It sounds paradoxical to refuse a European loan on one hand and on the other hand to appeal against the construction of the Rikoti Highway

Whatever the growth of our economy, even double-digit, it still does not cancel the social and humanitarian damage that COVID brought to our population, and the reduction of which was directly served by the loan of 75 million euros (or 300 million GEL) - said Salome Zurabishvili at today's briefing And sharply criticized the government for refusing the European tranche.

Zurabishvili Says Dream Government's decision is an 'incomprehensible Step'

"Until the double-digit growth results in public welfare, the logic of refusing aid is hard to understand! It may sound a bit paradoxical to refuse a European loan on the one hand and to appeal to various projects, including the construction of the Ricotta Highway, which was built largely on European loans. The economic consequences of taking this step, are not limited to denying or accepting this loan. The main thing here is the reputation of our country, the credibility of our word! It is true that the government has the right to refuse any loan, but the changing attitude towards the documents signed with the loan and unilateral unexplained decisions may affect the future rating of the country, as well as the mood of foreign investors. I am convinced that economic isolationism, which is unattainable even for the rich countries of the world today, and is a dangerous illusion for us as a small country, even tho these decisions are not based on such facts, but care must be taken so that such steps do not inspire false perceptions.

There is no alternative to EU solidarity and partnership, which 80% of the population not only understands, but supports. We must also understand that in the post-Afghanistan period, a new strategic situation is emerging where our stability and security will depend more on Europe than before. When we promise our citizens" more Europe in Georgia and more Georgia in Europe "and to apply to join the EU in 2024, to achieve these goals it is necessary to maintain the full trust and support of our partners on this path!" Said Salome Zurabishvili.