TBILISI, DFWatch – Philip Dimitrov, Head of Delegation of the European Union to Georgia, expressed concern about a recent visit by Russia’s Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev to Tskhinvali.

Medvedev visited Tskhinvali on August 8, on the fourth anniversary of the Russia-Georgia war.

Dimitrov released a statement on Saturday, which he says was agreed with the chairs of the EU mission to Georgia.

The text of Dimitrov’s statement reads:

 

Tbilisi, 11 August, 2012

 

The Head of Delegation of the European Union to Georgia Ambassador Philip Dimitrov in agreement with the EU Heads of Mission issues the following statement:

 

The Delegation of the European Union to Georgia notes with concern that Prime Minister Medvedev of the Russian Federation has recently paid a visit to the Georgian region of South Ossetia.

The Delegation recalls that the EU does not consider these visits compatible with the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. The Delegation reiterates EU’s firm support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The Delegation also underlines the importance attached by the EU to a peaceful conflict resolution in the region and calls for strong commitment by all concerned parties in this regard.