UN Security Council reiterates “strong commitment” to Georgia's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity

Members of the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday reiterated their “strong” commitment to Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.

The statement noted that Russia’s invasion of Georgia in August 2008 had marked a “more aggressive trend” in Russian policy regarding its neighbouring countries and the European security architecture.

Council members deplored the “continued violation” of Georgia’s territorial integrity by Russia and condemned Russia’s brutal invasion, continued illegal military presence and exercising of effective control of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) regions.

The Security Council members further expressed their “concern” over the erection of artificial barriers dividing Georgian regions and condemned the killings of Georgian citizens by occupying forces.

Malta's Deputy Permanent Representative Francesca Gatt made the statement over the matter on behalf of the Security Council members France, Japan, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Malta, as well as future Council members Greece and Denmark.