Under UN chairmanship, the Georgian Government, the Russian and de facto Abkhaz authorities as well as the EUMM attended the twenty third IPRM meeting in Gali on Thursday 25 November.
Participants exchanged information on a range of issues including the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Mr Gari Jopua and his subsequent release. The case of Mr David Sigua who has been missing since 2007 was also discussed. On a related note, the general security situation, together with the cases of different individuals, was addressed. Furthermore, ideas on how to deal with potential security-related issues on the ground were put forward by the Chair and welcomed by participants. The need to carry on the discussion on confidence building was also reiterated.
Participants also continued their discussion on the freedom of movement of local residents, particularly in connection with social activities.
The discussions took place in a constructive atmosphere, despite different views about various issues with political connotations on the agenda.
The next meeting is scheduled to take place in Gali on 26 January 2011.