"I am happy that I was honored to sign the Association Agreement with the European Union during my term as Prime Minister," Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili said during a speech at the event dedicated to Georgia's Independence Day.

As the Prime Minister noted, Georgia today enjoys free trade with the European Union and visa-free travel for our population, which is an important, tangible achievement.

"Despite the global challenges facing the world today, which have severely affected the economies of many countries, the country maintains stability and development through the prudent, national interests-oriented policy of our Government.

From this rostrum today, I would like to express once again the solidarity of our Government and our people towards the Ukrainian people.

Today, our country is a reliable and loyal ally of the European Union and everyone recognizes that Georgia has a truly distinguished leading position among the Eastern Partnership countries, as well as among the so-called Associated Trio countries.

Today, Georgia expects from Europe a wise, far-sighted, politically right and, most importantly, just decision, a recognition of our historic aspirations, tireless efforts, commitments in the integration process and reforms," ​​the Prime Minister said.