Georgia must remain faithful to its European values, - the statement of the Standing Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) states this.

"The Parliamentary Assembly is concerned about the situation in Georgia, where the government, contrary to its election promises, announced the suspension of negotiations on joining the European Union. This decision may have a significant impact on the implementation of reforms, which are necessary to strengthen the functioning of the rule of law and democratic institutions in Georgia," the statement said.

Also, the Assembly, whose Standing Committee met yesterday in Luxembourg, strongly condemns the brutal repression against peaceful demonstrations as a violation of the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and assembly.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe notes with concern that most of the protesters were arrested and charged under the controversial Soviet-era Code of Administrative Offenses. In addition, the Assembly notes that the mentioned law has been repeatedly requested to be replaced by a new law that complies with European standards.

"These troubling developments are all the more troubling in light of the October 26 parliamentary elections, which were held in an environment that did not create the necessary conditions for voters to make an informed choice, free from pressure and intimidation, as stated in the Assembly election observation report released yesterday," It is mentioned in the statement.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe will discuss the observation report of the parliamentary elections held in Georgia at the session scheduled for January.

"The Assembly calls on Georgia to remain loyal to European values ​​and fully fulfill its obligations as a member state of the Council of Europe. The Assembly is ready to continue working within the framework of a constructive dialogue with the Georgian authorities, democratic forces, civil society, especially the youth, in close cooperation with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe and the Committee of Ministers. The upcoming visit of the observer co-rapporteurs of the Assembly to Georgia will provide an important opportunity for this dialogue," the statement said.