**Georgia’s Place in the European Union**
French politician Thierry Mariani thinks that Georgia has a place in the European Union. However, he also believes that Georgia’s interests must be protected.
Mariani says that Georgia is in a difficult position geographically. It is between Turkey and Russia. This means that it needs to have good relations with both countries.
**Respecting Member States**
Mariani does not agree with Brussels’ official position on the European Union. He thinks that the EU should respect the choices of all member states, rather than forcing them to make certain decisions.
He also believes that the current European Parliament has strange views. They think that all countries should follow instructions from the European Commission.
**A Visit to Georgia**
Mariani visited Georgia in July 2022. He met with the country’s President and Prime Minister. He was told that Georgia has a different situation due to its geographical position.
He believes that the EU should take this into account when making decisions about membership.
**Sanctions on Georgian Politicians**
Some countries, including Estonia and Latvia, have imposed sanctions on some Georgian politicians. Mariani thinks that this is not helpful.
Instead of imposing sanctions, he believes that these countries should try to find a way out of the problem for Georgia.
He also thinks that the sanctioned politicians can live without going to these countries.
