On June 2, the Georgian Foreign Ministry (MFA) convened a preparatory meeting for the upcoming 64th round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID), bringing together co-chairs from the European Union, United Nations, and OSCE to coordinate efforts and outline priorities. The session was led by Deputy Foreign Minister Lasha Darsalia, who heads Georgia’s delegation to these meetings.

Emphasizing the crucial role of the Geneva platform, the meeting underscored the importance of its effective functioning, with the next session scheduled for June 25-26.

The central topics of the discussions focused on urging Russia to fulfil its international obligations under the August 12, 2008 ceasefire agreement brokered by the EU, and on advancing progress toward the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons and refugees.

The participants also stressed the unconditional restoration of the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in Gali, advocating for regular meetings in Gali and Ergneti in line with established principles.

During the meeting, the Georgian side highlighted the deteriorating security, humanitarian, and human rights situation on the ground, condemning Russia and its occupying regimes for destructive and illegal actions.

Concerns were voiced regarding Russia’s streamlined citizenship procedures for residents of Georgia’s occupied territories of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, as well as the illegal operation of an airport in occupied Abkhazia and the initiation of regular flights that violate international law. Additionally, issues were raised over the resumption of railway traffic and the launch of direct electric train routes, further challenging regional stability and legal norms.