We want to see Georgia move in the right direction, toward more democracy and prosperity. Such a statement the NATO Secretary General made at a joint press-conference with Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister of Georgia.

“I welcome that Georgia is providing humanitarian and financial aid, and hosting thousands of Ukrainian refugees. At our meeting today, we will also address security in the Black Sea region which I know is of great importance for Georgia.

Russia’s war against Ukraine poses substantial risks to the freedom of navigation. This also impacts food security around the world. So I welcome the efforts of Allies working to demine the Black Sea, making it safer for navigation and commerce.

In our meeting today we will also discuss the partnership between NATO and Georgia, and how to develop it further. I welcome the progress made in areas like crisis management, cyber security, military engineering, and secure communications. I also congratulate you on gaining candidate status with the European Union.

Now it is important for Georgia to continue and step up domestic reforms and uphold democratic values. We want to see Georgia move in the right direction. Toward more democracy and prosperity. Toward full membership in the Euro-Atlantic family.

NATO will continue to stand by your side as you work toward fulfilling those aspirations”, - said Jens Stoltenberg.