Georgian FM: political use of OSCE institutions unacceptable

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili on Tuesday said that Georgia respected the independent institutions of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, emphasising that any attempts by certain actors to exploit these institutions for narrow political interests against the country's sovereignty were unacceptable.

In her remarks at a joint briefing with the OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu, Botchorishvili noted that Georgia had recently become a clear example of attempts at foreign interference in its internal political affairs.

“We often witness efforts to misuse international institutions, which contradicts the very founding principles of the international order that these organisations are meant to uphold. The Georgian Government remains committed to the OSCE and to the principles of international law, and it expects the same from its partners. The Government has repeatedly demonstrated its trust in the OSCE - one clear example being the invitation extended to OSCE/ODIHR to observe last year’s parliamentary elections and the full support provided to the mission. ODIHR’s recommendations are very important to us, and we are ready to continue cooperation to implement them”, the FM said.

She further expressed gratitude for the OSCE Secretary General’s visit, especially amid today’s challenging geopolitical context.

“Thank you once again for coming to Georgia and for your efforts to understand the challenges our country faces in this complex regional environment. I wish you every success in your role as Secretary General of this important organisation, whose mission is to promote security and cooperation in our region”, Botchorishvili concluded.