Luxembourg, 15/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 15 October, welcoming the parliamentary elections in Georgia on 1 October as a “significant step towards the consolidation of democracy in their country”, the Foreign Affairs Council called on all Georgian state institutions and political parties to “work together constructively during the coming period of transition, with a view to assuring stability, the rule of law, human rights and good governance”. In the Council's conclusions, the ministers welcome the “early” establishment of contact between the different parties. They also welcome the commitments made by the representatives of both the incoming and outgoing administrations to an efficient and transparent political transition. The Council “looks forward” to a visit by the new prime minister “at the earliest opportunity” - who is likely to be the billionaire Bidzina Ivanichvili.
The EU is ready “to provide support and advice to the new administration, and to continue technical dialogue, with a view to ensuring continuity and maintaining momentum in the negotiations of an association agreement (…) and in measures taken in the context of the ongoing visa dialogue”, the Council conclusions add. The conclusions also reiterate the EU's resolve to support the reforms. The ministers stress the importance, for democratic development, of a true opposition and a dynamic civil society, and they reaffirmed their intention to continue to support the strengthening of capacities in this area.
The Council also reiterates its “firm support” for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia. (CG/transl.fl)