Reforming the electoral code is an important step on Georgia’s path towards European integration, heads of missions of the EU-member states in Georgia said in a joint statement on April 13.

“The EU welcomes the dialogue between the Georgian Government and the Opposition on the Electoral Code,” reads a brief, written statement released by EU ambassador in Tbilisi, Philip Dimitrov, on behalf of other Tbilisi-based diplomats from EU-member states.

Opposition and the ruling party launched electoral system reform talks in November, 2010; but those talks remain suspended since March 9.

“We hope that these talks will not only produce mutually acceptable results in line with OSCE and Venice Commission recommendations, but also build trust and confidence between all parties. The EU will continue to follow the talks closely and any other developments related to electoral reform,” the statement by the EU diplomats reads.