OSCE/FSC: RESPONSE TO GEORGIA'S REFUSAL OF

UNCLAS STATE 007188 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OSCE PARM PREL NATO SUBJECT: OSCE/FSC: RESPONSE TO GEORGIA'S REFUSAL OF RUSSIAN INSPECTIONS; U.S. STATEMENT FOR JANUARY 28 PLENARY REF: A. STATE 005379 ¶B. STATE 005614 ¶1. (U) This is an action message. ¶2. (U) USdel is asked to deliver the following statement during the January 28 FSC plenary in response to Georgia's refusals, based on "force majeure," on January 21 of a request for a Russian evaluation and on January 22 of a request for a Russian inspection in accordance with Vienna Document 1999 (see refs A and B). -------------- Begin Text -------------- Thank you, Mr. Chairperson, Having listened carefully to the Russian and Georgian interventions, we thank them and will send both statements to our capital where they will be studied with interest. As the members of the Forum have heard us say before, the United States supports the fulfillment of international commitments, and this includes the CFE Treaty and Vienna Document 1999, which are designed to build transparency and confidence regarding the disposition of the military forces of participating States. With regard to the events of last week, we note that the Vienna Document does allow a participating State to refuse a request for inspection or evaluation based on "force majeure." It requires an explanation of the reasons for declaring "force majeure." We understand the concerns of Georgia, given recent events. At the same time, the United States supports the view that greater transparency and dialogue are needed to build confidence among those involved in the conflicts in Georgia. Vienna Document inspections and evaluations are important tools for increasing transparency. We encourage Russia and Georgia to support the forward-looking efforts by the OSCE and other international bodies to restore peace and good order to the region damaged by the conflict in Georgia. We urge full implementation of the August 12 and September 8 ceasefire package, and the renewal of robust OSCE monitoring throughout the conflict area in order to reduce tensions and investigate reported security incidents. Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. -------------- End Text -------------- CLINTON