During a joint press conference with Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Bochorishvili, Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger discussed Georgia’s significance as a bilateral partner for Austria, emphasizing economic ties between the two nations and expressing confidence that future cooperation will be mutually beneficial.
Meinl-Reisinger addressed regional security, emphasizing the need for resilience against Russian destabilization efforts. Russia must not get away with its blatant violation of international law. If the global order is determined by might rather than rules, the consequences for countries like Austria and Georgia will be severe,” she stated. She reinforced Austria’s support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, pointing out the ongoing challenges created by the country’s Russian-occupied regions.
During the discussion, the Austrian Foreign Minister expressed concerns over Georgia’s halted EU accession process. “From a European perspective, Georgia has shifted into reverse gear. We see setbacks in judicial reforms, rule of law, and human rights, as well as troubling legislation targeting civil society,” she said.
Because of such developments, Meinl-Reisinger stated that the EU has frozen over EUR 120 million in direct assistance to Georgian authorities and halted EUR 30 million in planned support under the European Peace facility. She, nevertheless ,stressed that it is necessary for Georgian people and civil society that aid continues. “We urge Georgian authorities to overcome political divisions. Dialogue with the opposition and civil society is essential,” she said.
“I am against completely closing the door. Open communication must be maintained, and Austria stands ready to support Georgia if it chooses to return to a pro-European course,” she concluded, pointing out that over 80% of the Georgian population still supports EU membership.
