South Ossetia prepared documents for joining “union state”
8- 9.10.2008, 9:03
An issue of South Ossetia joining the “union state” of Russia and Belarus is almost decided, vice speaker of South Ossetia’s parliament Yuri Dzidtsoity told to Interfax.
“On October 16-17, a session of the “union” parliament takes places in Belarus, where South Ossetia will be present as a guest. We have prepared an address asking to admit us as permanent members, we just need to observe all stages of the process,” Y. Dzidtsoity said. Moreover, he stressed that support of Belarus meant much for South Ossetia.
As Alyaksandr Lukashenka said in an interview to western journalists on September 19, he would like the new parliament to express its opinion on the issue.
“They probably wil have other arguments and facts, which I don’t know. I think, nobody hastens us, so we can see the situation quietly. A time will pass, we will discuss the matter and adopt a decision,” A. Lukashenka said.
On September 24, Russian Ambassador Aleksandr Surikov told in an interview to BelaPAN, Russia was interested in recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Belarus. According to the diplomat, Russia understands that “the process shouldn’t be forced and fastened”.
“We think Belarus should take in its current relations with these enclaves, that is possible in prospects, and be able to view this matter sensibly,” A. Surikov emphasised.
On September 25, Alyaksandr Lukashenka received letters from heads of Abkhazia and South Ossetia Sergei Bagapsh and Eduard Kokoity asking Belarus to recognise independence of these territories.
Alyaksandr Lukashenka said in a letter to South Ossetian head an issue of recognition of South Ossetia would be considered by the new composition of the “national assembly” of Belarus.
