Georgia’s President-elect, Mikheil Kavelashvili, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to European Union membership in an exclusive interview with Imedi TV.
“We know positions must change because EU membership and closeness with Europe are in our interest, and I know it’s in theirs too. We are striving to return to a healthy process of finding common ground, which is a crucial matter,” Kavelashvili said.
He addressed ongoing tensions in the country, which started after the statement of the Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, regarding suspension of the EU accession talks until 2028. Kavelashvili suggested that these tensions were in real artificially created and pledged to engage with citizens attending protests to explain the context.
“The Prime Minister’s statement may have been misunderstood by some, but he clarified it the same day and repeatedly explained what he meant. We can revisit the topic to better understand the situation,” he noted.
Speaking on Georgia’s EU aspirations, Kavelashvili emphasized the government’s consistent efforts despite “disrespectful resolutions and degrading attitudes” from some EU actors.
“We seek a relationship based on mutual respect and transparency. While they outwardly acknowledge this, their actions reveal double standards,” he said.
Reiterating the government’s stance, Kavelashvili stated, “We are fully committed to becoming an EU member. This is a declared state goal we all agree on. At the same time, we must defend our national interests—not to harm them, but because it is an organic part of our identity.”
He pointed out Prime Minister Kobakhidze’s readiness to initiate EU accession talks immediately, adding, “We are open to these processes and are determined to change their perspectives, even if we have faced disrespect and unfair treatment.”
Kavelashvili concluded by stressing the importance of transparent communication with the public about the government’s approach to EU relations, stating, “We are not bargaining with this issue—it’s not in our interest, and it shouldn’t be in theirs either.”
