Estonian President Praises Reforms of Georgia
The President of Estonia, Kersti Kaljulaid stated that in terms of reforms, Georgia is the leader of the Eastern Partnership.
Kaljulaid made the statement at the joint press conference with the President of Georgia, Giorgi Margvelashvili, while paying her first official visit to Georgian capital Tbilisi on October 31.
“Georgia's EU integration process is developing. You can now travel to the EU without visas. This is a great achievement. It clearly shows that your reforms have very clear results and they benefit each citizen,” Estonian President said.
Kaljulaid said Georgia confirms that the Eastern Partnership is very valuable for the European Union. She added that Estonia supports Georgia’s European aspirations and its membership with NATO.
She also thanked Georgia for taking part in various peacekeeping missions for defending global security.
“It is very important to continue reforms in the security and defense sector. We will support your cyber-defense and NATO compatibility in order to help you get closer to your NATO,” she added.
Estonian President also expressed concern over the developments in Georgia’s occupied territories. She added that while in Georgia, she will visit the occupation line to see the situation and meet the locals who face the occupation.
Furthermore, Kersti Kaljulaid underlined that Georgia is the priority partner for Estonia, adding every year Estonia supports approximately € 1 million worth projects in Georgia and now 27 projects are underway.
“I hope that within this visit we will discover new ideas on how to use these projects to meet your needs. The development of democracy and civil society and promotion of your country is the main goal of our bilateral cooperation,” she stated.
Margvelashvili thanked Kaljulaid for supporting Georgia and for developing mutual relationship.
“Estonia is a very serious supporter of Georgia's European and Euro-Atlantic integration. Estonia is a country that is very accurate in supporting Georgia's territorial integrity, our sovereignty, non-recognition of occupation and safe return of IDPs,” Margvelashvili stated.
He noted that this year the two countries celebrate 25 years from establishing diplomatic ties and next year, both countries mark 100th anniversary since Georgia and Estonia gained their independence.
Earlier on Tuesday the two presidents held a face-to-face meeting and spoke about Georgia’s European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. Margvelashvili stressed that Kaljulaid actively raises the topic of Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while addressing all relevant forums.
Afterwards, the presidents signed a joint declaration devoted to the 25th anniversary of the establishment of Georgia-Estonian diplomatic relations.
“We affirm our determination to further deepen and diversify our partnership to ensure democracy stability and prosperity in our respective countries and on the European continent,” the declaration reads.
Estonian President will conclude her visit to Georgia on November 2.
By Thea Morrison