Deepening EU-Georgian Relations: What, Why, and How

The European Union (EU) and Georgia have a long and complex history. After Georgia's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the EU became one of its main partners, providing financial and technical assistance. In 2014, Georgia and the EU signed an Association Agreement, which created a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) and established a framework for cooperation in a wide range of areas. In 2017, Georgia was granted visa-free travel to the EU.

Deepening EU-Georgian Relations: What, Why and How?

by Naleighna Kai

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3566 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	200 pages
Hardcover	:	240 pages
Item Weight	:	1.27 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.2 x 0.83 x 9.11 inches

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The deepening of EU-Georgian relations is a reflection of Georgia's commitment to European integration and the EU's growing interest in the South Caucasus region. This article explores the drivers, benefits, and challenges of this partnership, and discusses the role of the EU in Georgia's security and defense.

Drivers of Deepening EU-Georgian Relations

There are a number of factors that have driven the deepening of EU-Georgian relations. These include:

* Georgia's commitment to European integration. Georgia has a long-standing goal of joining the EU, and the Association Agreement is a major step towards this goal. * The EU's growing interest in the South Caucasus region. The EU is concerned about the stability and security of the South Caucasus, and sees Georgia as a key partner in this region. * The shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The EU and Georgia share a commitment to these values, and this has been a major factor in the deepening of their relations.

Benefits of Deepening EU-Georgian Relations

The deepening of EU-Georgian relations has brought a number of benefits to both sides. These benefits include:

* Economic benefits. The DCFTA has led to increased trade and investment between Georgia and the EU. This has helped to boost Georgia's economy and create jobs. * Political benefits. The Association Agreement has strengthened Georgia's democracy and rule of law. It has also helped to improve Georgia's relations with its neighbors. * Security benefits. The EU has played a key role in supporting Georgia's security and defense. This has included providing financial assistance, training, and equipment.

Challenges to Deepening EU-Georgian Relations

Despite the benefits of deepening EU-Georgian relations, there are also a number of challenges. These challenges include:

* The ongoing conflict in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This conflict has been a major source of tension between Georgia and Russia, and it has also complicated Georgia's relations with the EU. * Georgia's dependence on Russian energy. Georgia is heavily dependent on Russian energy imports, which makes it vulnerable to Russian pressure. * Georgia's weak rule of law. Georgia has made progress in strengthening its rule of law, but there are still a number of challenges, such as corruption and organized crime.

The EU's Role in Georgia's Security and Defense

The EU has played a key role in supporting Georgia's security and defense. This has included:

* Providing financial assistance. The EU has provided financial assistance to Georgia for defense reforms, military equipment, and training. * Providing training. The EU has provided training to Georgian military and security forces. * Conducting joint exercises. The EU has conducted joint exercises with Georgian military and security forces.

The EU's involvement in Georgia's security and defense is a reflection of the importance that the EU attaches to the stability and security of the South Caucasus region.

The deepening of EU-Georgian relations is a major development for both sides. It has brought a number of benefits to both sides, and it has helped to strengthen stability and security in the South Caucasus region. However, there are a number of challenges that remain, and it is important to address these challenges in order to ensure the continued deepening of EU-Georgian relations.

Deepening EU-Georgian Relations: What, Why and How?

by Naleighna Kai

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3566 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	200 pages
Hardcover	:	240 pages
Item Weight	:	1.27 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.2 x 0.83 x 9.11 inches

FREE