Capitol Riot: US Embassy Thanks Georgian Partners for Support

"The storming of the United States Capitol was shocking and the violent actions of those responsible completely intolerable," reads the statement by the US Embassy in Tbilisi, in which the Embassy thanked Georgian friends from across the political spectrum for their messages of support.

The Embassy notes tests like this of the democratic process are a reminder to the world that democracy cannot be taken for granted; it requires vigilance and hard work, and must be nurtured by every citizen.

"The storming of the United States Capitol was shocking, and the violent actions of those responsible completely intolerable. As Secretary Pompeo said, lawlessness and rioting are always unacceptable. Tests like this of our democratic process are a reminder to the world that democracy cannot be taken for granted; it requires vigilance and hard work, and must be nurtured by every citizen. America’s institutions held fast, proving once again that strong institutions and commitment to the rule of law are the bedrock of a stable, functioning democracy.

"Order was restored and the US Congress performed its Constitutional duty on behalf of the American people and certified President-elect Biden’s victory. For almost 250 years, Americans have strived to create “a more perfect union,” based on respect, tolerance, and rule of law. We are reminded again that our work to achieve that goal will never end.

"We would like to thank our Georgian friends from across the political spectrum for their messages of support. We look forward to a positive, prosperous US-Georgian strategic partnership in 2021," the Embassy said. 

Georgian authorities have publicly responded to the recent events and violence surrounding Capitol Hill. 

"We reaffirm full solidarity and support to our strategic partner. Disturbing images of violence at Capitol Hill, and an attack on state institutions is unacceptable. We believe in the strength of US democracy and are confident that democratic institutions will prevail," stated Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia.

"For 30 years, the US has supported Georgia’s path toward liberty and democracy. We’ve looked to the US as an example. Despite these troubling scenes, US institutions have proven their strength, resilience in the face of violence. Georgia needs the strong United States to lead the democratic world," wrote President Salome Zurabishvili.

By Ana Dumbadze