The State Minister of Georgia for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Mrs. Ketevan Tsikhelashvili commented on the closure of the Orsantia - Otobaia and Khurcha - Nabakevi crossing points

"The closure of the Orsantia - Otobaia and Khurcha - Nabakevi crossing points by the de facto Abkhazian regime on the dividing line is absolutely unacceptable, its violates and further restricts and aggravates the freedom of movement, as well as the already complicated - from the humanitarian point of view – situation. Besides, such decision creates problems and difficulties not only for the population of the Gali district, but for the whole region.

“Around 1000 people use the crossing points every day. These points are used by peaceful populations for domestic reasons. This closure also violates the fundamental rights children, who are crossing the dividing line in order to attend school classes. This restriction effectively deprives their right to participate in the educational process. The de-facto regime’s argument that the crossing points were closed for 'enhanced security measures' is groundless. These points are used by peaceful populations for domestic reasons. The Government of Georgia has clearly declared the commitment to peaceful politics and peaceful approaches. The international community has already made clear assessments of this step, aimed at gross violation of one of the human rights - the right to freedom of movement. We call on all parties involved in the decision to realize the gravity of the action – first of all, to the local population - and take steps toward the simplifying movement in the affected region», - said the State Minister.