Javier Colomina, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of NATO in the South Caucasus, has emphasized that NATO stands prepared to respond if attacked from the military base recently announced by Russia in Ochamchire, a city in Georgia’s currently Russian-occupied Abkhazia region. 

"Each time we witness Russia's efforts to expand its presence in our immediate vicinity, it raises concerns. Nevertheless, as mentioned earlier, the Black Sea is already recognized as of regional and strategic significance, integral to NATO's military strategies. Therefore, should the need arise, NATO possesses the capability and determination to take appropriate action.

He further noted the Black Sea region holds strategic importance for NATO, as outlined in the strategic concept of the North Atlantic Alliance approved during the Madrid summit in 2022.

“We view this region as exceptionally vital for the Euro-Atlantic space. In anticipation of potential challenges, prior to the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine, NATO conducted naval exercises in the Black Sea, with NATO ships making port calls in Georgian ports.

While close maritime cooperation is currently unattainable, the Black Sea remains pertinent for NATO. It remains a crucial component of our military plans and is an ongoing subject of discussion with both NATO member states and partners in the region," Colomina told the Georgian Public Broadcaster.