European Commission Outlines Reform Goals for Georgia

The European Commission (EC) recommended to significantly intensify relations with Georgia through the development of an Action Plan under the EU?s Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), the European Commission?s Delegation to Georgia and Armenia reported on March 2.

This recommendation is based on the Commission?s Country Report published on March 2, which provides a comprehensive overview of the political and economic situation in Georgia and the state of its bilateral relations with the EU.

?The European Neighbourhood Policy gives us an opportunity to take relations with Georgia up a gear. I very much hope that the Council will give the go ahead to negotiate an Action Plan, so that we can work out a joint agenda for action in the coming years. Progress in our relationship will reflect the efforts and successes of the country itself,? Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner said, according to the press-release issued by the EC Delegation.

The key objectives for an Action Plan outlined by the EC are as follow:

? Strengthening respect for the rule of law (reform of judiciary, law enforcement agencies, penitentiary) and enhanced human rights protection;
? Strengthening of democratic structures and pluralism (reform of parliament, strengthening independence of media, reform of local self government, electoral reform);
? Improvements in the business climate as well as public sector modernization
? Reform of tax and customs administrations and legislation and strengthening the fight against corruption and fraud
? A transparent privatization process
? Progress in poverty reduction, sustainable development; environmental protection
? Progress in the resolution of conflicts and enhanced regional cooperation.
? Prudent macroeconomic policies need to be maintained to support effective implementation of an Action Plan.

European Union included Georgia, together with Armenia and Azerbaijan, in its Neighbourhood Policy last June.