17.07.2008 - Source: Civil Georgia

According to Russian foreign minister Lavrov, treaty on return of displaced Georgians to Abkhazia remains out of reach; Georgian and Abkhaz authorities need to come to terms on non-use of force ("Lavrov: Treaty on IDP Return to Abkhazia Unreal for Now") [ID 23966]

Document(s): Open document

03.07.2008 - Source: Institute for War and Peace Reporting

2 blasts at Gagra, on 29 June, and one at Abkhaz checkpoint revive tensions in region; Abkhaz authorities accuse Georgia of stirring tensions to scare Russian tourists away ("Abkhazia Blasts Scare Tourists") [ID 23702]

Document(s): Open document

03.04.2008 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili unveiled new peace proposal for Abkhazia; proposal largely duplicates one that Saakashvili floated two years ago, and offers Abkhazia no higher status than "unlimited autonomy" ; thus, Abkhaz officials cited for rejecting it out of hand ("Latest Peace Proposal For Abkhazia A Nonstarter") [ID 22857]

Document(s): Open document

29.03.2008 - Source: ReliefWeb

Breakaway region rejected offer of wide-ranging autonomy by Georgian president Saakashvili ("Abkhazia rejects Georgia's offer of autonomy"), Autor: Deutsche Presse Agentur [ID 22855]

Document(s): Open document

17.03.2008 - Source: ReliefWeb

Georgian president refuses to rule out force against separatists in Abkhazia and South Ossetia ("Georgian leader refuses to rule out force against separatists"), Autor: Agence France-Presse [ID 22569]

Document(s): Open document

06.03.2008 - Source: Civil Georgia

The two Georgian citizens Basilaia and Tsotsoria were released on 6 March 2008 ("Sokhumi Releases Two Georgians") [ID 22500]

Document(s): Open document

29.02.2008 - Source: Civil Georgia

Foreign minster Shamba said, that after Georgian president Saakashvili's threat of using police force to free Georgian journalist Basilaia from Abkhaz custody, it is impossible to release him ("Tbilisi’s Warning Thwarted Release of Journalist – Abkhaz Official") [ID 22455]

Document(s): Open document

27.02.2008 - Source: Civil Georgia

Saakashvili calls for the immediate release of Georgian journalist Basilaia; otherwise he threatens with the interference of Georgian police forces to release the journalist ("Saakashvili Warns Sokhumi to Release Journalist") [ID 22449]

Document(s): Open document

25.02.2008 - Source: Civil Georgia

South Ossetian and Abkhaz officials said on 25 February 2008 that they would not allow Russia and Georgia to set up joint border-crossing points on their borders with Russia ("Sokhumi, Tskhinvali against Joint Russo-Georgian Border Control") [ID 22442]

Document(s): Open document

25.10.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Tbilisi agrees to release seven Abkhaz militiamen captured in September ("Georgia to Release Seven Abkhaz Militiamen") [ID 21468]

Document(s): Open document

18.10.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhaz militiaman killed and a Georgian policeman injured in clash, Georgian and Abkhaz officials said ("One Dies in Abkhaz Clash") [ID 21400]

Document(s): Open document

06.10.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Georgia wants to restore its territorial integrity: President Saakashvili announces that Georgia is step-by-step moving towards reclaiming breakaway region ("‘Countdown Started for Return to Abkhazia’ – Saakashvili Says") [ID 21313]

Document(s): Open document

03.10.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

No progress in solving Abkhaz and South Ossetian conflicts; EU has no plans of sending peacekeepers ("No Progress in Georgia Conflict Resolution – EU Envoy Says") [ID 21310]

Document(s): Open document

23.09.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

7 Abkhaz militiamen captured by Georgian Interior Ministry forces after clash were sent to two-month pre-trial detention ("Captured Abkhaz Militants Sent to Pre-Trial Detention") [ID 21180]

Document(s): Open document

21.09.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

President Saakashvili tells police to act tough against ‘saboteurs’ in Abkhazia ("Saakashvili Tells Police to Act Tough Against ‘Saboteurs’ in Abkhazia") [ID 21178]

Document(s): Open document

20.09.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Two Abkhaz militiamen were killed, at least one injured and at least six others captured by Georgian forces after a clash ("Two Killed in Abkhaz Clash") [ID 21175]

Document(s): Open document

02.08.2007 - Source: Institute for War and Peace Reporting

UN report calls Georgian youth patriot camp one kilometre from Abkhazia conflict zone "provocative": Report upsets Georgians, but is welcomed in Abkhazia ("Georgia Angered by UN Abkhaz Report") [ID 20722]

Document(s): Open document

31.07.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Georgia warns foreigners against purchasing assets in breakaway regions: Foreign investors involved in such transactions will be subject to civil and possibly criminal liability, Foreign Ministry says ("Tbilisi Warns Against Buying Assets in Breakaway Regions") [ID 20720]

