In an interview with globalnews.ge, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, the former Ambassador of Georgia to the USA, and currently a member of the advisory board of the analytical center "Geocase," Tedo Japaridze, says that the progress of the country in the foreign direction will depend on "domestic tasks" and "on the dynamics of performance, which was determined within the decision."

"When Georgia received the status of a candidate country for EU membership, I remembered how it all started. How many people, presidents, prime ministers, civil servants, and of course diplomats took part to make this day happen. Of course, this is a historic decision for Georgia, and now it will depend on us how we will do our homework, which was determined by this decision."

The diplomat says that Georgia has officially embarked on a "dream strategic path, which is called being a part of Europe"; however, according to him, the discussion and debate that has recently emerged in the public sector regarding the country's foreign vector is disturbing. "There is no need to think much - either you will be where there is civilization and the Euro-Atlantic space, or you will be where you have been for 70 years. This is what worries me, that for some reason, recently, a discussion or debate has started about where we should go. 

I can only hope that we are on the European path, and as if the questions related to the foreign political vector are certain, but in reality and practically, the situation is difficult. Let's see what reactions will follow this decision and what statements will be made by Russia. For now, there is complete silence. We have taken the first step, but debate and discussion, as well as pressure, can continue. When my foreign friends ask me what is the main external threat to the country, my answer is this - the main threat is the internal political issue. How strong the political situation will be, how consolidated the politicians will be, regardless of who is in power or opposition, and how strong the attitude of society will be. As I always say, being cautious doesn't mean that your partners perceive you as being cautious. We should not lose our caution, but we should walk steadily on the path that is called the union in the European Union." - said the diplomat.