Georgian Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri on Tuesday highlighted the importance of Georgia being recognised as a safe country in its pursuit of European Union membership, after the German Bundesrat’s decision to assign the status to Georgia.
The Bundesrat ruled on Friday to recognise Georgia and Moldova as safe countries of origin, clearing the way for a rapid procession of asylum seeker applications from the countries and effective reduction of illegal migration.
Gomelauri noted the German migration legislation had been tightened not only for citizens of Georgia but also for nationals of other countries.
He also rejected claims by unspecified groups on the decision meaning imminent deportations of Georgian citizens from as a “lie”.
On the contrary, more doors are opened for us in terms of employment [in Germany]. The issuance of work visas is tighter today and will be more easily available in the future than it is today”, Gomelauri said.
“[Q]ualified persons are needed [for employment] in Germany - even drivers, [or] family workers. Groups will be created on both sides to filter job seekers”, he added.
The Georgian and German interior ministers on Tuesday signed an agreement on migration and mobility between the states in Tbilisi with the primary objective to strengthen cooperation for labour migration and education.