The tiny Pacific island of Nauru has recognized the independence of the former Georgian republic of South Ossetia.

South Ossetia and Nauru, the world's smallest island state, on Wednesday established diplomatic relations. The joint statement was signed by Nauru Foreign Minister Kieren Keke and South Ossetian Ambassador to Russia Dmitry Medoyev, who received special powers from South Ossetia's president, Eduard Kokoity.

Nauru is the fourth country to recognize South Ossetia's independence, joining Russia, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

The South Ossetian leader said that the republic's recognition by Nauru was an important step towards South Ossetia becoming a full-fledged member of the international community.

"This politically weighty step by the Nauru leadership again confirms the unconditional right of the South Ossetian people to freedom, equality and to live in safety," Kokoity said.

On Tuesday, Nauru recognized the independence of Abkhazia, another former Georgian republic.

Russia recognized the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in August 2008 after a brief war with Georgia, which attacked South Ossetia in an attempt to regain control of its former republic.

MOSCOW, December 16 (RIA Novosti)