On the occasion of 8 years since Russian recognition of so called “independence” of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region, international media has released an article by the State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Mrs. Ketevan Tsikhelashvili “Europe must continue to stand with Georgia against Russia’s regional aggression.”
In her article, the State Minister reflects on continued Russian occupation of Georgian territories, noting that the conflict is anything but “frozen”, as it is frequently referred, for thousands of families who suffer from unsettled conflict and continued occupation each day.
Mrs. Tsikhelashvili also makes a reference to ongoing “Russification” in occupied territories, something the residents of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region perceive on a daily basis, whenever the families face a challenge close to diving line.
“Five countries out of six EU’s Eastern Partnership region suffer from so-called “frozen” conflicts, which is a clear illustration of Russian policy across the region. Therefore, the EU’s support for peaceful settlement of conflicts is important not for Georgia alone, but it is the best possible stimulus for long-term peace and security in our region. For Georgia, peace is the only possible conflict resolution policy, as our primary goal is the reunification of our people, rather than the territory single-handedly.
We are ready to share more benefits, to take ever more dynamic steps, to ensure that residents of occupied territories have access to new opportunities and possibilities stemming from Georgia’s democratic development. We see European development as one of the keys; therefore we are committed to show a progress, including visa-free travel, that is essential message Georgia conveys as a sign of its commitment towards European path,” – the article reads.

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