Georgian president joins pro-EU protests in Tbilisi

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili joined demonstrators in the capital Tbilisi participating in protests against the government’s decision to suspend the country’s European Union (EU) accession negotiations for four years.

The protests have entered their 17th consecutive day, drawing thousands of citizens to the streets in opposition to Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s controversial move.

The protests were ignited after Kobakhidze announced on Nov. 28 that Georgia would halt its EU membership negotiations until 2028, citing European political interference and alleged extortion tied to EU funds. Despite the suspension, Kobakhidze emphasized that Georgia would still work towards EU membership by 2030.

The decision sparked widespread outrage, with demonstrators in Tbilisi gathering in front of the parliament building to voice their opposition. Zourabichvili, who has expressed her anger over the government’s stance on EU accession, stood alongside the protesters, reaffirming her disapproval of the decision.

In her remarks, Zourabichvili also referenced her ongoing dissatisfaction with the results of Georgia’s October 26 parliamentary elections, which she had previously rejected. She reiterated her call for new elections, arguing that they were necessary to restore peace and stability in the country.