The facts of gross violation of human rights in the occupied territories, Irakli Kvaratskhelia's case and the situation of ethnic Georgian population living in Gali and Akhalgori were the main topics of the meetings, which were held in Strasbourg, during the visit of the State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality.

Initially, Ketevan Tsikhelashvili met with Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatovic. Meetings were also held with the Head of Confidence Building Measures Division of the Council of Europe's Directorate of Political Affairs Ana Capello and the Head of the Anti-Discrimination Department, Hallward Gorset.

According to the State Minister, during the meeting the main challenges of Georgia were discussed.

"This is the situation in the occupied territories, human rights, current occupation of thousands of people. IDPs who cannot return to their homes, residents of our divided villages, people, living in Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region. The situation of ethnic Georgian population living in Gali and Akhalgori was especially emphasized. The challenges they face over the years and the fact that they are in the discriminatory position.

"We also talked about the recent, tragic incident - the death of Irakli Kvaratskhelia and the circumstances of this tragedy. Most importantly, the Commissioner has expressed high interest and willingness to develop our cooperation in order to find ways to help these people and effectively use tools to alleviate their condition", - said Ketevan Tsakhelashvili.

One of the main topics of discussion also was the situation in terms of civil integration. From this point of view, Georgia's policy was positively assessed. It was noted that Georgia has the leader position on civil integration and that there is a distinctive cooperation between the EU and Georgia.