President Zourabichvili Deems Declaring Definitive EU Status Grant in Advance Inappropriate
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, November 6, 2023
On November 3, in honor of 'Diplomacy Day', the President hosted students at the Orbeliani Palace. Following her address, Zourabichvili responded to the students' inquiries, including a question about the country's anticipated evaluation from the European Commission regarding its candidate status.
President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvili anticipates that Georgia will attain candidate status, although, in her statement, she emphasized that "it is not appropriate to assert beforehand that we will unquestionably be granted the status."
During her meeting with students, the Georgian President stated that she had "done everything" to secure the status. However, she acknowledged that there is still work to be done. Salome Zourabichvili also mentioned that she intends to discuss her plans in the coming days.
"We are likely to obtain the status. I believe I have done everything, and I sincerely hope that, with our collective efforts, we will achieve this. I think our partners understand that withholding the candidate status would essentially favor Russia, and there is no intention for that. However, it must be emphasized that asserting definitively that the status will be granted in advance is inappropriate.
I'm hopeful and have faith that we are heading in the right direction and will likely succeed. However, it's neither appropriate nor ethical to assert that the status is guaranteed when the decision rests with 27 countries. If even one country refuses, it would result in overall refusal. Claiming a 100% guarantee for the status either reflects ignorance of the system or is incorrect in every way.
"Let's wait and maintain hope. We've accomplished much, yet there's more to do. In the coming days, I'll inform you about our collective plans, and you will be fully updated. Our role is significant, and your role," Salome Zourabichvili addressed the students.
