Georgia's independence day overshadowed by 'foreign agents' bill crisis

Georgia's President Salome Zurabishvili said on Sunday, Independence Day, that the spectre of Russia looms over the country. The most important national holiday is taking place against the backdrop of a political crisis due to the controversial "foreign agents" bill.

- It feels as if our nation’s independence and European future are under threat. Do not succumb to despair; this country and its independence have been brought about by you, the citizens of this nation. Today, it is up to us to strengthen and fortify it - declared Zurabishvili.

During the state holiday ceremony, the President emphasized that "partnership and rapprochement with Europe and America is the true way to preserve and strengthen our independence and peace." She stated that she sees it as her duty to do everything favouring Georgia's European future.

Zurabishvili also emphasized that no one will force the Georgian nation to live in the shackles of another country and according to someone else's dogmas.

This year's Independence Day celebrations are in the shadow of a political crisis sparked by the controversial "foreign agents" bill. Echo of the Caucasus portal points out that the authorities organized their programme of festivities, and the president has separate events planned. Opponents of the so-called Russian bill have scheduled a demonstration for the evening.

President Zurabishvili vetoed the controversial "foreign agents" bill. Nonetheless, the ruling party has enough votes to override the presidential veto. The veto override procedure is set to begin on 27 May.

Since April, Georgia has been experiencing massive protests against this bill. Critics argue that it will allow the authorities to destroy civil society and introduce an authoritarian model of governance similar to Russia's.

Georgia declared independence from the Russian Empire 106 years ago, but the republic was later Sovietized. This year, Tbilisi is celebrating the 33rd anniversary of regaining independence after the fall of the USSR.