(Tbilisi, Civil Georgia, August 1, 2002) - “We are closely following the situation on the Russia-Georgia border. The United States strongly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia.  We would therefore be seriously concerned to learn of any violations of that sovereignty,” Philip Reeker, Deputy Spokesman of the Department of State said at the news briefing on July 31.

The Department of State official commented on reports concerning the bombing of the Georgian territory by the Russian fighter helicopters on July 29-30, the act of military aggression as the Georgian Foreign Minister Irakli Menagharishvili named them.

“In that regard, our position remains that only a negotiated solution can end the conflict, and we've urged both the Russians and the Chechens to seek such a solution.  So we've been in regular contact with the governments of both Russia and Georgia, making clear our unequivocal support for Georgian sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we'd like to facilitate stable, constructive relations between Russia and Georgia,” Philip Reeker said.

The Department of State official said that Pankisi gorge problems “should best be addressed by the Georgian Government.” “We're working with Georgia to improve its capacity to provide better border security.  As you know, we have a train and equip program that will assist Georgia in developing its own capability to control its own borders and conduct limited counter terrorism operations,” he added.

Philip Reeker said that the US is also encouraging Russia and Georgia to work together to find ways to cooperate on counter terrorism.