**Georgia Remembers 2008 Russian Invasion, Calls for Reversal of Occupation**
Seventeen years have passed since Russia’s military aggression against Georgia in August 2008. The Georgian Foreign Ministry has marked the anniversary by calling on Moscow to respect Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Foreign Ministry released a statement on August 8, noting that Russia continues to refuse to implement the EU-mediated ceasefire agreement of 12 August 2008. It also condemned Moscow for taking steps aimed at integrating Georgia’s regions into Russia’s systems, in violation of international norms.
**Occupation and International Norms**
Russia has refused to withdraw its occupation forces from Georgian territory since 2008. The Foreign Ministry stated that this is a clear violation of international law, as confirmed by multiple decisions of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).
Furthermore, Moscow has been accused of impeding the access of international organizations to the occupied territories, obstructing international security mechanisms, and preventing the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons and refugees.
**Georgia’s Commitment to Peaceful Resolution**
The Georgian government has reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. It emphasized that it will continue to use diplomatic and legal means in cooperation with international partners to achieve de-occupation and peaceful reunification.
In this regard, Georgia has stressed the importance of constructive engagement in the Geneva International Discussions (GID), which is an international platform launched after the 2008 war. The government also highlighted the need for the unconditional resumption of the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in Gali and continued functioning of the IPRM in both Gali and Ergneti.
**Gratitude to International Community**
The Foreign Ministry expressed gratitude for the international community’s steadfast support for Georgia. It called on Russia to revoke its decision recognizing the independence of occupied regions, respect Georgia’s sovereignty, fulfill ceasefire obligations, withdraw forces from Georgian territory, and allow displaced persons and refugees to return home safely.
In conclusion, the Foreign Ministry paid tribute to soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in the 2008 war.
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**Commentary**
The anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Georgia is a stark reminder of Moscow’s continued disregard for international law and norms. Despite multiple international court decisions condemning Russian actions, the country has refused to reverse its occupation of Georgian territory.
Georgian officials have consistently called on Russia to respect Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but their demands have been ignored. The situation remains tense, with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the conflict peacefully.
As a member of the international community, it is crucial that we continue to support Georgia’s efforts towards peaceful reunification.
