The Prime Minister of Georgia sends a letter to the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

As noted in the letter, granting the candidate status will give an additional impetus to the establishment of long-term peace in Georgia.

"I would like to express my and my government's deep gratitude to you and the European Commission for the recent recommendation to grant Georgia candidate status.

This was undoubtedly the result of a very strong partnership between the European Union and Georgia and the absolute support of the Georgian population.

Georgia has come a long way to join the group of nations that are considered future EU member states. As a result of the loyal and strong support of the European Union and especially the European Commission, my government has continued to fulfill the expectations of the Georgian people. A far-reaching association agreement with a deep and comprehensive free trade area, a visa-free travel regime, a strong security partnership, strengthened trade relations and expanded cooperation in various fields are the clearest examples of our ever-growing partnership with the European Union and its institutions. We are glad that the report published by the European Commission on Georgia in 2023 recognizes the tireless efforts of the Georgian government in fulfilling its obligations and progressive compliance with the rules and standards of the European Union.

There is no doubt that joining the European Union comes with long-term obligations and responsibilities. My government is determined to continue and further accelerate the implementation of the necessary reforms. We confirm our decision to deepen cooperation with the European Commission and to take steps to move forward on the path to joining the European Union.

Based on the substantial progress shown by Georgia, as well as the recent steps taken by the legislative and executive bodies, including the recommendations of the European Commission on November 8, I would like to express my firm belief that the EU will continue to stand by Georgia with another historic decision to grant candidate status. This decision will put Georgia on an irreversible path towards accession negotiations for full membership of the European Union.

This is a watershed moment for Georgia's European future, as well as for the credibility of the EU's enlargement policy as a geostrategic investment for peace, stability and prosperity across Europe. In the heavily conflicted region, we continue to strengthen the role of Georgia as a pillar of regional peace and stability, democratic development and cooperation; We are also a crucial link on the global connectivity map, offering the world alternative routes for energy cooperation and the development of cargo and trade on the Black Sea. We are sure that Georgia, as a future member state of the European Union, will play an important role in the common prosperity of Europe.

Granting the candidate status will give an additional impetus to the establishment of long-term peace in Georgia. Allow me to express my gratitude to the European Union for its unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia, as well as for its valuable contribution and support to the peaceful settlement of the Russia-Georgia conflict. We believe that the strong involvement of the European Union and its member states will be decisive in ensuring the peaceful reintegration of the occupied regions of Georgia and the reconciliation of the members of the divided society.

The future of Georgia lies in the European Union and it has no alternative. Our nation and my government expect the EU member states to make a strategic and forward-looking decision this week that will firmly link Georgia, a future EU member state, to the family of European democracies.

"Your Excellency, hoping for our constant cooperation, please accept my greatest respect for you for making Georgia's dream a reality," the letter reads.

*The letter was double-translated from Georgian, and wordings may be inaccurate.