Russia Concerned With Georgia’s Refusal to Hand Over Detained Chechens

(Tbilisi, Civil Georgia, August 8, 2002) – Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov told the reporters that the Georgia’s refusal to hand over Chechens, detained near the border with Chechnya questions Georgian authorities intentions to fight terrorism.

“Such an inconsistent policy of Georgia causes concern and raises the question – does Georgia really want to fight against terrorism or not?” Igor Ivanov said on August 7.

Georgia refused the Russian side to hand over detained Chechens. As the Georgina General Prosecutor says, Russia did not provide Georgia with the necessary documentation needed for the extradition.

“Georgia will not be able to crack down on terror only with statements. Russia is ready to provide Georgia with all kind of assistance to eradicate terrorism in Pankisi gorge,” Russian Foreign Minister said.