Association Agreement between the Eu and Georgia

03 Jun Association Agreement between the Eu and Georgia

The Association Agreement between the European Union (EU) and Georgia is a comprehensive partnership agreement that aims to deepen political and economic ties between the two entities. Signed in 2014, the agreement is a crucial step in Georgia`s quest to integrate into the European family and a testament to the EU`s commitment to supporting democracy, prosperity, and stability in the Eastern Partnership region.

The Association Agreement (AA) is divided into three main parts: a political section, a free trade area, and cooperation in various areas, ranging from education to environmental protection. In the political section, the EU and Georgia commit to promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, and to strengthening their institutional cooperation.

The free trade area aims to foster economic growth and development by removing trade barriers and allowing for the free movement of goods, services, and capital between the EU and Georgia. The AA also includes provisions on intellectual property rights, competition, and public procurement.

In the cooperation section, the EU and Georgia pledge to work together in areas of mutual interest, such as energy, transport, and the environment. They also agree to enhance people-to-people contacts, promote cultural exchanges, and support civil society.

The AA is not just a symbolic gesture, but a tangible commitment to strengthening the EU-Georgia relationship. It provides Georgia with a roadmap for implementing reforms, improving governance, and aligning with EU standards and values. The EU, on the other hand, benefits from enhanced access to the Georgian market and increased cooperation in areas of strategic importance.

Since the signing of the AA, Georgia has made significant progress in fulfilling its commitments. It has implemented a number of reforms aimed at improving the business climate, protecting human rights, and strengthening the judiciary. In addition, Georgia has established a deep and comprehensive free trade area with the EU, which has boosted trade and investment between the two partners.

The Association Agreement is a critical step in Georgia`s integration into the European family and a testament to the EU`s commitment to supporting democracy, prosperity, and stability in the Eastern Partnership region. Through the AA, the EU and Georgia are working together to build a stronger, more prosperous, and more democratic future for both partners.