"Norway stresses the importance of using peaceful means to resolve conflicts in Europe, in accordance with the principle of territorial integrity set out in the UN Charter. Russia’s decision to recognise the independence of the Georgian breakaway regions violates these principles. It is not conducive to a long-term, peaceful solution to the conflict, and undermines the basis of the ceasefire agreement that has been concluded,” said Mr. Støre. (See press release)
Excerpts from Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre's statement at the meeting of the North Atlantic Council (NAC) at the level of Foreign Ministers (special Ministerial session, on the situation in Georgia), Brussels 19 August 2008.