President Margvelashvili condemns Russia proposed treaty with Abkhazia

A Kremlin proposed treaty on to enhance the relationship between Russia and Georgia’s breakaway region Abkhazia has been condemned by Georgia’s President Giorgi Margvelashvili. 

The so-called new treaty on ‘Alliance and Integration’ was considered by Margvelashvili as "a rude step against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia”. 

"Implementation of this kind of documents will deteriorate the security situation of the Black Sea basin and the Caucasus region,” Margvelashvili said at a special briefing today. 

The new treaty outlined joint cooperation with de-facto Abkhazia in defence and security, economic harmonisation with the Eurasian union, social protection and foreign policy issues. Georgian authorities condemned the proposed treaty believed such an agreement was a "violation” of the fundamental principles of international law and commitment.

Furthermore, Margvelashvili believed the new treaty was against the format and aspiration of the Geneva International Talks. 

"[The new draft treaty] is a threat to the defence of Georgia. In the case the treaty is implemented, it will worsen the humanitarian situation and protection of human rights. A real danger threatens Abkhazia’s future as an integral part of Georgia,” Margvelashvili said. 

The Georgian leader called for Georgia’s Parliament to discuss the situation and present its position as soon as possible.

"Based on this position, we invite the National Security Council and will plan further steps for stabilisation,” President said. 

Margvelashvili appealed to the international community to "promptly and adequately” assess the situation and expressed his belief that reaction should be taken to ensure Georgia’s sovereignty and independence.