Tbilisi, Georgia, Jan. 21
By Nana Kirtzkhalia - Trend:
France has stopped free treatment of Georgian citizens suffering from hepatitis C, human rights activist Dmitry Lortkipanidze and executive director of the Georgian- French friendship association Nugzar Sulashvili said at a briefing on Tuesday.
"France made this decision on August 6, 2013, after the French embassy learned a hepatitis C free treatment program was used in Georgia," Sulashvili added. "However, it was not indicated that the program is valid only in the penal system."
Around 400-5,000 Georgian citizens suffering from hepatitis C are being treated in France. They are subject to deportation, he said.
"The deportation means that the treatment will be stopped," Lortkipanidze said.
"France's position is consolidated by the readmission agreement," he said. "Perhaps thousands of people will demand free treatment. Our statement is a warning to the government. We urge it to settle this problem. Let those who started treatment in France complete it there or continue treatment in Georgia, but at the country's expense."
Translated by NH
Edited by SM