FROM THE LISBON SUMMIT
DECLARATION OF THE OSCE
(…)
20. We reaffirm our utmost support for the sovereignty and
territorial integrity of Georgia
within its internationally recognized borders. We condemn the ‘ethnic
cleansing’ resulting in mass destruction and forcible expulsion of
predominantly Georgian population in Abkhazia. Destructive acts of separatists,
including obstruction of the return of refugees and displaced persons and the
decision to hold elections in Abkhazia and in the Tskhinvali
region/South Ossetia, undermine the positive
efforts undertaken to promote political settlement of these conflicts. We are
convinced that the international community, in particular the United Nations
and the OSCE with participation of the Russian Federation as a facilitator,
should continue to contribute actively to the search for a peaceful settlement.
2-3 December 1996
(http://www.osce.org/documents/mcs/1996/12/4049_en.pdf
)