Russia Demands Agreement on Non-Use of Force From Georgia to Ensure 'Peace', Maria Zakharova Says
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, February 14, 2023
According to the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Maria Zakharova, Russia is interested in strengthening relations with occupied Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, and in order to ensure 'peace' in the region, Russia is asking Georgia to sign an agreement on the non-use of force.
"We attach special importance to ensuring the security of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Russian military bases operate on their territory, we jointly protect state borders to prevent possible provocations, which is relevant in the new geopolitical reality.
We demand from Georgia a binding agreement on non-use of force against these countries. We believe that this is a guarantee of stability in the region," said Zakharova.
According to Zakharova, Russia ensured the protection and development of occupied Abkhazia and Tskhinvali 15 years ago by recognizing them.
"Most citizens of Abkhazia and South Ossetia have Russian citizenship and they support the strengthening of the alliance with Russia. We achieved significant results through joint efforts in all areas of bilateral cooperation, which creates conditions for strengthening the foreign policy and economy of Sukhumi and Tskhinvali," Zakharova said.
