MEP Lexmann calls for sanctions on Ivanishvili and Saakashvili's release

21:14, 23.04.2024

During a debate at the European Parliament regarding the situation in Georgia, MEP Miriam Lexmann outlined her concerns about the proposed draft law on “transparency of foreign influence” and its impact on civil society and independent media in the country.

According to Lexmann, she asks the European Council to impose sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili [the leader of Georgian Dream] and release Mikheil Saakashvili [Georgia’s jailed ex-president].

“The proposed law will undermine the work of civil society and independent media,” Lexmann stated. “Should this law be adopted against the aspirations of Georgia’s people and in violation of the Commission’s recommendation, our response should be clear. First, we must freeze the opening of any accession negotiations with Georgia. Second, any future financial assistance to Georgia must be made conditional on scrapping this damaging law. And finally, I once again call on the Council to impose targeted sanctions against the oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili and free Misha Saakashvili.”

By - Tamar Tabatadze

Politics

European Parliament

Miriam Lexmann