17/07/2009 (Agence Europe) - The European Union has criticised the recent visit by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to South Ossetia, the Georgian republic which, along with Abkhazia, declared independence in 2008. “The EU notes that the president of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev, has paid a visit to the Georgian region of South Ossetia without the prior consent of the Government of Georgia. The EU considers this visit as incompatible with the principle of territorial integrity and is concerned about its effects on the international efforts to stabilise the region,” says the Swedish Presidnecy in a statement issued on behalf of all member states on 16 July. The EU also reiterates its support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. (H.B./transl.rt)