Naval Base Proposal in Separatist Abkhazia Sparks NATO Condemnation; Pledges Support for Georgia
On October 9, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (PA) adopted a resolution titled "Strengthening Stability and Security in the Black Sea Region Following Russia's Full Scale Invasion of Ukraine," which, among other things, condemns Russia's occupation of Georgia, the Kremlin's proposal to construct a naval base in occupied Abkhazia, and reiterates support for Georgia's eventual NATO membership.
According to NATO PA, the continued illegal occupation of Georgian territory is a daily reminder of the Russian Federation's significant and direct threat to the Allies' security, peace, and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area. "The recently declared intention of Russia to establish a naval facility in Ochamchire in occupied Abkhazia was also denounced by the Assembly as further destabilizing the Black Sea area.
Parliamentary Assembly reiterated its support for the 2008 Bucharest Summit decision, which stated that Georgia will become a member of NATO with the Membership Action Plan as an integral part of that process. PA also expressed its support for the implementation of the Alliance's tailored support packages for its vulnerable Black Sea partners, including Georgia. NATO PA urged the governments and parliaments of the Allies to swiftly implement the enhanced tailored support packages for Georgia and the Republic of Moldova while continuing to actively support Georgia's Euro-Atlantic integration, as well as support Georgia in taking steps towards eventual NATO membership through its efforts to advance its reform agenda, including key democratic reforms, and making best use of the Annual National Programme.