### Biden Expresses Concern Over Democratic Backsliding in Georgia

President Joe Biden has voiced significant concern regarding recent political developments in Georgia, highlighting a decline in the nation's democratic principles. The United States has historically been a staunch ally of Georgia, advocating for its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and aspirations toward Euro-Atlantic integration.

Biden's alarm stems from Georgia's enactment of legislation reminiscent of restrictive Russian laws, which curtail fundamental freedoms and stifle the operations of independent civil society organizations. The situation was further exacerbated by the October 26 parliamentary elections, which were reportedly tainted by various irregularities, including inappropriate use of administrative resources and instances of voter intimidation and coercion.

The President emphasized that Georgian citizens deserve the right to freely and peacefully express their opinions about the electoral process. Independent international and domestic observers have criticized these elections, stating they were neither free nor fair. Biden has called on the Georgian government to conduct a transparent investigation into all reported election irregularities.

Additionally, Biden urged the repeal of laws like the "Foreign Influence Law," which he argues infringe upon freedoms of assembly and expression. He called for an immediate and inclusive dialogue between all political factions in Georgia to restore the integrity of the electoral process.

Biden's statement underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, which he believes are crucial for Georgia's future within the Euro-Atlantic community.