Document(s): Open document

09.06.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Political leaders say they will not resume talks with Tbilisi unless the latter follows its commitments under 1994 Moscow ceasefire agreement ("Sokhumi Firm on Talks Resumption Terms") [ID 20291]

Document(s): Open document

01.06.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Tbilisi asks for UN mediation to resume talks with secessionist leaders ("Tbilisi Seeks UN Mediation to Resume Abkhaz Talks") [ID 20228]

Document(s): Open document

04.05.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Authorities release three Georgian students arrested two months ago ("Sokhumi Releases Georgian Students") [ID 19821]

Document(s): Open document

03.05.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Tbilisi calls “to immediately and unconditionally” release three Georgian students arrested in March by Abkhaz authorities; students tried to campaign against Abkhaz parliamentary elections and were accused of illegal entry ("Tbilisi Warns Sokhumi to Release Georgian Activists") [ID 19824]

Document(s): Open document

03.05.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhaz leader Bagapsh calls on Georgian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release “illegally arrested” official; statement comes after Tbilisi's call to release three Georgian students arrested two months ago ("Bagapsh Calls on Tbilisi to Release Abkhaz Official") [ID 19825]

Document(s): Open document

13.04.2007 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: UN Security Council adopted a resolution calling on the Georgian side to ensure that the situation in the upper Kodori Gorge was in line with the 1994 Moscow agreement on ceasefire; also extended the UNOMIG-mandate for another 6 months ("UN Security Council Adopts Resolution on Abkhazia") [ID 19598]

Document(s): Open document

03.04.2007 - Source: UN Security Council

Maritime incidents contributed to the rise in tensions; Georgian Coast Guard entered Abkhaz-controlled waters and detained two foreign fishing boats; thereupon Abkhas side was preparing to take imminent action; armed confrontation could be prevented ("Report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Abkhazia, Georgia [S/2007/182]") [ID 19688]

"Maritime incidents off the coastal waters of Abkhazia, Georgia, contributed to the rise in tensions. On 10 January, the Georgian Coast Guard entered Abkhazcontrolled waters and detained two foreign fishing boats, which the Abkhaz side regarded as a provocation. On 6 February, the Abkhaz de facto Foreign Minister informed UNOMIG that Georgian fishing vessels, accompanied by Georgian patrol boats, were operating near Ochamchira, and that the Abkhaz side was preparing to take imminent action. UNOMIG was in contact with both sides to rapidly de-escalate the situation, which prevented an armed confrontation. Subsequently, UNOMIG increased its coastal patrols."

Document(s): Open document

19.03.2007 - Source: EurasiaNet

Abkhazia: A reported air attack on a remote Georgian-controlled section has escalated tensions ("Kodori Attack Fresh Cause for Conflict") [ID 19187]

Document(s): Open document

05.03.2007 - Source: BBC News

Abkhazia: Georgian President Saakashvili dismisses Abkhazian parliamentary elections as 'illegal' ("Georgia rejects Abkhazia election") [ID 18912]

Document(s): Open document

06.10.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia does not recognize Georgian municipal elections held in Kodori gorge ("Sokhumi Denounces Elections in Kodori") [ID 17685]

For more information on municipal elections refer to section "Politics & Law", subsection "Elections"

Document(s): Open document

03.10.2006 - Source: ReliefWeb

Abkhazia: Russia seeks UN help to get Georgian troops away from Abkhazia ("Russia seeks UN help to get Georgian troops away from Abkhazia"), Autor: Agence France-Presse (AFP) [ID 17592]

Document(s): Open document

30.09.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Parliamentary Chairpersons of breakaway Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Transdnestria set up parliamentary assembly based in Moscow ("Secessionist Set up Parliamentary Assembly Based in Moscow") [ID 17488]

"The Parliamentary Chairpersons of breakaway Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Transdnestria signed an agreement in Sokhumi envisaging the creation of a Parliamentary Assembly with the headquarters in Moscow, Apsnipress news agency reported on September 30.
 
The report says that the Parliamentary Assembly will work on political, social-economic and humanitarian issues, while the three leaders will act in compliance with the principles envisaged by the Declaration on Cooperation, which was signed by the three secessionist leaders in Sokhumi on June 14."

Document(s): Open document

28.09.2006 - Source: UN Security Council

As a result of Georgian operation in Kodori valley, relations between Abkhazia and Georgia are tense; UN Secretary-General recommends extension of UNOMIG mission ("Report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Abkhazia, Georgia [S/2006/771]") [ID 17591]

