Abkhazian Political and Civic Groups Issue Statement on Investment Agreement
SUKHUM / AQW'A — A coalition of political parties and civic organisations in Abkhazia has released a strong statement following the signing of an investment agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Abkhazia. This agreement, signed by Kristina Ozgan, Abkhazia's Vice-Premier and Minister of Economy, has sparked significant controversy and criticism, raising concerns about its impact on Abkhazia’s political situation and national interests.
Statement of the Parties and Civic Organisations Regarding the Signing of the Investment Activity Agreement in Abkhazia
The signing of the agreement by Kristina Ozgan between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Abkhazia is viewed as a cynical blow by President Aslan Bzhania against the fragile political situation in our country, and as a betrayal of the Abkhazian people, whose interests he swore to protect.
The citizens of the Republic of Abkhazia must be aware that Bzhania’s aim is to disrupt the upcoming presidential elections, as it is impossible for him to win them fairly. He has decided to hand over the Abkhazian state, earned through the blood and arduous trials of our brothers, sisters, and compatriots, to his oligarch friends, at the expense of the nation’s citizens.
When we reasonably proposed that these matters be presented to the public during the upcoming elections, Bzhania responded with an unyielding desire to push this agreement through at any cost, even at the price of severely escalating the socio-political situation in the country, willing to provoke conflict without regard for the consequences.
This does not surprise us, as he has never shown concern for our people, neither during the war nor during the blockade.
All responsibility for the future development of events rests solely on Aslan Bzhania.
Republican Political Party "Forum of National Unity of Abkhazia" (FNEA)
Republican Political Party "Apsny"
Republican Public Organisation "Aruaa"
Republican Public Organisation "Abkhazian People's Movement" (AND)
Republican Public Organisation "Our Capital"
Yesterday, Abkhazia and Russia signed an agreement enabling Russian legal entities to invest in the republic, according to Abkhazia’s Ministry of Economy. Signed by Vice-Premier Kristina Ozgan and Russia’s Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov, the deal sets mutual responsibilities and support measures for foreign investors.
Following this signing, Adgur Ardzinba criticised the agreement, stating that authorities intend to pressure Parliament into ratification, using potential sanctions as leverage. “This agreement, driven by the profit motives of select individuals, threatens local businesses and Abkhazia’s banking system. It serves everyone but the nation and its people,” Ardzinba said.