US congressman expresses support to Georgia
By Tea Mariamidze
Friday, May 13
“The United States should publicly express its opinion and support Georgia on its path towards NATO membership,” Congressman Ted Poe said in a speech delivered at the United States (US) Congress on May 11.
In his statement, Poe noted Georgia's achievements in democratic reforms in the face of regional challenges.
“Georgia made effective governance the cornerstone of its reforms, ensured economic growth and achieved significant progress in building a democratic society," said the Congressman.
The other issues of Georgia, which the politician touched upon were Russia's ongoing occupation, the European and Euro-Atlantic integration process, the parliamentary elections scheduled for October, and Georgia’s economic situation.
According to Ted Poe, Russia does not like Georgia's aspiration for democracy and freedom, which can be clearly seen in Kremlin's policies.
"In 2008, when Russian troops occupied the territories of Georgia, I was in Georgia. I could see the Russian tanks and believe me, Russia does not like Georgia's aspiration for democracy and freedom,” said the Congressman.
The politician underlined that the people and the government of Georgia share Western values.
“In one of the recent surveys, more than ? of Georgians supported membership of the European Union. Almost 70% of Georgians support NATO membership. The United States should publicly express its opinion and support Georgia on its path towards NATO,” the Congressman said.
Moreover, Ted Poe pointed out Georgia’s role in international security and the fight against terrorism.
“Georgia has provided more troops to the effort in Afghanistan than any other non-NATO member. Thirty-three Georgian troops have fought and died on the battlefield with American troops and 900 Georgian troops still remain in Afghanistan," said Poe.
Georgia’s Foreign Minister Mikheil Janelidze commented positively on the statements of Congressman Poe. Janelidze thanked the politician for his firm support of Georgia.
“The assessment is very important for us and reaffirms the importance of the European and Euro-Atlantic integration of our actions. I want to thank Congressman Poe for such strong support, "said the Minister.
According to Janleidze, the visit of Georgia’s friendly US congressman to the country he supports is scheduled for the summer.
