

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze seeks to reset relations with the U.S. after aid was paused over democratic concerns. Tensions rose following the passage of a disputed 'foreign agents' law. The U.S. criticized Georgia for anti-democratic actions, leading to aid suspension and visa restrictions for some Georgian nationals.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has called for a 'reset' in relations with the United States. This follows Washington's decision to pause over $95 million in aid due to concerns about democratic backsliding, reported Interpress news agency.

Earlier this year, Georgia faced intense scrutiny from opposition politicians and Western nations over a law on 'foreign agents.' This law, which came into effect on Thursday, compels organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as 'agents of foreign influence.' Critics argue that this law is authoritarian and suppresses dissent.

In a statement, Kobakhidze emphasized, 'We are fully prepared to reset relationships.' He acknowledged strains in Georgian-American relations over the last few years but expressed readiness to see 'the next steps.' The ruling Georgian Dream party defends the law as a measure to protect national sovereignty. The U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the aid pause on Wednesday, citing anti-democratic actions and false statements by the Georgian government as reasons, and also highlighted visa restrictions imposed on some Georgian nationals.

(With inputs from agencies.)