NATO Sec-Gen: Russia’s presence in Georgia’s occupied regions on NATO ministerial agenda

The presence of the Russian occupation forces in the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) was on the agenda of meetings involving NATO ministers of defence with their Georgian and Ukrainian counterparts in Brussels today, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in comments about the ministerial.

• Defence minister Burchuladze, NATO Sec-Gen Stoltenberg discuss alliance's regional involvement, Georgian reforms

The alliance head pointed out the “close partnership” with Georgia and Ukraine, highlighting the “strong political and practical support” of NATO for both countries, and adding “we addressed the continued threat of Russian aggression and the deteriorating security situation in the Black Sea region.”

Stoltenberg underscored “strong support” of the alliance for Georgia and Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, saying “we cannot accept a return to an age of spheres of influence where big powers bully, intimidate or dictate to others.”

There can be no decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine and no decisions about Georgia without Georgia,” Stoltenberg said.

Thursday marked the second day of meetings of NATO ministers of defence in Brussels. Photo: nato.int.

Georgian defence minister Juansher Burchuladze met with Stoltenberg earlier today at the alliance's headquarters to discuss NATO’s “enhanced involvement” in the Black Sea region amid growing security challenges, and reforms being undertaken in Georgia's defence sector. 

During the ministerial, Burchuladze also delivered a speech emphasising the support and solidarity for Ukraine amid the Russian military build-up near its borders for the past several months, highlighting the common security challenges of the two countries. 

The minister also said Georgia was “successfully developing its institutional, training, and logistical capabilities” with the support of NATO and the United States.