"The 'referendum on independence' and 'presidential election' in the South Ossetian region does not help to bring a peaceful solution of the conflict closer," he added.

"The so-called elections increase tensions and divisions at a time when the sides to the Georgian-Ossetian conflict should be devoting all efforts to stabilizing the situation and moving forward the negotiating process."

The Chairman-in-Office also said: "We have made it clear from the outset that we do not recognize such a unilateral referendum, and believe it to be counterproductive."

Minister De Gucht said the international community considered South Ossetia an integral part of Georgia and supported all efforts by the two sides to achieve a peaceful settlement of their conflict through negotiations. OSCE