EU candidacy marks “pivotal moment” in independent Georgia's history - Defence Minister

Georgia's Defence Minister Juansher Burchuladze on Tuesday labelled the country's candidacy for the European Union as a "pivotal moment not only in the last decade but since gaining independence” from the Soviet Union in 1991.

In an interview with Imedi TV, Burchuladze attributed the "landmark event" to the "genetic and cultural aspirations" of Georgian society, along with "dedicated efforts" of the Georgian Dream Government. 

He said he was confident in the "irreversible nature" of Georgia's final integration into the EU, emphasising the country was “on the path” to becoming a full member.

Highlighting the "significant contribution" of the country’s Defence Forces to the integration, Burchuladze emphasised their "active engagement" in peacekeeping missions led by the bloc that contributed to "global peace and security".

He added the “positive trajectory” of his body’s relations with international partners over the past years had “also played an important role in this historic accomplishment".

The European Council granted Georgia the EU membership candidate status on December 14 and approved nine conditions outlined by the European Commission in November for opening accession talks with the country. The Government of Georgia unveiled an action plan on Monday to meet the reform agenda.