We have done our homework. Now, we are waiting for the decision of the European Union. This is a political decision, granting the status or not; this is a strategic decision, but moral as well. Such a statement the Prime Minister of Georgia made at the 2022 Global Security Forum in Bratislava.

“Over the past few years, since 2012, we have implemented very ambitious reforms in all directions – the judiciary, media freedom, the rule of law, and the consolidation of democracy. We signed the Association Agreement in 2014. and this is the master plan for our country, for the Europeanization and modernization of Georgia.

Since then, we have achieved tangible results. I will tell you a few examples: a free trade agreement and a visa-free regime with the EU, and finally, we have officially applied for EU membership. This is a historic decision. When I am talking about integration, this is the decision of our people.

Georgian people believe that we are part of the European family; Georgia belongs to Europe. We are waiting for the decision of the European Commission regarding the candidacy. We believe we are doing everything. We have achieved tangible results – 45% of the Association Agreement has already been fulfilled. The progress is remarkable. Georgia is a frontrunner. I would not exaggerate to say that Georgia has always been the frontrunner of the Eastern Partnership countries.

Now is the crucial time when we see the full-scale invasion of Russia in Ukraine. This is a historic moment. It is now up to the EU to decide whether Europe stand by its allies and like-minded countries. So, this is again a very crucial and challenging time. Georgia experienced the war in 2008. Georgian people paid a high price. We had two wars with Russia in the 1990s after we regained independence. Therefore, this is our determination, our choice and civilization choice, I would say.

We talk to European friends. I personally talk with my colleagues; I had multiple meetings or phone calls with them; I was in Brussels ten days ago. I met with all the leadership. My message is that - We have done our homework; now, we are waiting for the decision of the European Union.

We have to understand that this is a political decision, granting the status or not; this is a strategic decision, but moral as well. This is symbolic of what kind of message we are sending to Russia. Georgia has been loyal to the European standards and fundamental values, and we have paid as high price as possible. We are making progress in every direction”, - said Irakli Garibashvili.