Georgia Denies Talks are Held with Russia on Joint Operation in Pankisi

(Tbilisi, February 19, Civil Georgia) – Georgian Internal Affairs Minister Koba Narchemashvili denied reports that Russia and Georgia are holding negotiations on joint military operation in Pankisi gorge.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov stated that Georgia negotiates with Russia on the issue on February 18.

Earlier on February 18 President Shevardnadze ruled out possibility of joint operation with Russia or any other country in Pankisi gorge to crackdown on criminals and terrorist harboring there.

Four policemen are still detained by the kidnappers in Pankisi gorge abducted on February 17. Kidnappers demand release of drug dealer arrested by the police.

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