“Georgia must prioritise its own security and work to restore its territorial integrity. Our primary task is to prevent the implementation of harmful interests that various countries or foreign political forces may have against Georgia,” said the Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili.

According to him, numerous tools are available for this, both through engaging with various international organisations and in relation to different alliances.

“Regarding the U.S. position, as outlined in the new security document, including its stance on NATO, this is an issue we have been raising with NATO for quite some time. We have consistently said that the ball is entirely in NATO’s court. We have been waiting a long time for a clear response. What does this open-door policy actually mean? Eduard Shevardnadze once asked, ‘What does an open door mean?’ If it simply means we must stand helplessly by, risking catching a cold in a two-sided wind, then the same applies to the state; such a situation could actually increase our risks. Unfortunately, we see certain statements suggesting there is no consensus on enlargement, even as others, including concerning Ukraine, affirm that they will definitely join NATO. But where are the concrete actions?” said Shalva Papuashvili.

He added that the Ukrainian people have been fighting for their right to NATO membership for over three years, shedding blood, yet they are still left without a clear answer, whether yes or no.

“Ukrainians need to understand why they are risking their lives. Clear answers are essential. Georgia has done everything possible – by strengthening institutions and by participating in NATO-led operations at a time when NATO members were avoiding these conflicts – to pursue NATO membership. We are ahead of seven or eight NATO countries in terms of institutional development, whether it’s combating corruption, upholding the rule of law, or other indicators. The ball has long been in NATO’s court. First and foremost, they should be answering to the Ukrainian people,” concluded the Parliament Speaker.