Russia welcomes extension of EU monitoring mission in Georgia

"On the whole we think that the extension of the mandate is a positive factor. Ensuring stability is imperative for the region that was subjected to aggression a year ago," he said.

"It is important that the mission maintain contact with the Russian military and border guards. The presence of observers in the [conflict] zone deters possible aggressive encroachments and forcible fantasies on the part of Tbilisi," the diplomat said.

"Russia is ready to continue constructive interaction with the EU mission within the framework of its mandate which is well known to us," he said.

At the same time, he noted that the EU decision refers to the Helsinki Act that contains a provision on the territorial integrity of states.

Karasin expressed hope that this applies to all peoples and countries in the Transcaucasia, including Abkhazia and South Ossetia; Kazinform refers to Itar-Tass.

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