MINSK, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- Martin Sajdik, the OSCE's special representative in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on Ukraine, on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the current situation in Ukraine.
Following the TCG's meeting in Minsk, the diplomat told reporters that it seems the conflicting parties are moving in the opposite direction from a peaceful settlement.
Despite the efforts of the TCG, the tension in and around the conflict zone does not reduce, Sajdik said.
He urged again the parties to do everything necessary to prevent an escalation of tension.
The participants of the working group on security continued to consider additional measures to ensure the ceasefire and prepare for a truce over the Christmas and New Year holidays, Sajdik said.
The economic subgroup discussed water supply and payment of pensions. The humanitarian working group continued to consider issues related to the exchange of held persons, he said.
The last meeting of the TCG this year will be held on Dec. 19.
The TCG is a group of representatives from Ukraine, Russia and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to facilitate a diplomatic solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
