“Within Batumi international conference the Associated Trio signed the Petra Declaration. This regional approach will facilitate to achieve European aspirations of Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine and create new opportunities for their European future”, - underlined Dr. Khatuna Burkadze, Director of American and Euro-Atlantic Studies at Geocase.
 

Dr. Khatuna Burkadze highlighted: “The Petra Declaration illustrates that the three Associated countries focus on developing a common approach, vision on their European paths. At the same time, they have the common history and challenges. This process will enhance cooperation among the three states that aspire to become members of the European Union. According to this Declaration, the Associated states are united by the goal of joining the European Union. No third party could influence this sovereign choice.” “The visit of Charles Michel, the President of the European Council and participation in the signing ceremony of the Petra Declaration demonstrated that the EU is a strong partner for these states in the region. The strategic interest of the EU is to assist the Associated Trio to achieve tangible results in terms of establishing a democratic and stable, secure environment”, - added Dr. Khatuna Burkadze.
 

She mentioned that the visit of Charles Michel, the President of the European Council and signature of the Petra Declaration will give new impetus ahead of the upcoming Eastern Partnership Summit which will be held in December 2021.
 

“We should remember that a lot of things have to be done on the European path. It is crucial to continue reforming in order to safeguard fundamental human rights, to protect freedom of media, to carry out judicial reform and strengthen democratic institutions. Consistent and innovative reforms in key fields will facilitate the approximation to the European standards and realize our historic choice to join the European family”, - said Dr. Khatuna Burkadze.