Georgian PM addresses EU leaders ahead of candidacy decision

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Wednesday reached out to key European leaders, including European Council President Charles Michel, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, ahead of the European Union’s decision on Georgia’s EU candidacy this week. The letters expressed gratitude for past support and underscore Georgia’s commitment to EU integration.

In his letter to European Council President Charles Michel, Garibashvili emphasized the strategic importance of Georgia’s accession to the EU, highlighting the country’s dedication to democratic values and economic reforms. He also sought continued support from the European Council, emphasizing Georgia’s readiness to contribute positively to the EU.

In messages to the officials, Garibashvili outlined the extensive reforms undertaken by Georgia to align with European standards. He stressed the achievements in areas such as the rule of law, good governance, and economic development. The letters aimed to reaffirm Georgia’s commitment to the EU and seek further collaboration for the country’s European integration.

The letters also expressed appreciation for the EU’s recognition of Georgia’s European perspective in June 2022, signaling a “new chapter” in their relationship. The PM highlighted the positive steps taken by Georgia to address the European Commission’s recommendations and deliver concrete results in alignment with EU standards.

In his messages, Garibashvili expressed confidence in the EU’s continued support, citing the European Commission’s recent recommendation to grant candidate status to Georgia based on positive assessments. He reiterated Georgia’s commitment to furthering its European reform agenda and urged EU member states to make a “historic decision” in granting candidate status, paving the way for accession negotiations.

Garibashvili emphasized the significance of this decision for Georgia’s European future and the credibility of the EU’s enlargement policy. He highlighted Georgia’s role in promoting regional peace, stability, and democratic development, positioning the country as a crucial link on the global connectivity map.

The letters concluded with Garibashvili expressing his “firm belief” that Georgia, as a future EU member state, would contribute significantly to the common good of Europe. The PM conveyed his expectation that EU member states, including Spain, would take a “strategic and forward-looking decision” to firmly anchor Georgia within the family of European democracies.