The South Ossetian-Russian relations have a rich and deep-rooted history. Our nations are united by spiritual and cultural closeness. Alliance with Russia is the historical choice of the Ossetians.
Year 2023 marks the 15th anniversary of the recognition of the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia by the Russian Federation, the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two states and signing of the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between the Republic of South Ossetia and the Russian Federation.
One of the fundamental documents, stipulating the friendly South Ossetian-Russian relations is the Treaty between the Republic of South Ossetia and the Russian Federation on Alliance and Integration signed in Moscow at the highest level on March 18, 2015. The Treaty defined the format of relations between South Ossetia and the Russian Federation for a long-term perspective and was signed by leaders of the two states – President L. Tibilov and President V. Putin.
It should be noted that in the light of current challenges and threats as well as the rapidly changing architecture of international security this Treaty is becoming particularly relevant.
The document bears strategic importance for the bilateral relations. Establishment by the Treaty of the status of an ally to the Russian Federation, alongside with the creation of a joint defense area, interaction of law enforcement agencies, coordination of foreign policy, assistance in development of social, economic and other spheres provide the Republic of South Ossetia with the maximum possible guarantees for the state sovereignty and security, for strengthening international positions, promotion of recognition of the Republic’s independence and the perspectives of sustainable social and economic development.
The document provides for signing additional agreements which would develop the legal framework of the intergovernmental cooperation and interaction in various spheres. The development of these documents is conducted in close collaboration of corresponding agencies of the two states.
This strategic document stipulates almost all issues related to security and social and economic development of our state. Interaction in area of social care for the population, including measures for increasing pensions and wages of the South Ossetian budget institutions employees, creation of compulsory insurance system in the Republic have been secured and issues related to simplified acquisition of Russian citizenship by South Ossetian residents are under discussion.
In general, relations between South Ossetia and the Russian Federation are developing dynamically and are being filled with practical meaning. The Russian Federation has been a reliable ally to South Ossetia, the guarantor of peace and security in the region.