Georgian, Russian Envoys Meet in Prague
The Georgian Prime Minister's Special Representative for Relations with Russia, Zurab Abashidze, and Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin, held an informal meeting in Prague on October 1.
The details of the meeting were revealed by the Georgian Government’s Press Service, which says the sides discussed trade-economic, transport and certain humanitarian issues.
Abashidze emphasized the difficult situation in the occupied regions of Georgia - Abkhazia and the South Ossetia regions. He highlighted the continuous violation of human rights and the growing militarization taking place there, noting that it is a violation of the international norms, the territorial integrity of Georgia and the sovereignty of the country.
The sides discussed mutual cooperation issues in the fields of tourism, economics and trade. It was noted that during the nine months of 2018, trade turnover had significantly increased between the two countries.
The sides underlined the importance of the Geneva International Discussions, which is the only current format of diplomatic relations between the countries.
The implementation of the 2011 agreement on the Cargo Monitoring Movement was also emphasized. It was noted that the parties have completed procedures for the preparatory period covered by the Agreement and are ready to take appropriate steps for its implementation. In this respect, specific proposals were expressed.
Karasin stated Moscow does not rule out the possibility of a meeting between the leaders of Georgia and Russia.
"Such a meeting can be organized, but it is necessary to prepare for an effective meeting. We are working on it now," he added.
The Russian envoy also suggested that Georgia is “hostile” towards Russia and expressed hope the relations will be regulated in future.
“We are aware of the statements of the Georgian side and we see it as being hostile to Russia. We are upset by the absolutely unsubstantiated criticism towards our country," Karasin said.
The first Abashidze-Karasin meeting took place in Geneva on December 14, 2012.
Since 2013, the meetings have been held in Prague. The meetings constitute a direct dialogue between the two countries’ officials following the 2008 Russian-Georgian war, after which Georgia cut diplomatic ties with Russia.
By Thea Morrison