Family of abducted doctor addresses diplomatic corps in Georgia

The family of well -known Georgian doctor Vazha Gaprindashvili, who was abducted by Russian-controlled occupation forces on November 9 and was illegally sentenced to one year and nine months to prison “for deliberately crossing the border” last week, has addressed the diplomatic corps in Georgia ‘to spare no efforts’ in achieving the release of the doctor. 

• Georgian FM Zalkaliani condemns sentencing of abducted doctor, says abduction was “deliberate provocation’

 First of all we want to thank all diplomatic missions in Georgia for their incredible support since the abduction of Vazha on November 9. Despite the various attempts, a shocking decision was made [in the Russian occupied Tskhinvali region] and Vazha was sentenced to one year and nine months in prison. The illegal verdict is ultimately disturbing not only for the family, but also for the Georgian people, the state, his patients and for each person in the world who values human rights,” the family said in its special statement.

 The family urged the diplomatic corps to continue the fight for the release of the doctor. 

• British, German ambassadors express hope doctor Gaprindashvili will be released from Tskhinvali custody soon

 Gaprindashvili was illegally sentenced on December 20 as he did not admit to “crossing the border,” saying that Tskhinvali is part of Georgia and is now occupied by Russia.