Georgia Says Ready for EU Accession Talks, Decision Now Lies with Bloc

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated on Wednesday that the country is "ready" to begin accession talks with the European Union, adding that the next steps depend on the bloc.

In his interview with PhoenixTV, Kobakhidze said his Government was “firmly following” the path of the country's development and carrying out reforms, The Caspian Post reports, citing Georgian media.

“We have a very stable situation in Georgia. The country is growing economically and in many other directions. We are committed to the country's development. We are basically ready for accession talks. It is up to the EU to make this decision. We are ready for it, but again, we are committed to the development of the country through different reforms,” the PM said.

When asked if it was necessary for the country to wait another four years before opening the negotiations, Kobakhidze noted the decision “depends on the European Union”.

“We have stated very clearly. If the EU makes this decision, we are ready for it, but again, it is up to them,” he concluded.

Kobakhidze on Tuesday said he hoped to see “less attacks on the state from European bureaucrats”, as the outcome was “important for restoration of relations” between the country and the European Union.