As Georgia prepares for elections in early October, the deputy prime minister has said that, despite progress in the country, more is still needed as Tbilisi pushes its ambitions towards NATO and the European Union. Giorgi Baramidze, vice prime minister and minister of sate for European and Euro-Atlantic integration told New Europe that Georgia needs to continue on its current path if the country is to gain political credibility on the international stage.His comments come as foreign ministers from the Eastern Partnership countries, which, along with Georgia, comprise Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine, meet in Brussels to discuss further co-operation with the EU.
In recognition of its reforming efforts, Georgia recently received an additional €22 million to aid with its ongoing programmes. “It’s important financially, but it’s more important politically”, says Baramidze. “It’s a recognition of the progress. Of course, at the same time, I feel obliged when talking about our achievements, that I need to say right away that were are aware there is a way to go and we are not satisfied with our achievement because we know we need to do more”.
Full Article: Progress in Georgia still needed ahead of elections | New Europe.