Juan David Latorre
Last April, Alexander Chkuaseli, Georgia’s former Consul General in Barcelona, presented his Copies of Style as Georgia’s ambassador. Many hotly debated issues concern this European country: the 2008 Russian invasion, relations with the EU as a candidate for membership, the state of relations with Spain… Let’s get down to business.
1.-Ambassador, in 2022, the Georgian Government applied for membership in the European Union and was recognized in 2023 as a potential candidate for membership. This process is currently suspended by the EU. Can you tell us about the current state of relations between Georgia and the European Union?
Georgia firmly reiterates its irreversible aspiration to the EU membership, and continues implementing the comprehensive reforms on its European integration path. Over the past decade, our partnership with the EU has achieved major milestones – such as the Association Agreement including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA), visa-free travel for Georgian citizens, enhanced political, security, and sectoral dialogues, and most importantly the European Council’s decision of 14 December 2023 to grant Georgia candidate status in recognition of the progress our country achieved in the implementation of democratic reforms. In this regard, we highly appreciate firm support of the Kingdom of Spain – our friend and reliable partner, and we are grateful for its supportive stance towards Georgia’s EU membership path, especially during the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2023, when the historic decision to grant Georgia candidate status has been taken. This decision is a clear recognition of the intensive work carried out and tangible results achieved by the Georgian Government.
We are consistently working with our partners in all European Capitals to bring Georgia closer to the EU. Georgia historically belongs to Europe and we share same values and aspirations of building sovereign and democratic state. However, current state of play of EU-Georgia relations is deeply regrettable and entirely contradicts the spirit of partnership that we have built throughout the past decade. We believe that lack of communication and dialogue, and the measures introduced by the EU are not beneficial for either side, as they risk undermining the trust and partnership between EU and Georgia. The Government of Georgia stands ready to engage constructively with the European Commission and remains open to dialogue on all issues. We firmly believe that Spain will continue to play an important role in further strengthening the relations between the European Union and Georgia, and advancing Georgia’s EU integration process.
Georgia is not seeking special treatment, but fairness. Our circumstances are unique: we are located in a highly volatile region, with 20% of our territory under occupation, having ongoing security risks, while not enjoying NATO’s security guarantees or the EU’s umbrella. Regrettably, in Georgia’s case, the circumstances on the ground and the international perception have not always been the same. Our nation has had to endure the consequences of an open military aggression and face complex security challenges and hybrid threats that have tested our resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to democratic transition and our European choice. The government of Georgia is doing everything to ensure the country’s security and peaceful development in these turbulent geopolitical circumstances, in order to achieve our strategic foreign policy goal – becoming a full-fledged member of the European Union. Despite such challenges on both domestic and international levels, Georgia deserves a fair place in the modern democratic world next to our friends and strategic partners for the benefit of our citizens.
2.- Is Georgia capable of setting a deadline for its EU membership to become a reality?
I can assure you that my country remains committed to its EU integration path as a key foreign policy goal and continues to implement comprehensive reforms in accordance with the AA/DCFTA commitments, which – on its part – covers 70% of EU Acquis Communautaires. We have committed ourselves to implement more than 90% of the Association Agreement by 2028 and we hope that these efforts will be recognized in the international assessments. As stated on many occasions, the Government of Georgia expresses readiness to double its efforts, should the EU decide to open accession negotiations. We remain committed to resume dialogue with Brussels and all European partners so that there is no room left for miscommunication and misinterpretation of various vital issues. Effective communication and dialogue is the best way to prevent misperceptions, and strengthen mutual trust. Our ultimate goal continues to be contributing to a stronger, stable, and democratic Europe, with Georgia fully integrated into the European family. For this purpose, it is of utmost importance to maintain active consultations and dialogue with the European side – with the EU, the European Commission, and other institutions, as well as with European partners at all levels – which will facilitate Georgia’s and the EU’s further rapprochement, harmonization, and the full-fledged integration of the country. Moreover, in 2017 the amendments were made in the Constitution of Georgia – Article 78 to ensure Georgia’s full integration into the European Union and the North-Atlantic Treaty Organization.
3.- In 2008, the Russian military occupation of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, 20% of Georgia’s internationally recognized territory, took place. Compared to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Russian invasion in your country has had little impact. What is the current status of this occupation, and what contacts are being made for the recovery of the invaded territory?
