08/11/2013 (Agence Europe) - Van Rompuy recalls importance of democracy. On 7 November, after his meeting with Georgia's President Mikheil Saakashvili, President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy recalled “the importance that the EU attaches to the correct functioning of democratic institutions and the respect of rule of law” in Georgia. Hailing the fact that the majority and minority in the Georgian parliament have been able to work together despite a very difficult cohabitation, Van Rompuy stated that “it is essential for a democracy that a spirit of constructive opposition be maintained”. He also hailed Georgia's “active role” in the Eastern Partnership and recalled that the EU intends to initial the association agreement on 29 November during the Vilnius summit. Reiterating the EU's “unwavering commitment” to Georgia's territorial integrity, Van Rompuy stated that while the EU takes its role as guarantor of security “very seriously”, it expects Georgia “to play its own part” at the same time. (CG/transl.fl)