Illegal detention of Vazha Gaprindashvili, closure of the so-called checkpoint in Akhalgori direction and the humanitarian crisis caused by it, the difficult situation on the occupied territories, the challenges of people living along the dividing lines and Georgia's peace policy - these are an incomplete list of topics on which State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Ketevan Tsikhelashvili talked during the international conference “The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum”.

According to the State Minister, in recent years Georgia has achieved much in terms of European integration. In terms of reforms, it is the leading country in the region and there are many tangible results. Including deep and comprehensive free trade agreement in terms of legislative approximation, human rights, tourism, economic empowerment and, most importantly, visa-free travel for Georgian citizens.

Ketevan Tsikhelashvili also noted that while Georgian citizens travel thousands of kilometers without a visa, some residents cannot move within a few meters of their homes to visit a farm, visit a cemetery, or shake hands with a neighbor because of the Russia's occupation of two regions.

“Today I talked about specific problems, people who do not receive medical care in conditions when the only checkpoint to Akhalgori is closed for the third month and there is a humanitarian crisis on the ground. I have asked civil society representatives, as well as our partners, to double their efforts to do this, as this is a critical humanitarian issue.

I spoke about Vazha Gaprindashvili, a doctor who remains in illegal custody despite all attempts, which is unacceptable and unjustified. The Georgian civil society has taken a rally in support of him and protesting against the lawlessness that is taking place.

The main challenge facing Georgia today is continued occupation and unresolved conflict. In the new agenda of relations with the European Union, this topic should be one of the priorities. Further steps need to be taken to help those affected by the conflict, to be able to respond effectively to the grave humanitarian challenges - ensuring freedom of movement, protection of human rights and the abolition of ugly practices involving the illegal detention of persons. Raising these issues with Russia, by absolutely all partners, is very important.

Also, in is necessary to work on more complex visions of a peaceful resolution of the conflict. We have proactive peace initiatives that are backed by the whole world, including the European Union. Civil society can play a very specific and special role in building contact and trust between people. This will break down the visible or invisible walls that Russia is building with barbed wire and propaganda”, - said Ketevan Tsikhelashvili.

This year the Eastern Partnership marks the 10th anniversary. The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum has been held annually since 2009. It brings together more than 200 civil society representatives from the Eastern Partnership region and the European Union. Officials from different countries also gather here.