Georgia's European Union accession process remains de facto halted, with the European Commission describing the country as a candidate in name only.

Axar.az reports, citing the European Commission, that Georgia continued to fall short of the nine steps set out in its recommendation for candidate status, accusing the ruling party of undermining democratic principles, the rule of law, fundamental rights and civic space, while enabling further state capture.

It warned that unless the Georgian authorities change course and recommit to the fundamental principles underpinning EU membership, the country will continue to miss out on the benefits of candidate status and the pre-accession process.

The Commission reaffirmed the EU's support for Georgia's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for the European aspirations of the Georgian people.