Diplomatic Relations with Russia Cannot Be Restored - Kobakhidze

Georgia does not intend to restore full diplomatic relations with Russia as long as Moscow recognizes the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This was stated by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

“As long as the so-called recognition by Russia is a fact, diplomatic relations, of course, will not be restored. Our goal regarding the Russian Federation is the peaceful resolution of the conflict,” he said.

Kobakhidze emphasized that the peaceful resolution of the conflict is one of Georgia's foreign policy priorities.

Georgia severed diplomatic relations with Russia on September 2, 2008, following Moscow's recognition of the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. However, consular relations between the countries have been maintained.