A representative of the de facto authorities in Georgia’s occupied region of Abkhazia has responded to a recent statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia concerning political developments in Venezuela.
Odisei Bigvava, the so-called deputy minister of foreign affairs of occupied Abkhazia, stated that the region “does not view international recognition as an end in itself,” commenting on Georgia’s expectation that recent events in Venezuela could lead to the revocation of its decision to recognize Georgia’s occupied territories.
Bigvava claimed that the primary focus of the de facto authorities is on strengthening local institutions, ensuring sustainable socio-economic development, maintaining security, and expanding diplomatic contacts “based on mutual respect and equality.” He claimed that support from the Russian Federation and other “friendly states” contributes to stability and development in Abkhazia, while asserting that such support does not replace the will of the local population.
Bigvava also dismissed references to a “policy of non-recognition,” arguing that such statements lack legal grounds and do not contribute to a constructive regional atmosphere.
“At the same time, we are ready to carefully and responsibly consider any signals that indicate a desire for a more pragmatic and realistic approach to regional policy,” he said. “The Republic of Abkhazia once again reaffirms its commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence, good-neighborly relations, and respect for international law. We are open to developing dialogue and cooperation with interested states, including Georgia, provided that the principles of equality, mutual respect, and recognition of objectively established political and legal realities are upheld.”
The remarks came in response to a recent statement by Georgia’s Foreign Ministry, which said Tbilisi is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela and expressed hope that the ongoing political processes there would lead to the revocation of Venezuela’s decision to recognize Georgia’s occupied regions.
“Given that the Venezuelan authorities recognized Georgia’s occupied regions of Abkhazia and the so-called South Ossetia as independent states in gross violation of international law, we express hope that recent developments will lead to the revocation of this unlawful decision, in line with Georgia’s national interests and the principles of international law,” the Georgian Foreign Ministry stated.
Georgia considers Abkhazia and South Ossetia to be integral parts of its sovereign territory under Russian occupation following the 2008 Russia-Georgia war. The overwhelming majority of the international community supports Georgia’s territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders and views the recognition of the occupied regions by Venezuela and a small number of other states as a violation of international law.
Related story: Georgia closely monitors developments in Venezuela, hopes for reversal of recognition of occupied regions
