De facto Abkhaz official: Abkhazia remains committed to independent statehood

Sergey Shamba, the head of the de facto security council of Georgia’s Russian- occupied Abkhazia region, has responded to recent statements by Georgia’s Prime Minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, regarding potential European integration by 2030 with the country’s currently occupied regions. 

Shamba emphasized that Abkhazia’s focus remains on consolidating its “own statehood” rather than engaging in discussions of confederation or cooperation with Georgia.

“They’ve harbored desires for our return for 30 years. It’s hardly surprising, given their foreign policy objectives. However, for Abkhazia, our paramount task is clear: to nurture and fortify our independent state,” Shamba asserted.

Acknowledging existing tensions, Shamba highlighted the “numerous unresolved issues” between Abkhazia and Georgia. Despite this, he made it clear that discussions regarding any form of collaboration with Georgia was not on the immediate agenda.

“While there may be many unresolved issues, we do not currently perceive the readiness for such discussions. Confederation or any other form of cooperation with Georgia is not a topic we are willing to entertain at this time,” Shamba affirmed.

Reflecting on past proposals, Shamba noted that Russia had suggested confederation relations with Georgia in 2008, prior to Abkhazia’s “recognition of independence.” However, the Abkhazian authorities declined the offer at the time.