**Lithuania Expresses Concern Over Arrest of Georgian Opposition Leader**
The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has spoken out against the arrest of Zurab Japaridze, leader of the Georgian opposition party “Girchi – More Freedom”. In a statement released on X, the ministry expressed its deep concern over this development.
According to the statement, democratic backsliding and repressive actions against civil society are taking place in Georgia. The ministry highlighted that groundless detentions, like Japaridze’s arrest, are not only unjust but also lead nowhere. This move by Lithuanian authorities is a clear indication of their support for democracy and human rights.
**Solidarity with Zurab Japaridze**
The statement from the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs sends a strong message of solidarity with Zurab Japaridze, who has been detained without any valid reason. This action by Lithuanian authorities is seen as a warning to the Georgian government against further suppression of opposition voices and civil society.
**Implications for Georgia’s Democracy**
The arrest of Zurab Japaridze has sparked concerns about the erosion of democracy in Georgia. The country has long been considered a beacon of democratic hope in the region, but recent events suggest that this might be changing. The Lithuanian Ministry’s statement serves as a reminder to the Georgian government that democratic values and human rights are essential for any functioning democracy.
**A Call for Freedom and Justice**
The statement from the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a call to the Georgian authorities to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens, including opposition leaders like Zurab Japaridze. It serves as a reminder that democracy and human rights are not just ideals but essential components of any functioning society.
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