Abkhaz parliament ratifies treaty with Russia

The parliament of Abkhazia has ratified by a majority vote a new Russian-Abkhaz treaty on strategic partnership and alliance. Voting was held open; out of 28 MPs, 23 voted "for", and 5 – "against".

The treaty provides for the common defence and creation of a joint armed grouping. Besides, the document ensures an increase of social standards in Abkhazia, including pensions, scholarships, and social and health insurance, the RIA "Novosti" reports.

According to the text of the treaty, Russia promised to "do everything possible to strengthen the international relations of the Republic of Abkhazia, including the expansion of the list of the states, which have officially recognized the breakaway republic," the TASS reports. Russia will also help Abkhazia to join international organizations and associations.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that the new Russian-Abkhaz treaty on partnership and alliance was signed on November 24 in Sochi by the Russian President Vladimir Putin and the President of Abkhazia Raul Khajimba. The Georgian party protested against the treaty; and the parliament adopted a statement "On Russia's attempt to annex Abkhazia".

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.