EP adopts a resolution calling on Georgian authorities to pardon and release former President Saakashvili — the broadcast of the European Parliament meeting.

On February 15, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling on the Georgian authorities to pardon and release former President Mikheil Saakashvili. 

577 MEPs supported the relevant decision, 33 MEPs voted against it, and 26 abstained. 

MEPs expressed "serious concern" about the deteriorating health of the former president of Georgia. 

"Noting reports of his dramatic weight loss and suggestions that he may have suffered from heavy metal poisoning in detention, MEPs call on the Georgian authorities to release Saakashvili and allow him to receive proper treatment abroad," the resolution reads.

According to the parliamentarians, pardoning Saakashvili will reduce political polarisation in Georgia. 

"A prolonged failure to improve the situation with Saakashvili could become an obstacle for Georgia's EU candidacy. Therefore, Georgia should focus on progress in European reforms," they emphasise.