Georgian FM: Georgia never halted EU process, negotiations still unopened by Europe

Georgia has never refused dialogue with the European Union and has not halted its European integration process, despite accusations to the contrary, said on Friday Georgian vice prime minister and foreign minister Maka Botchorishvili during a working session at the Delphi Economic Forum in Greece.

In her remarks, Botchorishvili noted that accession talks with Georgia have not even begun, and the decision to open talks rests with the European side.

She stressed that Tbilisi is ready to move forward once European leaders decide to launch negotiations.

“Georgia has never refused dialogue with the European Union; the process has never been suspended by Georgia, despite claims to the contrary. Negotiations with Georgia have not even started, and this is a decision of the European side”, the minister said.

The minister highlighted Georgia’s priorities amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, noting that two of the country’s regions remain occupied by the Russian Federation. She emphasised that Georgia is not a member of NATO or any military alliance, which further increases its vulnerability in the current security environment. Despite these challenges, Botchorishvili said Georgia has made significant progress in transforming from a post-Soviet state into a modern, functioning democracy, achieving notable economic development and improving its business and governance environment.

She acknowledged frequent criticism from the European Union but said it must be viewed in the context of recent regional developments and Georgia’s difficult geopolitical environment. She also underscored Georgia’s strategic role as a connector between East and West, arguing that this position creates opportunities for deeper cooperation with the EU.

The minister further stressed that European integration should not be used as a political tool, as this risks undermining the enlargement process.

“The geopolitical question is: what do we want in the future? Should the Black Sea remain a dividing sea, or should it become a connecting one? European integration is increasingly being used as a political tool, which damages the entire process. This is exactly what we must avoid. We should not turn this process into a tool, as it ultimately harms the overall idea of enlargement and accession”, she noted.

Botchorishvili concluded that ensuring national security and stability remains the country’s top priority, as it was a fundamental condition for advancing all other aspects of development, including European integration.

“As soon as European leaders decide to open negotiations with Georgia, the country will be ready. We clearly understand what needs to be done. The first and most important priority is security and stability, which are essential foundations for progress in all other areas”, Botchorishvili concluded.