12:40, 22 June 2004

Abkhazian PM insists on official recognition of his republic

Prime Minister of Abkhazia Raul Khadzhimba met with Finnish Ambassador to Georgia Timo Lakhelma in Sukhum on June 21. Speaking about Abkhazia's external and internal political life, Mr Khadzhimba touched upon the Georgian-Abkhazian negotiation process. "The situation remains quiet tense today. In spite of the existence of some agreements between Georgia and Abkhazia, Georgian politicians keep on applying to military rhetoric, which naturally repels us," the premier said. "If the Georgian side tries to solve all issues in such a way in future, the process of resolving the Georgian-Abkhazian conflict will last very long," Mr Khadzhimba pointed out. "We've claimed our independence many times in a categorical form and claim it now. Abkhazia isn't going to return to the bosom of Georgia," the head of the Abkhazian government said.

Timo Lakhelma noted that the Finnish government held an interest in the restoration of peace in this region.

Source: Caucasian Knot