Michael Roth, Chairman of the Bundestag Foreign Relations Committee, has recently reversed his position on the suspension of visa-free travel for Georgia. In a candid interview with “PalitraNews,” Roth acknowledged his previous opposition to such a measure but now believes it may be necessary to send a strong message to the Georgian government.
A Shift in Perspective
Roth’s change of heart comes amid growing concerns within the European Union over Georgia’s political direction, especially its perceived drift from European values. Initially, Roth had been firmly against suspending the visa-free regime, a privilege that allows Georgian citizens to travel freely within the Schengen Area. However, as EU governments, including some of Germany’s key allies, consider this move, Roth now believes that it might be the only way to prompt action from Tbilisi.
“I was categorically against suspending the visa-free travel, but I have changed my position and it is difficult for me,” Roth admitted. “I know that my friends have to pay a very high price for this, but this is the most important tool that we have from our side to send a clear message to Tbilisi – to stop this anti-democratic policy.”
The visa-free arrangement was a significant step for Georgia, symbolizing its increasing integration into Europe, and the potential suspension could have far-reaching consequences for both the country and its citizens.
The Stakes for Georgia and Europe
Roth emphasized that the move to suspend the visa regime is not one that should be taken lightly, but rather as a last resort to push Georgia back on track. “Georgia cannot live in two worlds,” Roth argued, highlighting the delicate balance the country seems to be trying to maintain between its relationships with the EU and Russia.
In his statement, Roth referred to the broader geopolitical context, stressing that if the Georgian leadership chooses a path that aligns more closely with Russian interests, the country must face the consequences. “I did not expect these events, but if society decides, and it is legitimate, that we prefer Russian life, we must respect it,” Roth said.
His remarks echoed the concerns about Georgia adopting what he referred to as the “Serbian model,” where the country maintains strong economic and political ties with Russia while also engaging with the European Union for financial support. Roth made it clear that this approach is not sustainable for countries aiming to fully integrate with Europe.
EU’s Growing Pressure on Georgia
The discussion over visa-free travel is more than just about travel convenience; it is seen as a significant tool in EU foreign policy to pressure countries that are diverging from European values. For Georgia, whose leaders have repeatedly expressed their desire to join the EU, the suspension of this benefit would be a major setback.
Roth’s position underscores the frustrations within the EU, where some governments are already discussing potential actions against Georgia’s government. Despite these pressures, Roth expressed his hope that such a drastic step could be avoided, acknowledging the potential harm it could cause to Georgian citizens who rely on this benefit for travel and economic opportunities within the EU.
The Serbian Parallel
Roth also drew comparisons between Georgia’s situation and that of Serbia, which has long maintained close ties with Russia while attempting to balance its aspirations for EU membership. Roth was critical of the Serbian model, implying that it represents a compromise that ultimately hinders true European integration. “The Serbian leader, Mr. Vučić, tells his people we can have both. But you cannot live in two worlds,” Roth warned. “By no means, if the ruling party asks me, I will say, friends, the Serbian model is not encouraging.”
The EU’s stance on Georgia will undoubtedly remain a subject of heated debate. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how far the EU is willing to push Georgia in order to bring the country back in line with European standards of democracy and governance.
