Georgia's Policy Towards Russia and the Conflict Regions

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Author(s): Ghia Nodia
Editor(s): Stephen Aris, Matthias Neumann, Robert Orttung, Jeronim Perovic, Heiko Pleines, Hans-Henning Schröder
Series: Russian Analytical Digest (RAD)
Issue: 68
Pages: 5-8
Publisher(s): Center for Security Studies (CSS), ETH Zurich; Research Centre for East European Studies, University of Bremen
Publication Year: 2009

After the August 2008 war, the line of confrontation between Tbilisi and Moscow is much more clear-cut, as all former ambiguity regarding Russia's role in Abkhazia and South Ossetia has been removed by Russia's occupation and subsequent recognition of these two territorial entities. There are no direct diplomatic relations between the two sides, and Moscow is not ready to talk to the Georgian government as long as Saakashvili remains president. Under these circumstances, Georgia's maneuvering room vis-à-vis Russia is limited and, at least for the moment, trying to improve relations with Russia is pointless. Georgia should instead seek to develop its internal political institutions in order to make them more stable and effective, and also continue to democratize these institutions. At the same time, Georgia should seek closer relations with Western states and international organizations, as such ties will enhance its security. Finally, Georgia should strive to reestablish links to the peoples of Abkhazia and South Ossetia regardless of the current political situation.

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