OSCE PA Secretary General urges dialogue, citing opposition absence in Georgian Parliament

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and the Venice Commission held a joint debate in Paris, where a delegation from Georgia’s Central Election Commission also took part in the discussions.

Roberto Montella, the secretary general of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, emphasised the importance of dialogue and expressed concern over the absence of parts of the Georgian opposition from parliament.

“Unfortunately, the opposition is not in Parliament. However, I believe that Parliament would be the right place for meaningful discussions”, Montella said.

He underlined that dialogue remains essential in resolving political disagreements.

“Dialogue is important. International organisations, whether it be the OSCE or others, must engage in dialogue. If you decide on a total boycott of a specific country or government, then no other instruments remain and you must leave that country alone. I believe our principle is engagement, especially when there is a divergence of opinions, in order to find a solution. We strive to promote the idea of engagement and dialogue rather than a boycott”, he added.