Speech by the EU Ambassador Paweł Herczynski on the occasion of Europe Day in Batumi

Dear guests, dear friends, welcome,

I am happy to be in Batumi again and celebrate Europe Day!

"Batumi ech Batumi"[i] - this Polish melody well-known to many, also sings to the greatness of Batumi.

"The pearl of the Black Sea" - Batumi is open and diverse city, bringing together different cultures, traditions and experiences.

Who else knows the value of tolerance and harmonious coexistence better than you do?!

Europe's strength is also diversity and adherence to common rules.

Adherence to common rules is what brings peace, prosperity and development to the members of the European Union for already almost 80 years.

Overcoming global challenges makes Europe stronger. Moreover, the Europen Union enlarges - those who share the common rules advance more and more on the path to joining the EU. Regretfully, Georgia is not among them. We do not lose hope that it is temporary.

For more than 30 years, we have stood by Georgia's side, by your side, as a long-term and reliable partner.

EU's commitment towards Georgia remains unchanged, but at the same time, unchanged are our rules. Progress on EU path is based on democratic development.

Now, with your family and friends, enjoy this day, which reminds us of the times we have been through so far and the achievements we have made - together.

Go forward Georgia, go forward!

[i] Reference to the locally famous Polish song about Batumi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1AYUIxB95c