Opposition leaders in Tbilisi held a meeting with Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli, who is currently visiting Georgia.
Nika Gvaramia, one of the leaders of the Coalition for Change (Ahali), stated that the discussion also touched upon Droa! (It’s Time!) leader Elene Khoshtaria and political ally Nika Melia.
“There is no meeting I attend where I do not defend the interests of these people to the end. We mentioned the deterioration of Khoshtaria’s health,” he noted.
Gia Baramidze, a member of the National Movement party, stated that it was emphasized during the meeting that “the Georgian Dream regime does not represent the Georgian people”—the absolute majority of Georgian citizens who support our country joining the European Union and NATO.
“If we are talking about sanctions, they must be targeted against the regime, not the Georgian people. We also spoke about political prisoners,” Baramidze stated.
Badri Japaridze, one of the leaders of the Lelo – Strong Georgia party, noted that the meeting was positive and informative.
“Italy is firmly resolved that Georgia must not be lost to the European Union. They will do everything to ensure this. There are challenges in our country—they understand this very well and plan to discuss it during their meeting with Georgian Dream as well,” the opposition politician stated.
Gigi Tsereteli, head of the European Georgia party, noted that the conversation was “long” and “frank”—covering all issues of concern to Georgia, the opposition, and “political prisoners.”
“They understand the problems that exist in Georgia,” Tsereteli stated.
