EU on 12th anniversary of Russia-Georgia war: EU’s commitment to peaceful resolution of conflict is as strong as ever

12 years have passed since the Russia-Georgia 2008 war. Photo: Nino Alavidze/Agenda.ge.

Agenda.ge, 07 Aug 2020 - 11:45, Tbilisi,Georgia

The EU delegation to Georgia has responded to the 12th anniversary of the Russia-Georgia war, stating that Russia continues its illegal presence on the Georgian territory and that the EU’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflicts in Georgia ‘remains as strong as ever’.

Unfortunately, tensions have remained high over recent months and the Russian military presence in both Abkhazia and South Ossetia continues in violation of international law and commitments undertaken under the 12 August 2008 agreement,” said the statement released by the EU delegation to Georgia earlier today. 

The statement reads that fundamental human rights of the conflict-affected population continue to be violated, including through restrictions on the freedom of movement by so-called ’borderisation’ policies, temporary closures of controlled crossing points and illegal detentions.

The European Union reconfirms its full commitment to the stabilisation and conflict resolution efforts in Georgia, including through its engagement as co-chair in the Geneva International Discussions, the efforts of the EU Special Representative and the crucial role played on the ground by the EU Monitoring Mission. The EU reiterates its firm support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders,” said the statement. 

Lithuanian FM Linas Linkevicius has also responded to the date and condemned the Russian occupation of Georgian territories.