Press conference
Javier SOLANA, Secretary General/High Representative
Bernard KOUCHNER, French Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, President of the Council,
Olli REHN, member of the European Commission
©The Council of the European Union

Deeply concerned at recent developments in Georgia, the EU Ministers for Foreign Affairs met at a special sitting of the General Affairs and External relations Council on 13 August 2008. An indepth discussion was held based on a presentation prepared by the Presidency about efforts employed which led to the agreement between all parties.

In particular, the Council:

- welcomed the agreement subscribed to by the parties on the basis of the mediation efforts carried out by the European Union;

- called on the parties to honour all the commitments, beginning with an effective ceasefire, and to ensure that they were implemented effectively and in good faith both on the ground and in the relevant fora;

- emphasised the Union's commitment to contribute actively to effective implementation of these principles;

- considered that the European Union must be prepared to commit itself, including on the ground, to support every effort, including those of the ONU and the OSCE, with a view to a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in Georgia.

More information:

Council Press release (pdf)