CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY
Norway remains deeply concerned about the continued occupation of Georgian territory. We condemn the illegal borderisation taking place along the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) of occupied South Ossetia.
We remain particularly concerned about developments in the area Chorchana-Tsnelisi. Last week’s erection of signs near the village of Takhtisdziri is one more worrying example of borderisation that increases the hardship and suffering of the local population. It is especially distressing during a time of a pandemic, when we need to see increased collaboration rather than division.
Continuing and incremental borderisation leads to even more severe limitations on the freedom of movement of the population living around the ABLs, and has a detrimental effect on other human rights, such as the right to health, education and livelihood.
Furthermore, these negative effects are exacerbated by long closures of crossing points on the ABLs, which recently has resulted in death and worsening health conditions for several individuals. Borderisation and the closing of crossing points must cease, and already closed crossing points must reopen.
We urge the parties to heed the call of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions. We commend the work of the EU Monitoring Mission in monitoring the ABLs.
Norway reaffirms its unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Georgia within is internationally recognised borders.