Parliament Chairman Shalva Papuashvili Highlights Inseparable Connection Between the European Union and Georgia
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, December 5, 2023
In the annual meeting of the advisory council under the Culture Committee of the Parliament, Chairman Shalva Papuashvili emphasized the inseparable connection between the European Union and Georgia. He asserted that the European Union remains incomplete without Georgia, just as Georgia cannot be considered whole without the European Union. Identifying this shared historical and cultural space, he expressed confidence in the pivotal role that cultural diplomacy will play in ultimately restoring and solidifying this connection.
Papuashvili acknowledged Georgia's active participation in all stages of European development, expressing a desire for continued involvement. He proposed the addition of the Georgian language as a fourth official script to the three existing scripts in the European Union, making it the twenty-fifth language. The goal, as stated by Papuashvili, is to contribute not only linguistically, culturally, and legally but also to the overall development of the European Union.
"Historically, Georgia has not only considered itself a part of the European space but has also believed, and still believes, that we are co-creators of European culture. This cultural influence stems from the Hellenistic world and our connection and contributions to the formation of Europe span throughout our entire history. From the cultivation of wine, honey, and wheat to various products, Georgia played a role. Furthermore, Georgia holds the distinction of being one of the first countries where women were elected to the representative body - the parliament - and were granted the right to vote.
So, at all stages of European development, Georgia has been a participant in this process. Our expectations for the decision that is still ahead, seen from this perspective, are that we want to continue being a participant in the development of Europe. We would like to add a fourth official script in the form of the Georgian language to the three official scripts of the European Union, making it the twenty-fifth language among the 24 languages of the European Union. We aim to contribute not only linguistically, culturally, and legally but also to the overall development of the European Union." Papuashvili stated.
The Parliament Chairman particularly commended the work of the Culture Committee and the Advisory Council, viewing them as examples of cooperation between the Parliament and civil society. He thanked the Culture Committee for consistently prompting reflections on values that are timeless and universal, transcending time and geography. According to Papuashvili, the language of culture is understandable to everyone.
"I am glad that amid the busy political agenda, there is always a moment when we discuss culture and such issues. These discussions are, ultimately, the basis of the development of the country, the nation, and society. Therefore, I especially appreciate the work of the Culture Committee and the Advisory Council, which serves as an example of cooperation between the Parliament and civil society, with the councils under the committee actively involved in policy development. I thank the Culture Committee for consistently prompting us to contemplate values that transcend time and geography. These values are permanent and universal, as the language of culture is understandable to everyone," said Papuashvili.
