Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili met with a delegation of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET). First, Garibasvhili held a face-to-face meeting with MEP David McAllister, followed by enhanced-format negotiations.
The Prime Minister welcomed the European parliamentarians’ visit to Georgia and emphasized its importance for the process of Georgia’s accession to the EU, also in light of the regional situation. The conversation focused on prospects of enhanced cooperation in the future.
Attention was paid to the European Council’s historic decision from June 23, on granting the European perspective to Georgia, as a recognition of Georgia’s progress under a transitional democracy in the three decades since regaining independence.
The Prime Minister pointed out as unfortunate the differentiated approach applied to Georgia when the country was not granted a candidate status alongside Moldova and Ukraine. Nonetheless, the Georgian Government has actually started implementing the twelve priorities defined in the European Council’s June 23 decision, he noted. An inclusive process and engagement from every relevant stakeholder is key to the implementation of the priorities set by the European Commission, Garibashvili said, adding that this is a joint responsibility that everyone in the country must take into account.
The meeting underlined that Georgia continues implementing the Association Agreement (AA) and the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) with the EU, as well as the obligations stipulated under the updated Association Agenda 2021-2027. Attention was paid to the dire humanitarian and human rights situation in Georgia’s occupied regions.
The meeting highlighted the European Parliament’s support of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, also expressing hope that the EU will raise this issue in every relevant format. In addition, the Prime Minister underlined the importance of using the Geneva International Discussions effectively.
Garibashvili reaffirmed the commitment of Georgia’s authorities to peaceful conflict-resolution. As it was emphasized during the meeting, Georgia remains the EU’s reliable partner and loyal contributor to its ongoing operations.
The conversation also revolved around the military action in Ukraine and the regional state of affairs in general as factors impacting Georgia. Attention was also paid to issues pertaining to Black Sea Security.
