Zurabishvili: Punishing Georgian Society Would Be a Gift to Russia

Former President Salome Zurabishvili said that Georgian society should not be punished, as this would be a gift to Russia of a kind that neither Europe nor Russia has imagined. She made the remarks in a "Facebook live" question-and-answer session, responding to a question about the possible cancellation of visa liberalization in the context of the European Commission's report.

Zurabishvili said she does not expect the European Union to cancel visa-free travel for Georgia. "I don't think [visa liberalization with Georgia will be cancelled]. I will say once again that my message at every European forum and at every meeting is that the population of Georgia cannot be punished for something that is not its decision and its responsibility. This responsibility lies solely with 'Georgian Dream', and if anyone is to be punished, it is 'Georgian Dream' and its representatives, so that they cannot go shopping in Europe freely," she said.

Zurabishvili said that punishment would mean "our complete isolation and confinement in the space from which we came out". According to her, she will "with her last strength" not allow the European Union, or anyone, to take the position that Georgia deserves to have visa liberalization halted, even for the purpose of sending a message to the government.

"They know very well where this government stands and for whom, it does not need new messages, and our population does not need this type of punishment. I don't think this is awaiting us or threatening us," said Salome Zurabishvili.