Georgian president joins anti-government protest

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili joined protesters in front of the parliament building in Tbilisi after protests erupted following the government’s decision to "suspend" EU accession talks.

Source: European Pravda, citing Echo Kavkaza (Echo of the Caucasus)

Details: Zourabichvili, who had previously expressed support for anti-government protests without participating directly, was welcomed by demonstrators with applause and chants of "Salome, Salome".

Quote: "Today I have addressed the public about who should join us. I stand with the people. Resistance begins now and will not end until new elections are held. I am here with the people and I will be where I can, always." 

Zourabichvili then went on to Freedom Square, where riot police have been deployed, to speak with security forces.

Background:

• Protests in Tbilisi and other Georgian cities erupted following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s announcement that the country would suspend EU accession negotiations until 2028.
• Georgia’s commitment to European integration is enshrined in the constitution, with EU membership supported by approximately 80% of the population, according to various polls.
• Kobakhidze’s announcement came after the Georgian government adopted controversial laws which have been criticised by the EU and US as undermining democracy, leading them to reassess their relations with Tbilisi.

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