NATO Foreign Ministers reiterate support for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration 

NATO Foreign Ministers reiterate support for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration

NATO Foreign Ministers met with their Georgian counterpart Dr. Maia Panjikidze in the NATO-Georgia Commission on Wednesday for an exchange of views on Georgia’s progress in implementing reforms and on developments in Georgia and in the region.

 “As a country aspiring to join our Alliance, Georgia is a special partner for NATO.  And we very much value our political dialogue and practical cooperation”, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said.

During the meeting, Ministers discussed the crisis caused by Russia's military aggression against Ukraine.

“At this time, it is more important than ever to stress that the breach of territorial integrity and sovereignty is unacceptable. That nations have the right to make their own free choices. And that those choices should be respected by all”, the Secretary General said.

NATO Allies stressed their firm support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and highlighted continued support for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations. Ministers also expressed recognition for Georgia’s outstanding contribution to NATO operations and to  Euro-Atlantic security.

“You are the largest non-NATO troop contributor to our mission in Afghanistan.  You have committed to contribute to our planned Resolute Support Mission.  And we welcome your decision to take part in the NATO Response Force”, Secretary General Rasmussen said. And he added: “ You have made remarkable progress with ambitious democratic and defence reforms.  Further progress will require continued constructive cooperation between the government and the opposition.  Following the presidential elections last year, the upcoming local elections in June will be another important milestone for Georgia’s maturing democracy. Georgia can become a model for the region”.