Statement of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions

GENEVA, 4 September 2020 - We, the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions (GID), reiterate our call for co-operation and dialogue, especially across conflict lines, during this global pandemic.

The GID format remains a crucial venue to address both security and humanitarian concerns, particularly for conflict-affected populations. We welcome the participants’ regular consultations with us during the pandemic, as well as the resumption of the regular meetings of the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in Ergneti. We encourage the resumption of the Gali IPRM.

However, at the same time, we are concerned that crossing points remain closed. While the pandemic situation requires due caution, some crossing points, such as the one at Odzisi, have been closed for over a year, predating COVID-19. Restrictions on freedom of movement complicate medical treatment, transportation, and communication, as well as access to livelihoods.

We expect all sides to increase their efforts to build trust and confidence and work constructively with the Co-Chairs, as well as with international humanitarian and human rights organizations.

We look forward to making progress on core agenda items during the next GID round on 6-7 October 2020 in Geneva.