2018-05-03
"We welcome yesterday's decision by the Council of Europe on the issue of "the conflict in Georgia" as a confirmation of our correct foreign and domestic policy.
The occupation of Georgia's regions and the human rights situation therein has been actively discussed since 2014 by the Council of Europe and within other relevant international formats, which is vitally important for consolidating support from the international community.
The decisions adopted by the Council of Europe every year since 2014 represent a clear international legal assessment of the legal responsibility of Russia as a party to the conflict, and of the state of affairs in the occupied territories.
The member states of the Council of Europe confirm that none of Russia's illegal acts, which seek to change the status of Georgia's regions, is legally applicable and has no legal consequences.
In addition, they express concern about the killings of Archil Tatunashvili and Giga Otkhozia, also about kidnappings and other instances of detention.
The Council of Europe also welcomes and openly endorses the package of peacemaking initiatives proposed by the Government of Georgia.
The decision explicitly emphasizes that this initiative by the Government of Georgia is a clear example of peacemaking policy and of unwavering determination to build confidence among the populations separated by war.
The recognition of our peacemaking initiative by the Council of Europe, and other partners of Georgia, is of crucial importance for its further effective implementation.
Prime Minister's Press Office