The EU Troika expressed to the Georgian authorities the Union's concern for the inflamed relationships between Georgia and Russia

The EU Troika Delegation led by Mr Erkki Tuomioja, Minister for Foreign Affairs, visited Georgia on its journey to Southern Caucasia. At a meeting with Mr Mikheil Saakashvili, President of Georgia, the EU's central message was that the escalation of the situation should be prevented by means of dialogue.

Both Georgia and Russia should avoid public statements that can be experienced as insulting. The European Union is willing to promote trust and co-operation between the two countries in order to normalise the situation.

The themes of a meeting with Mr Gela Bezhuashvili, Minister for Foreign Affairs, included the implementation of the European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan and sectors requiring special attention in Georgia. In addition, the political situation of the country before the local elections taking place on 5 October was discussed.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Tuomioja will also visit Azerbaijan(Link to another website.)