EP adopts resolution, supports Georgia’s EU candidacy “once its govt has delivered on priorities”

The European Parliament adopted a resolution on Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova on Thursday, with 529 votes to 45 and 14 abstentions, calling on the European Council to grant EU candidate status to Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova “without delay,” noting that the bloc should do the same with Georgia “once its government has delivered” on the priorities indicated by the European Commission. 

The EP invited the authorities of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia to “unambiguously demonstrate their political determination to implement the European ambitions of their people”, accelerating reforms in order to “effectively fulfill the criteria for EU membership as soon as possible.”

“Ukrainians, Moldovans and Georgians deserve to live in free, democratic and prosperous countries that are proud and committed members of the European family,” MEPs stated, urging the European Council to take an “important first step towards fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of the citizens of these three countries.” 

The European Council is scheduled on June 24 to make a final decision on the candidate status for Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova, in the wake of the European Commission recommendation to the Council earlier this month to grant Ukraine and Moldova European perspective and candidate status, while Georgia only European perspective, which meant that the latter must first address several issues, including in the country’s judiciary and for de-oligarchization.