Abkhazia Reiterates Call for a Non-Use of Force Agreement at Geneva Talks
Geneva Talks bring representatives from Russia, Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia to the negotiating table.
SUKHUM / AQW’A — The 63rd round of the International Geneva Discussions on Security and Stability in the South Caucasus took place on 4–5 March at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Delegations from Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Russia, Georgia, the United States, and representatives of international organisations including the UN, EU, and OSCE participated in the negotiations.
The Abkhaz delegation was led by Acting Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Odissay Bigvava, alongside officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a member of the Abkhazian Parliament, Batal Dzhopua.
Abkhazia reiterated its firm position on the necessity of signing a legally binding agreement on the non-use of force between Georgia and Abkhazia, as well as between Georgia and South Ossetia. Abkhaz and South Ossetian representatives emphasised that without such a document, lasting security and stability in the region remain uncertain.
Participants acknowledged the relatively stable security situation on the ground. There was a shared interest in resuming the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in the town of Gal. The Abkhaz side welcomed any initiatives aimed at unblocking the work of the IPRM to facilitate dialogue and reduce tensions.
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Abkhaz and South Ossetian representatives maintained their position that discussions on the return of refugees would not be feasible until the issue is removed from the agenda of the UN General Assembly. Additionally, the Abkhaz delegation raised concerns about restrictions on the international movement of Abkhaz passport holders. The talks included discussions on future efforts to address these limitations, with plans for an expert-led information session and the formation of a working group at the next round.
All parties reaffirmed their commitment to continuing the Geneva Discussions, recognising the platform’s potential in addressing regional concerns. The next round, the 64th session, is scheduled for the second half of June 2025.