"35. After expectations of a new momentum in the negotiation process were raised by the resumption of the Coordination Council and exchanges of proposals between the sides, a new and tense situation has emerged between the Georgian and Abkhaz sides, in particular as a result of the Georgian special operation in the upper Kodori Valley. The Abkhaz side questioned the usefulness of attempting to reach further agreements in the framework of the settlement process, citing the introduction by the Government of Georgia of military forces into the Kodori Valley, despite its commitment under the 1994 Moscow Agreement to withdraw them. The de facto Abkhaz authorities insist on the resolution of the situation in the upper Kodori Valley as a precondition for the resumption of dialogue. For its part, the Government of Georgia has challenged the mechanisms of the settlement process with the de facto authorities in both Abkhazia, Georgia, and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia: its assessment is that the so-called status quo is increasingly detrimental to Georgia’s vital and pressing interest in the recovery of its territorial integrity as well as the country’s development at large. In this respect, the Government of Georgia considers that current mechanisms are ineffective and that the situation urgently calls for a restructuring of the settlement process around two basic principles, namely direct dialogue between the two sides and greater international involvement. 36. Those issues touch on some fundamental aspects of the settlement process. There is a risk that the already tense situation between the Georgian and Abkhaz sides will become more volatile. [...] 37. Recent developments in the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict zone and in the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia highlight the threats that continue to arise from Georgia’s so-called frozen conflicts. A negotiated solution for the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict is undoubtedly difficult to reach today [...]. 38. The developments during the reporting period have highlighted once again that the presence of UNOMIG remains essential for maintaining stability in the zone of conflict, promoting practical cooperation among the sides and facilitating progress towards a negotiated peaceful settlement of the conflict. I therefore recommend an extension of the mandate of UNOMIG for a further period of six months, until 15 April 2007."

Document(s): Open document

24.09.2006 - Source: ReliefWeb

Russia wants the UN Security Council to call on Georgia about the situation in Abkhazia to follow commitments undertaken under the 1994 ceasefire agreement ("Lavrov comments on conflicts in Georgia"), Autor: United Nations Association of Georgia [ID 17345]

"Russia wants the UN Security Council to call on Georgia in its resolution about situation in Abkhazia to follow commitments undertaken under the 1994 cease-fire agreement, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in New York on September 23. [...] He said that the Russian side has informed the Group of Friends about "multiple violation of the existing agreements by the Georgian side" by deploying its troops in upper Kodori Gorge in breakaway Abkhazia. Lavrov also noted that the Russian side is also concerned about Georgia's refusal to let the Russian peacekeeping forces monitor upper Kodori Gorge together with the UN observers. [...]The Russian Foreign Minister again noted that in his speech to the UN General Assembly Session on September 22 Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili has distorted facts while criticizing the Russian-led peacekeeping operations in the conflict zones."

Document(s): Open document

25.07.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Troops deployed in Mestia, near Abkhazia, after government refused to hold talks with Emzar Kvitsiani and his armed group, based in Kodori gorge ("Reports: Troops Deployed Near Abkhazia") [ID 16927]

"Georgian Defense Minister Irakli Okruashvili and Interior Minister Vano Merabishvili are in Mestia, the mountainous region of Svaneti in western Georgia which borders breakaway Abkhazia, Rustavi 2, Imedi and Public TV stations reported early on July 25. According to these reports, units of Interior and Defense Ministry forces are also deployed in Mestia. The deployment of troops came after the Georgian leadership refused to hold talks with rebel warlord Emzar Kvitsiani, who, with his militia group, is based in Kodori gorge in breakaway Abkhazia ."

Document(s): Open document

18.07.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Foreign Minister of Abkhazia said decision on withdrawal of Russian military from conflict zone needs to be approved by CIS member countries; military presence is part of 1994 cease-fire agreement between the Georgian and Abkhaz sides ("Abkhaz Official Comments on Peacekeepers") [ID 15876]

Document(s): Open document

18.07.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Russia calls Georgian resolution on withdrawal of Russian troops attempt to stir tensions ("Russia Warns of Tensions in Case Peacekeepers’ Withdrawal") [ID 15877]

"Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mikhail Kaminin said the Georgian Parliament’s July 18 resolution demanding Russian peacekeepers withdrawal from the South Ossetian and Abkhaz conflict zones is “an attempt to stir tensions,” Interfax news agency reported. [...] The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman noted that it is no the first time the Georgian Parliament has passed this kind of resolution. The Georgian Parliament has passed a total of six resolutions, including the July 18, about the Russian peacekeeping forces in past nine years.  Three out of these six resolutions have been passed in recent nine months (the October 11, 2005 resolution No 1927-II; the February 15, 2006 resolution No 2655-I and  the July 18, 2006 resolution). Three previous resolutions are passed by the Parliament during the Eduard Shevardnadze’s presidency in 1997, 2001 and 2002 respectively requesting the executive authorities to pull out peacekeepers from the Abkhaz conflict zone."

