The European Union reiterated that it does not recognize the “referendum” and “presidential elections” in breakaway South Ossetia, the Finnish Presidency said on behalf of the European Union on November 13.  

“The 'referendum' contradicts Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The EU considers that the situation in South Ossetia did not allow the free expression of the popular will,” the declaration reads.

The European Union reiterated its full support to Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

“The European Union considers that the referendum and the elections did not contribute to efforts for peaceful conflict resolution. It calls on all parties to the conflict to strictly respect existing agreements and to return immediately to the negotiating table in order to work towards a speedy and transparent solution of the South Ossetian conflict,” the declaration reads.