On February 2, the leader of “democratic Movement” Mrs. Nino Burjanadze met the representative of USAID, Mr. Alexander Sokolowski. He is political adviser of the USAID and directly deals with the issues connected to Georgia and entire region. The ongoing political proceses in Georgia, the role of the political parties and USAID plans regarding assistance to the political parties were the major subjects of the conversation.

Mrs. Nino Burjanadze explained the position of “democratic Movement” on ongoing political processes in Georgia. It was underlined that the situation is grave in Georgia regarding the development of the political culture and proper functioning of the political parties. The situation regarding the violations of legislation on the financing of political parties from the state budget was mentioned as well. During the events in the spring of 2009, the state intentionally did not finance the political parties for more than 6 months.  The concrete facts of political repressions and prasure towards opposition parties and its activists were brought to discussion. Political parties, especially “Democratic Movement” for more than year did not have an opportunity to register own fractions in local municipalities which of course hinders the regional development of the parties.   The concrete facts of the arrests, blackmail and threats of the representatives of party in the regions were brought during the discussion.

Mrs. Nino Burjanadze underlined the fact that “democratic Movement” actively cooperates with different international organizations including NDI and IRI. On the question of the representative of the USAID how can their organization support Georgia, Mrs. Nino Burjanadze shares her opinion on this issue. Mrs. Nino Burjanadze mentioned that USAID should intensify support for political parties by organizing international trainings, support in elaboration of the party programs and facilitate international contacts.

The concrete plans of cooperation were discussed during the which facilitate the development of  “democratic Movement” as a party, including programs, structure, regional organizations and improvement of the qualification and knowledge of the party members as well.