Pawel Herczynski: There may sometimes be waves in the sea, but Georgia, your ship is moving to Europe - forward Georgia, forward!

Georgia, your ship is moving to Europe - forward Georgia, forward! - Ambassador of the European Union to Georgia Pawel Herczynski said in his speech at the event dedicated to Europe Day on Atoneli Street.

The ambassador addressed the population in Georgian and congratulated them on Europe Day.

"Today, traditionally, we gathered to celebrate Europe Day. Georgia celebrates this day for the first time as a candidate for EU membership. Congratulations on this historical achievement. Today, we celebrate the success of 27 countries with different histories and cultures, standing on common values. We want Georgia with its unique culture and traditions to become a part of this unity. This is the will of the majority of the population of Georgia. It is important that political leaders hear the voice of the people like the European Union heard this voice last year.

The cherished goal that generations have relentlessly pursued for years has never been so close.

There may sometimes be waves in the sea, but Georgia your ship is moving to Europe. Keep your course towards the EU. We are with you on this journey. Happy Europe Day. Forward Georgia forward, forward Georgia forward!" - said Herczynski.

Steven Blockmans: If Georgia misses the opportunity to get closer to the EU, it will take a long time to repair the damage caused by the autocratic regime