The European Union has urged Georgia to align with sanctions imposed towards Russia following the latter’s determination to place an finish to visa necessities for Georgian nationals, together with the lifting of a ban imposed in 2019 on direct flights to Georgia.
The difficulty was mentioned throughout a press briefing by the European Union Lead Spokesperson for Overseas Affairs and Safety Coverage, Peter Stano, during which he remained that following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the European Union and a variety of different international locations imposed harsh sanctions on Russia, together with a ban imposed on Russian flights, SchengenVisaInfo.com reviews.
“The European Union encourages Georgia, aspiring to change into an EU candidate nation, to align with the EU and different international locations of their sanctions towards Russia additionally within the aviation sector, and to stay vigilant concerning any attainable try to bypass them,” Stano burdened, based on EU Neighbours east report.
As well as, EU Lead Spokesperson for Overseas Affairs and Safety Coverage added that on account of the EU sanction, a complete of 95 per cent of the Russian fleet is ineligible to resume and improve their plane, which is crucial in holding the required worldwide in addition to technical security requirements. Thus, Stano burdened that Georgia shouldn’t allow perilous Russian plane in its nation.
Not too long ago, the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, abolished the visa necessities for Georgians in addition to a 2019 ban imposed on flights to Georgia whereas confirming by way of a decree that the brand new adjustments would change into efficient ranging from Might 15.
However the determination was thought of a provocation by the President of Georgia, Salome Zourabichvili.
“One other Russian provocation! Resuming direct flights and lifting the visa ban with Georgia is unacceptable so long as Russia continues its aggression on Ukraine and occupies our territory,” the President wrote on Twitter.
Georgia and Russia applied a visa regime in 2000, whereas in 2012, Tbilisi applied a visa regime. On the similar time, in 2012, Georgia lifted visa necessities for Russian residents who’re allowed to stay on this nation for over one yr.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, authorities in Georgia joined worldwide resolutions condemning the army motion, on the similar time providing assist to Ukrainian refugees fleeing the warfare.
Georgia has been making an attempt to tighten its connections with European Union for years now. As well as, in March 2022, the nation submitted an software to change into a part of the European Union.
However Georgia’s makes an attempt, particularly to make nearer connections with NATO, haven’t been welcomed by Russia.