Putin Calls on OSCE to Pressure on Georgia

The Russian President called on the OSCE to convince Georgian authorities to give up plans to try to solve the Abkhaz and South Ossetian conflicts through the use of force.

In a letter sent to the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Belgian Foreign Minister Karel De Gucht, on October 6, Putin wrote that he ?appreciates? the OSCE?s offer to mediate between Russia and Georgia to help defuse current tensions between the two countries.

?But I also think that in the current situation the OSCE?s efforts should be focused on stimulating radical changes in the policies of Georgia?s current leadership, which are directed towards the escalation of tensions and towards the preparation of a military scenario for the ‘solution’ of the Georgian-Abkhaz and Georgian-Ossetian conflicts,? Putin said in the letter.

?We believe that the irresponsibility of the Georgian authorities should no longer be ignored by the international community. I hope that the OSCE Chairman-in-Office will adhere to a principled position,? he added.

?I am confident that this kind of line of the OSCE leadership will foster the strengthening of the Organization?s status and will increase its necessity in respect to international security,? the Russian leader says.

In the letter Putin thanked Karel De Gucht for mediating the release of four Russian military officers arrested by Georgia for alleged espionage.

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