command and control system, to increase interoperability with NATO, and to foster Euro-Atlantic integration. To develop these pillars, the relevant doctrinal basis is created and implemented. Along with this, the rational management of the critically important capabilities and resources for defense is a part of the strategic defense review process. In addition, it is important to implement an efficient crisis management system in the armed forces, as well as to establish a cooperation framework among the military and civilian components of the nation’s security system. Georgia’s defense planning is based on the principle of total defense, which requires the successful implementation of a civil defense system, along with related education and training, the development of proper infrastructure, and the creation of an effective military reserve. A new reserve system will improve reservist training, command and control, and the active involvement of the population in territorial defense. To develop the reserve and mobilization system, Georgia considers it a priority to cooperate with partner countries and to learn from their experience. Georgia remains dedicated to democratic values and to its continued integration into the Euro-Atlantic space. Therefore, the increased interoperability of the Georgian Armed Forces with NATO remains the priority of Georgian defense reform. To strengthen its defensive capabilities, Georgia attaches particular significance to deepening bilateral cooperation and to the assistance provided by partner countries. Georgia is doing its utmost to make a significant contribution to ongoing NATO operations. Successfully concluded military missions by Georgian units during these operations not only increase the importance of Georgia for the security of the Euro-Atlantic space, but also enrich the military experience of the Georgian Armed Forces. 5. Integration into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the European Union One of Georgia’s major foreign and security policy priorities is membership in NATO and the European Union. As a Black Sea and Southeast European country, Georgia is part of Europe geographically, politically, and culturally; yet it was cut off from its natural course of development by historical cataclysms. Integration into NATO and the EU is Georgia’s sovereign choice, one which will strengthen Georgia’s security and ensure its stable development. 5.1 Accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization: Accession to NATO is an important foreign policy objective of Georgia. Georgia views NATO as the basis of the Euro-Atlantic security architecture as well as the major mechanism for ensuring security and stability in the Euro-Atlantic space. Georgia’s membership in NATO will create solid guarantees for the nation’s security and stability and will play an important role in strengthening stability in the entire region. Reforms related to NATO membership 15