Georgia is currently facing its fifth consecutive night of protests against the government’s decision to suspend negotiations to join the European Union. The protests have spread beyond the capital of Tbilisi to regional towns and cities, with schools and universities also participating in strikes and walkouts. Protesters have been denouncing Russia and carrying EU and Georgian flags.
Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Jolie expressed solidarity with the Georgian people at a press conference with Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. She stated that Canada is very concerned about Russia’s actions in Georgia and announced that Canada would be imposing sanctions against individuals and businesses involved in human rights violations or corruption.
The protests have escalated with clashes between protesters and police resulting in injuries and arrests. Georgia’s President Salome Zourabichvili has criticized the arrests and treatment of protesters, calling it an attack on freedom of expression and the right to protest.
Despite the unrest, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that the European integration process has not been postponed and will continue with maximum intensity. The Prime Minister dismissed claims spread by the radical opposition and emphasized that the elections were held under competitive conditions with candidates having the freedom to conduct campaigns.
The situation in Georgia remains tense as the government faces continued pressure from protesters and international scrutiny regarding the handling of the demonstrations.
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