Azernews.Az

By Sabina Idayatova

Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili has reiterated his people's desire and aspiration to unite with Europe.

"Despite the political affiliation of the parliamentary majority, which has recently changed in Georgia, as it happens in other democratic European countries, nothing can stand in the way of European enthusiasm of my people, their desires and aspirations to unite with Europe. I came here as a messenger of hope and faith: Europe is our future," Saakashvili said at a meeting in Strasbourg, his administration said Monday.

According to Saakashvili, European integration, drawing closer to the European family of free and democratic states is the main priority of the Georgian people, his political vision, in spite of social and religious differences. Saakashvili also noted that all the reforms implemented by his administration are aimed at the country`s transformation from a corrupt and authoritarian post-Soviet republic into an open state of European type.

Saakashvili also spoke about Georgia-France friendship, and noted its help during the 2008 brief war with Russia. "Next year will be historic for Georgia if some changes are made to the domestic and foreign policy," he said.

According to the Georgian presidential administration, Saakashvili visited a Christmas trade-fair in Strasburg on December 16, an event where Georgia is represented for the first time this year, which takes place from November 24 through December 23.

President Saakashvili reiterated the importance of Georgia's participation in such a major fair in Europe and spoke about historical opportunities and prospects opening before the country in the coming year in terms of European integration after the democratically held parliamentary elections.

The October 1 election in Georgia, won by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili's opposition coalition, was followed by the formation of a new cabinet in which Ivanishvili now serves as prime minister.

Saakashvili met with the Mayor of Strasbourg Ronald Ries. The topics of discussions were bilateral relations and all-European values. Ries stressed the importance of Georgia's participation in the Christmas Market.

According to Ries, the French people have great respect for the Georgian culture, therefore, cultural activities that Georgia is holding in Strasbourg are of great interest.

Saakashvili said that Georgia had the best chance nowadays to draw closer to the European Union and in 2013, the country may have free trade and visa-free regulations with EU member states.

At the Georgian Christmas Village -- which is set on Place Gutenberg, located in the city center -- all the regions of Georgia are reportedly represented, along with its products, traditional dishes, clothing, etc.

Deputy Mayor of StrasbourgNawel Rafik-Elmrini said that when choosing guests of the Christmas Market, the Mayor's Office takes into consideration the level of democracy and human rights in the country. "Respect of common European values is also important," he said.

The tradition of Christmas Market in Strasburg emerged in 1570 and ever since, various countries have been invited to participate in the event.