04 March 2008, 11:39
South Ossetia appeals to international community for recognition
The Parliament of South Ossetia has addressed the UN Secretary General, the President, Council of the Federation and State Duma of Russia, as well as the heads of the CIS states and parliaments and EU countries with a request to recognize the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia.
In the opinion of South Ossetian MPs, after declaration and recognition of independence of Kosovo, the principle of territorial integrity is no longer viewed as the dominant one.
"Now, after appearance of the 'Kosovo precedent' we have a new convincing confirmation of the fact that settlement of regional conflicts is based not only on the principle of countries' territorial integrity. Realization of the right of nations to self-determination, if it is supported by evidences of their ability to independently organize their life and ensure their development according to universal democratic standards, can appear the only way of peaceful settlement of conflict situations. Especially if applied to South Ossetia, the principle of territorial integrity is not contradictory to the right of the nation to self-determination, since the legal and factual grounds of sovereignty of Georgia over this territory can be challenged.
In the near future, the authorities of Abkhazia are also planning to address Russia, CIS member-states and UN with a request to recognize the independence of Abkhazia.
Also in the near future, a meeting will be held of the leaders of Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Transdnistria, where the non-recognized republics plan to elaborate their joint action plan aimed at attaining independence.
Author: Zalina Siukaeva, CK correspondent
