Speaking in a live broadcast on Rustavi 2 television, Georgian State Minister for conflict resolution issues Goga Khaindrava said that no breakthrough in the Abkhazia conflict settlement is anticipated before presidential elections are held in the breakaway region. These elections are scheduled to be held in October.
He said that the Georgian side is hopeful that ?progressive forces? will take over power in Abkhazia as a result of these elections.
The Republic of Abkhazia, which is internationally unrecognized, will elect a new leader, as the ailing, current de facto President, Vladislav Ardzinba?s term of office expires this year.