Ilia Darchiashvili Optimistic About Georgia's EU Candidacy Status, Affirms Commitment to Align with EU's Foreign Policy
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, November 3, 2023
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Ilia Darchiashvili, indicated that a significant phase is underway concerning the status of Georgia. He mentioned that by the upcoming week, they are anticipating the European Commission's conclusion, which is considered pivotal and will influence the decision by the European Council in December.
According to Darchiashvili, his optimism stems from the fact that Georgia has achieved concrete and tangible results.
"Our optimism originates from the efforts we've made, resulting in concrete and tangible outcomes discussed during Borell's visit to Georgia, including additional internal technical matters addressed during the visit. The subsequent steps taken have elicited strong signals from Brussels. Therefore, we are optimistic and hope for the European Union to make the right decision. In current discussions, partners emphasize that geopolitical decisions from the EU will be a significant factor, alongside decisions based on merit. This gives us cause for optimism as we eagerly await the conclusion, which we will all soon witness together," stated Ilia Darchiashvili.
Darchiashvili, stated that Georgia will continue its efforts to closely align with the foreign policy priorities of the European Union regarding global matters. He also emphasized that the Georgian government prioritizes the country's interests, particularly when it pertains to issues of territorial integrity and sovereignty.
"I want to clarify that when our partners mention foreign policy alignment, they refer to the fact that the European Union, being a large union, issues statements on global events, wars, and numerous challenges. In terms of foreign policy alignment, Georgia has maintained an 87 percent alignment with international organizations in recent years. As for the European Union's foreign policy statements, our alignment currently stands at nearly 50%, and we intend to continue this alignment in the future.
We are guided solely by our own interests when it comes to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of our country. This is an issue that often necessitates further discussions to safeguard our territorial integrity and sovereignty. We are actively collaborating with the European Union in this regard. They are aware of our dedicated efforts, and Georgia will continue to align as closely as possible with the foreign policy priorities of the European Union concerning global affairs," said Ilia Darchiashvili.
