Government concerned about development in Georgia

“Developments over the last 24 hours give cause for deep concern about the situation in Georgia. The reports we are now receiving about continued violence and hostilities are very disturbing,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre.

“All the parties involved now have a responsibility to show restraint. Reports that Russian forces are advancing steadily on Gori and other towns far into Georgian territory give cause for serious disquiet,” he added. 

“The world community must demand that the parties uphold the ceasefire agreement that was agreed two days ago after mediation by the EU and the OSCE. Constant breaches of the ceasefire are exacerbating the humanitarian situation and making the further political process more difficult.

“Reports and eye-witness accounts from people fleeing the hostilities tell of brutal treatment of civilians. These brutalities must be condemned in the strongest terms, and the situation highlights the need for international observers to be given access to the whole of Georgia, including South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Without an international presence, it is extremely difficult to verify what is really happening in these areas,” Mr Støre continued. 

“Increased use of force compounds the humanitarian situation, and the flows of refugees are now increasing in both directions. We therefore repeat our call to the parties to grant humanitarian organisations access to the area so that the necessary assistance can reach those in need,” Mr Støre underlined.