The joint statement of Democracy and Governance Working Group of the US-Georgia Strategic Partnership Commission spread in Tbilisi and Washington focuses on the developments around Rustavi 2.

Washington has welcomed the recent developments, which makes it possible for Rustavi 2 to continue the appeal proceedings and the preservation of media pluralism in Georgia.

The statement focuses on the achievements and reforms in areas such as the judiciary, the prosecutor"s office, the Interior Ministry, Security Service and the penal system.

The sides discussed the necessity of fair and competitive electoral environment,for all political parties and candidates in 2016 parliamentary elections, the as well as the importance of open, pluralistic and independent space for political, media and civil society representatives. According to their assessment, it is important for democratic development and Euro-Atlantic integration.