Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said on August 11 that Tbilisi would not restore diplomatic relations with Russia until Moscow revokes its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states. Anadolu Agency reports, writes UNN.
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Kobakhidze emphasized that resolving the conflict surrounding the two separatist regions peacefully remains one of the key priorities of Georgia’s foreign policy.
As long as the so-called recognition remains an accomplished fact on the part of the Russian Federation, diplomatic relations, of course, cannot be restored
According to the Georgian prime minister, Tbilisi expects a peaceful settlement of the conflict following possible political changes in Russia.
Our goal regarding the Russian Federation is to resolve the conflict peacefully. This is our stated political position, and we hope that after political changes all of this will become achievable
The conflict between Georgia and Russia
In August 2008, a five-day armed conflict took place between Georgia and Russia, linked to the separatist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Following the fighting, Tbilisi lost control over both territories.
At the end of August 2008, Moscow recognized Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states. In response, Georgia severed diplomatic relations with Russia.
Abkhazia and South Ossetia remain internationally recognized territories of Georgia. The independence of these regions was recognized by Russia.