Zaman, Turkey
Aug 22 2004
Russia’s ‘Ambiguous’ Caucasus Policy Worries Georgia
Georgia continues to try and find a common language with Russia after
relations between the two countries became strained because of the
crises in Georgia’s Abkhazia, Adzharia, and South Ossetia; however,
Tbilisi is concerned that Moscow does not have a clear policy for the
Southern Caucasus.
International Abkhazia Initiative Group President David Cabaridze
spoke to Zaman about the situation. “Russia does not have a clear
policy in the Southern Caucasus. Is stability or instability needed
there? On one side, they say they support the territorial integrity
of Georgia. On the other side they support the separatist movements
against Georgia.”
Cabaridze, who is also a Russian citizen, claims that there is no
clear attitude among the Russian Foreign Ministry, Russian Defense
Ministry and intelligence institutions. “We never know with whom we
will sit and speak. The Russian President calls it a ‘usual’ thing;
however, the others act differently. It is impossible to reach a
consensus.”
Cabaridze indicated that even though Russia’s ambiguous policies
pushed Georgia closer to the West, a stable Georgia is one of
Russia’s objectives. According to Cabaridze, a stable Georgia would
allow Russia to establish a railway link to its ally Armenia. A
stable Georgia would also serve as an example for the rest of the
Caucasus.
Cabaridze pointed out that the international community has come to
Georgia’s aid. “For example, the boots of our soldiers are from
Turkey, and their uniforms, worth 9 million euros, are from Italy.
The UK, Romania, Bulgaria, Israel and the US also help. We do not
conceal this.” Russian sources report that the Georgian army will be
equipped with Israeli made Tavors instead of the classic Kalashnikov
(AK-47).
Cabaridze explains that the problems in the region could be solved
through a determined attitude of Russia. On the other side, Russian
President Vladimir Putin maintains that the problems of the Caucasus
could be solved through mutual concessions.
08.22.2004
Mirza Cetinkaya