Putin Says Abkhaz Conflict Should Be Settled with Respect of Georgia’s Territorial Integrity

(Tbilisi. March 7, 2003. Civil Georgia) – Conflict in Abkhazia should be solved “with respect of the Georgia’s territorial integrity” and rights of multiethnic population of Abkhazia, Russian President Putin said after the talks with his Georgian counterpart Eduard Shevardnadze today.

Putin stated that the talks, in which Abkhaz de facto Prime-Minister Genadi Gagulia also participated, were “positive.”

Russian media sources report quoting Vladimir Putin that the safe return of IDPs should be secured.

Russian President also said that the issues of return of IDPs in Gali district and resumption of Sochi-Tbilisi railway link, via Abkhazia were discussed during the talks with Eduard Shevardnadze as well.

Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze said that he has “good relations with Russian President that would enhance cooperation.”

After the talks Russian and Georgian Presidents adopted a joint statement.

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