-
.
- Ελληνικά
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Mrs Anita Demetriou addressed today a video message to the "3rd International Women's Conference", responding to an invitation by the President of Georgia Mrs Salome Zourabichvili. In her message, Ms Demetriou noted, addressing President Zourabichvili, that the decision of the European Council of December 2023 to grant Georgia the status of candidate country for accession to the European Union (EU) is a historic achievement for the people of Georgia and a reward for the remarkable progress the country has made in terms of necessary reforms.
As for every candidate country, the President of the Parliament pointed out, there are steps to be taken which will bring Georgia closer to its European goals. We encourage Georgia to proceed with determination and perseverance in building its European future for the benefit of its people and the EU. The rule of law, freedom of association and freedom of expression, Demetriou said, are at the core of European identity and are the anchor that keeps EU Member States firmly secured against populism, foreign interference and democratic drift. A strengthened civil society and the free functioning of the media are fundamental pillars of democracy for building a better future for present and future generations, he added.
Noting that this year Cyprus, together with nine other countries, celebrated the 20th anniversary of its accession to the EU, the Speaker of the Parliament pointed out that during its accession process, Cyprus has undertaken difficult but necessary reforms. "The people of Georgia look to the EU with the same hope and faith in a common European future. The voice of the citizens must be heard," said Demetriou, expressing confidence that the country will make the necessary changes to consolidate the progress achieved.
(Text as sent by the House of Representatives)
Contents of this article including associated images are owned by PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
Source