Document(s): Open document

06.07.2006 - Source: Institute for War and Peace Reporting

Abhazia: Special representative of UN Secretary General H. Tagliavini and Georgian presidential representative I. Alasania are leaving peace-process shortly after new plans have emerged ("All Change in Abkhaz Peace Process") [ID 15573]

"Two influential leading figures are leaving the Georgian-Abkhaz peace process, creating a vacuum at a sensitive point in negotiations. The leading international mediators in the process - Swiss diplomat Heidi Tagliavini, special representative of the United Nations Secretary General in Georgia, and the Georgian presidential representative Irakli Alasania, who has built up a good relationship with his Akbhaz counterparts - are both taking up new positions. The two are leaving just as the UN-sponsored Coordinating Council on the dispute resumes work after a five-year break. Several new ideas are under discussion, including the formation of a UN police force for the conflict zone, the re-opening of a rail link via Abkhazia, and joint economic projects. In May, Tbilisi and Sukhum exchanged formal peace plans for the first time since the conflict ended in 1993, with the loss of 15,000 lives and the flight of more than 200,000 Georgians from Abkhazia.[...] Georgian political analyst Paata Zakareishvili was less concerned by the departure of Tagliavini than by the loss of Alasania. “Tagliavini’s departure means the loss of a person, not a policy,” Zakareishvili told IWPR. “But Alasania’s departure is a real loss. For the first time, a Georgian politician had begun to understand the Abkhaz side’s concerns and take them seriously, and this was greatly appreciated in Abkhazia. “The departure of Alasania looks like a political decision – someone in the Georgian leadership does not like direct contacts with the Abkhaz.”[...]Tagliavini, whose mandate ended on July 1, held her job for four years. At a press conference in Sukhum on June 23, she said she had achieved all she could in resolving the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict. [...] Tagliavini said one major achievement was that basic security had been ensured in the conflict zone. She recalled that in 2001, there were serious security problems in the Georgian-majority Gal district of Abkhazia (called Gali by the Georgians), but now, she said, “The situation [in the district] has improved considerably over the past few years. And I attribute these positive changes in part to the work of the UN mission.” All sides agree that the security situation in Gal district has improved in the last few years and there are no longer the violent attacks and explosions that used to terrorise local people. The biggest problem now is crime.  However, Gal district is still a centre of controversy, as the Abkhaz have so far refused to accept proposals that a UN police force and a human rights office should be established there. Opposition politicians in Abkhazia oppose both ideas, believing them to be part of plans for a creeping re-integration of Abkhazia into Georgia.[...] The dispute over Gal comes at a time when detailed peace proposals are on the table for the first time in many years. For the last four years, the Abkhaz side has said they will not accept any negotiations which take as their starting point the so called “Boden document”, drawn up by Tagliavini’s predecessor, Dieter Boden. The “Boden document” underscored the territorial integrity of Georgia, while the Abkhaz insist they have an independent state created by a referendum held in 1999. However, Tagliavini told journalists in Abkhazia, “It seems we won’t be able to continue conflict resolution efforts in the context of Boden’s plan.” [...]"

Document(s): Open document

25.05.2006 - Source: Institute for War and Peace Reporting

Analysis of the impact of plans by Abkhaz and Georgian governments to start new peace talks despite disagreement in most issues ("Progress in Abkhaz Peace Talks") [ID 15487]

Georgian peace plan, so-called Road Map, was handed over to Abkhaz authorities; a week earlier, Abkhaz peace plan introduced new line of thinking, proposing integration of Black Sea Region; both documents are so far the most detailed plans of resolving the conflict

"New life was breathed into the Abkhazian peace process this week when Georgian presidential adviser Irakli Alasania personally handed a peace plan to the Abkhaz authorities. The plan presented by Alasania, together with an Abkhaz plan which President Sergei Bagapsh handed over in Tbilisi on May 15, represent the most detailed documents to be presented since the conflict ended 12 years ago with Abkhazia claiming independence from Georgia – a claim still unrecognised by the outside world.  [...]   Khaindrava said the plan was “basically a declaration of Abkhazia’s independence” – an idea that Tbilisi refuses to countenance. After Alasania presented his plan on May 24, Abkhaz foreign minister Sergei Shamba said, “Having seen the Georgian plan, I don’t even see where we could begin a conversation.”  The Abkhaz plan was delivered a week earlier when the Georgian-Abkhaz coordinating council for the conflict met in Tbilisi after a break of more than four years. The document calls on Tbilisi to recognise Abkhazia’s independence, end its economic blockade of the republic, apologise for previous policies, and agree to a series of security measures and peaceful co-existence. According to Shamba, who led the Abkhaz delegation at the Tbilisi meeting, his government also envisages the return of all Georgian refugees to the southern Gali region (called Gal by the Abkhaz) within two years. [...]   The contents of the Georgian plan, called a Road Map, have so far not been revealed in public. Alasania, who is the Georgian president’s adviser on Abkhaz conflict resolution, told the coordinating council that his government’s priority was for the displaced Georgians – numbering about 250,000 – to go back to Abkhazia. The next steps would be to rebuild mutual trust and ensure security, with economic rehabilitation and the resolution of Abkhazia’s political status coming only at the end of the process. [...] Prior to the new plans, there had been only one similar scheme for a gradual resolution of the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict – the so-called “Boden Plan”, drawn up under the supervision of Dieter Boden, a former special representative of the United Nations Secretary General in Georgia.  The Boden Plan proposed a division of constitutional powers between Sukhum and Tbilisi within a united federative state. The scheme was supported in Tbilisi, but the Abkhaz side refused to accept the terms, insisting on full sovereignty. The latest plan from Bagapsh also has Abkhaz independence its a starting point – a position which, as officials in his government admit, may mean the Georgians refuse to discuss it. [...]   The Bagapsh plan contains two new elements. On the first page, it explicitly rejects the idea that Abkhazia’s future lies with Russia alone, and declares that it lies instead with integration into Europe. The document also proposes economic cooperation with Tbilisi. In recent years, economic contacts have been limited to smuggling. The document reads, “The processes of economic integration in the Black Sea region, as well as prospects for a more intensive economic cooperation on the regional level within the framework of the European Union’s Neighbourhood Policy, can serve as guarantees for the sides’ adherence to the fundamental principles of good-neighbourliness.” This explicit mention of Europe and the Black Sea region, rather than Russia, suggests a new line of thinking within Abkhazia. [...] However, some in Abkhazia warn that economic cooperation with Tbilisi could present a danger as long as Abkhaz independence remains unrecognised. [...]   Currently, the most pressing issue for both Tbilisi and Sukhum is what happens if the peacekeeping force of the Commonwealth of Independent States, CIS – in fact manned only by Russians – is withdrawn from Abkhazia. That could happen if Georgia decides to leave the CIS as its dispute with Russia escalates. Bagapsh has warned that if the CIS soldiers are withdrawn, “We will place the border with Georgia fully under the control of our armed forces.” Alasania said that if that happened, “We ought to strengthen joint actions aimed at preventing possible provocative actions.” He said discussions were already underway with the United Nations about changing the peacekeeping mandate for Abkhazia. [...]"

