The cooperation between Georgia and the Council of Europe is strong, we will continue to strengthen your reforms. Such a statement made today the Secretary General of the Council of Europe at a joint press-conference with the Georgian Foreign Minister in Tbilisi.

“The Council of Europe has a central role in protecting human rights, democracy and the rule of law on this continent. And these values are key to ensuring peace and stability, as well as long-term prosperity. I think these words sound today equally in Europe and in Georgia.

Russia’s illegal aggression against Ukraine was the result of Russia’s rejection of these values. That is why Russia was expelled from the Council of Europe and that is why we are doing everything to support Ukraine.

Cooperation between Georgia and the European Council is strong. And our current action plan helps your Government to improve reforms, be it the fight against corruption, justice, media-related legislation, and the fight against violence against women and children”, - said Marija Pejčinović Burić.

“We discussed the current security situation in the region. I had the opportunity to share with the Secretary General the current security environment in Georgia against the background of the ongoing war in the region. We talked about these challenges, exchanged views, and I am sure that her visit to Georgia will help us to further strengthen the security of Georgia. I would like to thank the Secretary General for coming to Georgia and we look forward with great interest to further strengthen and deepen our relations.

Work is underway with the Council of Europe for the development of an action plan for 2024-2027 on the part of the relevant agencies of Georgia and representatives of the non-governmental sector.

For Georgia, the action plan with the Council of Europe is a valuable tool that helps bring national legislation, institutions and practices into full compliance with European standards. Also, strengthening human rights, rule of law and democracy. This cooperation with the Council of Europe is very valuable for us”, - added Ilia Darchiashvili.