Parliamentary question - H-0387/2007Parliamentary question
H-0387/2007

EU - Georgia negotiations on concluding the visa facilitation and readmission agreements

ORAL QUESTION H-0387/07
for Question Time at the part-session in June 2007
pursuant to Rule 109 of the Rules of Procedure
by Inese Vaidere
to the Council

Georgia is an important EU partner under the European Neighbourhood policy. Its current government has demonstrated clear European aspirations and strong commitments to reforms directed to European values, as well as a good capacity in implementing them.

 

A lack of desire from the EU side for talks with Georgia on visa facilitation and readmission agreements is being observed. This contrasts distinctly with the successful conclusion of the EU visa facilitation and readmission agreements with Russia which will be put into effect from 1 June this year, as well as the EU negotiations with Ukraine completed in 2006, and negotiations with Moldova launched early this year.

 

Simplification of the existing visa regime with Georgia has never been placed on the EU's agenda and, surprisingly, it seems that this country is being punished for its aspirations towards European values and reforms.

 

What is the Council doing to accelerate the process of negotiations and conclusion of the visa facilitation and readmission agreements with Georgia, and what are the Council's plans regarding these negotiations?

 

 

Tabled: 14.05.2007

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