Negotiations stall on OSCE Georgia mission

HELSINKI, Finland, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- The breakdown of negotiations over a renewed Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe mission in Georgia is prompting concern.

The OSCE mission in war-ravaged Georgia is scheduled to end as a result of disagreements within the 56-member OSCE during negotiations over a renewed mandate in the country. The mission in Georgia is expected to begin closing down its operations, which include military monitoring and governance training initiatives conducted by approximately 200 staff, starting in January 2009, the OSCE reported.

The disagreement over renewing the OSCE mission in Georgia stems from Russia's recognition of the independence of Georgia's South Ossetia and Abkhazia breakaway regions. Russia is the only OSCE member to recognize the two regions, which has caused an impasse over the future of the OSCE mission in Georgia.

Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb, OSCE chairman-in-office, noted that Georgia's August conflict with Russia left a large amount of work the OSCE was engaged in.

"I deeply regret the situation," Stubb said in a statement. "Finland has put a lot of effort into finding a solution. The OSCE still has much work to do in the region. Despite the situation today, I hope that negotiations on future OSCE activities in Georgia can be continued next year."