Georgian FM: We know devastating impact of occupation; Georgia attaches particular importance to respect for international law

“The united and resolute position of the international community in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is of particular importance to us. For decades, Georgia itself has experienced the consequences of the erosion of the international order and the disregard for international norms and principles,” said Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Botchorishvili, addressing the 6th Summit of the Crimea International Platform within the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Maka Botchorishvili noted that Georgia attaches particular importance to solidarity, respect for international law, and a steadfast commitment to the principles upon which a peaceful and secure international order must be built.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is an honor for me to be here today to participate in this important meeting and to represent Georgia. For Georgia, the issue of Crimea, Ukraine, is not simply one item on the international agenda. We know all too well what it means when state sovereignty and territorial integrity are violated. That is precisely why the united and resolute position of the international community in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is of particular importance to us.

For decades, Georgia itself has experienced the consequences of the erosion of the international order and the disregard for international norms and principles. Russia’s occupation of two regions of Georgia continues to this day and remains one of the most serious security challenges for our country.

We know how devastating the impact of occupation can be for individuals, families, and society as a whole. Because of this experience, Georgia attaches particular importance to solidarity, respect for international law, and a steadfast commitment to the principles upon which a peaceful and secure international order must be built.

The International Crimea Platform is an important forum for sustaining international attention on Ukraine, and more importantly, for translating our shared commitments into concrete actions. Georgia is committed to peace and conflict resolution, and we appreciate the steadfast international support for these efforts.

We welcome all genuine efforts aimed at ending the war and achieving a lasting peace, a peace grounded in the principles of the UN Charter and international law. Georgia stands firmly with the Ukrainian people and reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders,” she said.