Concerned Georgian Citizens Submit Petition Urging Action on Russia's Decision to Cancel Visa Regime and Lift Flight Ban
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
A petition has been published on manifest.ge where citizens of Georgia express concerns about the decision made by Russian President Vladimir Putin to cancel the visa regime and lift the ban on direct flights from Russia to Georgia, effective from May 15, 2023. The petition emphasizes the dangers associated with this decision and calls for specific actions from the Georgian authorities.
The Georgian authorities have voiced their support for the decision to lift the ban on direct flights and cancel the visa regime with Russia. However, the petition signifies the concerns of Georgian citizens who strongly oppose the idea of deepening relations with Russia.
The petition outlines several points that the citizens of Georgia acknowledge. They first highlight the occupation of 20% of Georgian territory by Russia and the ongoing creeping occupation of the country by the aggressor. They further condemn Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine, including the capture and destruction of cities, as well as the loss of innocent lives. The petition underscores the increasing international isolation of Russia, citing the International Criminal Court's issuance of an arrest warrant for the Russian President.
Given the Georgian people's solidarity with Ukraine and the sacrifices made by Georgian soldiers in the fight for Ukraine's freedom, the citizens perceive the warming relations with Russia by the Georgian government as a treacherous step that undermines the country's statehood. They express concern about the potential risks posed by an uncontrolled influx of Russian citizens into Georgia, emphasizing the security implications.
Moreover, the citizens argue that aligning closer with Russia would mean moving away from the European Union and the civilized world. They anticipate adverse consequences such as losing strategic partners, becoming economically and politically dependent on Russia, and impeding the restoration of Georgia's territorial integrity. They strongly object to the notion of becoming a part of Russia.
In light of these concerns, the petition puts forth specific demands to the Georgian authorities. It urges the establishment of a visa regime for Russian citizens, which would enable stricter control over their entry into Georgia. Additionally, the petition calls for a refusal to resume direct flights with Russia, emphasizing the dangers associated with such a move. Lastly, the citizens demand that the Georgian authorities reject any secret agreements with Russia and take all necessary measures to facilitate integration into the European Union, aligning with the provisions outlined in the Georgian constitution.
A petition signed by 6,084 Georgian citizens has been submitted to the Sectoral Economy Committee of the Parliament of Georgia for consideration.
