**European People’s Party Takes a Strong Stance on Georgia**
The European People’s Party (EPP) has adopted a resolution on Georgia, calling for significant changes in the country. The resolution is a clear message to the Georgian government that the EPP will not stand idly by while democratic rights are being eroded and authoritarianism takes hold.
**New Elections and Freedom for Political Prisoners**
The EPP demands “new elections” and the immediate release of political prisoners, which includes several high-profile opposition figures. This is a direct call to action for the Georgian government to end its repressive tactics and restore democratic norms. The list of political prisoners mentioned in the resolution includes several key figures from the opposition.
**Sanctions Against Ivanishvili**
The EPP also calls for sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, the billionaire leader of the ruling party Georgian Dream, and his related businesses. This is a significant step, as it would cut off financial lifelines to the regime and put pressure on the government to change its ways.
**Cutting Off Financial Support**
The resolution also calls for Cartu Bank, which is linked to Ivanishvili, to be cut off from international payment systems such as SWIFT and Visa/MasterCard. This would severely limit the bank’s ability to conduct financial transactions and would further isolate the regime.
**International Pressure**
The EPP is not just targeting the Georgian government but also calling on the international community to take action. The resolution urges European countries and likeminded partners to introduce coordinated sanctions against Ivanishvili and his network, as well as freeze all of his assets within the EU.
**Support for Civil Society**
In a welcome move, the EPP has also called for EU financial support to be redirected to support civil society organizations in Georgia. This is a recognition that these groups are crucial in holding the government accountable and promoting democratic values.
**A Message from the EPP**
The EPP’s resolution is a clear message to the Georgian government: change your ways, or face consequences. The party is sending a strong signal that it will not tolerate authoritarianism and human rights abuses in its neighboring country.
This move by the EPP comes at a critical time for Georgia, as the country struggles with democratic backsliding and repression. The international community must now act on this resolution and take concrete steps to support Georgian civil society and promote democratic values in the region.
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