• Military Menu                       

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Industry
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• WMD
• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

Joint press conference by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and President Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia - Secretary General’s opening remarks

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

27 Jun. 2013

Joint press conference

by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and President Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia - Secretary General’s opening remarks

Mr. President,

Thank you very much for your kind words.

It is always a pleasure to visit Georgia. Georgia is, in so many ways, a model partner for NATO. You play a strong role in our operations, you are carrying through important reforms, and you are committed to democracy and to membership of the Alliance.

In Afghanistan, you make an outstanding contribution. Your soldiers are playing a vital part in international efforts to stop terrorism spreading to other parts of the world, including this region. Their deployment abroad is helping to make Georgia safer at home.

Your soldiers have shown their courage and their commitment. And some have made the ultimate sacrifice.

I was deeply saddened by the tragic losses in recent weeks. I offer my condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen, and to the Georgian people. We honour their memory, and we stand firm in our resolve.

Here at home, Georgians have shown great commitment to democracy. Last year’s elections were a landmark. They were free and fair, and they led to the first peaceful transition of power in Georgia’s history. Mr President, I congratulate you for overseeing that historic moment.

We know from history that democracy is a continuous test, not a one-off event. I trust all political players in Georgia can prove that they can work together for the benefit of all people. Within the rule of law and the constitution. And to make sure that this year’s presidential election meets the same high standards.

We will continue to follow events in Georgia closely. And Georgia can count on NATO’s support.

Our principles and our decisions are clear. They have not changed.

We support the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders. Georgia will become a member of this Alliance, provided you meet the necessary requirements. You will take your rightful place in the Euro-Atlantic family.

NATO’s door remains open, and Georgia knows what is necessary to walk through it.

So I look to all in Georgia to continue what has been begun. Take on the reforms. Further strengthen your democracy. This will benefit the whole Georgian people. And benefit Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations.