Georgian President: constructive dialogue can bridge differences between Georgia and EU

During a joint briefing with Croatian President Zoran Milanović, Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on Thursday emphasised that constructive and active dialogue could help overcome differences between Georgia and the European Union and normalise relations.

“As you are aware, Georgia-EU relations currently face a number of challenges. However, we believe that through constructive and active dialogue, the differences between Georgia and the EU can be overcome, and relations can be normalised, though this will likely require additional effort”, he said.

The President further stressed that the EU’s enlargement policy “should not be used as a tool for manipulation”, through which European bureaucrats advance their own geopolitical interests.

“It is important to note that the EU’s enlargement policy should not be a tool of manipulation, as is often attempted by European bureaucrats. We strive to be transparent on this matter and always provide our society with information. Guided by our national interest, we are always ready to continue relations at any level, regardless of the positions of European bureaucrats”, he noted.

Kavelashvili highlighted that over the past years, Georgia had demonstrated exemplary resilience and principled conduct, defending its sovereignty, national interests, and peace. “This is reflected in the high economic growth rates recorded in recent years”.

“Fortunately, there are countries within the EU that do not turn a blind eye to unfair approaches; they recognise and objectively assess Georgia’s progress, choosing dialogue and diplomacy over aggressive rhetoric from EU bureaucrats. This is the only way to safeguard genuine European values. I take this opportunity to thank my colleague, President Milanović, who upholds these values, and I hope that the number of politicians and countries recognising Georgia’s reality and efforts will grow”, the Georgian President concluded.