The Georgian government has made a significant move by suspending its accession negotiations with the European Union, as announced by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze during a Thursday briefing. This decision comes alongside a rejection of any EU budgetary grants until the end of 2028.
Prime Minister Kobakhidze emphasized Georgia's commitment to being fully prepared economically for EU accession talks by 2030. He criticized the use of EU membership discussions as a tool for political pressure, likening it to blackmail tactics previously seen when Georgia was granted EU aspirant status.
\"Our state target is to make Georgia an EU member in 2030 and we will spare no efforts for it. It is unacceptable for us to consider integration with the EU as a favor that the European Union should grant us,\" Kobakhidze stated. He assured that Georgia will uphold all commitments outlined in the Association Agreement with the EU without relying on financial support from the Union.
In related developments, the European Parliament adopted a stringent resolution regarding Georgia's recent parliamentary elections, labeling them as a sign of democratic decline. The resolution criticized the elections held on October 26 as neither free nor fair and called for a re-run under international supervision.
This move by Georgia underscores the nation's determination to chart its own course toward European integration, focusing on economic preparedness and self-reliance while navigating complex international relations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
