“The political situation in Georgia has been a cause of serious concern in recent months due to the increasing political polarization. All parties need to step up efforts to de-escalate the situation and come together to identify and agree on common ground”, Joseph Borrel, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated at the European Parliament’s plenary session on Tuesday. 

He said that all sides need to contribute to agree on a compromise. 

“Georgia remains a key associate partner of the European Union. We have an ambitious association agreement with Georgia. Unhappily, the political situation in the country has been a cause of serious concern in recent months due to the increasing political polarization. This situation undermines Georgia’s democracy. I repeat our strong view that it is now important for all parties to step up efforts to de-escalate the situation and come together to identify and agree on common ground. The President of the European Council has just visited Georgia and had the opportunity to meet with the President, the Prime Minister and the leaders of the main opposition parties. During this visit, he was engaged in discussing with these political parties. After coming back, he has announced that Mr Christian Danielsson would be engaged in the EU-backed mediation efforts. We look forward to see the Georgian parties progress in this dialogue. We will follow this process closely. The Head of the EU Delegation to Georgia will also facilitate this mediation effort.

All sides need to contribute to agree on a compromise. We expect the government to provide inclusive leadership putting the interests of the Georgian people first. All actors need to refrain from provocative actions and rhetoric,” Joseph Borrel said.

“In terms of the elements for progress, the EU sees as the priorities the consolidation of democracy, electoral reform, political stability and an inclusive parliamentary process. A fair, independent and accountable judiciary is also of paramount importance.

Along with  President Michel, we will encourage all political actors in Georgia to commit fully to the dialogue in a constructive spirit in the interest of a stable, democratic and reform-oriented Georgia able to successfully advance on its pro-European path,” he added.

Joseph Borrell stated that the EU supports Georgia’s reform efforts as well as the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

Debates were held on the Georgia issue in the European Parliament on Tuesday.