Georgia's foreign minister: EU must prove enlargement seriousness through dialogue

Georgia's foreign minister and vice premier Maka Botchorishvili said on Wednesday, during a Euronews-moderated panel at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, that Georgia remains committed to its goal of EU accession. However, she stressed that it is up to European partners to answer whether they are truly serious about enlargement in the South Caucasus.

Botchorishvili argued that Europe lacks experience engaging with the South Caucasus region and that both sides need intensive dialogue and mutual learning. She reiterated Tbilisi's long-held position that Brussels must show respect toward Georgia, while confirming the country remains open to continuing accession talks.

Strained relations

Georgia's EU accession process has largely stalled as relations between Tbilisi and Brussels have deteriorated. The EU has accused Georgia of backsliding on democratic standards and drifting toward a pro-Russian stance, while Tbilisi insists it remains committed to its European path while pursuing its own national interests.

Botchorishvili acknowledged that European values are deeply embedded in Georgia's identity, but said the geopolitical and historical context makes the issue delicate. Responding to accusations of pro-Russian leanings, she said the presence of Russian troops in Georgian regions creates serious security threats, but that Georgia views the situation also as an opportunity to preserve peace and pursue economic development.

She highlighted that Georgia's economy is growing at around 8%, among the best rates in the region and in Europe, calling it the best rebuttal to false narratives about the country. The minister also emphasised Georgia's role as a bridge between Asia and Europe via its Black Sea access and the so-called Middle Corridor, which she said matters for European security and prosperity. She accused unnamed actors of running a disinformation campaign against Georgia.