Security Council extends UN peacekeeping operation in Georgia through January 2003

The Security Council today extended the mandate of the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia (UNOMIG) through January 2003, while calling for specific actions by both sides to improve current conditions and achieve a lasting political settlement.

In a unanimously adopted resolution, the Council also voiced regret at the lack of progress in negotiations between the Abkhaz authorities and the Georgian Government on key documents, notably one concerning a distribution of competences between Tbilisi and Sukhumi. The Council particularly expressed “deep regret” at the Abkhaz side’s repeated refusal to agree to a discussion on the substance of that text, and strongly urged constructive negotiations on the issue.

Both parties were called on to “spare no efforts to overcome their ongoing mutual mistrust,” under other provisions of the resolution.

Stressing the urgent need for progress on the question of refugees and internally displaced persons, the Council also called on both sides to display “a genuine commitment to make returns the focus of special attention.” In addition, it reaffirmed the unacceptability of demographic changes resulting from the conflict.

Calling on both parties to publicly dissociate themselves from militant rhetoric, the Council reminded the Georgian side in particular “to uphold its commitment to put an end to the activities of illegal armed groups.” The Georgian side was also called on to continue to improve security for joint patrols carried out by UNOMIG and the Commonwealth of Independent States peacekeeping force in the Kodori Valley. Both sides were called on to “spare no effort” to reach a mutually acceptable arrangement for the population in the vicinity.