Seventeen years have passed since the Russian Federation launched a full-scale military aggression against Georgia in August 2008. What began as an unprovoked assault on Georgia’s sovereignty has evolved into a sustained and multifaceted campaign to challenge the international legal order and redraw borders by force. Russia’s war of aggression set a dangerous precedent that reverberates to this day across the wider Black Sea region, posing a significant threat to the European security architecture. Russia’s aggression against Georgia in 2008 was not an isolated event, but a continuation of stark expression of its neo-imperialist vision aimed at subjugating sovereign nations and establishing unlawful spheres of influence. Despite the EU-mediated 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement, Russia continues to occupy Georgia’s Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, violating its international obligations and actively working to entrench and legitimize the occupation through hybrid warfare, military build-up and demographic engineering.
Until now, the security situation remains dire and fragile. Russia continues its illegal military presence, operating two large bases in the occupied regions and recently intensifying its maritime militarization through the development of a naval base in Ochamchire. This poses serious risks to Georgia’s sovereignty and regional stability, particularly in the context of growing instability in the wider Black Sea region. The humanitarian and human rights consequences of the occupation are devastating and ongoing while Russia continues to block access for international security and human rights mechanisms to Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, preventing proper assessment and response to the grave situation. The EUMM (EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia), the only international monitoring mission on the ground, has long been denied access to these territories by Russia. The EUMM’s presence in Georgia vividly demonstrates EU’s significant role, as the mediator and guarantor of Ceasefire Agreement and contribution to the peaceful resolution of Russia-Georgia conflict. Although the EUMM is deprived of the possibility to fully implement its mandate, the Mission’s activities are decisive in deterring the escalation on the ground in light of ongoing alarming processes in the region. Therefore, we are grateful for EU and all member states, including Spain for firm support and continuous contribution to the EUMM.
Georgia remains steadfast in its peaceful approach and as a bridge between two continents Europe and Asia can play a significant role in supporting the development of a stable and peaceful region. The Government of Georgia continues to pursue a dual-track policy of de-occupation and reconciliation. This includes sustained support to the conflict-affected population, promotion of people-to-people contacts and unwavering commitment to the Geneva International Discussions (GID), despite Russia’s continued obstruction and walkouts. The reconciliation and engagement policy is an integral part of the overall peaceful conflict resolution policy of the Georgia. We highly value a firm support of the Kingdom of Spain and the international community towards Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, which we witness both bilaterally and within international organizations and we call on the international community to keep the issue of occupation of Georgia’s territories by Russia at the forefront of their agenda and demand full implementation of the 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement, including the withdrawal of Russian forces from all occupied territories. My country remains committed to peace, justice and the restoration of its territorial integrity and urges its international partners to stand together in defending the fundamental principles of the rules-based international order.
4.- Regarding the economic issue, what are the current figures for the Georgian economy?
Despite facing hectic and often unstable external environment and geopolitical tensions, the Georgian economy has displayed remarkable resilience. Georgia maintained macroeconomic stability achieving impressive economic growth: in the post pandemic period, Georgia emerged as one of the top-performing countries in the region and Europe in terms of economic growth, reaching 9.7% economic growth in 2021-2024 on average. The year 2025 began with robust economic activity: the average economic growth in January–June 2025 was recorded at 8.3%. The baseline, conservative forecast of economic growth in 2025 amounts to 6%, however we expect that this projection will increase. The downside risks for growth prospects are related to the trade war, significant uncertainty surrounding supply chains and price dynamics in international markets, subdued growth in the EU and China and deteriorating global investment prospective. According to IMF projections, Georgia will ensure the fastest economic growth in medium term (2025 – 2030) among regional and European countries, with a rate of 5.4%.
Besides, Georgia has maintained one of the lowest inflation rates in the broader region, further showcasing its economic stability. Average inflation rate in 2023 and 2024 amounted to 2.5% and 1.1% respectively. The inflation rate in July 2025 equaled to 4.3%. The record figures were observed in export of goods and international tourism receipts. In 2024 export of goods increased by 7.8 percent and amounted to 6.6 billion USD, while tourism revenues increased by 7.3% and amounted to a historic maximum of 4.4 billion USD. Positive trends continued in 2025 and in January-July, export of goods increased by 8.9%, equaled to 3.8 billion USD. At the same time in January-June of 2025, International tourism revenues increased by 3.8%, reaching to 2 billion. USD.
