Tbilisi Mayor and Georgian Dream party Secretary-General Kakha Kaladze emphasized his party's dedication to Georgia's national interests on Thursday following the United States' imposition of visa restrictions on members of the party.

The United States had sanctioned Georgian Dream Party officials due to Tiblisi passing a law targeting NGOs with the aim of limiting foreign influence in the country.

Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the United States Department of State, announced on Thursday that the US Government had placed visa restrictions on "dozens" of Georgian individuals as part of its initial round of sanctions. 

"This does not change our attitude towards the homeland, it does not change our decision when it comes to the interests of the country, the future of this country. No one is afraid of these sanctions," Kaladze stressed.

Kaladze also expressed the government’s willingness to "reboot" the strategic partnership with the United States and foster "genuine and healthy" relations despite the sanctions.

NGOs must disclose funding sources

The Georgian legislation mandates that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and media entities receiving over 20 percent of their funding from abroad must register as entities serving the interests of a foreign power.

The law, supported by 84 MPs in the 150-member Parliament with 30 voting against, requires these groups to register in the public registry and disclose their funding sources.

The ruling Georgian Dream Party asserts its commitment to EU integration and stresses that the law aims to enhance transparency regarding NGO funding.

The law has sparked significant debate and criticism, with opponents arguing it could stifle civil society and independent media, while supporters claim it is necessary for national security and transparency.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced last month that the US planned to implement fresh visa restrictions and reassess its relationship with Georgia.

Blinken stated that the new visa policy "will apply to individuals who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia, as well as their family members." Additionally, Washington will commence a thorough examination of the bilateral cooperation between the United States and Georgia, as per Blinken's statement.