In relation to the second anniversary of the Russian Federation's recognition of the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia
On 26 August 2010, celebrations devoted to the second anniversary of the Russian Federation's recognition of the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia are taking place in South Ossetia. For the Republic of South Ossetia the day of 26 August 2008 has certainly become extremely important. 20 years of struggle for independence and freedom preceded this remarkable date and turning-point. During the Barbarian attack of Georgia against peaceful Tskhinval on 7-8 August 2008 leading to casualties among innocent people, the actions of Russia in forcing the aggressor to peace helped preventing further bloodshed and contributed to normalization of the situation. The decision of the Russian leadership to recognize the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia was the only right one, which established the security of the people of South Ossetia. Russian-South Ossetian relations have a long and rich history. Our peoples are united with spiritual and cultural closeness, with feelings of mutual understanding and striving for close relations and cooperation. This deep-rooted mutual sympathy remained unchanged in all times and throughout any historical changes.
Last two years, a significant work has been done to establish full-fledge inter-state relations between the Republic of South Ossetia and the Russian Federation. On 17 September 2008, the two states' leaders signed the Agreement on friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance, which set the grounds for further development of bilateral legal and treaty basis. Presently, over 30 interstate, intergovernmental and inter-agency agreements in various spheres have been already signed. The Russian military contingent in South Ossetia made a significant contribution to stability and security. The contingent is fulfilling its mission based on the corresponding bilateral agreement and are the guarantors of peace.
South Ossetia, following the policy of peace and good neighborhood, is ready to build up and develop relations with all states on the basis of principles of international law and mutual respect. Further strengthening of the statehood, improvement of democratic institutions, revival of social and economic infrastructure are the main priority helping people return to normal life. In the meantime unfortunately, statements about “total defense” are more often heard from official Tbilisi; threats towards South Ossetia and groundless attempts to give a perverted perception about the events in South Ossetia with the reality completely distorted. By perverting things, Georgian representatives are trying to shits their own faults onto the authorities of South Ossetia and Russia, and by doing so, they unwind the cycle of tensions in the region. The Russian Federation’s recognition of the state independence of the Republic of South Ossetia had initiated the process of international recognition of South Ossetia. We are grateful to all states that recognized the independence of South Ossetia after Russia, for their resolute decisions, and we believe that the process of recognition will foster peace and security in the region.
South Ossetia expresses its strong belief that the celebration of the second anniversary of the important historical event – the recognition of the Republic of South Ossetia by the Russian Federation will promote further development of close relations between the two states and peoples, it will give new impetus to their bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation.
Tskhinval
25 August 2010
