The Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) has expressed concern over reports that Zurab “Girchi” Japaridze, a member of ALDE and leader of Girchi - More Freedom, was detained at a Turkish airport.

According to ALDE, Japaridze’s passport and luggage were confiscated, and he was placed in a cell. He is expected to be returned to Georgia tomorrow.

“He was travelling to Brussels in transit, where he had been invited to participate in the Renew Europe Leaders’ Summit. We regret that he will be unable to attend the summit and express our disappointment that pressure continues to be exerted on the activities and freedom of movement of opposition parties that aspire to a pro-European and democratic future for their country,” the statement reads.