South Ossetian-Russian relations have a very rich history and deep roots, the two nations are united by spiritual and cultural closeness, the South Ossetian Foreign Ministry stated, referring to the current stage of relations between the two countries.
“Alliance with Russia is the historical choice of the Ossetian people. The year 2023 is marked by a number of significant events in the recent history of South Ossetia - this is the 15th anniversary of the recognition of our Republic by the Russian Federation and the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, as well as the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations,” the Foreign Ministry said.
It was noted that one of the fundamental documents regulating the friendly relations between the two states was the Treaty of Alliance and Integration between South Ossetia and the Russian Federation signed on March 18, 2015 in Moscow at the highest level, which determined the format of relations between South Ossetia and the Russian Federation in the long term.
“The document was signed by the leaders of the two countries - President Leonid Tibilov and President Vladimir Putin. At the same time, it should be noted that in the light of modern challenges and threats, the rapidly changing situation in the field of international security, the Treaty becomes especially relevant. This document is of strategic importance for bilateral relations. The status of the ally of the Russian Federation secured by it, in conjunction with the formation of a common defense space, the interaction of law enforcement agencies, the coordination of foreign policy, the promotion of the development of socio-economic and other spheres, provides the Republic with the maximum possible guarantees of state sovereignty and security, strengthening international positions, promoting recognition of the independence of the Republic and prospects for sustainable socio-economic development,” the Foreign Ministry stressed.
The Foreign Ministry has noted that the agreement provides for the conclusion of additional agreements that develop the legal framework for interstate cooperation and interaction in various fields.
“The development of these documents is carried out in close cooperation between the relevant departments of the two countries, in accordance with the established norms and rules of interstate cooperation. Almost the entire range of tasks for the security and socio-economic development of our country is reflected in this strategic document. The procedure for interaction in the field of social protection of the population has been fixed, including measures to increase pensions, wages for employees of budgetary institutions of South Ossetia, the creation of a system of compulsory insurance in the Republic, and issues of simplified acquisition of Russian citizenship by residents of South Ossetia are being worked out,” the Ministry said.
The Foreign Ministry has added that, in general, relations between South Ossetia and the Russian Federation are dynamically developing and filled with real content.
As noted by the Foreign Ministry, the Russian Federation has been and remains a reliable ally of South Ossetia, a guarantor of peace and security in the region.
