“Georgia surpasses both Ukraine and Moldova by every measure: in terms of democracy, human rights, the economy, and social policy; we are the absolute leader among these countries in every respect, and yet the approach towards us remains unjust,” Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated in response to a journalist’s question concerning the opening of accession negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova.

Kobakhidze noted that only 45% of Moldova’s population supports European integration, and that against this backdrop the Moldovan authorities are declaring themselves ready to relinquish even their sovereignty to obtain EU membership, a situation he described as deeply shameful.

“This is a continuation of the blackmail that began in March 2022. That blackmail continues, and it represents a shameful and unjust approach towards the Georgian people. You are well aware of how far Georgia surpasses both Ukraine and Moldova by every measure. In terms of democracy, human rights, the economy, and social policy, we are the absolute leader among these countries in every respect, and yet the approach remains unjust. Let us see whether the European bureaucracy might decide to replace its unjust approach with a fair one. That is for them to decide.

Over the course of 35 years, we have grown accustomed to viewing processes with calm and patience, and it is precisely that which enables us to maintain peace, stability, and high rates of economic growth; something that has not been achieved, for example, in Ukraine or Moldova. You know the situation Ukraine finds itself in; that is a separate matter entirely, and Moldova is in no less dire position.

Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister has stated that reunification with Romania serves as ‘Plan B’ should the country’s EU accession process stall. You can judge for yourselves what such a union would be worth. Moldova is itself casting doubt on its own accession prospects, saying that because they cannot see that prospect clearly, they may consider unification with Romania, which would mean surrendering state sovereignty. The President at the time stated this, and now the Deputy Prime Minister is saying the same. And let me remind you that this is a country where only 45% of the resident population, of the electorate, supports European integration. Only 45% of Moldova’s population supports European integration, and against that backdrop the Moldovan authorities are declaring that they are prepared to surrender even their sovereignty, so long as they become EU members. Just how shameful a situation has been created in this regard, I think you are quite capable of judging for yourselves,” Irakli Kobakhidze stated.