Germany has summoned its ambassador Peter Fischer for consultations after accusations of hate incitement by Georgian authorities, heightening diplomatic tensions between Berlin and Tbilisi.
Germany summons Georgian ambassador for consultations
In a Sunday communiqué, the German Foreign Ministry said that for months Georgian authorities had been inciting hatred toward the EU, specifically against Ambassador Peter Fischer. Consequently the ministry decided to call Fischer to discuss further measures.
The EU Foreign Affairs Council will address the issue on Monday, with a program point covering recent events and the rapidly changing internal relations in Sudan, Moldova and Georgia.
Tensions rise after protest letter to chargé d’affaires
Earlier in October, the German Foreign Ministry called the Georgian chargé d’affaires to its office and presented a protest concerning the treatment of Ambassador Fischer.
According to the DPA, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused Fischer of interfering in domestic affairs. The diplomat had repeatedly publicised criticism of the Georgian government’s autocratic policy and had participated in court hearings against opposition activists. Fischer was summoned by the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the end of September.
Germany affirms Georgia’s European aspirations
Official results of last year’s parliamentary elections gave the ruling Georgian Dream party the majority, a result the opposition claims was fabricated. The Polish Foreign Ministry, among others, also questioned the electoral process.
“Numerous reports confirm violations of electoral procedures and the unprecedented scale of administrative resources used by the ruling party, undermining the principles of freedom and equality,” the ministry said. “We sincerely believe that Georgia is part of Europe, and Georgians deserve to realise their goals and dreams. Unfortunately the October 26 elections did not bring Georgia closer to the EU or NATO, but pushed it further away.”
Implications for Georgian opposition parties
Georgian Dream has also secured the strongest support in recent local elections, per official results. “The ruling side is likely to seek the delegalisation of pro‑west opposition parties,” warned Wojciech Wojtasiewicz of the Polish Institute of International Affairs.
The Constitution Court, controlled by the authorities, will consider the case within the month, and a further wave of persecution of NGOs, free media, and even a total ban on demonstrations is expected.
