OSCE decides to set up training scheme for Georgian border guards

VIENNA, 14 April 2005 - At a meeting today, the Permanent Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe unanimously approved a decision to establish a 2.6 million euros training assistance programme for the Georgian Border Guards (GBG) service.

The Training Assistance Programme, which will go into effect as early as next Monday, will help to strengthen the border-management capacities and capabilities of the GBG. It is designed to achieve a quick impact by targeting some 800 mid-ranking officers and non-commissioned officers within the GBG and its Aviation Unit.

Elements of the package include training in rescue operation in mountainous areas; patrolling techniques (day and night-time patrolling); observation methods; advance communications; and tuition in the legal aspects of border policing.

For training purposes, the programme will also make use of some of the observation equipment belonging to the former Border Monitoring Operation of the OSCE Mission to Georgia.

Commenting on the decision, the Chairman of the Permanent Council, Ambassador Janez Lenarcic, said: "We are happy to be able to meet this request, which came from the Government of Georgia, and provide an OSCE programme team of about 50 staff, comprising 30 international experts, supported by 20 local staff.

"The Training Assistance Programme will not involve the conduct of monitoring activities", he added.

Pending the adoption of the 2005 Unified Budget, funding for the Training Assistance Programme is being provided on a provisional basis, in line with the OSCE's Financial Regulations.

Implementation is due to start on 18 April and last until 31 December 2005.