UNITED STATES AND CAUCASUS ASSOCIATION

For Democracy and Peace

419 South St. Suite #100 Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Tel: 808.391.3056 - Fax: 808.383.9983 - Email: infousca@gmail.com

For Immediate Release Office of the Chairman

July 10, 2019

After 2012 Parliamentary election, USCA closely monitors new stage of Russia-Georgia
relations. Georgian government openly promotes a cultural relation with Russia in hopes that it
will change Russia’s approach over the 20% of the Georgian territory it currently occupies.
Russia remains adamant and continues to use its political influence to limit Georgia’s response
over its continuous border demarcation - “creeping occupation”. Doing so, turning more of
Georgian territory under Russian military control.
While USCA underlines the importance of cultural relations in normalizing relations between
two countries it advises Georgian government to remain vigilant and not fall prey to a growing
political influence of Russia throughout Orthodox community.
USCA believes normalization of relations between two countries must be based on mutual
respect, international law and shared commitments. USCA recognizes Georgian government
efforts towards normalization of relations with Russia by committing itself to a non-use-of-
force, very same commitment Russia failed to implement. In fact, Russia continues moving
boundary fences of occupied territories of Samachablo, leaving Georgian side with limited
resources to respond without aggravating the situation.
USCA reaffirms its support in the peaceful resolution of Russia-Georgia conflict. USCA urges
Russia to halt its “creeping occupation” of Georgian territories and calls upon international
community to exert stronger diplomacy on Russia to fulfill assumed and assigned international
obligations. USCA stands with Georgian people in their commitment to build a strong
democratic society in which human rights are respected, rule of law observed and government
remains accountable to the people.
Sincerely,

Shota Mkheidze
Chairman of the Board
United States & Caucasus Association