OREANDA-NEWS  Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze suggests that the European Union start a dialogue with the republic, not behind closed doors, but publicly.

"Our proposal is an open, public discussion on all issues. We are confident that we are right and defending our sovereignty. We want to see Georgia more developed and more democratic," he told reporters on Wednesday.

At the same time, Kobakhidze expressed optimism that the EU's approaches to Georgia will change towards establishing positive relations.

"We are full of optimism and believe that the EU's attitude towards Georgia will change for the better. We want to join the European Union while preserving our dignity and sovereignty," the prime minister said.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Georgian media published a report by the European Commission assessing the progress of candidate countries and potential members towards EU membership. The report also provides recommendations regarding Georgia, which contain certain requirements - to release from custody all persons "unlawfully deprived of liberty," repeal a number of recently adopted laws, and launch a large-scale judicial reform involving verification of the integrity of Georgian judges by foreign experts.