European Council President Charles Michel released a statement on the political situation in Georgia.

“I have taken note of the decision by the Georgian Dream as regards the 19 April Agreement. This agreement continues to offer a European way towards building a stronger democracy and rule of law in Georgia in the interest of the Georgian people. I have equally taken note of the continued non-signature by United National Movement of the agreement.

I remain convinced that this agreement is the best way to advance a reform agenda which would strengthen the democratic institutions of Georgia and help bring about prosperity, jobs and growth – all much needed to the benefit of the people of Georgia.

I see no alternative to continued in-depth electoral and judicial reforms, and free and fair local elections.

I call on all parties to put the interests of the citizens first and to commit to advancing Georgia’s political discourse within the framework of the country’s democratic institutions. Consultations with a number of political actors in Georgia are starting. Yesterday I met with President Zourabichvili to discuss the situation and EU-Georgia relations,” reads the statement.

The ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party annulled the EU-brokered April 19 Agreement on July 28. The GD Chair Irakli Kobakhidze said the agreement completed its mission and exhausted itself 100 days after signing as the majority of the opposition politicians abstained from joining it.

European Council President Charles Michel mediated the April 19 Agreement among the Georgian parties to end the political crisis in Georgia.