**Georgia’s Visa Liberalization Under Fire: A Tool for Sanctions or a Genuine Gesture?**
In an interview with InterpressNews, Guram Macharashvili, a Georgian politician and expert on foreign affairs, expressed his concerns over the misuse of visa liberalization as a tool to impose sanctions on Georgia. The issue has sparked debate in the country, with many questioning the sincerity of the European Union’s (EU) intentions.
**A Friendly Gesture Turned Sour?**
Macharashvili emphasized that Georgia had not violated the terms under which it received visa liberalization in 2017. This move allowed Georgian citizens to travel to EU member states without a visa, facilitating tourism and business exchanges between the two regions. However, Macharashvili argued that using this gesture as a means to impose sanctions on Georgia would undermine the very spirit of their relationship.
**The Sanctions Conundrum**
Macharashvili pointed out that the EU’s decision to impose sanctions on Russia following its annexation of Crimea was a clear example of a country being held accountable for its actions. However, he questioned why similar measures were not taken against other countries, including Georgia, which has been facing external pressures and internal challenges.
**A Symbolic Gesture or Genuine Progress?**
The visa liberalization agreement between the EU and Georgia was hailed as a significant step towards deepening their relationship. Macharashvili’s comments raise questions about the sincerity of this gesture and whether it is being used as a tool to exert pressure on the Georgian government. While the EU has been vocal about its support for Georgia, some experts argue that actions speak louder than words.
**A Delicate Balance**
The use of visa liberalization as a tool for sanctions raises concerns about the balance between promoting cooperation and imposing penalties. Macharashvili’s comments serve as a reminder that relationships between countries are built on trust and mutual respect. As tensions rise, it is essential to maintain open communication channels and avoid misusing gestures meant to foster goodwill.
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