Document(s): Open document

18.05.2006 - Source: ReliefWeb

UN-chaired council on Georgia-Abkhaz conflict met for first time since 2001 ("UN-chaired council on Georgia-Abkhaz meets for first time since 2001"), Autor: UN News [ID 15476]

Document(s): Open document

15.05.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

According to Georgian State Minister Tbilisi does not agree with all provisions of Abkhaz-proposed peace plan, but the existence of this document is a positive step ("Khaindrava Comments on Abkhaz-Proposed Peace Plan") [ID 15472]

Document(s): Open document

10.05.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Georgian parliament instructed government to prepare an Abkhazia peace plan by May 1, 2006; it has not yet been submitted ("Tbilisi Delays Abkhaz Conflict Roadmap, as Sokhumi Offers Peace Plan") [ID 15376]

Document(s): Open document

10.05.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: According to Georgian Minister for Conflict Resolution Issues, Russian peacekeepers are failing to fulfill their duties ("Georgia May Discuss CIS, Peacekeepers in July") [ID 15420]

Document(s): Open document

05.05.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhaz leader Sergey Bagapsh has submitted peace plan to the region's parliament; plan aims at restoration of confidence between the Georgian and Abkhaz sides and economic integration and cooperation with the Black Sea region ("Abkhazia Offers Peace Plan") [ID 15370]

Document(s): Dokument

04.05.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: Membership in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and closer ties with Russia are key priority to Abkhaz leader Sergey Bagapsh after Georgian leadership had hinted Georgia may quit the organization ("Bagapsh: Abkhazia Wants CIS Membership") [ID 15369]

Document(s): Dokument

29.04.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

South Ossetia: Abkhaz and South Ossetian leaders Sergey Bagapsh and Eduard Kokoity sign “Agreement on Friendship and Cooperation between the Abkhaz and South Ossetian Republics” to intensify co-operation ("South Ossetian, Abkhaz Leaders Pledge Mutual Assistance") [ID 15362]

Document(s): Dokument

05.04.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Ministry of foreign affairs welcomes UN Security Council’s resolution from 31 March on Abkhazia, which reaffirms support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity ("MFA Dismisses Criticisms of UN Abkhaz Resolution") [#48571],  [ID 4519]

Document(s): Open document

05.04.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Ministry of foreign affairs welcomes UN Security Council’s resolution from 31 March on Abkhazia, which reaffirms support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity ("MFA Dismisses Criticisms of UN Abkhaz Resolution") [#48571],  [ID 5448]

Document(s): Open document

25.03.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: UN Secretary General calls for an extention of the UN Observer Mission in Georgia for 6 months until 30 September 2006; meeting between highest leaders of Georgian and Abhaz side would be a major confidence building measure ("Abchasien: UN-Generalsekräter spricht sich für eine Verlängerung der UN Beobachtungsmission in Georgien für 6 Monate bis 30. September 2006 aus; Treffen zwischen höchsten Vertretern der georgischen und abchasisischen Seite würde gegenseitiges Vertrauen stärken") [#48021],  [ID 4525]

Document(s): Open document

22.03.2006 - Source: ReliefWeb

Abkhazia: Georgian government develops new national strategy on conflict resolution, foreseeing direct contacts with Abkhazian authorities to discuss the issues of security, return of displaced persons, confidence building, as well as economic cooperation ("Georgia develops national strategy on Abkhazia (UN Association of Georgia)") [#47310],  [ID 5449]

