Reconciliation minister on restricted so-called border crossing procedure: the occupation regime works against Ossetians

Georgian Minister for Reconciliation and Civil Equality Ketevan Tsikhelashvili has stated that the occupation regime “creates problems for all” and particularly for Ossetians who “vitally need to come to Georgia for everyday needs.”

Her comment follows the recent decision of the de facto government of Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) region to introduce restrictions for crossing the so-called border with the rest of Georgia.

The decision, which concerns the introduction of special passes for crossing the so-called border particularly affect ethnic Ossetians who live in remote villages and vitally need contact with the rest of Georgia to meet their everyday needs,” Tsikhelashvili said.

She stated that the people already visit Georgian-administered territories via Russia, and that the complication of movement is something that makes them do this.

The recent decision is another message that the occupation regime works against everyone, Ossetians among them. We should oppose such decisions by further enhancing contacts and more development,” Tsikhelashvili stated.

The de facto leadership of the occupied Tskhinvali region of Georgia announced the new restrictions yesterday.

While citizens could earlier cross the so-called border with a passport of de facto South Ossetia as well as with a special pass, now crossing the so-called border will be possible only by using a special pass.