Alain Berset: We are closely monitoring developments in Georgia; I am aware that proceedings are underway at the Constitutional Court; we are observing the situation and would note that membership in the Council of Europe entails a commitment to its values

"We are closely monitoring developments in Georgia," Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, stated ahead of the European Political Community (EPC) summit in Dublin.

"As you know, I have always been open to dialogue with all member states—including, of course, Georgia. We have been in contact recently. It is important to have transparent and sincere discussions; naturally, these will not always take place in the public eye," Berset said.

He added that he is following the unfolding events in Georgia with close attention.

"I am aware that proceedings are currently underway at the Constitutional Court. We are monitoring the situation and, as always, wish to emphasize that membership in the Council of Europe entails a commitment to its values. Specifically, all 46 member states have made commitments regarding the European Convention on Human Rights and the European Court of Human Rights; furthermore, we have an operational framework within which we can develop our relations and cooperation. I believe we must reaffirm this, continue our dialogue, and discuss together the steps we will take moving forward—including with Georgia," stated the Secretary General of the Council of Europe.