Euronews has published a report on the participation of Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in the 6th summit of the European Political Community. The article notes that Kobakhidze’s appearance at the summit, held on May 16 in the Albanian capital Tirana, marks an important shift in Georgia’s relations with the European Union and potentially signals a thaw in previously tense ties between the EU and Georgia.
According to Euronews, Irakli Kobakhidze spoke with European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
“A brief but warm meeting between the Georgian Prime Minister and the French President at the summit indicates that Georgia and the European Union are putting past disagreements behind them.”
Kobakhidze told journalists that “there was a period of limited communication, and it seems our European partners want to restore ties with Georgia,” the article states.
As Euronews highlights, the Georgian Prime Minister explained this warming of relations as due to the “vital role” his country plays for Europe, adding, “everyone understands the need to engage with Georgia and its leadership, which is why so many initiatives are coming from European leaders.”
“Everyone must recognize Georgia’s strategic importance to Europe. Our role in the region is crucial, and that is why the need for dialogue with Georgian authorities is increasingly acknowledged,” Euronews quotes Kobakhidze as saying.
Euronews also cites another statement by the head of the Georgian government: “I’m ready to talk with everyone. Let’s see how things go. This format allows us to engage with many leaders on the development of our country, regional stability, and Georgia’s European integration.”
The article also notes that footage from the summit shows Kobakhidze speaking with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
According to Euronews, Kobakhidze explains that this political evolution is the result of Georgia’s “key position” in the South Caucasus.
“Over the years, we’ve made a significant contribution to strengthening peace and stability in the region, and we intend to continue acting in this spirit in the future,” Kobakhidze told journalists.
Euronews also quotes a statement from Kobakhidze in which the Prime Minister speaks about Azerbaijan and Armenia and Georgia’s role in the regional context.
“We connect two neighboring countries – Azerbaijan and Armenia – with Europe. Moreover, Georgia has implemented several important projects with its neighbors that have significantly improved connectivity.”
“I believe this is of particular importance not only for Georgia but also for Europe and the European Union, as it helps strengthen ties between the EU and our region,” Euronews quotes Irakli Kobakhidze.
