"More welfare, democracy, energy and enthusiasm....more success for our country on its rapid road to development!” – this is how Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili described the benefits Georgia is expected to receive from visa-free travel with the European Union today.

In his first national address after the European Parliament (EP) vote, the Prime Minister said Abkhazians and Ossetians will also share in the benefits of Georgia’s cooperation with Europe, including but not limited to visa-free travel.

The Prime Minister thanked everyone who had contributed to achieving today’s historic decision, including the Georgian people who, as he believes, have always been loyal to Georgia’s European aspirations.

He said as soon as visa-free travel will become available for Georgians he will be among the first to leave to Europe together with youth who have been expecting today’s decision with great excitement.

I do believe we will join the large European family and contribute to its diverse culture, peacekeeping and security”, Kvirikashvili said.

Georgia’s president further described today’s historic vote as "an important step towards Europe”. Giorgi Margvelashvili watched live coverage of the plenary voting with representatives of the diplomatic corps today.

"An important step towards Europe” – these are the words Georgia’s President used to describe today’s historic vote. Photo by President's press office

The President also believes not only Georgia but all of Europe will benefit from Georgia’s great contribution to a variety of fields including culture.