US congratulates Georgia, promises support

The United States (US) has congratulated Georgia on signing the Association Agreement (AA) with the European Union (EU) and is promising to stand behind and support Georgia as the country works to implement key reforms and build "a more prosperous, stable, and democratic society”.

In a written statement released today, Secretary of State John Kerry said the agreements signed earlier today by Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine marked a major step toward integrating these Eastern Partnership countries more closely with the EU and realizing a Europe whole, free, and at peace.

"It is not just that these agreements link the EU’s eastern neighbours into its single market and unlock new opportunities for trade and assistance, today, Moldova, Georgia, and Ukraine have signaled their readiness to undertake important economic and legal reforms that will make them stronger, more vibrant democracies,” Kerry said.

The Secretary of State said the US would continue to support the territorial integrity of Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine.

"The decision on the best path to security, prosperity, and a better future for their citizens is one that can and should be made by these sovereign nations, and by them alone. We applaud the hard work and determination that has brought them to this point, and we will continue to stand with them as they work to implement key reforms and build more prosperous, stable, and democratic societies,” Kerry’s statement read.

Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova signed AAs with the EU in Brussels this morning.

Western leaders said: "All three face huge pressure from Russia to change their foreign policy course; all three have shown remarkable courage and determination to make their own choices.”