IPU CALLS FOR FULL RESPECT OF AGREEMENT ACCEPTED BY GEORGIA AND RUSSIAN FEDERATION

The Inter-Parliamentary Union calls for a complete end to the hostilities in the conflict between the Russian Federation and Georgia and the immediate return to negotiations. "The IPU is extremely concerned at the situation in the region. It condemns the violence and the death of civilians", said the IPU President, Mr. Pier Ferdinando Casini.

He welcomed the acceptance by Georgia and the Russian Federation of the peace plan proposed by the President of the European Union, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, and urges both Georgia and the Russian Federation to fully implement it. The IPU President welcomes all efforts for a lasting and peaceful solution in the region. He added that the resolution of the conflict in Georgia requires a comprehensive approach and a solution based on the respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia.

The IPU President also insists that the humanitarian organizations should have access to all the regions affected by the hostilities in order to provide assistance to the populations.