Georgia’s Foreign Minister, Maka Bochorishvili, has reaffirmed her country’s commitment to joining NATO and the European Union (EU) while emphasizing that Georgia does not seek a new war with Russia. In an interview with EFE, she stated that Georgia has learned from its past and will prioritize peace in its international strategy.
Bochorishvili, who took office in November, noted that war “brings nothing good,” referencing the 2008 conflict with Russia over South Ossetia. Despite ongoing political tensions with the West and internal opposition protests, Georgia remains firm in its Euro-Atlantic aspirations. However, its EU accession has been frozen until 2028.
Pragmatism in Foreign Policy
The minister highlighted the need for pragmatism in dealing with external threats, particularly Russia. “Georgia is a small country, and we must be pragmatic,” she stated. She reiterated that peace remains Georgia’s priority and that the country must position itself carefully while maintaining strong relationships with international partners.
Read also: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar Attends EU-Israel Association Council in Brussels
Despite the absence of diplomatic ties with Moscow, Georgia remains cautious in its approach. Bochorishvili confirmed that Tbilisi will not participate in regional discussions involving Russia, Iran, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. However, the country continues to maintain strong relations with Ankara and Baku.
NATO Membership Still a Strategic Goal
Georgia remains committed to NATO membership, a goal reaffirmed by Bochorishvili. She recalled Georgia’s contributions to NATO missions, particularly in Afghanistan, and criticized the Alliance for failing to deliver on promises made in 2008 regarding membership for Georgia and Ukraine.
“Decisions must be realistic,” she remarked, acknowledging that Georgia has learned from recent geopolitical shifts, particularly the West’s stance on Ukraine’s NATO aspirations. “Each country must first focus on its national interests, and security is the top priority,” she added.
EU Relations and Future Prospects
Regarding relations with the EU, Bochorishvili stated that Georgia is open to re-engaging in dialogue based on mutual respect. She acknowledged current tensions but emphasized that Georgia remains committed to implementing reforms under the 2014 Association Agreement.
“We are in a strategic waiting period with the EU,” she explained, stressing that Georgia seeks recognition as a reliable partner in the region. Despite challenges, she expressed optimism that Georgia’s reform progress will support future EU membership efforts.
Tensions with the West
Bochorishvili also addressed controversial domestic policies, including laws on foreign agents and minority rights, which have been criticized as pro-Russian. She argued that Georgia was among the first to highlight concerns about foreign funding, a stance that initially led to tensions with Western partners.
Referring to U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans to reform international aid agencies, she suggested that Georgia’s position is now being validated. “We were the victims of antagonism with the West, but now it is clear we were right,” she stated.
As Georgia navigates complex geopolitical challenges, its leadership remains focused on securing its future within NATO and the EU while balancing relations with global powers.
This article is originally published on es-us.noticias.yahoo.com
