OSCE Chairman expresses concern about recent developments in the Georgian conflict areas

HELSINKI, 17 April 2008 - The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb, expressed concern today over the decision of the Russian Federation to establish official ties with the de facto authorities of Georgia's breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Minister Stubb reiterated his full support for the existing negotiation mechanisms and regretted that they have not been fully utilized. "I encourage the parties to the Georgian-Ossetian conflict to return to the negotiation table in the format agreed by all parties," he said.

Minister Stubb underscored the OSCE's support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders.

"I urge all parties involved to refrain from any unilateral actions which could further destabilize the already tense situation. I call on the parties to look for ways to build confidence and engage in efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflicts. The OSCE and its Mission to Georgia stand ready to promote the peace process," he said.