Having read the statement by the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which welcomed the latest, 32-nd Consolidated Report of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, I would like to note the following.
The Republic of Abkhazia is not a member of the Council of Europe and, accordingly does not comment on its internal documentation. However, we cannot ignore official Tbilisi's constant attempts to exploit any international forum to advance an openly Russophobic and anti-Abkhaz agenda, which, apparently, is reflected in the aforementioned report.
Traditionally, such documents cited by the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs employ biased and objective terminology imposed by the Georgian side. The use of labels such as "occupation" is not only untrue but also demonstrates a complete disregard for historical and political realities. The Republic of Abkhazia is a sovereign and independent state, the will of whose people has been repeatedly confirmed in popular referendums. Our statehood was forged in battle during the Georgian aggression imposed on us in 1992-1993, and in August 2008, the final legal and political settlement on our status was reached.
Instead of building its policy on the basis of sovereignty and equality, Georgia continues to pursue a policy of international isolation for the Abkhaz people that has lasted for over 30 years, blocking any opportunities for their direct representation on the international stage. Meanwhile, Abkhazia consistently advocates for de-escalation, refraining from hostile rhetoric and offering practical cooperation on a wide range of issues, including guarantees of non-resumption of hostilities and humanitarian issues.
Attempts to portray Russia, the main guarantor of peace and stability in our region, in a negative light are counterproductive. It is thanks to its strategic partnership and alliance with the Russian Federation that the Republic of Abkhazia ensures its sustainable socioeconomic development, security, and progressive progress, as eloquently demonstrated by the ongoing and planned joint programs.
The statement by the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is yet another propaganda moves aimed at distorting of the real situation and distracting from the core of the issue—the need to recognize the existence of an independent Republic of Abkhazia.
Documents drafted under pressure from Georgian diplomacy cannot be considered objective, as they are based on false premises and a biased interpretation of events.
The Republic of Abkhazia will continue to firmly and consistently defend its statehood, deepen its strategic partnership with countries that have recognized it, and develop international ties, despite the ongoing blockade by Georgia and its Western backers.
We call on the international community, and in particular structures such as the Council of Europe, to finally pay attention not to one-sided and politicized statements, but to the genuine efforts of the Abkhaz side to build a prosperous and democratic state open to equal and respectful dialogue with all international partners.