As delivered by Acting Political Counselor Jennifer Bosworth
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
June 12, 2014
The United States condemns the illegitimate “parliamentary elections” held in Georgia’s South Ossetia region on June 8 and the plans for a “presidential election” to be held in its Abkhazia region on August 24. Such provocative actions erode trust and confidence. The regions of both Abkhazia and South Ossetia are integral parts of Georgia, and we reiterate our strong support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
The United States calls on the Russian Federation to abide by its commitments under the August 2008 ceasefire agreement and its September 2008 implementing measures, including the withdrawal of forces to positions held prior to the start of hostilities and the facilitation of free and unhindered humanitarian access to the Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions of Georgia.
We remain committed to the achievement of a long-term political solution to the conflict in Georgia, and fully support the Geneva process as a means to achieving concrete progress on issues of mutual concern. We call on the parties to work constructively towards that end.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
