Georgia and the European Union

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Image:Georgian COA.jpg This article is part of the series: Politics and government of Georgia

Acting President Nino Burjanadze Prime Minister Lado Gurgenidze Parliament Government Political parties in Georgia Elections in Georgia Parliamentary: 2003 - 2004 - 2008 Presidential: 2004 - 2008 Rose Revolution UNOMIG Regions and Districts Human Rights Foreign relations Georgia and NATO Georgia and the European Union Georgian-Russian relations See also: Politics of Abkhazia
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With Georgia having recently undergone substantial reforms, President Mikhail Saakashvili has expressed his desire to see membership in the European Union as a long term priority. Links to the EU, USA and NATO have been strengthened, with attempts being made to move away from the Russian sphere of influence while attempting to advance co-operation with Russia.^[1]. Territorial disputes continue over South Ossetia and Abkhazia. In Ajaria, a significant hurdle in protecting the territorial integrity of the country was overcome when the authoritarian leader Aslan Abashidze was forced to resign in May 2004. Recently EU CFSP Chief Javier Solana has indicated the EU could send troops to Georgia alongside Russian forces.^[2]

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The European Union is deeply concerned about continuing tension between Georgia and Russia and recent incidents in South Ossetia, which do not contribute to stability and freedom of movement. The European Union is particularly worried by the recent closure of the only recognized border crossing between Georgia and the Russian Federation. The European Union emphasises the importance of ensuring freedom of movement of goods and people, in particular by keeping the border crossing at Zemo Larsi open. —^[3]

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On October 2, 2006, a joint statement on the agreed text of the Georgia-European Union Action Plan within the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) was issued. The Action Plan was formally approved at the EU-Georgia Cooperation Council session on November 14 2006 in Brussels.^[4]

Georgia is considered the most favoured Caucasus country to join the EU, especially after the Rose Revolution, but territorial disputes and corruption are still an issue. Though Georgia has not yet formally applied for EU membership, President Saakashvili has said the country would be ready in three years' time— it is uncertain if the EU is prepared to offer membership on this or an alternative schedule.