**Estonia Ends Visa-Free Regime for Georgian Diplomats**
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the diplomatic community, Estonia has decided to revoke the visa-free regime for holders of Georgian diplomatic and official passports. According to a statement released by the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this decision was made in response to concerns over human rights abuses and repression in Georgia.
The decision to impose a visa requirement on Georgian diplomats comes after months of escalating tensions between Estonia and Georgia. The move is seen as a strong statement from Estonia’s government, which is critical of the current ruling party in Georgia, known as Georgian Dream (GD). Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized that this decision was taken to show that the international community will not tolerate the suppression of ordinary people, protesters, and journalists by the GD government.
**Estonia Sends a Message**
Tsahkna’s comments suggest that Estonia is using its diplomatic leverage to highlight concerns about human rights abuses in Georgia. By revoking the visa-free regime for Georgian diplomats, Estonia is essentially saying that it will not provide an easy way for officials from a country with questionable human rights records to travel and do business within the European Union. This move could have significant implications for relations between Estonia and Georgia.
**The Impact on Georgian Citizens**
While this decision primarily affects holders of Georgian diplomatic passports, there are concerns that it may also impact regular Georgian citizens who had previously enjoyed visa-free travel to the EU under a separate arrangement. Foreign Minister Tsahkna mentioned that this issue is currently being discussed at an international level, suggesting that Estonia’s move could be part of a broader effort to re-evaluate visa policies for Georgian citizens.
**What’s Next?**
The reaction from the Georgian government and civil society will be crucial in determining how Estonia’s decision plays out. Diplomatic tensions are likely to rise, with Georgia potentially pushing back against what it might see as an unfair restriction on its diplomats’ travel freedoms. The European Union, which is under increasing pressure over its handling of human rights issues globally, may also find itself drawn into this conflict.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!
