The deployment of Russia’s S-300 air-defense system in Abkhazia is "unlikely to contribute to the stabilization of the region," the French Foreign Ministry said on August 12.  

Asked whether France was concerned by this deployment and whether it was a source of concern for NATO, Christine Fages, the French foreign ministry spokesperson, said: “We have noted with concern the announcement" by Russia, made on August 11, that it had deployed its enhanced air-defense system in Georgia's breakaway region.

“We urge all of the parties to uphold and comply fully with the agreements of August 12 and September 8, 2008,” Christine Fages said.

She reiterated France’s support for Georgia’s independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty, within its internationally recognized borders and added that “NATO has also repeatedly reaffirmed its attachment to the principle of Georgia’s territorial integrity.”

“The next session of international discussions which will take place in Geneva on October 14 will provide an opportunity to address the issues relating to the security and stability of the region,” she said.