Georgia Halts EU Membership Talks for Next Four Years

Georgia’s government will not discuss EU membership until the end of 2028, announced Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, according to local broadcaster Rustavi2.

«We have decided not to include the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union in the agenda until 2028. Additionally, we will not accept any EU budget grants during this period,» Kobakhidze said.

He added that by 2028, the country will be “properly” prepared for EU membership from an economic standpoint.

«We will not join the European Union by begging or standing on one leg. We will enter with dignity, with a solid democratic system and a strong economy,» the Prime Minister stated.

The announcement led to fresh protests in Tbilisi. Demonstrators blocked Rustaveli Avenue, and President Salome Zourabichvili joined them.