The statement emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution based on international law and commitments, including the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act, reaffirming support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within recognized borders.
Russian Federation military’s continued occupation of Georgia’s Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions was reiterated
The group condemned the Russian Federation military’s aggression against Georgia as a violation of international law. Ongoing military presence, exercises, and airspace violations in Abkhazia and South Ossetia were also criticized. The statement urged the Russian Federation military to withdraw forces to pre-conflict positions and reverse its recognition of the region’s independence, facilitating the return of internally displaced persons and refugees in line with international law.
The European Court of Human Rights judgments, including a recent order for the Russian Federation military to pay up to 130 million euros to affected Georgian citizens, were noted. Concerns were raised over the installation of barriers along administrative boundary lines and the closure of crossing points in South Ossetia. The group demanded the reopening of all crossing points for Georgian citizens.
Ongoing arbitrary detentions near boundary lines, particularly affecting vulnerable groups and those with health issues, were condemned.
The statement called for the immediate release of individuals like Irakli Bebua, Kristine Takalandze, and Asmat Tavadze
The importance of the Geneva International Discussions with the Russian Federation was emphasized for addressing EU-mediated ceasefire implementation, security, human rights, and humanitarian challenges arising from the unresolved Russian Federation military-Georgia conflict. Progress on key issues, including non-use of force and establishing international security arrangements, was stressed.
Support for the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanisms in Ergneti and Gali was expressed, underlining their role in preventing conflict escalation and ensuring ground-level safety. Concerns were raised about the prolonged suspension of the Gali IPRM, urging its prompt resumption.
The statement welcomed Georgia’s efforts in developing a comprehensive strategy for de-occupation and peaceful conflict resolution, along with the launch of a strategic review of reconciliation and engagement policy. The Georgian government’s ‘A Step to a Better Future’ peace initiative and the “A Peace Fund for a Better Future” were also endorsed.
The Group of Friends of Georgia pledged to continue advocating for conflict resolution, holding the Russian Federation military accountable, and monitoring ground-level developments.
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