In a significant geopolitical shift, Georgia’s pro-Russian government has announced a four-year moratorium on negotiations concerning the country’s accession to the European Union. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, leader of the ruling Georgian Dream party, declared that no discussions on EU membership will take place until the end of 2028.
The statement, reported by the portal Interpressnews, underscores a dramatic recalibration of Georgia’s foreign policy. Speaking on the matter, Kobakhidze criticised the EU’s approach to Georgia, asserting that negotiations have been used as a tool of political coercion. He further stated that Georgia will cease accepting EU budgetary grants during the same period.
“Integration is Not a Privilege”
Kobakhidze described the EU’s handling of the accession process as an attempt to pressure Tbilisi, similar to the bloc’s prior approach to Georgia’s candidacy status.
“It is categorically unacceptable to consider European integration as an act of benevolence,” declared Kobakhidze.
The announcement follows heightened tensions between the Georgian government and the EU. Recently, the European Parliament adopted a resolution urging the non-recognition of Georgia’s parliamentary elections held on 26 October, which were won by Georgian Dream. The EU has cited growing concerns over democratic backsliding in the country, including legislation targeting foreign agents and restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights, as reasons for halting further integration.
EU Leaders Signal Disapproval
During a summit on 17 October in Brussels, EU leaders reiterated their concerns about Georgia’s democratic trajectory. They pointed to the government’s controversial policies, including a law targeting so-called foreign agents and anti-LGBTQ+ measures, as evidence of Georgia’s divergence from the bloc’s core democratic values. These actions have effectively stalled the country’s EU integration process, a decision reinforced by Kobakhidze’s latest announcement.
Domestic and Regional Implications
The government’s decision to suspend talks and reject EU grants reflects a growing alignment with Moscow. Critics argue that this shift is part of a broader strategy by Georgian Dream to distance the country from Western institutions, despite significant public support for EU membership. According to recent polls, a majority of Georgians still favour European integration as a long-term goal.
Meanwhile, Georgia’s opposition parties and civil society organisations have condemned the government’s stance, describing it as a betrayal of the country’s European aspirations. They argue that rejecting EU grants will disproportionately harm Georgian citizens, particularly in regions dependent on international aid for development projects.
A Growing Divide
Kobakhidze’s remarks reflect a deepening divide between Georgia’s leadership and the EU. By framing EU negotiations as an instrument of political blackmail, the Georgian government is sending a clear signal that it prioritises ‘sovereignty’ as defined on its terms over closer ties with Brussels.
However, analysts note that this decision could have significant repercussions for Georgia’s economic and geopolitical stability. The EU remains one of Georgia’s largest trading partners, and reduced financial support may hinder key infrastructure and social projects.
Context and Prospects
Georgia formally applied for EU membership in March 2022, alongside Ukraine and Moldova. While Ukraine and Moldova were granted candidate status, Georgia was left behind, with the EU citing concerns about democratic governance and judicial independence. In response, Georgian Dream has consistently accused the EU of applying double standards and meddling in the country’s internal affairs.
The recent escalation comes after months of strained relations, with Brussels growing increasingly critical of Tbilisi’s trajectory under Georgian Dream. The moratorium on the EU accession process is likely to intensify Georgia’s isolation from the West, further complicating its geopolitical position amid escalating tensions between Russia and the EU.
Image source: agenda.ge
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