The EU regrets the decision by Georgia to resume flights to and from Russia, - EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano said at the press briefing.
According to him, the latest decision by Georgian authorities raises concerns in terms of Georgia's EU path.
„We regret Georgia’s decision to resume flights with Russia following Russia’s decision to lift the air travel ban last week.
Due to the illegal Russian war against Ukraine, the EU and a number of other countries have sanctioned the Russian aviation, and do not allow flights from, to or over Russia.
This step raises concerns in terms of Georgia’s EU path and its commitment to align with the EU in the foreign policy as per the EU-Georgia Association Agreement.
Regrettably, Georgia’s alignment rate with EU CFSP decisions and declarations has gone from a low 44% last year to only 31% so far this year.
Moreover, we recall that the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has raised significant concerns over the safety of Russian aircrafts“, - Peter Stano said.
The EU membership is Georgia’s stated top foreign and security policy priority and more than 80% of the population support EU integration. Georgia is awaiting the EU decision on granting the EU candidate status at the end of the year. Georgia has Association Agreement and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement and visa free travel with the EU.
Also Read: EEAS Spokesperson says Georgia should not allow unsafe Russian aircrafts into its territory
- State Department: The people of Georgia would likely prefer the withdrawal of Russian troops rather than see direct flights restored or the visa regime changed
- State Department: We would be concerned if flights between Russia and Georgia resumed
