M-me President,

Mr Prime Minister,

Mr Chairperson of the Parliament,

Political Leaders,

Mr Mayor,

Mr Ambassadors,

Dear Public,

Congratulations, today is a historic day!

27 EU countries unanimously decided to grant the candidate status to Georgia.

Congratulations to political leaders, civil servants, civil society and media.

But, first and foremost, to the people of Georgia, who devotedly support European integration.

The voice of the people of Georgia is clearly heard in the European Union. As I am hearing you now and here.

Today's decision is an appreciation of the efforts made by each and every one of you. It is definitely a big step forward, but the final goal is the EU membership.

Therefore, now is the time for political leaders to fulfill the will of the people and implement reforms quickly.

Georgia’s coat of arms reads: „strength is in unity“. Today, my main message is exactly the same - now is the time to unite for the European future!

You are all making Georgia’s modern history.

The EU membership will bring peace, stability and economic prosperity for you, your families and future generations.

In turn, Georgia’s unique culture and traditions will enrich diversity of the European Union.

Today is a very emotional day for me and my team. I am happy that we are celebrating this day together!

Once again, congratulations, “Georgia, the beautiful, no one can find another one like you”*.

Go forward, Georgia, go forward!

*  English translation of the quote from Anna Kalandadze’s poem “Georgia, the Beautiful”.