Shalva Papuashvili Highlights France's Support and Georgia's Responsibilities in the European Integration Process
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, June 8, 2023
Shalva Papuashvili, the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, revealed that the primary focus of all meetings during their visit to France revolved around Georgia's European integration process, considering the prevailing security challenges in the region. Papuashvili further expressed that France provided unequivocal support for Georgia's journey towards European integration.
Papuashvili stated that in the ongoing process, Georgia bears its share of responsibility and must take necessary steps. According to him, after signing the association agreement, Georgia acts with a strong awareness of its responsibilities. Papuashvili highlighted that Georgia holds a leadership position not only among the associated trio but also surpasses other candidates in several aspects.
"For the last 30 years, France has been involved in strengthening Georgia's positions while representing our country's national interests. For example, France's supportive position on non-recognition policies has played a decisive role in working with different countries. In this regard, we have once again received confirmation that this support will continue. Additionally, we had a two-hour meeting in the Foreign Relations Committee with the participation of all factions of the French National Assembly. I am confident that when the time comes to make a political decision regarding candidate status, we will have solid support.
In this process, Georgia has its share of responsibility and steps to take. We act with a strong awareness of this responsibility after signing the association agreement. Georgia not only leads among the associated trio but also surpasses other candidates in many aspects. We acknowledge and share our responsibility. This process works as a two-way street. Georgia is not merely complaining to the European Union, nor is it an extra burden for them.
Just as Georgia needs to be a part of the European family, the European Union also needs Georgia to be a part of this family because Europe and the European Union are projects of peace and economic prosperity. Georgia can contribute to the European Union both in terms of ensuring peace and security and ensuring prosperity, considering its importance as one of the crucial parts of the middle corridor that swiftly connects Europe and Asia," said Papuashvili.
