Recently Moscow hosted a round-table devoted to the Russian-Abkhazian relations in a new reality. The president of the World Congress of Abkhaz-Abazin Peoples, co-chairman of the Russian Congress of the Caucasus Peoples, Taras Shamba, the research scientist of the Institute of the political and social research of the Black-Caspian region, Andrey Areshev, and the coordinator of the working group of the Research Centre of the Caucasus, the Central Asia, the Ural and the Volga region under the Institute of Oriental Studies, Alexander Skakov expressed their point of view on prospects between Moscow and Sukhumi. In this article is a view if Alexander Skakov on property issues, citizenship and prospects of recognition.
On Russian-Abkhazian relations
Both Russia and Abkhazia should understand that Abkhazia is not a part of Russia. Abkhazia should rely on itself; it should implement its potential, develop economy, and stop hoping Moscow will give it money. Abkhazia owns rich resources. Many talented people live there, who can develop the republic by themselves. Of course, security guarantees should be provided by Russia.
There are no deep problems between Russia and Abkhazia. The property issue is not easy, but it can be solved. It is about separate cases relevant not only to Abkhazians, Russians, but also to representatives of other ethnic groups. The problem is that it can lead to the snowball effect, when questions are being accumulated and no answers are being given. Sometimes it seems problems are imposed artificially to spoil of relations. There is also a problem of joint defense of the border between Abkhazia and Georgia; the problem of border between Russia and Abkhazia near Aibga village; the problem of the military health resort; the problem of the Abkhaz Church.
Moreover, the situation at the Russian-Azerbaijani border is a disaster. Why does the mess take place there? People spend hours in queues under the flaming sun. In summer number of people increases dramatically, and at the same time one of bridges is closed. It is worse than stupidity.
On prospects of recognition
I think this process will be rather slow. Some countries are ready to recognize Abkhazian independence, but they want some financing benefits for it. I don’t think striving for it is reasonable.
At the same time positive dynamic is seen. There are changes in attitude of the EU and the US toward Abkhazia. They begin to understand Abkhazia is independent forever. However, Brussels and Washington still cannot refuse from supporting of Georgian integrity. The dilemma prevents further recognition of Abkhazia. But progress is obvious. I think someday, maybe 5 years later, Abkhazia will be recognized by many countries, including European states. The main point is positive development of Abkhazia and Russian-Abkhazian relations.
On the other hand, the situation in the world is unstable. There are two factors, which influence its stability. First is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. It comes to dangerous line, and burst in this region of the Caucasus will echoes in other regions of the world. Second is intensive changing of the role of Turkey in the region. Turkey is a serious player. It is a serious factor for Abkhazia as well. These two factors can speed up or slow down the process of recognition of Abkhazia.
On Diaspora
Moscow should use all opportunities, which we have. I remind you one of missed opportunities. After the Russian-Georgian war and recognition of Abkhazia, the Caucasian Diaspora had very positive attitude to Russia. However, Russia did nothing to use this potential to improve its influence in Turkey and the Middle East countries. Such opportunities shouldn’t be missed.
On the border
It is understood that defense will be provided mutually by Russian and Abkhazian border guards, as Russian border guards sometimes don’t know local peculiarities and find themselves face to face with local population. Problems can be various. It is important to settle these problems together. It will be an advantage either for Russia, and Abkhazia.
On internal political situation in Abkhazia
Abkhazia has always had strong opposition and civil society, especially strong non-governmental organizations. The opposition remains. We see that many people voted for Raul Khadzhimba. About 20% always vote for him. This opposition is involved in the system of relations with Abkhazia. The opposition is not radical, but constructive. I think the situation will develop within democracy limits.
VK
