Regarding this law, we very clearly stated that this law does not correspond to European values, it does not correspond to European expectations, and this law, in the event of its final adoption, may oppose the ambitions of Georgia's rapprochement with the European Union, - said the spokesperson of the European Union's Foreign Service, Peter Stano.

At the press conference held today, Peter Stano answered the journalist's question regarding the draft law on "Transparency of Foreign Influence", whether there is anything specifically planned on the part of the European Union, so that the Georgian government can withdraw the draft law.

"What we recently released regarding the adoption of this law in the first reading was a joint statement by the High Representative of the European Union, Josep Borrell, and the European Commissioner, Olivér Várhelyi, who oversee this country's European path. Of course, we support people. In my opinion, the decision of the European Council, that is, the decision of the member states, to grant Georgia candidate status, expressed the commitment of the population of Georgia to European values and a clear desire to get closer to the European Union, not away from it. What the passing of this law shows. The High Representative, Josep Borrell, and the European Commissioner, Olivér Várhelyi, together with other member states, clearly stated that the adoption of this law means moving Georgia away from its goal, which is to get closer to the European Union.

The mentioned issue was discussed by the ministers of foreign affairs of the European Union at the meeting held in Luxembourg. The high representative spoke about it at the press conference. Regarding this law, we have stated very clearly that this law does not correspond to European values, it does not correspond to European expectations, and this law, in the event of its final adoption, may oppose the ambitions of Georgia's rapprochement with the European Union. We are interacting with partners, government and members of parliament to explain to them what is wrong with this law and what the negative consequences of this law will be. On the one hand, for non-governmental organizations, the media, civil society, and on the other hand, what will be the result for Georgia's goal to make progress on the path to joining the European Union.

You know that in autumn the European Commission is preparing a report on the enlargement package. All this is reflected in the report, and as in the case of any other candidate state, if there is no progress on some issues or on the contrary there is a setback, it affects the overall approach and progress of the state to achieve the priorities set by the government and the people to get closer to the European Union", said Peter Stano.