Opening speech at the Europe Day Batumi

Hoy da nana, ohoy nana, from Keda, Shuakhev, Khuloydana (Excerpt from a well-known poem by local poet) … Good afternoon!

We are happy that this year, after Tbilisi, we are celebrating Europe Day here, in Batumi with you.

Ajara is a special region. Distinguished with its history, traditions, diversity and tolerance. It is an example of harmonious cohabitation for all us.

Georgia and the European Union have a long history of successful partnership. This relationship has brought many benefits to the people of Georgia. Look around, see yourself what the EU has done in your villages and cities.

In 2023, EU opened the door of the European family to Georgia and your country became a candidate for EU membership. We celebrated this historic moment together.

Today, Georgia’s European integration has been stopped. It is regrettable that Georgia risks missing a historic chance of becoming a member of the European Union for a long time. Moreover, Georgia’s democracy is again in danger.

Becoming a member of the European family is an opportunity not an obligation. It is based on the sovereign choice of the people and the state.

The reality is that EU membership means peace, prosperity and respect for history, culture and traditions of all our countries. This is why we are together.

If Georgia returns to the path of democratic development, we are ready to work with you for Georgia’s EU membership.

We are proud to be friends of Georgia.

Today, let’s celebrate what unites us and let’s hope for a better future.
Go forward Georgia, go!