EU PSC delegation visits occupation line in central Georgia

The delegation of the European Union’s Political and Security Committee, who are on an official visit to Georgia, on Thursday visited the central Georgian village of Khurvaleti to observe the administrative line separating the Russian-occupied Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) region from the rest of the country, the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia said.

The EUMM representatives briefed the ambassadors from the EU member states, based in Brussels, on the current security and humanitarian situation in Georgia’s Russian-occupied region and explained the “negative effect” of ‘borderisation’ - a process in place since 2009 that prevented people from freely crossing ABL - on the conflict-affected populations on both sides.

The newly appointed Head of the EUMM in Georgia, Bettina Patricia Boughani noted that the “important visit” of the PSC delegation highlighted the EU’s “strong commitment” to stability and security in Georgia and emphasised “it is crucial” for the delegation to witness the security situation in Georgia firsthand, “as it provides them with direct insights on the challenges and complexities faced on the ground”.

Together, we strive to ensure there is no return to hostilities and foster confidence-building among the divided communities”, Boughani added

Yesterday, the EU delegation held meetings with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, as well as the parliamentary majority and opposition.