"Formally, we have democracy, but the reform experiment was destroyed" - Saakashvili`s speech at EPP Congress

The Georgian delegation made statements in connection with visa-free regime in Malta, where the largest European political union - the European People"s party is holding a congress.

The meeting was attended by more than 2 thousand delegates from 40 countries. They have been addressed by the Party President Joseph Daul. Among the speakers is the former president of Georgia , who in his speech spoke about granting of visa-free regime to the country.

"Since yesterday, the citizens of Georgia have enjoyed visa-free travel to all European countries. My government has started negotiations on this issue, we have built airports, have developed the necessary infrastructure, but did not believe it until it is actually became a reality. This is a dream come true. I thank the EPP for support. I have the honor of fighting on two fronts. I am honorary chairman of the United National Movement and also run the fastest growing political party in Ukraine, but today I will talk about Georgia.

"For nine years I guided the most successful reform experiment in the post-Soviet space, we were able to achieve the radical changes and became an example in the region. In 2012, for the first time in the history of Georgia the power was handed over in a peaceful, democratic way. But, these people will never be able to build the power by the ways of change and reform. Today, we are in such a situation. Formally we have a democracy, but the reform experiment which was a challenge for Russia and Putin"s regime was destroyed. The same picture is elsewhere in the region, which threatens democratic values. That is why the European People"s Party, which is based on values, should speak out, " - said Saakashvili.

Different meetings were held in the framework of the EPP congress. One of the panels was dedicated to the formation of an inclusive society in the OSCE member countries. The speaker on this issue from the Georgian delegationwas Gigi Tsereteli. He spoke about the necessity to follow the OSCE principles and international norms.