Sukhum/Agency Caucasus – Since Georgia started a war across the Caucasus when it attacked South Ossetia, Abkhazia’s way to independence was now cleared, Deputy Foreign Minister Maxim Gunjia of Abkhazia told Agency Caucasus.
The Abkhaz forces could now maintain control over the Kodor Gorge as well as the River Ingur without the aid of Russians after they drove the Georgian forces away, Gunjia said, added that Abkhazia would definitely rely on the support of North Caucasus if a possible threat arises in the future.
The following is a brief interview with Gunjia:
Can it now be said that Abkhazia has taken over the full control of Kodor Gorge and the frontier that stretches along the River Ingur between Abkhazia and Georgia?
Yes, we can maintain full control over the whole of Abkhazia, including the Kodor Gorge and Gal, a region near the frontier with Georgia.
Is there still a risk that Georgia will attack Abkhazia over again to reclaim the regions that it has lost control of?
There is always a risk that Georgia will try attacking Abkhazia over again. Over the recent years, we have made preparations to fight back. We have never trusted Georgia, and we will never trust it after what has happened to South Ossetia.
Can the Abkhaz forces maintain control over Kodor and the Ingur frontier without the aid of Russians?
Yes, we can still maintain the control without the aid of Russians. If, however, the Georgian army grows in size, then we will have to rely on the support of North Caucasus.
What is the situation with ethnic groups of Georgians in the region? Will new refugees be moved there from Abkhazia?
When the Abkhaz forces entered Kodor, there was nobody left there. We are, however, prepared to welcome them again. Those people who live in Gal have their own homes to live in; besides, many refugees have recently returned to Abkhazia from Georgia.
How do you comment on the ceasefire that was agreed upon after the European Union (EU) mediated it between the parties?
We are happy with what Russia offered with respect to the article sixth of the ceasefire that concerns the status of Abkhazia. In fact, our position is that we will not negotiate it, because we are determined to have a guaranteed status of independence.
Do you expect the international community to offer a new opportunity for Abkhazia to get recognized after the war ends? Can Moscow offer a new opportunity to Sukhum?
Yes, we are hoping that a new opportunity will gradually arise. There are more realist supporters of our independence now. We have eventually got our message across to the international community, I believe.
Thanks.
You are welcome…
FT
