Norway regrets Russian recognition of breakaway regions

“Norway regrets Russia’s decision to recognise the Georgian breakaway regions of  Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

“Norway stresses the importance of using peaceful means to resolve conflicts in Europe, in accordance with the principle of territorial integrity set out in the UN Charter. Russia’s decision to recognise the independence of the Georgian breakaway regions violates these principles. It is not conducive to a long-term, peaceful solution to the conflict, and undermines the basis of the ceasefire agreement that has been concluded,” he said.

“In Norway’s view, such recognition has no acceptable basis in international law. Norway continues to support Georgia’s territorial integrity,” said the Foreign Minister.

Norway is supporting the efforts being made, for example by the OSCE and the EU, to find a permanent solution within Georgia’s existing borders.

“I am concerned about the regional and international consequences the Russian decision may have. It is important to prevent further escalation of the conflict level and facilitate the resumption of constructive political cooperation,” said Mr Støre.