International Relations
Abkhazia is an independent republic which seeks recognition from and normal relations with its neighbors and all nations. Russia recognized Abkhazia's independence on August 26, 2008 and Nicaragua followed a week later. On August 29, 2009, they were joined by Venezuela.
Georgia's long history of aggression toward independent Abkhazia has complicated the republic's efforts to normalize international relations. Georgia refuses to recognize Abkhazia as an independent state and maintains a puppet Abkhaz "government in exile" as a way to undermine Abkhaz statehood. Most of the world has succumbed to pressure from Georgia and refused to grant Abkhazia official status.
However, Abkhazia will continue seeking integration with the west and expanded relations with the European Union. The government of Abkhazia is confident that its recent history of building trade and cultural links with Europe are establishing a foundation for a more robust economic and political partnership in the future.
Abkhazia also seeks to protect the rights of its international diaspora, including the right of all Abkhazians to return to their homeland.
