**CoE Secretary General Visits Georgia**
The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, arrived in Georgia on December 18. His visit comes at a time of high tension and polarization in the country.
**Visit Aims to Ensure Cooperation**
The CoE press release notes that Berset’s mission is to ensure conditions for continued cooperation between the Council of Europe and Georgia, in line with the Organization’s values and principles. The visit aims to promote dialogue and avoid any escalation of tensions.
**Meeting with Georgian Dream Leaders**
During his meeting with Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Berset discussed the situation in Georgia and cooperation between the country and the CoE. Kobakhidze stated that the government has had close cooperation with the CoE since the 1990s and is committed to continuing it.
**Meetings with Opposition Forces**
On December 19, Berset met with opposition parties, including Unity-UNM and Gakharia – For Georgia. He described these meetings as “open and constructive” and “frank and productive.” However, another opposition party, the Coalition for Change, announced that they would not meet with Secretary Berset.
**Mixed Reactions**
The visit of Secretary Berset sparked mixed reactions from different political forces in Georgia. While some welcomed his efforts to promote dialogue, others criticized him for not taking a stronger stance on human rights issues and not recognizing the legitimacy of the current government.
**Assessment by Secretary Berset**
During a press conference on December 20, Secretary Berset assessed his visit, stating that the Georgian Dream government has pledged to amend the “Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence” in line with CoE recommendations. He also noted that a working group will be established to facilitate these amendments.
**Human Rights Concerns Remain**
Despite the mixed reactions and progress made during the visit, human rights concerns remain a major issue in Georgia. Secretary Berset emphasized the need for effective investigations into allegations of human rights violations and the release of political prisoners.