Black Sea Peacebuilding Network

Report of eighth meeting of the representatives of NGOs and independent experts 

15.06.2010

On 15th June 2010, at GFSIS office the 8th meeting of experts within the Georgian component of Black Sea Peace Network project was held.

Project is implemented with the support of the Ministry of Exterior of Finland and in collaboration with Crisis Management Initiative.

At the meeting two representatives of the experts work group: Irakli Menagharishvili (Strategic Research Center) and Tornike Sharashenidze (Institute of Public Affairs of Georgia) made the presentations.

I. Menagharishvili, in his report – Russian-Georgian relations: Diplomatic Deadlock and Seeking the Way Out – considered Georgian-Russian conflict within the general context of the processes resulting from decomposition of the Soviet Union. In his opinion, irrespective of the heavy situation, Georgian government should seek the ways for negotiations with Russia. At the first stage the consultations between the informal actors should be conducted, though the government should stimulate such meetings. (See below full version of the report)

Tornike Sharashenidze, in his report – Russian-Georgian Conflict: Causes, Results, Prospects – emphasized the fact that Georgian and Russian societies do not know one another. Their interests and aspirations are often interpreted incorrectly. Any changes are perceived inadequately in both countries and the responses are often wrong as well. (See below full versions of the report)

After Irakli Menagharishviliu’s report Zurab Abashidze and Lasha Tughushi expressed their opinions. The later stated that in relations with Russia Georgia should be free of internal political context and that for dealing with this problem globally, primarily, rapid transformation of our country into democratic and prosperous society is of critical importance.

After Tornike Sharashenidze’s report Zurab Shengelia, Alexander Rusetski, Lasha Tughushi and Gocha Gvaramia expressed their opinions. Z. Shengelia stated that it is significant to properly understand internal logic and motivation of Russia’s actions. In his opinion, Abkhazia and Osetia comprise significant component and aspect of its internal policies. A. Rusetski stated that the issues of Georgian-Russian relations, on one hand and relations between Georgia and Russia on he other should be clearly distinguished. L. Tughushi stated that possibility of modernization of Russia is questionable and this, in his opinion, should directly impact exterior political priorities of the country. G. Gvaramia widely discussed the issue of policies to be implemented towards Russia stating that rhetoric should not be excessively used, that Europe should be involved in the relations and that fostering of positive views about Georgia among Russian society should be commenced. In his opinion, relations with the Abkhazian elite are of significance as well. Finally, T. Sharashenidze concluded the it is necessary that our society was able to gain sound perception and understanding of the history.