Georgian opposition doesn't want joint declaration on non-use of force to be signed at Geneva discussions
TBILISI. March 21 (Interfax) - Representatives of the Georgian parliamentary opposition insist that the Foreign Ministry give explanations in relation to the announcement of the possible adoption of a joint declaration on the non-use of force at a regular round of the Geneva International Discussions on security in the South Caucasus.
Georgian Deputy Foreign Minister David Dondua did not rule out on Tuesday the adoption of such a document by all parties to the Geneva International Discussions.
The signing of such a declaration would mean Georgia's recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as subjects of international law, not parties to a conflict, a leading member of the opposition United National Movement and former Foreign Minister Grigol Vashadze said at a Wednesday briefing.
"With this declaration, the Georgian delegation to the Geneva discussions is giving Russia a chance to claim that it should not make unilateral commitments not to use force against Georgia, as it is not a side to the conflict. Consequently, the entire format of the Geneva discussions will change," Vashadze said.
Meanwhile, the leader of the parliamentary majority, Archil Talakvadze, called the opposition's statements incompetent and populist.
"No document will be approved that would weaken Georgia's positions at the Geneva International Discussions. The Georgian delegation will continue insisting on the de-occupation of Georgian territories by Russia, the development of international security mechanisms in occupied territories, and Russia's commitment not to use force against Georgia," Talakvadze said in parliament on Wednesday.