EU statement on Georgia's parliamentary elections released
President of the European Council Charles Michel (photo: Getty Images)
Yesterday, Georgia held parliamentary elections, which were held with significant violations. In this regard, the Georgian issue will be discussed at a meeting of the European Council, states the President of the European Council Charles Michel.
“Following the parliamentary elections in Georgia, I intend to put Georgia on the agenda of the informal European Council meeting in Budapest," he wrote.
Charles Michel noted that “we note the OSCE/ODIHR preliminary assessment” and called on the Central Election Commission in Georgia, as well as other relevant bodies, to fulfill their duty. In particular, to promptly, transparently, and independently address all election-related violations and allegations.
“These alleged irregularities must be seriously clarified and addressed. We reiterate the EU’s call to the Georgian leadership to demonstrate its firm commitment to the country’s EU path, also in line with EUCO June and October conclusions. Constructive and inclusive dialogue across the political spectrum is now paramount,” Michel wrote.
The head of the European Council added that at its meeting in November, the European Council will assess the current situation and determine the next steps in relations with Georgia.
Today, Georgian President Salome Zourabishvili did not recognize the elections and called on citizens to protest. She stated that the parliamentary elections were “totally rigged”.
