The EU Co-Chair Toivo Klaar, during a briefing following the meeting in Tskhinval, expressed hope for effective discussion in Geneva and a meaningful discussion of all agenda items.
“It was a productive meeting; we went over all the issues on the agenda for the upcoming round. We welcome the fact that additional border crossing opportunities have been organized for the population during the holidays, especially Easter. We have emphasized how much the security situation in the region has improved with the increase in the number of days of opening the checkpoint, as well as the fact that the number of detentions has been reduced," he said.
The UN Co-Chair Cihan Sultanoglu has emphasized that there is an understanding of the great contribution of the Geneva discussions to maintaining stability and security.
“The fact that everyone continues to come and participate in the discussions is the proof that our work is valued. All participants have radically different positions, and it is very difficult to combine these differing positions. At the same time, the objective work that the format of the Geneva discussions is aimed at is the implementation of the six points that were achieved in August. As co-chairs, we are aimed at achieving this goal,” she has noted.
Answering a question from representatives of the Republic’s media, Cihan Sultanoglu has emphasized that the issue of the missing persons is of greatest concern as a result of any conflict.
The OSCE Co-Chair Viorel Mosanu noted that “the fact that hostilities and security threats have not been resumed for several years is an indicator of the effectiveness of our work.”
“We had a meaningful conversation. Within this format, we must consult with each of the participating parties in order to better prepare for the upcoming round,” he said.
The next round of Geneva discussions is scheduled for June 25-26 and will be held in Geneva.
