**Artists and Restorers Protest in Tbilisi**
A protest march is taking place from Marjanishvili Square to the Parliament in Tbilisi. Representatives of the arts sector, restorers, and art historians are participating in the demonstration.
The protesters have gathered banners with messages such as “We preserve history, we build the future!” and “No to the legalization of a police regime”. They are also carrying flags of the European Union and Georgia.
**Freedom and Democracy**
Photographer Mari Nakani spoke before the march began. She said that art means freedom and that artists should always speak out for what is right. She praised young people who are standing up against the government, saying they know better and are stronger than previous generations.
Nakani urged the public to protect their freedom, which was brought by their ancestors. She also warned against giving in to Russian influence, saying “Their prey is not our country; our country is ours.”
**Protest Demands**
The protesters are calling on the Georgian government to take action. They want the government to hold early elections, return Georgia to a European foreign policy course, and free political prisoners.
The protest is against the decision made by the “Georgian Dream” government to delay putting the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union until 2028. Protests have been taking place in Tbilisi and other cities for 18 days.
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