22:00, 30 June 2009

Base of OSCE's observation mission in Georgia closed

The main base of the mission of OSCE observers in Georgia, located in Karaleti village, Karel District, has ceased to exist today.

In the morning, Georgian TV Channels showed cars taking the OSCE property out of the base. Local residents were not happy with the closing, saying that the stay of international observers was some guarantee of their safety.

Terri Hakkala, head of the OSCE observation mission in Georgia, has noted that she regrets the termination of the mission, as reported by the "Interfax". Ms Hakkala has also stated that withdrawal of the mission from the conflict zone can cause a new conflict, as reported by the "Imedi" TV Company.

On May 13, Russia blocked the prolongation of the work of the OSCE mission in Georgia. "The stay of the OSCE mission in Georgia was blocked only by Russia. This is the country, which supports separatist regimes and recognizes their independence," said Terri Hakkala.