Press Communiqué of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions

GENEVA, Switzerland, 1 July 2015 - The thirty-second round of the Geneva International Discussions has just ended. The Co-Chairs were encouraged to see a debate which was frank and open despite existing divergent views.

In Working Group I dealing with security issues, the participants assessed the overall security situation on the ground as stable and calm. The participants exchanged views on the non-use of force, international security arrangements, as well as freedom of movement and travel abroad. They continued to work on a draft joint statement by all participants on non-use of force. The participants welcomed the continued good cooperation within the Ergneti Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM). Divergences remained on means to resume the work of the Gali IPRM, but the participants were encouraged to continue their consultations on the matter.

In Working Group II, the participants reviewed diverse aspects of the humanitarian situation. Among others, they touched upon issues relating to language of instruction in Gali schools, freedom of movement and mobility, missing persons, environmental and cultural heritage. While issues relating to IDPs and refugees were raised, it is regrettable that a comprehensive dialogue on this topic could not take place.

The Co-Chairs welcomed the constructive atmosphere that prevailed. They made a strong appeal to participants to be ready to engage constructively on all agenda items in future rounds.

The participants agreed to hold their next round on 6-7 October 2015.