Luke Coffey: Get Georgia into NATO

The head of the center of International politics, Luke Coffey impulses that the NATO alliance should seriously consider the recommendation by the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu to accept Georgia in the Alliance. 

In the article published by Trtworld, Coffey underscores the accomplishments achieved by Georgia, as well as, highlighting that although Russia has occupied 20% of the country, the society remains on the Western vector of development and democracy. He also mentions that Moscow does not have the authority to ‘veto’ Georgia's membership in the Alliance. 

“Georgia’s journey to democracy is an example for the region. Since regaining independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia has been on a steady journey to democracy.

For the sake of regional stability, it is in America’s interest that Georgia remains on this path. Over the years, successive Georgian governments have pursued an agenda of liberalizing the economy, cutting bureaucracy, fighting corruption, and embracing democracy. Since the peaceful Rose Revolution in 2003, Georgia has been firmly committed to the transatlantic community.

One of the biggest concerns NATO members have about inviting Georgia into the Alliance is the ongoing Russian occupation of 20 percent of the country. Russia uses its continued occupation of the Tskhinvali region (South Ossetia) and Abkhazia as the best way to keep Georgia out of NATO and other international organizations. This is a de-facto veto held by Moscow – and is unacceptable.” writes Coffey.

“It is time for the Alliance to make progress on this issue of membership, follow the advice of Foreign Minister Cavusoglu, and get Georgia into NATO.” Reaffirms Luke Coffey, as he refers to a speech made by the Turkish FM on 23 January, in Davos Switzerland. At the annual World Economic Forum, the FM spoke about NATO enlargement and specifically Georgia’s ascension into the Alliance.

By B.Alexishvili