EU Ambassador urges Georgians to vote amid “historically deteriorated” ties

EU Ambassador Paweł Herczyński on Tuesday called on Georgians to actively participate in the Saturday’s general elections, emphasizing the future of the nation lies in their hands. In an address, the diplomat stressed, “we made the decision to open our doors to you last December. We are waiting for you, and now you have to enter this open door. No one can do it for you; it is up to you to decide.”

Herczyński expressed concern over the stagnation of Georgia’s integration process with the European Union, attributing the slowdown to actions taken by the Georgian government. “Unfortunately, relations between Georgia and the European Union have historically deteriorated. The integration process has stopped, and EU leaders have made it clear that the reason for this is the steps taken by your government,” he remarked.

As the country prepares for elections, the ambassador emphasized the significance of this democratic process. “In four days, you will have the opportunity to go to the polls and choose your government. Elections are a celebration of democracy – a day when each of you can decide the future of you and your children.” He encouraged citizens to vote for a government that reflects their aspirations, recalling the sight of EU flags in Tbilisi as a source of pride and hope for the future.

Highlighting the contrast with other nations, Herczyński noted, “look at what is happening in Moldova. People participated in the referendum and chose the European future. The difference was very small, which means that every vote counts.” He stressed the importance of civic engagement, urging Georgians to recognize the power of their votes in shaping their country’s trajectory.

“Georgia has the potential to thrive within the EU framework,” he added, recalling the transformative success of his own country, which has benefited from EU integration over the past three decades. “The European Union is a success story – a project of peace and a guarantee of development for everyone.”