Statement by High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini on the announced signature of a “Treaty on Alliance and Integration” between the Russian Federation and Georgia’s breakaway region of South Ossetia
The signature by the Russian Federation of a so-called “Treaty on Alliance and Integration” with Georgia’s breakaway region of South Ossetia announced for 18 March will be yet another step that goes against ongoing efforts to strengthen security and stability in the region.
Furthermore, the signature of this document on the very day of the 31st round of Geneva International Discussions creates circumstances that do not foster a constructive climate for efforts to improve the security and humanitarian situation on the ground.
Like previous agreements signed between the Russian Federation and the two Georgian breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, this “treaty” – which includes references to a transfer of powers in some areas – clearly violates Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, principles of international law and the international commitments taken by the Russian Federation, including the 12 August 2008 Agreement and its Implementing Measures of 8 September 2008 and has no legal standing.
The EU reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders and calls on participants to the Geneva International Discussions to continue addressing any new developments which have implications for the security and stability on the ground.
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