EU needs Georgia, foreign minister tells Euronews, reigniting enlargement question

European foreign minister Maka Botchorishvili of Georgia told Euronews that her country still wants to join the European Union, but is questioning whether European partners are genuinely committed to enlisting the South Caucasus, particularly Georgia. Speaking at a moderated panel during the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Botchorishvili emphasized that "Europe wants to enlarge, but Europe does not have experience of being represented in South Caucasus." Both Georgia and Europe need to learn from each other through intensive dialogue and cooperation.

Botchorishvili, also serving as Georgia's vice premier, reiterated her government's longstanding stance that the European Union must respect Tbilisi's ambitions. While Georgia remains open to discussing EU accession, Botchorishvili stressed that "we expect that European partners will also realise it is important to have intensive dialogue and mutual respect with partners, which are very important for our common security and prosperity."

Georgia's EU accession process has stalled due to strained relations between Tbilisi and Brussels. The EU has accused Georgia of democratic regression and a pro-Russian approach, while Tbilisi maintains its commitment to European integration, albeit within its own interests. Botchorishvili explained that this issue is "delicate" due to "geopolitical and historic contexts."

The foreign minister highlighted Georgia's unique position as a bridge between Asia and Europe, with its Black Sea access offering special connectivity benefits. She also addressed accusations of Georgia being pro-Russian, emphasizing that Russian troops in Georgian regions pose significant security threats but also present opportunities for peace, stability, and economic development.

Tbilisi is actively working on these fronts, with Georgia experiencing impressive economic growth of around 8%, making it the best performer in the region and Europe.