Council of Europe Georgian Office Head highlights joint efforts for country’s EU integration progress

Natalia Vutova, the Head of the Council of Europe Office in Georgia, on Tuesday said her body was working “closely” with the European Commission and the Georgian Government to ensure fulfilment of prerequisites for the bloc to open accession talks with the country “in accordance with the standards” of the Council.

In her remarks at a presentation of the CoE project Supporting Freedom of Expression and Media in Georgia, Vutova noted Georgia was a “very important” state in the Council.

“As for the media, we intend to continue working with the authorities and journalists to ensure that the broadcasting law is implemented in accordance with the standards of the Council of Europe, so that journalists are protected, their safety, and their professional activities are protected by the authorities and other parties”, she noted.

The official added her Office was also focused on freedom of information for Georgian citizens, and further pointed out it intended to work with the Communications Commission and “other national stakeholders” for the purpose.