Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and ruling party officials have reaffirmed their positions on the suspension of EU accession talks until 2028, despite international criticism. Speaking at a government session on Monday, Kobakhidze emphasized the government’s dedication to strengthening ties with the United States and ensuring continued European integration, even in the face of the EU delay.
Kobakhidze described Georgia’s past relationship with the US as a “strategic partnership” that had “no real substance,” claiming it was previously based on “formal agreements” without meaningful content. He expressed optimism that the new US administration would help transform this partnership into one with concrete goals and a specific roadmap, grounded in shared values. He also reassured the public of Georgia’s unwavering commitment to European integration, pledging that more than 90 percent of obligations under the 2014 Association Agenda and the Free Trade agreement would be fulfilled by 2028.
Despite the government’s commitment to EU integration, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the suspension of EU accession talks, citing a desire for “dignified” integration in response to what he described as a “cascade of insults and blackmail” by European politicians. This decision, announced on November 28, has led to tensions with the US, which suspended its strategic partnership with Georgia on December 1.
Mamuka Mdinaradze, Executive Secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream party, also spoke on the matter, asserting that the party remained “firm” in its decision to suspend EU talks. He emphasized that the leadership was unanimous in supporting the move, which he claimed was in the best interest of the country. Mdinaradze dismissed calls from opposition parties for early elections, and argued that the government’s “honesty to the homeland” would successfully manage any challenges posed by the opposition.
Mdinaradze also responded to EU Ambassador Pawel Herczynski’s remarks about potential sanctions against Georgia, suggesting that the EU’s criticism reflected plans to punish the country. He maintained that the government’s suspension of EU talks had reduced opposition resources for unrest and helped prevent major internal instability.
As tensions continue, both Kobakhidze and Mdinaradze emphasized that the government’s focus remains on securing Georgia’s future, with a clear commitment to its international partnerships and European aspirations, despite the ongoing political challenges.
