“The European Council reaffirms the Union’s readiness to support the Georgian people on their European path. At the same time, it reiterates its serious concern regarding the course of action taken by the Georgian government, which runs counter to the values and principles upon which the European Union is founded,” reads the Conclusion of the European Council meeting held on October 17 in Brussels.

According to the Conclusion, the European Council recalls that such a course of action “jeopardises Georgia’s European path, and de facto halts the accession process” and calls on Georgia “to adopt democratic, comprehensive and sustainable reforms, in line with the core principles of European integration.”

The European Council noted that it would continue monitoring the situation closely.

“The European Council expects the upcoming parliamentary elections to be free and fair, in line with international standards and with unhindered access for international and domestic election observers. The European Council stresses the need to protect a free, independent and pluralistic media.

The European Council reaffirms the European Union’s unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. It underlines the European Union’s continued commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and its policy of non-recognition and engagement,” reads the Conclusion.