CONCERNED AT RISING TENSIONS, SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES RESTRAINT IN SITUATION BETWEEN GEORGIA AND ABKHAZIA (REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA)

Press Release
SG/SM/6846

CONCERNED AT RISING TENSIONS, SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES RESTRAINT IN SITUATION BETWEEN GEORGIA AND ABKHAZIA (REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA)

This is the text of a statement issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

We are concerned about the alarming news of sharply rising tensions between Georgia and Abkhazia (Republic of Georgia). Both sides are reportedly mobilizing troops and using tough rhetoric. These developments are particularly regrettable in view of the United Nations efforts to promote political dialogue and reconciliation. The escalation of tensions negatively affects the ongoing sixth session of the Coordinating Council, conducted in Geneva by Liviu Bota, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Georgia.

The Secretary-General appeals to both sides to exercise restraint and to avoid any action which could lead to violence and undermine the peace-making efforts of the United Nations and the international community.

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