USA to Launch 15 Programs to Promote Democracy in Georgia

The US is to launch 15 programs in support of democracy in Georgia, US Ambassador John Bass said at the meeting held at the National Library of the Parliament of Georgia today.

‘We are here today to make an official declaration on launch of 15 programs, which will be carried out in the next four years. The US authorities will allocate $ 90 million for the programs. The projects are aimed at development of democracy, improvement of judicial system and strengthening of independent court in Georgia. However, we are not dictating you how to act’, John Bass said.

The Ambassador noted the US authorities had invested $ 200 million for supporting democracy in Georgia for the last ten years. 

‘We are still ready to support you not only with finances, but also with advices. We will always take into consideration the challenges Georgia is facing, and we will always take into consideration the diversity of the Georgian society’, the Ambassador said.

The meeting at the National Library was attended by Giga Bokeria, Secretary of the Security Council, members of the parliamentary and extra-parliamentary opposition, and NGOs.

Georgia will never defect from course supported by the USA- said Giga Bokeria at the presentation.

He said Georgia is eager to be independent and democratic country and part of the Euro-Atlantic Alliance.

“Our friends invaluably assisted us to overcome all obstacles in our struggle to achieve our goals and the USA was one of the first allies in it. Of course, the choice of the country and our society is the most important but support and aid is often urgently needed. Without it, we would have faced more problems. Georgia will never defect from the course supported by the USA,” said Giga Bokeria.

Leader of the Free Democrats Irakli Alasania said parliamentary and non-parliamentary opposition in Georgia thinks reinforcement of the Georgian civil society is the goal of the USA to promote democracy in Georgia.

“Their assistance first of all aims to reinforce democratic institutions and civil society, as well as effective implementation of the election reform in the country; it will ensure participation of every citizen in the ongoing political process. So, it is a serious support and is basis for our long-term strategic cooperation,” said Irakli Alasania.

Interpresnews