20 November 2024,   13:18
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"The closure or the potential closure of the biggest TV station causes concerns " - Mark Toner

The Deputy Spokesperson of the US Department of state commented on the Rustavi 2 case at the daily briefing:

"I would just say that the closure or potential closure of a major TV station would shrink the media space in Georgia significantly, and that’s a cause for concern. We take seriously any actions that would give the appearance of compromising media pluralism,"- said Mark Toner

Mark Toner declined to comment on the legal side of the case , as long as the process does not end, but said the United States is serious about all the actions that put under threat the media pluralism.

Mark Toner welcomed the president"s call for calm debate, as well as reforms in the country, which are linked to the mechanism of checks and balances.

"Our ambassador to Georgia has discussed this case with the president and prime minister. The U.S. Government, have frequently praised Georgia’s open media environment. It’s been recognized internationally as a model for the region, and we believe that one of a democratic government’s priorities should be the protection of citizens’ liberty, which depends on access to free and unfettered media. We’re concerned about any steps that might lead to the closure of one of the primary media outlets in Georgia, "- said Mark Toner.

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