French President Emmanuel Macron wished Georgia happiness, peace and prosperity on its Day of Independence today and suggested that it is important for the country to support international sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine and not allow the country to circumvent any of them.  

In his letter sent to France-born Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, Macron commended Georgia for its European choice. He stated that it has been almost three months since the European continent “felt the deadly aggressive war waged by Russia against a sovereign country - Ukraine.” 

Macron suggested that In the face of the aggression, “which is seriously damaging the security and stability of our continent,” it was imperative that the European family maintained its unity. 

He stated that through receiving Ukrainian refugees and ensuring humanitarian aid for the war-torn country, Georgia has proved its commitment to European values. 

“Georgia's consistent vote in favor of resolutions in the United Nations calling for an immediate end to the war in Ukraine, calling on Russia to end all attacks on civilians, and finally expelling it from the Human Rights Council, was a very important signal,” Macron said. 

Macron stated that amid Georgia’s recent bid for EU membership,  it was important for the country to support international sanctions against Russia and prevent the latter from bypassing the sanctions. “I am also aware of your desire to strengthen the rule of law by carrying out the necessary reforms, namely in the judiciary - you can count on our strong support along the way,”:Macron said. 

He stated that 2022 marked the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Georgia and France, noting that “over the years, we have been able to develop a special bond that is rooted in our shared history of trust and friendship.”