Georgian Dream MP Levan Makhashvili responded to the recent PACE declaration on "authoritarian backsliding in Georgia," calling it ironic that individuals who previously undermined elections and damaged Georgia’s international reputation are now making critical assessments.

Makhashvili expressed hope that MEPs would base their judgments on facts rather than politically motivated narratives. He claimed such rhetoric tends to intensify ahead of elections and accused the opposition of acting under foreign influence.

He reaffirmed the ruling party's readiness to address concerns in any international forum, while suggesting that unlike PACE, some platforms offer more balanced evaluations. According to Makhashvili, the opposition and its allies aim to inflict short-term harm on the country by supporting radical elements.

The statement came after 51 PACE members issued a declaration warning of potential challenges to Georgia's delegation credentials if democratic backsliding continues.