Lahbib made the comment at an event marking the selection of Georgia as the focus country of this year’s Europalia arts festival, set to run in Brussels in the autumn.

She noted Georgia was a “part of the European family”, and highlighted ties between the European Union and the country over the past two decades, while also noting the current partnership was the closest yet.

The Belgian official also acknowledged the Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili and his Government were implementing the priorities outlined by the EU for granting its candidate membership status to the country.

"We look forward to a common future. Belgium stands by Georgia, and we will continue to do the same tomorrow and in the future", Lahbib stated.