What we observed in the resolution of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe [PACE] was reminiscent of Soviet-style actions, displaying a lack of respect for the sovereignty of other nations. Such a statement made today the Speaker of the Georgian Parliament.

"We are witnessing troubling trends at various forums, where we see the influence of post-Soviet groups easily controlled by those now deemed war activists. Representatives from some post-Soviet republics seeking refuge in the EU are particularly vulnerable to these influences; they echo USSR-era disdain for the sovereignty of nations, peoples. Actions reflected in the resolution demonstrate a blatant disregard for sovereignty of others. By adopting such an approach, PACE has betrayed its own principles.

We have already announced that members of our delegation withdrew. As of now, we will not be represented in PACE until the sovereignty of the Georgian people is respected, allowing us to choose our own Government. Until then, any constructive dialogue is impossible.

As we commemorate April 9, we didn`t fight for independence to allow the Estonian government, Lithuanian Foreign Minister, or certain French and Swedish MPs - who called for a Maidan on Rustaveli Avenue - to dictate to Georgian people whom they should choose", - said Shalva Papuashvili.