Georgia is a highly valued partner, we know that these partners are a subject of Russian interference. Such a statement made the NATO Secretary General ahead of the meetings of NATO Foreign Ministers in Bucharest.

“First, on Georgia, as we will meet with Georgia together with the Foreign Ministers from Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina. I think just the fact that we meet as Foreign Ministers in Bucharest demonstrates our strong political commitment, our support to these highly valued partners. Georgia is a highly valued partner. I mean, we know that these partners are a subject of Russian interference.

Georgia has seen Russian military aggression back in 2008. And still significant parts of Georgia is controlled by Russian-backed forces. So that just makes it even more important to work with Georgia, to strengthen our cooperation with them, to help them to strengthen their resilience, and to help Georgia to defend itself. And for Georgia, we could also increase our support by building on the substantial NATO-Georgia package and continue both our political and practical cooperation.

Then, on the decision by the European Parliament, I would like to say that what we have seen over now several months are horrific attacks against civilians, residential areas, critical civilian infrastructure, and also against schools and hospitals. With a high number of civilian casualties. Intentional targeting of civilian infrastructure and civilians is a war crime.

And therefore, it is so extremely important that investigations are conducted, that all the facts are established, and NATO Allies are also helping and supporting the ongoing efforts by Ukraine with forensic support and legal support, to be able to establish the facts and to ensure accountability that those responsible for this horrific attacks are held accountable. Deliberate attacks on civilians are war crimes and those responsible must be held accountable”, - said Jens Stoltenberg.