Mr President,
The lack of progress towards a peaceful solution of the conflict in Abkhazia, Georgia is utterly disappointing. The reports of continued violence against civilians and peacekeepers in that region cannot but cause us deep concern. Sweden deplores the renewed hostilities that took place in May, with a major loss of lives and a further aggravation of an already precarious humanitarian situation.
Despite the cease fire of 25 May, the situation on the ground regrettably remains very tense. Sweden is particularly concerned about the plight of refugees and displaced persons. Both parties must fulfil their obligations to see to it that these people can return to their homes under secure conditions.
A growing number of other civilians depend on outside assistance for their subsistence. It is unacceptable that acts such as renewed minelaying hamper the work of those who provide assistance, and claim victims, including among UN and CIS peacekeepers.
UNOMIG continues to be an important stabilizing factor. As a troop contributor to UNOMIG, Sweden is well aware of the crucial role played by the mission, but also of a security situation which severely restricts its ability to do its job. Sweden supports today's Security Council decision to extend UNOMIG's mandate. We have also emphasized that the proposal for a self-protection unit to facilitate the work of the military observers needs to be kept in mind.
The resolution which we are about to adopt sends a clear message to the parties. We expect them to create the conditions in which UNOMIG can carry out its mandate, and we will bear this in mind, as we review the situation. Beyond that, we expect the parties to show the political will to move the process of negotiations forward and produce tangible results.
Mr. President,
Sweden firmly supports the negotiation process initiated by the Secretary-General and the efforts of his Special Representative, Mr. Bota. The support given to this process, in particular by the Russian Federation as facilitator, is important. Joint international action is indispensable for the promotion of a comprehensive settlement.
But the responsibility for finding such a settlement rests ultimately with the parties themselves. It is time for them to demonstrate their full readiness to assume that responsibility.
Thank you, Mr. President.