Georgian FM protests at Russia's decision to scrap visa restrictions with Adzharia

The Georgian Ministry is unhappy about an agreement between Russia and Adzharia to simplify visa restrictions for Russians traveling to Adzharia and Georgians permanently resident in Adzharia traveling to Russia. This agreement came into effect today.

As Rosbalt reports, Deputy Georgian Foreign Minister Kakha Sakharulidze released a statement from the ministry today which claims that Russia introduced simpler visa regulations with the Adzharian autonomous republic without consulting the Georgian government beforehand. Such actions are 'difficult for Georgia to understand.'

The statement also says that the introduction of new visa regulations is interference in Georgia's internal affairs and a violation of political ethics. Russia's decision contradicts the country's official position in relation to Georgia, which has been described as friendly, neighborly and equitable. It also goes against announcements by the Russian government that it plans to start new and better relations with Georgia. The Georgian Foreign Ministry claims this move is a rude insult to the sovereignty of Georgia.