Document(s): Open document

14.03.2006 - Source: EurasiaNet

Abkhazia: Sergei Bagapsh, unrecognised Abkhazian president, wants fortification of Abkhazian economy; political environment seems to ripen for peace; fostering economic development could settle the seperatist conflict; as Georgia and Russia focus on tensions in South Ossetia, they might miss that chance ("Georgia, Don't Forget Abkhazia") [#47101],  [ID 5450]

Document(s): Open document

09.03.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: After murder of 4 civilians on 8 March in Gali district foreign minister of Abkhazia blames Georgian militant group for killing and rejects opening of UN Human Rights Office and deployment of UN police whereas Georgian side calls for UN Human Rights office and UN police ("Sokhumi Blames Tbilisi of Resorting to Terrorism") [#46646],  [ID 5451]

Document(s): Open document

08.03.2006 - Source: ReliefWeb

Abhazian Foreign Minister rejects Georgian calls for unilateral demilitarisation of conflict zones in South Ossetia and Abkhazia; minister accuses Georgia of armament and calls for demilitarisation of entire Caucasus region ("Abkhazia rejects unilateral demilitarization (United Nations Association of Georgia)") [#46177],  [ID 5452]

Document(s): Open document

02.03.2006 - Source: Institute for War and Peace Reporting

Abkhazia: Report on the chances of independence after the possible international recognition of Kosovo, based on an interview with Abkhaz leader Sergei Bagapsh ("Abkhaz Leader Presses Independence Claim") [#45580],  [ID 5453]

Document(s): Open document

12.02.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Russian REN-TV crew released after spending hours in local police station in Zugdidi at the border with breakaway Abkhazia; police said crew had no accreditations; TV crew was detained while filming near Enguri river, which divides Abkhazia from Georgia ("Georgian Police Release Russian TV Crew") [#44264],  [ID 5454]

Document(s): Open document

01.02.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: UN Security Council extends mandate of the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia (UNOMIG) until 31 March 2006 ("UN Security Council Adopts ‘Partial’ Resolution on Abkhazia") [#43171],  [ID 4548]

Document(s): Open document

01.02.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: UN Security Council extends mandate of the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia (UNOMIG) until 31 March 2006 ("UN Security Council Adopts ‘Partial’ Resolution on Abkhazia") [#43171],  [ID 5455]

Document(s): Open document

30.01.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: Abkhaz parliament warns of "large-scale military confrontation" if Russian peacekeeping forces withdraw ("Sokhumi Warns of Armed Conflict if Peacekeepers Pullout") [#43168],  [ID 5456]

Document(s): Open document

26.01.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: Statement by the Georgian Special Representative Irakli Alasania on the performance of main actors of the UN-led peace process ("Georgia’s Special Envoy for Abkhazia Addresses UN Security Council") [#43162],  [ID 4549]

Document(s): Open document

26.01.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: Statement by the Georgian Special Representative Irakli Alasania on the performance of main actors of the UN-led peace process ("Georgia’s Special Envoy for Abkhazia Addresses UN Security Council") [#43162],  [ID 5457]

Document(s): Open document

24.01.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Georgian and Abkhaz sides agree on anti-crime measures in the conflict-zone, especially in Gali district ("Tbilisi, Sokhumi Agree to Coordinate Anti-Crime Measures") [#43158],  [ID 5458]

Document(s): Open document

19.01.2006 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhazia: Abkhaz leader rejects Georgian draft of the agreement on security guarantees and non-resumption of hostilities ("Sokhumi Rejects Tbilisi's Document on Security Guarantees") [#42476],  [ID 5459]

Document(s): Open document

19.01.2006 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Abkhazia: Russian soldiers reinforce security measures near demarcation line between Abkhazia and Georgia ("Russian Peacekeepers Boost Security In Abkhazia") [#42417],  [ID 5460]

Document(s): Open document

05.01.2006 - Source: Council of Europe - Parliamentary Assembly

Despite May 2005 agreement to withdraw Russian military troops from Georgia by 2008, Georgian Parliament adopted a resolution in October 2005 threatening that mandate of Russian troops in breakaway regions would end in 2006 ("Implementation of Resolution 1415 (2005) on the honouring of obligations and commitments by Georgia [Doc. 10779]") [#41527],  [ID 5461]

"21. An agreement on a timetable for withdrawal of the Russian military troops on Georgian territory was eventually reached in May and signed by the two Foreign Ministers. Under its terms, Russia would completely close down its bases in Georgia by 2008, starting with Akhalkalaki and then Batumi.

22. In October, the Georgian Parliament unanimously adopted a resolution in which it threatened to end the mandate of the peace-keeping forces of Russia in the two Georgian breakaway regions, South Ossetia and Abkhazia if there was no progress in their performance by 10 February 2006 in South Ossetia and 1 July 2006 in Abkhazia. There is no ready-made solution for the moment to replace the existing peace-keepers. The resolution is not legally binding for the government; officials explained to the monitoring delegation that at this stage it should rather be regarded as a declaration of intent.

