We are confident that the European Union will recognize Georgia’s advancements and geopolitical importance and will make another historic decision by granting Georgia candidate status, stated Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili when addressing the reception at the German Embassy on the occasion of  German Unity Day.

He underlined that the recognition of Georgia’s European perspective in June of the previous year has added new impetus to Georgia’s relations with Germany and other EU member states.

Here is the PM’s full speech as delivered:

“It is my great pleasure to be here today as we celebrate the German Unity Day, marking the reunification of this great country.

This day, which has become a source of inspiration not only for Germans but also for all of us, takes on even greater significance in the face of current challenges in Europe. Today, more than ever, the role of the Federal Republic of Germany is crucial for bringing peace and stability to our continent.

Germany and Georgia share a history of reliable and mutually beneficial partnership. Our centuries-old friendship and multi-dimensional cooperation based on common values have grown even closer and reached unprecedented dynamics in recent times. The true and tangible testament to this growing bond is high-level visits and meetings that have elevated our relations to a new level.

These visits and meetings demonstrate Germany’s special interest, Germany’s support and active involvement in Georgia, particularly during this pivotal period in our nation’s history. Let me underline that we deeply appreciate Germany’s unwavering support of Georgia’s European aspirations and our European choice reflecting the resolute will of the Georgian people.

Dear friends, last year in June, the recognition of Georgia’s European Perspective added a new impetus to our country’s relations with Germany and other EU member states. Since Georgia has diligently worked to meet 12 recommendations of the European Union, we hope that our noticeable progress on the Euro integration path will be acknowledged accordingly.

We are confident that the European Union will recognize Georgia’s advancements and geopolitical importance and will make another historic decision by granting Georgia candidate status. This decision will firmly bind Georgia with the European Union, and we seek Germany’s firm support in this endeavour.

We deeply appreciate Germany’s unwavering support and commitment to upholding Georgia’s sovereignty, territory integrity and the peaceful resolution of the Russian-Georgian conflict. Germany’s substantial involvement in the EU monitoring mission, consistently playing a leading role, is highly appreciated.

To demonstrate further Germany’s special role in Georgia, I must highlight that it stands as one of the largest donors to our country. The aid provided has played an essential role in Georgia’s development and democratic transformation, and we look forward to continued cooperation to advance our ambitious reform agenda.

Dear friends, no less important, Germany is one of the leading trade and economic partners of Georgia. We are confident that Georgia’s successful participation in ITB Berlin as a host country will give an additional stimulus to the implementation of a new economic project with German investments as well as boost tourism flows between our countries.

I once again congratulate Germany, and the German people on this remarkable day and confirm Georgia’s readiness to deepen bonds of friendship and partnership between our countries and nations. Together, through our collective efforts, we will contribute to safeguarding peace and stability in Europe,” he said.