PM Transcripts

PRIME MINISTER9 2
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, THE HON P. J. KEATING MP
AUSTRALIA RECOGNISES GEORGIA
Australia has decided to recognise Georgia as an independent
state.
Australia recognised the eleven co-founders of the
Commonwealth of Independent States ( CIS) on 26 December 1991.
At that time, the Government decided not to recognise Georgia
because there was not a government exercising effective
control. moreover, unlike the co-founders of the CIS, Georgia
had not given the undertakings on observance of democracy and
human rights that had been sought by the international
community. Georgian authorities have now indicated their acceptance of
internationally accepted democratic and human rights
standards. This has been accompanied by a welcome
stabilisation of the situation within Georgia.
Australia is delighted to welcome Georgia into the
international community. In particular, I am very pleased
that such an able and respected statesman as
Eduard Shevardnadze has decided to return to his native
Georgia to head the interim state council. I am confident
that Mr Shevardnadze will make 8 significant contribution to
solving the formidable challenges faced by his country.
I warmly welcome the commitments made by the Georgian
authorities to respect internationally accepted democratic and
human rights standards. I also welcome the announcement that
new and democratic elections will be held in the near future.
It is Australia's hope that these elections will go 8 long way
to resolving the tensions created by the recent conflict in
Georgia.
Australia has also decided to establish diplomatic relations
with Georgia. The minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade,
Senator Evans, has instructed the Australian Ambassador in
Moscow, Mr Cavan Hogue, to make the necessary practical
arrangements. CANBERRA 29 March 1992