The statements by the Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze undermine the long-standing efforts of Russia, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia, the Republic's President has emphasized.
The Georgian authorities are demonstrating a lack of readiness for equal and civilized dialogue, especially given the statements by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. This was stated by the South Ossetian President Alan Gagloev in the interview with TASS.
Kobakhidze has previously stated that Georgia is not prepared to sign the non-use of force agreement with Abkhazia and South Ossetia, since the Republic has already declared that peaceful means is the only way to restore territorial integrity.
"Unfortunately, it's impossible to speak of Tbilisi's readiness to sign a legally binding document on the non-use of force against South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The recent statements by the Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze clearly demonstrate that the Georgian authorities are not committed to establishing the equal and civilized dialogue. Moreover, when the main goal of the Geneva Discussions—namely, the signing the agreement on the non-use of force—is declared 'frivolous,' this effectively negates the long-standing efforts of Russia, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia, and diminishes the significance of the only international forum where diplomatic contacts between our countries take place," Gagloev said.
Gagloev has emphasized that, for 17 years now, South Ossetia, along with Abkhazia and Russia, has consistently advocated for a joint statement on the non-use of force, including within the framework of the Geneva Discussions. According to the President, the signing of such an agreement could serve as a starting point for further reducing tensions and strengthening trust between the countries. "However, the Georgian party continues to evade acknowledging this obvious necessity. Meanwhile, its position enjoys the full support of its Western partners, allowing Tbilisi to block the discussion of the basic document, without which no progress is possible, year after year," Gagloev gas added.
About the Conflict
In August 2008, the Georgian troops attempted to seize control of Tskhinval. On August 8, Russia deployed troops to protect Russian citizens and its peacekeepers in the region, resulting in the Georgian troops retreating. On August 26, 2008, Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
The Geneva Discussions
International discussions on security and stability in Transcaucasia are held in Geneva since 2008, with the participation of Abkhazia, Georgia, Russia, the United States, and South Ossetia, mediated by special representatives from the UN, EU, and OSCE. The work is traditionally conducted in two working groups: one on security and the other on humanitarian issues. The Geneva discussions remain the only platform for dialogue between Sukhum, Tbilisi, and Tskhinval.
The full text will be published on the TASS website at 6:00 AM Moscow time on September 18.
