Geneva, 11 October 2023
Thank you, Mr. Vice-President!
Latvia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.
We thank Mr. Salazar-Volkman for presenting the report on cooperation with Georgia and commend the continued efforts of OHCHR to further promotion and protection of human rights in Georgia.
We welcome the cooperation of the Government of Georgia with the United Nations human rights mechanisms and Georgia’s enhanced efforts to fully implement the recommendations of United Nations treaty bodies.
At the same time, Latvia is profoundly concerned over deteriorating humanitarian un human rights situation in the Georgian breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The continued restrictions on the right to receive education in the native language, the undue restrictions on freedom of movement and the lack of access for human rights mechanisms to Abkhazia and South Ossetia are especially alarming. We call on the de facto authorities in the regions to grant immediate and unimpeded access for all relevant human rights mechanisms and to ensure protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without discrimination.
Latvia reiterates its strong and unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
I thank you!