Washington Times: “Georgia’s promise, America’s commitment”

Why is America interested in the future of Georgia?

Georgia – a country that lies at the crossroads of East and West – is a staunchly pro-Western country that contributes immensely to international peacekeeping missions, is working hard to overhaul and reform many major sectors to snub out corruption and improve transparency, and at the same time is constantly facing threats from its domineering neighbour Russia.

In an op-ed for The Washington Times, Luke Coffey of The Heritage Foundation paints a detailed picture why the United States (US), the European Union and NATO should stand behind and support Georgia.

Georgia is strategically important for a variety of military and economic reasons. Pipelines run through it, carrying oil and gas to European markets. As the West tries to become less dependent on Russian energy sources, these pipelines will become increasingly important,” writes Coffey

The country is a significant contributor to peacekeeping missions in Afghanistan and remains firmly committed to Euro-Atlantic integration.

Among its neighbours, Georgia shines as a beacon of democracy and economic freedom. The current government has pursued an agenda of liberalizing the economy, cutting bureaucracy and fighting corruption.”

The 2016 Index of Economic Freedom, published annually by The Heritage Foundation and The Wall Street Journal, ranked Georgia 23rd out of 184 countries in terms of economic freedom. Just 20 years ago it ranked 123rd.

"In Georgia’s capital Tbilisi a riverside park features a bronze statue of Ronald Reagan. The reforms taking place in modern Georgia reflect Reagan’s belief in democracy, free markets, a strong defence and liberty. For Georgians, the statue stands as a reminder of how far they have come since regaining their independence from the Soviet Union 25 years ago. To the West, the statue is a reminder that the Cold War did not just end — it was won.

This small country may seem insignificant and distant to policymakers in Washington, but a free and strong Georgia is in America’s best interest. If the U.S. gives it short shrift, it does neither itself, nor millions of freedom-loving Europeans, any favours.”

Read the full article here: www.m.washingtontimes.com