Embassy Tbilisi Economic Officer Emphasizes the Importance of Free and Fair Elections in a Democracy
Economic Officer Robert Kiene’s message on the importance of free and fair elections in Georgia came across well in Zugdidi during a speaking engagement at the American Corner and in media interviews. Mr. Kiene stressed the significance of free and fair elections in Georgia and the importance of accepting the results of the elections by all parties if international monitors determine the results reflect the will of Georgian voters. Mr. Kiene spoke at length about the economic benefits of Georgia’s eventual membership in NATO and stressed that NATO is not only an alliance for collective defense, but also a community of shared democratic values -- one of which is free and fair elections.. He added that the security provided by NATO membership will encourage economic growth and foreign investors. Mr. Kiene gave an in-depth interview to local Atinati radio and appeared on the local television station, Odishi. The visit was part of the U.S. Embassy’s trips to regions throughout Georgia to learn more about the public's expectations in the pre-election period and reinforce the importance of democratic processes.
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