Talks begin between Mikhail Saakashvili and Aslan Abashidze in Batumi

Talks have begun between Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili and Adjarian leader Aslan Abashidze in Batumi. Rosbalt reports that the fate of journalists who were detained by security forces near Batumi is unknown. According to unofficial reports, Saakashvili was not allowed to bring one of his bodyguards to Abashidze's residence where the talks are being held because Saakashvili was only allowed a maximum of two bodyguards. The building is being patrolled by troops of the Adjarian internal affairs ministry. Overall, the situation in the city is tense.