EU calls on Georgia to respect rule of law, democracy

European Commission head Jose Manuel Barroso called Tuesday on Georgia's new president to build on the political and economic gains of his predecessor, by respecting the rule of law and democracy. Speaking with outgoing President Mikheil Saakashvili, Barroso said "it is important that we share the same values as we bring Georgia closer to Europe Georgia must remain a pluralistic democracy."
"The EU has always called for the rule of law, which is essential," he said when asked about 'selective justice' - the use of the judiciary for political purposes. The issue is a live one amid speculation that Saakashvili could face criminal charges once he leaves office after his foe Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili backed that possibility. Saakashvili said the problem was real and he had discussed it with Barroso, recalling how ministers had even named the specific prison he should be sent too.