U.S. Partnership with Georgia
Floor Speech
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Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, Georgia is a trusted friend and steadfast partner of the United States. I firmly support Georgia's sovereignty, security, and prosperity, and I wish to congratulate Georgians on the remarkable democratic and economic progress they have achieved in 25 years of independence since the fall of the Soviet Union.
I would particularly like to call attention to our unwavering security partnership with Georgia, whose Armed Forces participate in international missions worldwide, including the Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan, where Georgia is contributing more personnel than any other non-NATO member. I know the United States deeply appreciates Georgia's contributions to these missions and honors its sacrifices.
Our important security relationship with Georgia continues to grow. Through ongoing regional efforts like the European Readiness Initiative and expanded bilateral cooperation, as laid out in the new defense agreement signed in July, the United States and Georgia are working ever more closely to boost our mutual security, build Georgia's resilience and self-defense capabilities, and create a safer region and world. In this context, I remain deeply concerned about Russia's continued occupation of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and believe Russia must fulfill its obligations under the 2008 ceasefire agreement. The United States is steadfast in our support for Georgia's sovereignty and remains committed to helping Georgia achieve its goal of NATO and European Union membership and full integration into European institutions.
Georgia is preparing for parliamentary elections in October, an important test of the country's civic institutions and democratic practices. Georgia's continued democratic maturation depends on free and fair elections contested in a pluralistic media environment. I also believe it is critical for Georgia to sustain progress in enacting its reform agenda, particularly in the justice sector, which will both further strengthen our bilateral partnership and prove to Georgians that their government is working for them. Progress has not come without difficulty, but the commitment of the Georgian people has made Georgia a true standout in a difficult region and an important partner of the United States.
Again, I would like to congratulate Georgia on reaching this significant milestone and recognize the importance of our continued close partnership.
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