Russian MFA Speaks of Moscow’s Success in Defusing Georgian-Ossetian Tensions

The Russian Foreign Ministry included Moscow?s efforts in helping to avoid a confrontation between the Georgian and South Ossetian sides as one its achievements in 2004.

On December 28 the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a summary of the Ministry?s achievements in 2004 saying that ?as a result of Russia?s active mediation, Georgia and South Ossetia were able to avoid an escalation of the conflict? in August, when armed clashes occurred between the Georgian and South Ossetian forces.

The Foreign Ministry also issued a summary of those priorities which are expected to top Russia?s foreign policy in 2005, saying that Moscow ?will contribute an effort directed towards the settlement of conflicts in the post-Soviet space.?