Fiji, July 31 -- The Government of the Republic of Naoero has withdrawn its recognition of the Republic of South Ossetia and the Republic of Abkhazia as independent states and ended diplomatic relations with both territories with immediate effect.

The government said it had withdrawn its recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

"Accordingly, the Republic of Naoero has terminated its diplomatic relations with South Ossetia and Abkhazia with immediate effect," it said in a statement.

The government said the relevant authorities would be formally notified through the appropriate diplomatic channels.

Meanwhile, Georgia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Naoero had withdrawn its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, adding that the ...