02/06/2009 (Agence Europe) - The EU is challenging what it terms the “illegitimate” holding of elections in South Ossetia on 31 May and their outcome. The elections were won by parties allied to the pro-Russian, separatist president, Eduard Kokoity. The EU, which does not recognise the self-proclaimed independence of the Georgian province, “does not accept the legality of the 'elections' nor their results. The holding of such elections is illegitimate and represents a setback in the search for a peaceful and lasting settlement of the situation in Georgia,” says the Czech Presidency in a statement released on 1 June. EU member states also repeat their firm support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. (H.B./transl.rt)