Council of the European Union: immediate dispatch from Georgia

EUMM Georgia confirms first checkpoint to be dismantled.

On 5 October, the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM) confirmed the dismantling of the first Russian checkpoint. The checkpoint was located in Ali, north west of Gori in the adjacent area to South Ossetia. The dismantling was observed on location by EUMM monitors.

“I can confirm that our monitors have been able to verify that a first Russian checkpoint, in the village of Ali, has been dismantled this morning”, said Ambassador Haber.

Furthermore, EUMM monitors have been able to register on their patrols since the start of their operational work on 1 October 2008 numerous signs that indicate the preparation of the planned withdrawal of Russian forces at different checkpoints in the adjacent areas both to South Ossetia and Abkahazia.

“Our monitors have seen indications that preparations for withdrawal is ongoing at different observation- and checkpoints. We are confident that the Russian side will respect its commitment to withdraw forces by 10 October”, added Ambassador Haber.

The EU mediated Agreements of 12 August and 8 September 2008 committed the EUMM to deploy by 1 October and for the Russian troops withdrawal from the areas adjacent to South Ossetia and Abkhazia by 10 October 2008.

“We are continuing technical talks with our Russian and Georgian counterparts in order to facilitate an orderly process”, explained Ambassador Haber.

For further informations:

EUMM - European Union Monitoring Mission

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