The article reports on the 63rd round of Geneva International Discussions (GID) on security and stability in the South Caucasus. The discussion was held between representatives of Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia, with Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) participating as a neutral facilitator.
Key points from the article:
1. **Violent scenarios**: The Russian MFA statement mentioned the Georgian opposition’s consideration of violent scenarios to regain control over “breakaway” territories, which is seen as a concern by Russia.
2. **NATO involvement**: Georgia’s special role in NATO’s plans for the South Caucasus was highlighted by Russia, emphasizing its close interaction with the Alliance and participation in joint military exercises.
3. **Delimitation and demarcation**: The Russian MFA called for the commencement of delimitation and demarcation between Tbilisi and the occupied territories, which has been a recurring theme in previous GID rounds.
4. **Criticism of Georgia’s UN resolution**: Russia criticized Georgia’s annual UN General Assembly resolution on IDPs as “highly politicized,” leading to Abkhazian and Ossetian participants walking out from Working Group II.
5. **Move the discussions**: The Russian side reiterated its call to move the GID from Geneva to another location, citing Bern’s (Switzerland) alleged loss of neutrality due to joining EU sanctions against Russia.
6. **Re-establishment of IPRM in Gali**: Abkhaz sources reported that re-establishing the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in Gali was a central topic, with all participants reaffirming their commitment to its resumption.
7. **Security situation**: The discussions acknowledged a “relatively stable” security situation on the ground.
The article also highlights specific concerns raised by Abkhazia and South Ossetia:
* **Abkhazia**:
+ Insisted on signing a legally binding document on non-use of force between Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia.
+ Raised concerns about freedom of movement, including recognition of Abkhaz national passports and lifting travel restrictions.
+ Proposed forming a working group to explore the issue further.
* **South Ossetia**:
+ Claimed that Georgia continues to provoke instability and violate state border regime.
+ Alleged violations of rights of Ossetians from the Kazbegi district, preventing them from accessing their homes and lands.
+ Urged intensified work to clarify the fate of missing persons, claiming it was “sabotaged” by Georgia.
+ Drawn attention to discriminatory visa practices towards residents of South Ossetia.
The next round of GID is scheduled for June 2025.
