Macron Calls for Dialogue Amid Georgia Protests

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the violent crackdown on pro-EU protests in Georgia, calling for an end to the persecution of demonstrators and the release of those arbitrarily detained. During a phone conversation with Bidzina Ivanishvili, the influential leader of the ruling Georgian Dream party, Macron expressed deep concern over the intimidation of civil society and opposition representatives. He urged for an inclusive dialogue among all political factions to respect Georgia's European aspirations. Macron also lamented Georgia's deviation from its European path and highlighted that the future of EU relations hinges on the country's political direction. The protests, sparked by delays in Georgia's EU membership bid, have seen hundreds arrested and drawn international condemnation. Ivanishvili acknowledged Macron's concerns while asserting that Georgian police adhere to high standards in managing protests.