EU Ambassador to Georgia, Paweł Herczyński addressed the public at the gala concert dedicated to Europe Day.

Below is the Ambassador’s full speech:

“Every year, on Europe Day, we celebrate an amazing story of the European integration, a peaceful and prosperous union of 27 countries, each with different history and culture, but all bound by shared values and aspirations.

For the first time, Georgia celebrates this day as an EU candidate country. This is a truly momentous occasion in our shared European story.

Last year, when Georgia was granted the candidate status, I witnessed a truly moving national celebration. I saw people from all generations and walks of life full of hope for a peaceful, prosperous and secure future for them and their future families.

I was proud to be part of this extraordinary moment and I sincerely congratulated not only all political leaders, but first and foremost the people of Georgia, for this historic achievement.

Today, just a few months after the European Union finally has widely opened the doors to Georgia, it is truly heart-breaking to see hesitation and second thoughts. To see confusion and divisions. Even worse to see intimidation and violence.

As President Von Der Leyen said, Georgia is at the crossroads. It should stay on the EU path.

Later this year, the European Union will decide whether Georgia will take the next step towards full membership in the European Union. For this, Georgia needs to demonstrate a strong commitment to the EU values and deliver necessary reforms. This opportunity exists right now. You should not miss it. Please don’t miss it.

We are waiting for you. We want Georgia to succeed in securing its peaceful and economically stable future. We want you to become part of our Union because we respect the proud Georgian people, who are peace-loving, talented and have the core EU values at heart.

The European Union takes pride in our diversity and we cherish the unique history and culture of every and each member state. We want Georgia with its rich culture and traditions, to become a part of our European family.

As I look around the beautiful Rustaveli theatre, I see our partners, politicians, public servants, civil society and media representatives. I see musicians, poets, judges, doctors, teachers and students. I want to sincerely thank you for your contributions and your dedication to the prosperous and peaceful European future for your country.

Dzala ertobashia! Strength lies in unity! We believe in you. Georgia CAN turn this page and continue its journey toward EU membership. There is still time!

Let me be very clear, next big EU enlargement will happen. It will happen with Georgia or it will happen without Georgia. This only depends on all of you, on all Georgians.

Stay on the EU path! We are by your side to assist you as much as we can.

Last but not least, let me close by extending very special gratitude to Maestro Nikoloz Rachveli, the Georgian Philharmonic Orchestra and invited artists for giving us the gift of music today. Please enjoy the incredible performance.

Gilocavt evropis dges!”