ICC-Georgia Chairman, Mr. Fady Asly published an article titled “Why Georgia Must Join the EU With No Delay.” In this piece, Mr. Asly outlines the urgent reasons he believes Georgia should accelerate its path toward full European integration.
"Georgia stands at a crossroads. For years, the dream of European Union membership has inspired its people, promising a brighter future free from old shadows. But now, more than ever, joining the EU as soon as possible is not just a goal, it is a necessity. The EU is evolving into a powerful economic force, teaming up with medium-sized countries to build a unified market that reduces reliance on the United States.
This shift is creating a true economic giant on the continent, and Georgia cannot aEord to sit on the sidelines. The EU oEers far more for Georgia's growth and stability than ties with the US ever could. Here is why speeding up accession makes perfect sense.
First, look at what the EU is becoming. European leaders are pushing hard for what they call strategic autonomy. This means cutting back on dependence on the US in key areas like technology, energy, defense, and finance. They want to protect their economies from outside pressures, such as unpredictable US policies under leaders like Donald Trump.
By pooling resources, the EU and its partners are forging a single, robust market that can stand on its own. Medium-power nations inside and outside the current bloc are aligning to boost trade, innovation, and security without leaning so heavily on America. This is not about breaking away completely, but about building strength. For Georgia, being part of this rising powerhouse would mean tapping into a massive network of opportunities that the US simply cannot match in scale or proximity.
Economically, the EU is already Georgia's top trading partner, accounting for about 22 percent of our total trade. Exports to the EU may have grown slowly in recent years, but full membership would unlock the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area's true potential, with better access to a market of over 450 million people. Imagine Georgian wines, fruits, and minerals flowing freely without barriers, bringing in billions more in revenue. On top of that, EU funds for infrastructure, education, and business could transform our economy.
Polls show most Georgians see the EU as a path to higher living standards, more jobs, and a better life for their kids. Compare this to the US, where aid has been vital but is now paused due to political tensions. The US has given billions over the years, but it is episodic and tied to specific projects. The EU, however, oEers ongoing integration that builds long term prosperity. As Georgia's trade with Russia and China grows, shifting toward the EU would diversify our economy and reduce risky dependencies.
Security is another big reason to act fast. Russia still occupies Abkhazia and South Ossetia, a constant reminder of our vulnerabilities. The EU provides a shield through shared defense policies and partnerships that deter aggression. Joining would align us with NATO-like protections without waiting for full alliance membership, which seems distant. The US has been a strong ally in military training, but Europe's strategic push means the EU is stepping up its own defenses, less reliant on American troops or decisions.
For Georgia, this European unity could mean real stability, especially as the continent diversifies energy sources away from Russia. Delaying accession leaves us exposed, while jumping in now secures our place in a bloc that values democracy and peace.
Then there is the democratic angle. EU membership demands reforms that strengthen our institutions, fight corruption, and protect rights. Recent setbacks, like the government's decision to pause talks until 2028, and the adoption of dictatorial legislation, have stalled progress and sparked protests.
But overwhelming public support for the EU shows people want this path. Joining sooner would lock in these gains, making our society fairer and more resilient. The US promotes democracy too, but the EU's model is embedded in everyday life, from free media to rule of law. As Europe builds its independence, Georgia's voice in this union would amplify our influence globally, far beyond what bilateral US ties oEer.
Some might argue that the US remains crucial for Georgia's energy routes or investments. True, projects like the Southern Gas Corridor have US backing. But the EU is investing heavily in similar diversification, aiming to cut US dependence while boosting its own networks.
Georgia's location makes us a key bridge between Europe and Asia. By aligning with the EU's emerging superpower status, we position ourselves at the heart of new trade flows, not as a peripheral player in US strategies. This is especially true now with the new Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, or TRIPP, a strategic transit corridor between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Brokered by the US in 2025, this route connects Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan exclave through Armenia, with development rights guaranteed to the United States for 99 years. Named after Trump as a vanity achievement, it likely ties into his personal interests through potential financial revenues from the project.
Crucially, TRIPP creates a direct competitor to Georgia for transit traEic from Central Asia, bypassing Russia but also diminishing our role as the primary corridor. Georgia was once the only reliable bypass, but not anymore. This means the US has little vested interest left in supporting Georgia's transit ambitions, shifting focus to their own controlled project.
Moreover, as the EU consolidates its trade routes, logistics, economy, and financial interests with other medium powers in the West and Asia, the opportunity for Georgia will slip away. Once this economic giant is fully built, Georgia risks being seen as irrelevant, a small player outside the loop. The EU's appetite for enlargement could fade if we wait too long, leaving us isolated while the bloc strengthens ties with more strategic partners.
Time is definitely not on our side. The EU's transformation into a self-reliant economic force is happening now, driven by global shifts. Medium powers are banding together to create opportunities that dwarf what the US can provide alone. For Georgia's prosperity, security, and future, the EU is the smarter bet. We need leaders who restart talks and push reforms immediately. The people deserve this chance to thrive in a united Europe. If we miss the train, we will end up becoming an insignificant Russian satellite republic, similar to those republics in the Russian Caucasus", - Fady Asly writes.
