On the key tasks of South Ossetia's foreign policy
Expanding the circle of countries that recognise the independence of South Ossetia is one of the key tasks of the Republic's foreign policy strategy.
Answers of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the RSO
South Ossetian Foreign Minister Akhsar Dzhioev told RIA Novosti in an interview that deepening integration with Russia is the unconditional priority of the republic's foreign policy. At the same time, the prospects for a truce with Georgia, which continues its course towards integration with NATO and European structures, remain in question from the standpoint of Tskhinval's national security.
On the role of Russia’s recognition of South Ossetia’s independence
Question: How would you comment on the statement by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia Mikhail Galuzin regarding Moscow's support for the full transport and economic unblocking of the entire South Caucasus region, which was made at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) during the session "The '3+3' Platform: Common Challenges and Strategic Partnership"?
Question: Today Tskhinval hosted a working meeting between the South Ossetian delegation and the Co-Chairs of the International Discussions on Security and Stability in the South Caucasus, representing the EU, the OSCE and the UN. How important is this negotiating format, in which representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of South Ossetia also take part, for South Ossetia?
– Akhsar Muratovich, which key stages in the development of the diplomatic service would you single out? How do these historic moments influence its present-day role?
On 4 December, the Press Centre of the Committee for Information and Press hosted a press conference by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Ossetia Akhsar Dzhioev summarising the outcomes of the outgoing year.
Key points highlighted during the press conference.
Strengthening Cooperation
Q: Akhsar Muratovich, the Foreign Ministry celebrates its 33rd anniversary. Tell us, please, about the history of the South Ossetian diplomatic institution.
A:On May 28, the South Ossetian Foreign Ministry celebrates the 33rd anniversary, and the establishment of the Ministry is inextricably linked with the formation of our state.
Q: How would you comment on Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s response to the question regarding possible agreements between Georgia, South Ossetia and Abkhazia?
Q: On May 28 the South Ossetian Foreign Ministry celebrates the 32nd anniversary. Akhsar Muratovich, what are the priority tasks set for the South Ossetian foreign policy currently? What are the plans for the nearest future?
“Statements by the candidate for the position of the Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze pertaining peaceful “return” of the territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia are intended for the internal audience. Similar statements were made at various levels earlier. It is absolutely obvious that they are non-relevant for us. The Ossetian people who have experienced not once the “peacefulness” of its southern neighbor, understand perfectly the true meaning and value of such words.
Q: Akhsar Muratovich, what are the priorities of the South Ossetian foreign policy currently?