Macron, Scholz and Tusk demand reforms from Georgia to support the opening of EU accession negotiations

France, Germany and Poland demand “transparent investigations” to clarify the irregularities reported by the pro-European opposition in the legislative elections that were held in Georgia on October 26.

In a joint statement published this Thursday, the French president, Emmanuel Macronthe German chancellor, Olaf Scholzand the Polish Prime Minister, Donald Tusk They say they are “very concerned about the numerous irregularities and intimidation of voters” that have become known and that had “negative repercussions on public opinion’s confidence in the electoral process.”

In that joint statement the three leaders, members of the Weimar Triangle, indicate that they will not support the opening of negotiations for their accession to the European Union (EU) unless the country carries out profound reforms, according to reports Reuters.

That is why the three leaders demand “rapidly transparent investigations to investigate all complaints and clarify the irregularities presented.”

In this regard, they point out that they will carefully examine the final report of the international observation mission, which in its preliminary conclusions was already very critical of the electoral process.

Macron, Scholz and Tuskwho underline their support for “the democratic and European aspirations of the Georgian people”, insist that in a democratic society the freedom to organize peaceful demonstrations and fundamental rights must be defended and protected.

They note that before these elections were held, officially won by the Georgian Dream party, in power since 2012, The European Council had already noted that Georgia was “moving away from its European trajectory” and had called for the holding of “free and regular” elections.

That is why they warn that “if Georgia does not change direction”, particularly with the repeal of the controversial legislation “contrary to European values ​​and principles” they will not support the opening of negotiations for its accession to the EU.

Georgia authorities have rejected an international investigation of the alleged irregularities committed during the parliamentary elections, according to reports Efewhose results the opposition does not recognize.

The statement by Macron, Scholz and Tusk is presented on the day that the fifth summit of the European Political Community begins in Budapest, coinciding with an informal European Council.