**Georgia Steps Up Diplomatic Efforts with EU and Western Countries**
In a bid to strengthen its ties with the European Union (EU) and other Western countries, Georgia has been actively engaging in high-level diplomatic efforts. According to Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s annual report, which was submitted to Parliament on June 27, the country has established an inter-agency working group to coordinate legal harmonization with the EU.
The report highlights several key developments, including the creation of an electronic database of legal harmonization, which includes over 600 acts to be harmonized within the framework of the Association Agreement and other agreements. The harmonization rate with EU law exceeds 50%, indicating significant progress in this area.
Georgia’s efforts to strengthen its ties with NATO are also evident in the report. A jubilee summit was held to celebrate the 75th anniversary of NATO, and a Georgian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs participated in the events. The country has also developed a self-assessment document for the 16th Annual National Program (ANP) of Georgia for 2024, which was sent to NATO Headquarters.
The report notes that high-level visits were carried out with European countries, including Hungary, Luxembourg, and Austria. In addition, the Prime Minister of Georgia paid visits to the United Kingdom, Hungary, and Albania to participate in summits of the European Political Community (EPC). Bilateral political consultations were also used to discuss relations with European countries.
Georgia’s engagement with the United States has been particularly notable, with several high-level visits and meetings taking place during the reporting period. These included a visit by the US Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Uzra Zeya, and a meeting between the First Vice Prime Minister of Georgia and the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets.
The report also highlights Canada’s importance as a partner country, with several visits and meetings taking place during the reporting period. These included a visit by Robert Sinclair, Director General of Arctic, Eurasian and European Affairs of the Canadian Ministry of Global Affairs, and a meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs and her Canadian counterpart.
**What does this mean for Georgia?**
Georgia’s efforts to strengthen its ties with the EU and other Western countries are likely to have significant benefits for the country. By improving its legal framework and harmonizing it with EU law, Georgia can increase its attractiveness as a business destination and improve its economic prospects. The country’s engagement with NATO is also important, as it reflects Georgia’s commitment to European values and security.
Georgia’s relations with the United States are likely to be an important area of focus in the coming period, particularly given the country’s ongoing conflict with Russia. The support provided by the US Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2024 is a significant development, and Georgia can expect continued support from its Western partners as it navigates this challenging environment.
Overall, Georgia’s diplomatic efforts are likely to pay dividends in the long term, as the country seeks to strengthen its position within the EU and other international organizations.
