**Georgian Prime Minister Rebukes British Ambassador Over Inciting Violence Statement**
In a stern response, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has hit back at the British Ambassador to Georgia, Gareth Ward, over comments that were perceived as inciting violence. The exchange highlights the growing tensions between the two countries’ governments.
Kobakhidze was reacting to Ward’s statement that the UK government considers the detention of journalists and growing repression of critics in Georgia as evidence of a collapse of democracy in the country. This, according to Kobakhidze, is a “statement saturated with disinformation.” The Georgian Prime Minister pointed out that there are serious problems with media pluralism, freedom, and the influence of the “Deep State” on the media in Great Britain.
**A Rebuke from Tbilisi**
“It’s regrettable and sad when a specific European official supports violence,” Kobakhidze said. He emphasized that Georgia cannot allow violence to be incited by British officials or anyone else. The Georgian Prime Minister’s comments suggest that his government is not taking kindly to the criticism and feels that it is unfair.
Kobakhidze’s statement has sparked debate in Tbilisi about the state of democracy and media freedom in the country. Some have interpreted his response as a defense of the current government’s policies, while others see it as an attempt to divert attention from legitimate concerns about human rights and press freedoms.
**A Deeper Look**
The exchange between Kobakhidze and Ward highlights the complexities of international relations and the challenges of defending democratic values. It also underscores the need for diplomatic tact and nuance in dealing with sensitive issues like media freedom and human rights.
While the Georgian Prime Minister’s response has been criticized by some, it is clear that his government feels under attack from external critics. The situation serves as a reminder that democracy and human rights are not solely the preserve of one country or region but rather universal values that require consistent commitment and effort to uphold.
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