Georgian PM says EU membership path remains steady, irreversible

In an interview with Euronews, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday stressed that the country’s path towards European Union membership remained steady and irreversible as well as that the goal of joining the European Union by 2030 was both realistic and attainable based on the reforms carried out so far by Government.

The Government head also underlined key points in the strained relations between Georgia and the European Union.

“I am confident that, in the years ahead, the approach toward Georgia will become fairer and more merit-based, reflecting both the reforms we have undertaken and the tangible progress we have achieved”, the PM said

He further emphasised that Georgia’s strategic importance was growing rapidly and that the country met all obligations under the Association Agreement and the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area with the European Union.

Kobakhidze also underlined the country’s position towards Russia by saying that “the Georgian people fully comprehend the profound cost of war - 20% of our territory remains under Russian occupation”.

He noted that Georgia remained unwaveringly committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution, fully acknowledging that peace was the only viable path forward, adding that Georgia’s path was European, peaceful, and principled.

“We are doing our part. We remain steadfast in reform, committed to our obligations, and focused on delivering results. As our democracy deepens and our strategic role expands, we expect our European partners to see Georgia as a country that is helping to shape Europe’s future”, Kobakhidze continued.

The Government head also spoke about the upcoming local elections scheduled for Saturday and criticised opposition by saying that “some political actors, lacking any vision beyond confrontation, are attempting to turn the democratic process into a tool for destabilisation”.

He further stressed that the trust in the Georgian Dream party continued to grow, as over the past four years, Georgia had emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the wider European neighbourhood

“But democracy is not only about protest - it is also about performance. And our Government’s performance has been clear: we protect economic growth, we invest in our people, and we preserve peace in a challenging region”, Kobakhidze concluded.