On 15 January 2025, the European Union delivered a statement on behalf of the EU at the Council of Europe 1516th meeting of Ministers' Deputies on Georgia. The statement expressed deep concern about the backsliding in the areas of democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights. The EU expressed regret over the Georgian government’s recent decision to suspend the country’s EU accession process until 2028. The statement also condemned the violence against peaceful protesters, media representatives and politicians. The EU reaffirmed its support to Georgia’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and remain firmly committed to peaceful conflict resolution and our policy of non-recognition and engagement, including through the work of the EU Special Representative and the presence of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia.