Statement by the High Representative / Vice-President of the Commission Kaja Kallas and Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos on Georgia

The European Union regrets Irakli Kobakhidze's statement on the Georgian Dream's decision not to pursue the opening of EU accession negotiations and rejecting EU financial support until 2028.

We note that this announcement marks a shift from the policies of all previous Georgian governments and the European aspirations of the vast majority of the Georgian people, as enshrined in the Constitution of Georgia.

We recall that the Georgian authorities' course of actions and democratic backsliding led to the de facto halt of the accession process already in June this year and that financial assistance from the EU directly benefiting the Georgian authorities is currently on hold.

The Georgian people have once again taken to the streets to reaffirm their aspirations for joining the European Union. The EU strongly condemns the violence against peaceful protesters, who are standing firm for their European and democratic future. These actions by the Georgian government have direct consequences on our relationship.

Georgian authorities must respect the right to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression, and refrain from using force against peaceful protesters, politicians and media representatives. All acts of violence must be investigated and those responsible held accountable.

The EU reiterates its serious concerns about the continuous democratic backsliding of the country, including the irregularities which took place in the run up and during the recent Parliamentary elections. In this context, the EU is looking forward to the OSCE/ODIHR final report and its recommendations.

The EU stands with the Georgian people and their choice for a European future. The door to the EU remains open and the return of Georgia to the European values and the EU accession path is in the hands of the Georgian leadership.