Abkhaz Government Chairman Pays Tribute to Victims of 2008 Russia-Georgia War

Chairman of the Government of the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia Giorgi Jincharadze has paid tribute to those killed in the 2008 Russia-Georgia war.

Jincharadze, accompanied by members of the Abkhaz government and lawmakers from the Supreme Council, visited the Mukhatgverdi Brothers’ Cemetery to honour the memory of those who lost their lives in the conflict.

“The 2008 Russia-Georgia war is one of the most painful tragedies in our recent history. We honour the memory of all the heroes, servicemen and civilians who sacrificed their lives for the unity of our homeland,” Jincharadze said.

“Today, it is especially important to preserve national unity, strengthen the state and continue our efforts, through peaceful policies based on international law, to restore Georgia’s territorial integrity and achieve the de-occupation of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region.

“We believe that the dignified return of displaced people to their homes and the reunification of the country are goals that we will achieve through consistent and principled policies,” he added.

The president, prime minister, parliament speaker, Tbilisi mayor, representatives of the executive and legislative branches, and members of the diplomatic corps were also present at the memorial.

Eighteen years have passed since the 2008 Russia-Georgia war. The five-day conflict claimed the lives of more than 400 people, left 2,234 injured and displaced around 26,000 people.

State flags were lowered across Georgia on August 8 in tribute to those killed during the war.