Georgia occupies a uniquely strategic position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, serving as a vital gateway for trade, energy, and digital connectivity. Its Black Sea location makes the country indispensable for regional stability, maritime security, and the diversification of European transport and energy corridors. Through strategic initiatives such as the Middle Corridor, the Black Sea submarine electricity cable, the Anaklia deep-sea port, and renewable energy projects, Georgia directly contributes to advancing the objectives of the EU’s Global Gateway and Black Sea Strategy.
For the European Union, an enhanced partnership with Georgia strengthens resilience, connectivity, and security across the wider region, while for Georgia, it accelerates its economic development, institutional modernization, and integration into the European family. The relationship is therefore not one-sided but mutually reinforcing: a true partnership that promotes shared prosperity, regional stability, and a stronger, more interconnected Europe.
5.- All tourists who visit Georgia return enchanted by the mountainous countries and the grandeur of the Caucasus peaks, by the long history of its lands and its monuments, and where “every corner seems like something out of a postcard,” they comment. The capital, Tbilisi, the valleys of Kakhti, the mountains of Svaneti, and the rock-hewn temples of Uplistsikhe are just a few examples that amaze visitors. Dear Ambassador, what does Georgia offer tourists visiting your country?
My beautiful country is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia in the Caucasus region along the Black Sea coast and has historically served as a bridge connecting civilizations, connecting Europe and Asia. Today, tourism is a driving force of Georgia’s economy, and the country is becoming an increasingly popular and desirable destination for travelers not only from region but from Europe and Asia. Having direct flights from various destinations around the world including Madrid and Barcelona have played a significant role in promoting and developing tourism and attracting Spanish visitors.
Georgia is a four-season destination, offering unique experiences in mountainous areas as well as in a black sea: an extraordinary mix of natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture and unique gastronomy. Visitors are impressed by the gigantic peaks of the Caucasus, attractive valleys of Kakheti region, the majestic mountains of Svaneti, and the rock-hewn temples of Uplistsikhe. The country’s cultural heritage is equally remarkable: Mtskheta, the ancient royal capital, remains a spiritual and historical center; Gelati Monastery, Vardzia, and the distinctive towers of Svaneti showcase centuries of Georgian architecture and religious tradition.
Gastronomy holds a special place in our life, deeply intertwined with history and tradition. Strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has influenced its cuisine, creating a unique blend of flavors, while each region offers its own distinctive specialties reflecting the country’s deep culinary roots. Moreover, Georgia is recognized as a cradle of wine. Winemaking in clay vessels (qvevri) which is preserved as of now counts 8,000 years and is included in the UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage since 2013. Beyond its landscapes, monuments, and gastronomy, Georgia is renowned for the warmth and hospitality of its people, who are making every visit unforgettable. And indeed, travelers are often saying that “every corner seems like something out of a postcard.” With this combination of natural beauties, historical richness, culinary heritage, and unique culture, my homeland becomes more and more attractive and memorable destination for visitors from around the world.
It is noteworthy that Georgia’s sightseeing, unique culture, heritage and gastronomy have been largely recognized in the latest international rankings, including: Batumi named Europe’s No.1 Hidden Gem (European Best Destinations, 2022); Kakheti recognized as the world’s top wine destination (VinePair, 2023); Tbilisi ranked as the 5th best city globally for New Year celebrations (Forbes, 2024); and the nation achieving a unique distinction with three airports (Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi) named among Eastern Europe’s top 10 (Skytrax, 2025).
6.- And finally Ambassador how would you describe relations with Spain?
Relations between Georgia and Kingdom of Spain are traditionally friendly, cooperative, and built on strong partnership. Our collaboration in defense and security, economy, tourism, culture, and people-to-people contacts is enhancing and I during my Ambassadorial mission I would do my very best to strengthen relationships in all respective fields. We are grateful that Spain consistently supports Georgia’s European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations, as well as its territorial integrity and sovereignty. We cherish relationship between our two countries as we share common values and even more, historic links. It is an interesting fact that in addition to 33 years of diplomatic relations, there are also historical ties between our countries. Moreover, the terms “Eastern” and “Western” Iberia are found in Greek and Roman historical sources, since in the same sources, Eastern Georgia is mentioned in ancient times as the Kingdom of Iberia, while Spain has been located on the Iberian Peninsula since ancient times. We hope that researchers will someday uncover the roots and connection between the “Two Iberias”. I will work tirelessly with my team at the Embassy to further level up political dialogue between Georgia and Spain, exchange bilateral visits, parliamentary cooperation, trade and investment, and cultural ties. Our goal is to continue developing a partnership that is equal, mutually beneficial, and based on trust and shared interests.