Georgia to put EU accession talks on agenda in 2028, says Georgia’s ruling party official

Levan Machavariani, the first deputy chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party faction in the legislative body, on Saturday emphasised the government's commitment to national sovereignty, asserting that the current administration's primary focus remains the protection of Georgia’s national interests.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Machavariani noted that external actors seek a government that can be controlled, particularly in the context of ongoing war conditions, in order to use Georgia to open a “second front”.

“Of course, our course is toward the West. When it comes to the European Union, this is our civilisational choice - no better alternative has been created so far. At the same time, in order not to lose time, we are implementing the obligations undertaken under the Association Agreement - about 60% has already been fulfilled. In 2028, we will put the opening of negotiations on the agenda. By 2030, when further enlargement is planned, we will be the most prepared country. This is our choice, and we will not reconsider it”, he said.

He further argued that the current stance of EU institutions does not reflect the views of European societies toward Georgia and suggested that future changes in European leadership could lead to a reset in relations.

“This is specifically the position of the current ruling class. That ruling class will change, and relations will be reset. Alternatively, they will realise that despite their attempts, they will neither be able to stage a revolution here nor replace us through elections. They must accept that the guidelines they have developed over 20-30 years, which may work in other countries in the region, do not work in Georgia, because we are a different kind of people”, Machavariani continued.

He also referenced what he described as an “extraordinary unity” shown by Georgians after the passing of the Patriarch, saying it demonstrated to the world the distinctive nature of Georgian society.