OSCE Special Envoy assesses conflict resolution process during visit to Georgia

TBILISI, 26 July 2007 - The OSCE wishes to see full implementation of commitments to a peaceful resolution of the Georgian-Ossetian conflict, and welcomes recent Georgian initiatives to involve all parties in the process, the Special Envoy of OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Jose Borrell Fontelles, said today.

Special Envoy Borrell, speaking during his first visit to Georgia, also said that, at the same time, he welcomed Georgia's readiness to participate in the effective functioning of existing negotiation mechanisms.

"We are encouraged by the re-affirmations of commitment to peaceful resolution and dialogue between the Sides. However implementation of joint decisions on demilitarization of the zone of conflict, and joint policing, is yet to be achieved," said the Special Envoy.

"Dialogue is essential given the current tense atmosphere in the zone of conflict."

During the three-day visit, the Special Envoy met the Chairperson of the Parliament Nino Burjanadze, Prime Minister Zurab Nogaideli, Foreign Minister Gela Bezhuashvili, and State Minister on Conflict Resolution Issues Davit Bakradze.

During his meeting with Minister Bakradze, prospects for future progress for peaceful resolution, and the importance of economic rehabilitation of the zone of the Georgian-Ossetian conflict were discussed. The State Minister also briefed the Special Envoy on the establishment of a new commission, which will work to reach agreement on a resolution of the conflict within the territory of Georgia. The meeting was also attended by Dmitry Sanakoev, the Head of the Temporary Administrative Territorial Unit.

The same themes were discussed at the subsequent meetings with Georgian interlocutors where the Special Envoy further stressed the need for full inclusiveness of all interested actors, and a considered pace of work.

He also visited Tskhinvali, where he met with Eduard Kokoity and the Commander of the Joint Peacekeeping Forces.

During discussions with Eduard Kokoity, he emphasized the need for genuine dialogue and a solely peaceful approach to the resolution of the process.