Georgian Parliament Speaker says South Caucasus key Europe-Asia Link, criticises EU approach to Georgia

The South Caucasus is an important connecting link between Europe and Asia, and this is why the European Union’s policy appears unclear and resembles “shooting itself in the foot”, especially in its approach toward Georgia, said on Tuesday Georgian Parliament speaker Shalva Papuashvili.

His remarks came in response to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s statement that Armenia plays a “significant role”, particularly in enhancing connectivity between the South Caucasus and Central Asia.

According to Papuashvili, Brussels’ overall policy is disorganised and the EU is increasingly losing its influence in global affairs.

“I cannot find deep meaning in some European politicians’ statements, given that Brussels’ policy is generally chaotic not only regarding Georgia but globally as well. You know that the US Secretary of State does not even meet with the EU’s foreign affairs representative Kaja Kallas, and the European Union has practically lost its role in global politics”, the speaker said.

He added that the EU is no longer significantly consulted on major global or even regional issues.

“Therefore, first and foremost, having dialogue with Georgia is in the EU’s interest, because Georgia is a link connecting the EU with resources and routes that are important for the European economy, which is currently experiencing stagnation”, he concluded.