Pro-Russian and pro-Western activists clash in Tbilisi

A film rejecting Georgia’s European integration desires and favouring a connection closer to Russia was the cause behind a mid-city clash between pro-Russian and pro-Western supporters in Tbilisi today.

Several people were apprehended by police after this afternoon’s clash.

The incident stemmed from a screening of a pro-Russia movie by the non-governmental organisation Eurasian Institute.

The film was dedicated to the 15^th anniversary of NATO bombings in Yugoslavia. Pro-NATO and anti-NATO activists rallied outside a local cinema.

Pro-NATO supporters accused Eurasian Institute representatives of "treachery” and lobbying Russian interests in Georgia.

Law-enforces unsuccessfully tried to secure the order by placing metal barriers in the streets and several fights occurred between the protest groups.

Eurasian Institute supports a tighter connection between Tbilisi and Moscow and rejects Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

After police got involved in the incident, clashes between the opposition groups stopped. Pro-Russian activists then marched along Rustaveli St towards the NATO information centre in Tbilisi.

The protesters held posters condemning NATOs actions in Yugoslavia and warned the Georgian Government to cooperate with the alliance.

Pro-NATO protesters followed the rally however no more physical contact accrued between the two groups of protestors.