23. According to several international observers, this move could complicate the further withdrawal of Russian troops, as Russia is now insisting that the agreement reached in May should be backed by a text ratified by the Russian Duma. Although the timetable for 2005 has so far been respected, the most important removal operations have to be performed in 2006."

Document(s): Open document

01.2006 - Source: Human Rights Centre

Conflicts exist not only on political level but actual lives of people in self-proclaimed republics are affected; with Russian interest in protection of regions, pushing to reunification by force from the part of Georgia is less conceivable ("Next Stop – Belarus?; Human Rights Report 2005; Georgia") [#43007],  [ID 5462]

For documentation of individual cases please refer to the original document

"Following the factual independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, clear tensions have remained between the various sides involved in the conflicts. This reflects not only on an abstract political level, but also on the actual lives of people in the border areas and within the self-proclaimed republics. The existing unrest sometimes translates into actual incidents. One needs to be careful though, not to overstate the pure ethnic dimension of these occurrences. For instance, there is evidence of the operation of quite some multi-ethnic criminal groupings that take advantage of the unstable situation.
The presence of Russian peacekeeping forces adds some strain, as their purpose is rather clear. With Russia having its interest vested in the protection of the regions, any forceful solution for the return of the areas into Georgian hands, as was attempted by Saakashvili in 2004 in South Ossetia, would be of little avail and could only increase tensions with all of the entailing consequences. Fostering the development of the rest of the country and pursuing a policy of good relations would be far more fruitful and peaceful. […] As soon as Georgia would have something to offer to the regions, the chance of their reorientation towards it would greatly increase. Pushing for reunification at this stage is bound only to increase the atmosphere of threat, which might lead to very undesirable results."

Document(s): Open document

30.11.2005 - Source: Council of Europe - Secretary General

Resolution was adopted to withdraw Russian peacekeepers from Abkhazia before July 2006 if their performance does not improve ("Reports from the Council of Europe Field Offices and Other Outposts; October 2005 [SG/Inf(2005) 22]") [#40207],  [ID 5463]

"54. On 11 October the Georgian Parliament approved unanimously, with a 143-0 vote, a resolution which instructs the Georgian government to take measures to prepare for the withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers from the South Ossetia before 2006 and Abkhazia before July 2006 if the performance of the peacekeeping forces does not improve before February 2006 and July 2006 in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, respectively."

Document(s): Open document

30.11.2005 - Source: ReliefWeb

During his visit in Georgia, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan addressed Georgia`s relations with Abkhazia; President Saakashvili called UN to play more active role in conflict resolution ("Georgia: Humanitarian and development update Nov 2005 (United Nations Country Team in Georgia)") [#40514],  [ID 5464]

"Kofi Annan Makes Unexpected Visit in Georgia

On 19 November, the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan made a brief surprise visit to Georgia en route to New York from Islamabad, Pakistan. In his remarks to journalists and onlookers, Annan and the President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili addressed Georgia’s relations with the separatist leadership of Abkhazia and emphasized the need for both Abkhaz and Georgians to observe the rule of law. Kofi Annan praised Georgian President for the accomplishments his administration has achieved in a relatively short period of time. Annan also reiterated that the UN will sustain its efforts to achieve a lasting peace settlement in the breakaway region of Abkhazia.

President expressed his extreme frustration with the current situation in Abkhazia and called UN to play a more active role in the conflict resolution process, touching upon the recent aggravation of security situation involving a murder and abductions of ethnic Georgians in Abkhazia’s predominantly ethnic Georgian district of Gali."

Document(s): Open document

19.10.2005 - Source: UN Security Council

Abkhazia: Georgia protested against Abkhaz military exercises in August 2005; Georgian Parliament adopted resolution providing for withdrawal of peacekeeping forces from Abkhazia in 2006; supplemental agreement to Status of Mission Agreement between the UN and Georgia was ratified ("Report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Abkhazia, Georgia [S/2005/657]") [#38393],  [ID 5465]

For details please refer to the original document

"13. In other developments, the Georgian side protested the large-scale Abkhaz military exercises held from 15 to 19 August, drawing attention to the impact of what it called the militarization of and outside support for such activities in the conflict-ridden regions of Georgia. For its part, the Abkhaz side continued to question the peaceful intentions of Tbilisi and reiterated its intention to seek closer relations with the Russian Federation. In his statement to the General Assembly on 15 September, President Saakashvili appealed to the United Nations to put an end to “the forcible annexation of Abkhazia” and expressed his hope that Georgia and the Russian Federation would cooperate in the peaceful settlement of conflicts in Georgia. On 11 October, the Parliament of Georgia adopted a resolution providing for the possible start of the withdrawal of peacekeeping forces from the Georgian- South Ossetian and Georgian-Abkhaz conflict zones during 2006.
[...]
31. A long-standing issue was brought to conclusion when the Parliament of Georgia ratified on 16 July the supplemental agreement to the 1994 Status of Mission Agreement between the United Nations and the Government of Georgia."

