The Messenger #154 (1421)

Tuesday, August 14, 2007, #154 (1421)

It's been 15 years since the Georgian-Abkhaz war began. Today, the frozen conflicts are dominating factors in Georgia's national and foreign policy. Is Georgia any closer to conflict settlement? Can the country move forward without Abkhazia?

"Georgia can't move forward without Abkhazia. This is our entire nation's shared pain, and I wish to get it back as soon as possible."
Kakha, doctor 36

"I'm from Sokhumi and I always pay attention to our country's conflict resolution policy. Somehow, it seems now that the government is not trying their best to get back our land. Georgia's can't leave Abkhazia behind."
Natela, pensioner 75

"I don't think that Georgia is any closer to conflict settlement; there's been no progress in 15 years. To a certain extent, of course, the country can develop without Abkhazia, but we would benefit economically by getting it back."
Nino, journalist 27

"I don't want to be a pessimist, but to tell the truth I have no hope we'll get our lost territory back. I don't see how we could possibly return Abkhazia. Georgia is getting used to developing without the breakaway regions."
Nika, photographer, 24

"We are very close to getting our territory back, of course, and I'm sure we'll be able to go there soon without any problems. Georgia isn't Georgia without Abkhazia."
Ika, student, 22

"Well, it's difficult to say how close we are, but I still think we'll get it all back one day. It's just a question of time. I can't imagine Georgia without Abkhazia."
Maiko, housewife, 43

"Returning Abkhazia is of vital importance to Georgia, and we won't move forward without it. Of course we are close to conflict settlement, but completely resolving the conflict will take a lot of time."
Vano, engineer, 54

"Georgia doesn't necessarily need Abkhazia, but it's in our interest to get it back. It's part of our country; plus, nations with unsettled conflicts aren't that popular with EU countries. There are still many problems to be settled in Georgian-Abkhaz relations, but I think we're closer than ever to conflict resolution."
Manana, teacher, 38

"Abkhazia is an ancient part of Georgia. We have lots of problems now, but we ought to find a solution. Otherwise, it would be a great shame for both of us. I think we're seeing improved relations now."
Meri, philologist, 41