OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ignazio Cassis has visited Georgia

Meetings and discussed issues

Swiss Foreign Minister and OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ignazio Cassis arrived in Georgia from Yerevan. Within the framework of the visit, he held meetings with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Foreign Minister Maka Bochorishvili. During the meetings, attention was focused on security challenges in the region, the role of the OSCE in the process of conflict resolution, and bilateral cooperation. During the meeting with the Prime Minister, Ignazio Cassis emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles and international obligations. Interpressnews+5

Maka Bochorishvili noted that the OSCE Chairperson's visit confirms the importance of supporting Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity on the organization's agenda. The Minister emphasized Switzerland's role as a mediator in Russia-Georgia relations and noted that the Geneva International Discussions remain the only format for dialogue with Russia. Ignazio Cassis called the Geneva negotiations an essential platform where the parties have the opportunity to talk. 1TV+4

OSCE Chairmanship candidacy and mechanisms

The meetings touched upon Georgia's submission of its candidacy for the 2027 OSCE Chairmanship. According to Maka Bochorishvili, Georgia meets all the criteria for this position. It was noted that the consent of 57 participating countries is required to make the decision, and there is information regarding opposition from European Union member states concerning the candidacy. Imedi+3

Minister Maka Bochorishvili also spoke about the use of the OSCE's "Vienna" and "Moscow" mechanisms and noted that Georgia has cooperated with the organization. She stated that everyone should avoid using international organizations as an instrument, although Georgia remains committed to the organization's principles. Within the framework of the visit, Ignazio Cassis also visited the occupation line. 1TV+5