Unfortunately, recent developments are further distancing Georgia from the EU path, the representative of the European External Action Service, Aymeric Dupont, said during the discussion of the report on Georgia in the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee.

“The steps taken by the Georgian authorities do not meet the expectations of the EU for a candidate country. We also note a serious setback in the direction of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. We have clearly stated our expectations of the authorities, which include the release of detained journalists and activists, the repeal of repressive legislation, as well as the implementation of democratic, comprehensive and sustainable reforms. We also expect the aggressive rhetoric against the EU and ambassadors to cease,” the representative of the European External Action Service said.

He said, “The Georgian authorities should refrain from actions and statements that contradict the EU’s foreign policy positions.”

“The level of alignment of Georgia’s foreign policy with the EU has decreased. We expect Georgia to cooperate with the EU to prevent circumvention of restrictive measures against Russia. We also note the European aspirations of the vast majority of the Georgian population and we stand ready to support Georgia’s democratic, stable and European future,” the EU External Action Service representative noted.