EU to Provide 30 Million Euros in Support of Georgia's Defense Sector
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, May 5, 2023
According to the statement released by the Council of the European Union, Georgia's defense sector will receive support from the European Union in the form of 30 million euros. The Council adopted two measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF) to aid the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defence Forces in improving national security, stability, and resilience in their respective defense sectors.
"Today the Council adopted two assistance measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF) in support of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defence Forces to enhance national security, stability and resilience in the defence sector of both countries." the statement of the Council of the European Union reads.
Josep Borrell, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has stated that the European Union will continue to provide support for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defense Forces. He emphasized that this assistance is crucial, especially given the challenging geopolitical context, and is in line with their European aspirations.
"With these new assistances, we continue to support the modernization of the capacities of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defense Forces. In a challenging geopolitical context and in line with their European aspirations, we are helping to strengthen their defense sectors and enhance their ability to participate in EU military missions and operations. This is the third assistance package for both countries under the EPF, clearly underlining the EU's unwavering commitment to the region's security and stability," Josep Borrell said.
The European Council has stated that the most recent aid package, along with the previous ones, will contribute to improving the operational effectiveness of the forces in Moldova and Georgia. Additionally, it will help accelerate their adherence to EU standards, promote interoperability, and enhance their ability to protect citizens during crises and emergency situations. The aid package's objective is also to strengthen Moldova and Georgia's capabilities in terms of their involvement in EU military missions and operations in third countries.
As per the Council's statement, Georgia submitted a request for assistance on February 8, 2023. Before this request, the Council had approved an aid package of 20 million euros in December 2022 and another package of 12.75 million euros in December 2021. The recent request for assistance from Georgia builds upon the previous aid packages and is a testament to the EU's commitment to supporting the region's security and stability.
