International partners are responding to the first reading of the constitutional amendments.

According to the member of the US House of Representatives, Republican Congressman, Alex Mooney, he is pleased the Republic of Georgia “is committed to electoral reform, approving amendments that would allow for parliamentary pluralism”.

“I’m pleased the Republic of Georgia is committed to electoral reform, approving amendments that would allow for parliamentary pluralism. As the U.S. - Georgian partnership continues to strengthen, I’m glad our ally is dedicated to democracy and freedom”, - twitted Alex Mooney.

MEPs Marina Kaljurand and Sven Mikser also released a joint statement.

“Yesterday, the Parliament of Georgia approved the Constitutiona l amendments on the new electoral system at the first reading. The overwhelming support of the Georgian MPs, who cast 136 votes of favour out of 150, sends a positive signal as it testifies to a broadly consensual approach.

We urge all parties to the 8 March agreement to build on this positive momentum as it will help depolarise Georgia’s political environment and ensure that the democratic will expressed by its citizens will be properly reflected in the next Parliament. Two more readings should take place as planned on 23 and 29 June, followed by the votes on the electoral legislation reform aimed at incorporating past OSCE/ODIHR recommendations on 1 and 2 July”, - reads the statement.