Document(s): Open document

14.10.2005 - Source: ReliefWeb

According to US envoy, not enough progress was made in resolving conflicts over Georgia’s South Ossetia and Abkhazia regions ("Georgia: Progress urged in resolving South Ossetia, Abkhazia conflicts"), Autor: United States Department of State [ID 15422]

Document(s): Open document

09.09.2005 - Source: BBC News

According to president Mikheil Saakashvili Russia supports militarization of breakaway South Ossetia and Abkhazia ("Saakashvili Accuses Russia of Militarizing Breakaway Regions") [#42516],  [ID 5466]

Document(s): Open document

30.08.2005 - Source: ReliefWeb

Abkhazia: Abkhaz leader Sergey Bagapsh instructed security officials to eradicate incidents of "illegal entry and presence of foreign citizens, including Georgians" into Abkhazia ("Georgia: Bagapsh demands ‘strict control’ on entry into Abkhazia"), Autor: United Nations Association of Georgia [ID 15426]

Document(s): Open document

15.08.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Abkhazia holds major military drill in a show of force towards Tbilisi ("Abkhazia Holds Major Military Drill") [#35386],  [ID 5467]

Document(s): Open document

04.08.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Officials from Georgia and Abkhazia meet for security talks in Tbilisi ("Georgia, Abkhazia Hold Talks") [#34861],  [ID 4561]

Document(s): Open document

04.08.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Officials from Georgia and Abkhazia meet for security talks in Tbilisi ("Georgia, Abkhazia Hold Talks") [#34861],  [ID 5468]

Document(s): Open document

01.08.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

President calls international community to help his government peacefully settle conflict in breakaway republic of Abkhazia ("Georgian Leader Seeks International Help In Abkhazia") [#34731],  [ID 5469]

Document(s): Open document

21.07.2005 - Source: BBC News

15 Georgians were detained by Abkhazian militias in Tsalenjikha district which is at administrative border between breakaway Abkhazia and rest of Georgia ("Dozen of Georgians Detained in Abkhaz Conflict Zone") [#42698],  [ID 5470]

Document(s): Open document

07.07.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Abkhaz leader Bagapsh ready for talks with Georgian officials 'on equal terms' ("Abkhaz Leader Ready For Talks 'On Equal Terms'") [#33832],  [ID 4563]

Document(s): Open document

07.07.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Abkhaz leader Bagapsh ready for talks with Georgian officials 'on equal terms' ("Abkhaz Leader Ready For Talks 'On Equal Terms'") [#33832],  [ID 5471]

Document(s): Open document

02.04.2005 - Source: Civil Georgia

Driver injured when gunmen attacked convoy of Abkhaz de facto Prime Minister Alexander Ankvab; it was second assassination attempt against him over last 2 months ("Abkhaz PM Attacked Again") [#43251],  [ID 5472]

Document(s): Open document

21.03.2005 - Source: Civil Georgia

Zugdidi region: 4 Russian peacekeepers detained by Georgian law enforcers in Ganmukhuri ("Four Russian Peacekeepers Detained in Georgia other » News «") [#43268],  [ID 5473]

Document(s): Open document

16.03.2005 - Source: Civil Georgia

Abkhaz artillery opened fire on Georgian ships near Eshera; after two shots Georgian ships retreated ("Abkhaz Defense Minister: Abkhaz Artillery Opened Fire on Georgian Ships") [#43267],  [ID 5474]

Document(s): Open document

01.03.2005 - Source: Civil Georgia

Unknown gunmen opened fire on convoy of Abkhaz de facto Prime Minister Alexander Ankvab; noone was injured ("Reports: Abkhaz PM Survives Assassination Attempt") [#43258],  [ID 5475]

Document(s): Open document

31.01.2005 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Abkhazia: President Saakashvili ready to resume talks with the separatist republic; he offered expanded autonomy and guarantees on rights of residents of all nationalities living in Abkhazia ("Georgia Says It's Ready To Negotiate With Abkhazia") [#28699],  [ID 5476]

Document(s): Open document

11.06.2004 - Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Abkhazia: Foreign minister of unrecognized republic of Abkhazia rejected offer of "a state entity within Georgia with maximum powers" ("Analysis: Abkhazia Rejects New Georgian Peace Plan") [#23232],  [ID 5506]

Document(s): Open document

26.05.2004 - Source: BBC News

Georgian President prepared to offer "special status" to the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia to help ease tensions ("Georgia offers peace to regions") [#22588],  [ID 5508]

"Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili says he is prepared to offer "special status" to the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia to help ease tensions.
Speaking at an Independence Day rally, he said he was ready to begin peace talks over any federal state model acceptable to the breakaway regions.
[...]
Speaking in the Ossetian and Abkhaz languages, he said: "For the first time, I would like to address the issue of a special status, and to guarantee all rights for security to our brothers."

Document(s): Open document