US Ambassador praises Georgia’s European aspirations

Georgia is taking leading steps towards European integration, says the United States Ambassador to Georgia Richard Norland.

Norland was in Zugdidi yesterday where he met with the representatives of non-governmental organizations and spoke about his praise for Georgia’s European integration.

The Ambassador noted the aspiration of Georgian people towards integrating with the European Union (EU) and wider European region had been strong for "quite a long time”.

When asked about a recent public opinion poll where results showed increasing numbers of people were in favour of European and NATO integration, and whether this was connected to the recent developments in Ukraine, Norland replied he did not know the reason behind the increase but said he was not surprised by the results.

"I do not know exactly what caused … the percentage growth [but]I can tell you that in general we see the aspirations of Georgian people towards the European Union and European integration has been strong for quite a long time.

"Georgia is taking leading steps in this regard and signing the Association Agreement will be very important as the country goes down this path,” he said.

"Georgia tries to meet the criteria for integrating in Euro-Atlantic structures and displays considerable progress, so these figures are not at all surprising for me.”

The US official also commented on the recently adopted Anti-Discrimination law and said Georgian Parliament "reflected the will of voters” by approving the law.

In addition, Norland spoke about the upcoming municipal elections and expressed his hope that it would be held in a calm atmosphere.

"I am delighted to once again have the opportunity of visiting Zugdidi and enjoy its hospitality. This city is a very important political barometer for entire Georgia. Together with other member of diplomatic community, I observe the process and the elections that will be held in June. This will be an important stage for Georgia,” he said.

"I was here in October and observed the election environment, which was very peaceful. We hope that the current elections will also be held in a calm atmosphere and the same environment will be provided for all political players,” he said.