Abkhazia’s de-facto leader Aslan Bzhania recently spoke about the region’s relationship with Moscow in an interview with a local TV station on September 19. He addressed the recent cuts in funding from Russia and criticized those who oppose the implementation of the 2014 “treaty on alliance and strategic partnership” with Russia and its accompanying agreements.
Bzhania defended the controversial August 19 protocol from his meeting with Deputy Head of the Russian Presidential Administration Dmitry Kozak, which demanded Abkhazia to fulfill its obligations to Russia. He explained that after the protocol was issued, Abkhazia received a document from Russia stating that funding for certain categories of state employees would be suspended until the region fulfills its obligations under the agreements between Sokhumi and Moscow.
When asked about the impact of the funding cuts on Abkhazians, Bzhania acknowledged that it would affect many citizens, including teachers, healthcare workers, and cultural workers. He assured that the leadership is working to resolve the issue.
Bzhania also addressed the reason for the funding cuts, stating that they were a result of Abkhazia’s failure to fulfill its obligations to Russia under the 2014 “treaty on alliance and strategic partnership” signed by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Raul Khajimba. He emphasized that this treaty aimed to establish a new level of interstate relations, including coordinated foreign policy and a common defense area, as well as the creation of a common social-economic area. Bzhania stressed that this agreement is in the best interest of Abkhazia and cannot be avoided indefinitely.
He also spoke about the agreement on mutual recognition of arbitration court rulings, which he believes will open up opportunities for economic development and investment attraction. Bzhania acknowledged that Abkhazia’s economy is currently inefficient and has not been able to attract the necessary investments for development. He dismissed concerns about potential risks for Abkhazia, stating that the region can only receive investments from Russia and that investors will only come if there are favorable conditions.
In conclusion, Bzhania reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the provisions of the 2014 treaty and its accompanying agreements, as he believes it is in the best interest of the Abkhaz people. He also emphasized the importance of trusting the leadership of Russia, as they are Abkhazia’s only strategic partner.
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