**UK Ambassador on Georgia Crisis**
The British Ambassador to Georgia, Gareth Ward, talked about the UK’s position on the country’s political crisis at an event on January 23. He said that the UK’s current measures are aimed at supporting the defense of fundamental freedoms in Georgia.
Ward emphasized that the goal of these measures is to protect the right to protest and freedom of expression in Georgia. He also stated that the UK will stop funding programs and support for the Georgian government, and limit its defense and political contacts with the government, until democratic backsliding is addressed.
**UK Supports Georgian Economy**
Despite these measures, Ward said that British Airways and EasyJet will start direct flights between London and Tbilisi from March. He hopes this will strengthen economic ties between the UK and Georgia.
The Ambassador also praised civil society for its role in promoting democracy and European values in Georgia. He said that the UK will continue to fund civil society groups in Georgia, as they are an important part of a democratic society.
**UK Imposes Sanctions**
This comes after a group of UK MPs called for sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, the honorary chair of the Georgian Dream Party, due to his alleged responsibility for Georgia’s democratic regression. The UK has already imposed asset freezes and travel bans on five senior Georgian officials for their roles in human rights violations.
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