Georgia not considering restoration of diplomatic ties with RussiaNovember 5, 2016 - 11:56 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Georgian Prime Minister's Special Representative for Relations with Russia Zurab Abashidze said on Friday, November 4 that Tbilisi does not consider restoration of diplomatic relations with neighboring Russia until there is significant progress regarding Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Georgia Today reports. Abashidze made the comments in response to remarks by Grigory Karasin, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, who told Russian news agency Ria Novosti on Thursday that despite Moscow's positive steps, the Georgian side is not ready to restore diplomatic ties with Russia yet. According to Abashidze, Russia has simplified visa regime with Georgia this year and the number of visas issued by them has increased significantly. However, he excludes restoration of diplomatic relations, "until some positive steps are made by the neighbouring country towards territorial integrity of Georgia." Karasin stated in his interview that Russia may introduce visa-free regime with Georgia, but Tbilisi's visa liberalization talks with the European Union should be taken into account. The ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party says Karasin’s statements cannot be followed by any consideration about restoration of diplomatic ties between the two countries. “There is no positive ground to start such talks; our political incompatibility is resulted due to Russia’s occupation of Georgian territories,” said member of majority, Gia Volsky. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |