**NATO Explains Omission of Georgia and Ukraine from 2024 Annual Report**
A recent question from Georgian news agency “Interpressnews” prompted NATO to clarify why the organization’s 2024 annual report did not mention Georgia and Ukraine’s membership in the alliance. In response, a NATO official explained that the new Secretary General, Mark Rutte, aimed for a more concise and focused document.
The report has indeed undergone significant changes since its inception in 2011. According to the official, Secretary General Rutte wanted to make it more accessible and easier to read, highlighting key issues rather than providing exhaustive details. This shift does not imply any change in NATO’s policy or the status of its partners, including Georgia and Ukraine.
**Concerns Over Georgia’s Political Trajectory**
The NATO representative expressed concern over recent developments in Georgia, stating that five out of 17 initiatives with the country are currently suspended due to concerns about changes in Georgia’s foreign political trajectory. These initiatives include strategic communications, cybersecurity, crisis management, chemical-biological, radiological, and training facilities.
Georgia is one of NATO’s closest partners and has been seeking membership in the alliance. However, recent laws passed on foreign influence, family values, and increasing polarization before, during, and after the 2024 parliamentary elections have raised concerns among NATO member countries. Additionally, actions taken against peaceful protesters have also been criticized.
**Changes to NATO-Georgia Substantial Package**
As a result of these developments, NATO has made changes to its initiatives with Georgia. Out of 17 initiatives, five are currently suspended, while two will continue with certain adaptations (intelligence sharing and secure communications, and military police). Ten initiatives will continue unchanged, and three have been successfully concluded.
The official emphasized that NATO still supports Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty within its internationally recognized borders. The organization also urges Russia to revoke its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states and to implement the 2008 ceasefire agreement reached with EU mediation.
**NATO’s Support for Ukraine**
Interestingly, the report does not mention Ukraine or its future NATO membership. However, this omission is likely due to the same desire for conciseness rather than a change in policy. NATO has consistently expressed support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty within its internationally recognized borders.
In conclusion, while the 2024 annual report may have left out some important details, it does not imply any significant changes in NATO’s policy or the status of its partners. The organization remains committed to supporting Georgia and Ukraine on their paths towards NATO membership.
