**Women Mark International Women’s Day in Georgia**
On March 8, women in three Georgian cities – Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi – marked International Women’s Day. In the capital, they marched from Republic Square to the Parliament building, carrying symbolic prison cells and demanding the release of prisoners, including a jailed female journalist.
The protesters blocked Rustaveli Avenue again, as they have been doing for 101 days straight.
**Georgian Prime Minister Visits Turkmenistan**
On March 6, Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze visited Turkmenistan. He met with the country’s President, Serdar Berdimuhamedow, and discussed aspects of bilateral cooperation, including connectivity and the development of the Middle Corridor.
**Parliamentary Speaker Accuses Foreign Governments**
Georgian Dream parliamentary speaker Shalva Papuashvili accused international organizations, foreign diplomats, and Western governments of interfering in the country’s political and judicial affairs. He also criticized diplomats from Belgium, Lithuania, and the UK for allegedly undermining Georgia’s sovereignty.
**New Ambassadors Present Credentials**
On March 7, thirteen non-resident ambassadors presented their credentials to Georgian Dream-elected President Mikheil Kavelashvili at the Orbeliani Palace. The meeting took place amidst controversy over the legitimacy of Kavelashvili’s presidency.
**Council of Europe Calls for Repeal of Anti-LGBT Law**
The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe has called on Georgian authorities to repeal the anti-LGBT law, which cracks down on LGBT rights and freedoms.
**US Senate to Consider Sanctions Bill**
The US Senate is set to consider the MEGOBARI Act, a bipartisan bill that envisages sanctions against GD government officials for human rights abuses and undermining democracy.