"I believe there are several actions that Georgia could take to enhance its security and relationship with the United States. It is crucial for us to align politically and strategically to work together effectively. The tragic conflict between Russia and Ukraine has prompted a reevaluation of European Union membership and potential NATO inclusion in the future. There is a noticeable shift in traditionally conservative members of both organizations showing more openness to enlargement, including the possibility of Georgia's inclusion. While there may not be a complete consensus, there is growing interest in both areas. Georgia's pursuit of candidate status is a significant indicator of this changing perspective. It is essential to capitalize on this evolving political landscape. However, I believe the current government has not effectively seized this opportunity and, in some cases, has moved in the opposite direction. Another aspect that is particularly salient here in Washington is our interest in Georgia, which heavily relies on the notion of shared values, common principles, and a mutual understanding of the world. Our efforts in nurturing civil society, providing direct and indirect support for Georgia's state-building and economic development, all stem from the idea of working together towards common values and a shared conception of liberal democracy. I often like to emphasize that Georgia lacks significant deposits of hydrocarbons, does not possess a top-tier military, and is not a large and populous country on its own. However, what Georgia does have is a remarkable power of attraction, a soft power that makes Americans feel like we are all part of a shared endeavor. The degradation of that, over the past few years has been deeply regrettable, undermining the mutual support that we can offer each other in the long term. There isn't a rule in Washington that Georgia must be supported, and this relationship must be maintained indefinitely in the same way as it has been in the past. At this moment, the acrimony that was broken between Tbilisi and its partners in Brussels and Washington has to led to a feeling that our values are not entirely the same, or at least are splitting apart in certain respects. If there is a way for us to realign and get back on the same page, it is about reaffirming those shared values and collaborating towards common goals," - Said Michale Cecire.