Shaheen, Risch on Georgia’s Upcoming Parliamentary Elections

(Washingon, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations (SFRC) Committee, and SFRC Chairman Jim Risch (R-ID) today released the following statement ahead of Georgia’s upcoming parliamentary elections:

“Since we traveled together to observe Georgia’s 2012 parliamentary elections, we have watched democracy deepen and the economy grow. As Georgians prepare to vote in this weekend’s parliamentary elections, it is important that all parties respect and abide by international standards for a free and fair electoral process, and maintain the integrity of the ballot box.

“The constitutional reforms made earlier this year to the electoral system were an important step forward in strengthening Georgia’s democratic legitimacy. The good conduct of these upcoming elections will further consolidate those gains and demonstrate the Georgian people's continued desire to pursue Euro-Atlantic integration.

“Although the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented a large number of international observers from being present in Georgia during the election, the United States and other members of the international community will be watching closely. To that end, it is imperative that the Russian Federation not interfere in Georgia’s elections. An independent and democratic Georgia has many international supporters and is vital to the region. We continue to support the Georgian people as friends and partners, and wish them a free, fair, and credible election.”