2015-12-19
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili met with His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II and Ambassador of the European Union to Georgia Janos Herman, to celebrate the successful implementation of the Visa Liberalization Action Plan.
On behalf of the Church, His Holiness thanked all those who contributed to the implementation of the Visa Liberalization Action Plan, and noted that the European Commission's positive conclusion is a significant step in Georgia's path towards European integration.
He continued "The European Commission has adopted the resolution, which allows Georgia to take a big step towards Europe. This is a great achievement, a great celebration for all Georgian people, including the Church of Georgia. For a long time, Georgia wished to become a member of European structures. I would like to say that membership and closer ties mean we are undertaking a huge responsibility. We do not only think about what we will gain from Europe but also what Europe can gain from us. It should be noted that Georgia is a country of ancient culture. In the 4th Century, Georgia's state religion was Christianity, the Gospel was translated, metal items were created and books were written. All of this should be preserved and I hope that along with bringing many benefits, Europe protects our culture. Our people celebrate with this hope. I would like to give special thanks to all of you who have contributed to this endeavor."
Prime Minister Garibashvili thanked His Holiness for the invitation and all those who helped the Georgian government achieve its goal of EU visa liberalization.
"I remember last year, when Georgia signed the Association Agreement with the EU, we celebrated the historic date - June 27th. Then, the Georgian people heard your blessings, which were very important to us. Yesterday, the EU decided that the citizens of our country deserve visa-free travel to the EU. This is recognition, appreciation and acknowledgment of our achievements. I believe that our people truly deserve to travel without any barriers. I share the Patriarch's spirit, that with our rich culture and values we shall become a full member of European structures. I would like to say that this is an important stage in the history of our country. Besides the EU, Georgian citizens must be able to travel to neighboring and distant countries without visas. Our government will do everything to achieve that goal," noted the Prime Minister.
Ambassador Herman reaffirmed that this success is an important stage in Georgia-EU relations.
"We know about Georgia's contribution to European civilization. We are also well aware of the important role the Church of Georgia has played in this process, as well as the country's long history. Your Holiness, in this context, I would like to thank you for the efforts and support of Georgia becoming a member of the European family. I have always felt exceptional cooperation from the Georgian government and Prime Minister Garibashvili. Today is the most important stage because it brings great hope. The European Commission report, which has given positive evaluation to the achievements of Georgia is the most important," explained Ambassador Herman.
At the end of the meeting, His Holiness presented Ambassador Herman with St. Nino's cross as a gift.