Tbilisi says negotiation format with Russia aimed at improving relations

Format of negotiations between the Special Representative of Georgian Prime Minister for Relations with Russia Zurab Abashidze and the Official Representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Grigory Karasin is aimed to improve relations with Russia, Georgian Foreign Minister Maia Panjikidze said at a press briefing on Thursday.

She stressed that this format is different from the Geneva talks, taking place with participation of international mediators.

"The format of Abashidze's meeting with the representative of Russian side is a direct bilateral dialogue, which is aimed at improving relations between Georgia and Russia," Panjikidze said.
Panjikidze also said that the further format and periodicity of negotiations is currently under consideration.

Abashidze has already left for Switzerland to meet with Karasin.

Military action was launched in the Georgian region of South Ossetia on Aug.8, 2008. Later Russian troops occupied the city of Tskhinvali and drove the Georgian military back. Russia recognised the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in late August.


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