Alex Petriashvili, the Georgian Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, discussed on Wednesday the importance of Georgia in developing stronger relations between the EU and the Euro-Atlantic region..

Petriashvili pointed to Georgia's fast implementation of reforms in the last few years and its June 27 signing of an agreement with the EU as evidence that the country should be progressing toward full EU membership, EurActiv.com reports.

The signing of the agreement was recently advanced, even though the region experienced certain geopolitical developments. The country is currently working alongside NATO and EU allies, as well, according to Petriashvili.

Georgia and the EU are also expected to see economic growth through the agreement. Georgia acts as a regional hub for international companies, European traders, and investors. Growth will also reportedly be boosted by the removal of tariffs by the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA), EurActiv.com reports.

Petriashvili said Georgia offers many potential benefits to the EU, as well as to neighbors, including Russia. He said the European Union can count on Georgia as an increasingly strong partner.