Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's recent participation in the 6th Summit of the European Political Community in Tirana signifies an improvement in Georgia-EU relations, which had been strained due to various political issues. A meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted this thaw, as both parties seek to reaffirm ties. The EU had previously suspended Georgia's accession discussions after implementing a controversial law deemed authoritarian. However, Kobakhidze emphasized Georgia's strategic importance to Europe, advocating for renewed dialogue between Tbilisi and Brussels, especially regarding EU membership.
Kobakhidze underlined this moment by telling journalists that "there was a period of limited communication (between Georgia and the EU) and it seems our European partners were eager to restore ties with Georgia."
"Everyone should recognise Georgia's strategic importance for Europe, especially for the eurozone. Our role in the region is significant, and that's why the need for dialogue with Georgian leaders is increasingly acknowledged," he said.
The EU gave Georgia candidate status in December 2023 but halted its membership application process indefinitely and cut financial support last June after the passage of a 'foreign influence' law.
In an interview with Euronews in November, Kobakhidze said the ball was in Brussels' court, emphasizing the need for engagement after the pause on EU discussions.
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