Tbilisi, Georgia, Dec.4
By Nana Kirtzkhalia - Trend:
A treaty signed between Moscow and Sukhumi separatist regime, providing for the establishment of the united forces group, is yet another violation of the territorial integrity of Georgia, NATO Secretary General's Special Representative for the South Caucasus and Central Asia James Appathurai said Dec.4 at a briefing in Tbilisi.
"NATO Secretary General expressed extreme concern over the signing of the so-called treaty between Russia and Abkhazia," he said. "There are grounds for concern in relation to South Ossetia. This so-called agreement is yet another violation of the territorial integrity of Georgia."
On Nov. 24, the Russian President Vladimir Putin and the de-facto president of Abkhazia, Raul Khajimba signed in Sochi an agreement on strategic alliance and strategic partnership. This document provides for the formation of a common space of defense and security through the establishment of the united forces group as well, which will be subject to the joint command.
Large-scale military action was launched between Georgia and Russia in South Ossetia on August 8, 2008.
Later, Russian troops occupied Tskhinvali and expelled the Georgian military.
Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia in late August.
In response, Tbilisi ended diplomatic relations with Moscow and has called the two unrecognized republics of Abkhazia and South Ossetia occupied territories.