Georgian Prime Minister Gharibashvili Hosted by French President Macron at the Elysée Palace
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, November 10, 2023
Irakli Gharibashvili, the Prime Minister of Georgia, was hosted by the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, at the Elysée Palace. According to reports, the meeting focused on the European Commission's decision to recommend positively to the European Council the granting of candidate status for EU membership to Georgia.
Gharibashvili emphasized that the decision by the European Commission holds historic significance for Georgia and will shape its European future. He expressed gratitude to Emmanuel Macron for his support, highlighting the significance of France's political and practical backing as a leading nation in the European Union. He expressed hope for the continued reinforcement of this support, which will assist Georgia in successfully navigating the subsequent stages of accession.
At the meeting, Irakli Gharibashvili and Emmanuel Macron discussed cooperation between the two countries and prospects for deepening collaboration in various fields. They also addressed regional and global security issues, including ways to tackle existing challenges and the positive role that Georgia can play in achieving security and stability in the South Caucasus.
The Prime Minister of Georgia addressed the meeting with the French President on social media, expressing gratitude for the President's support on Georgia's path to the EU.
"Delighted to meet with Emmanuel Macron. We are grateful for the President's support on Georgia's EU path! We believe that France will further strengthen its political & practical support, helping us advance successfully to the next stages of the accession," Gharibashvili wrote.
French President Emmanuel Macron also addressed the meeting with the Georgian Prime Minister and posted a message on social media in Georgian.
"Bravo to the Georgian people, whose loyalty to democracy and Europe no longer needs to be proven. Combine efforts to move forward. France stands by you," Macron wrote.