Viacheslav Chirikba, the former foreign minister of the occupied de facto Republic of Abkhazia and the director of the Center for Strategic Studies under the so-called president, stated that while they view the idea of normalizing relations with Georgia positively, discussing the integration of de facto Abkhazia into Georgia is unnecessary.
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"Of course, we welcome Sergey Lavrov's statement about Russia's readiness to further support the settlement process between Abkhazia and Georgia. The idea of normalizing relations cannot be perceived entirely positively, but Georgia must understand that starting relations with Abkhazia from a clean slate is not possible, and the situation cannot be changed simply by offering an apology. Our countries are separated by a severe conflict and, in effect, a prolonged period resembling a Cold War. There can be no discussion about the integration of Abkhazia into Georgia or the restoration of Georgia's so-called territorial integrity. It is clear that the Soviet Socialist Republic of Georgia cannot be restored, and entirely new approaches are needed.
Tbilisi must understand that only the recognition of Abkhazia's independence can resolve this conflict and usher in a new era in relations between Abkhazia and Georgia," Chirikba said.
He further noted that in order to change the permanent image of the enemy, "Tbilisi must make real changes in its approach and demonstrate the sincerity of its peace-loving statements." According to Chirikba, the Georgian government should work toward the recognition of "Abkhazian passports" as international travel documents, stop referring to Abkhazia as an occupied territory, and repeal the law On Occupied Territories.
"The negotiation process has long been at an impasse, mainly because the Georgian side is not willing to sign a document on the non-use of force.
Stubbornly refusing to accept this commitment can only be interpreted as a desire to reserve the right to use force against Abkhazia and South Ossetia. If Georgia is genuinely committed to a peaceful resolution of the conflict, why can’t it confirm this by signing the relevant statement? Neither Sukhumi nor Tskhinvali believes in Georgia's sincerity, and they have every reason to be skeptical," Chirikba added.
At a press conference at the United Nations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov referred to Georgia’s occupied territories - Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region (de facto Republic of South Ossetia) - as countries and stated that if the parties are interested, Russia is ready to help Georgia reconcile with them. The Georgian government evaluated Lavrov's statement positively. The general secretary of Georgian Dream, Kakha Kaladze, added that taking "effective steps," such as beginning discussions on the withdrawal of the military from Georgia’s territories, would be beneficial.
