After 10 years since the August War of 2008, further deteriorating security and human rights conditions of conflict-affected people, the Russian Federation still continues this approach, – Prime minister of Georgia Mamuka Bakhtadze made this statement in Brussels, where he met the President of the European Council Donald Tusk.

“I should particularly underscore EU’s special role in promoting peace and stability in Georgia through maintaining its Monitoring Mission, through mediation within the Geneva international discussions, as well as implementing active non-recognition and engagement policy. Let me express our deep gratitude for extending the EU Monitoring Mission’s mandate. Regretfully, after 10 years since the August War of 2008, further deteriorating security and human rights conditions of conflict-affected people, the Russian Federation still continues this approach. Against this backdrop, EU’s and our international partners’ firm stance regarding unlawful policy of Russia and their effective engagement has strong bearing on ensuring territorial integrity of Georgia within the internationally recognised borders. On our part, while being firmly committed to the peace policy, the Government of Georgia is making concrete efforts towards reconciliation and confidence building, which are spelt out in our new peace initiative “A Step to a Better Future”, – Mamuka Bakhtadze said.

Mamuka Bakhtadze and Donald Tusk made joint statements after the meeting. The Prime Minister of Georgia visited the Kingdom of Belgium yesterday.