Mikhail Saakashvili: Adjaria has always been main support for Georgia

At the close of talks between Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili and Adjarian leader Aslan Abashidze at Abashidze's residence in Batumi today, Saakashvili stepped out onto the balcony and gave a short speech. He emphasized that there was 'no conflict between Georgia and Adjaria.'

'Adjaria has always been the main support for Georgia and with it begins the union of the nation,' he said. Saakashvili added that democratic elections would be conducted in the autonomous republic. He ended his speech saying 'to a free and united Georgia!' Several thousand supporters welcomed him with an ovation and cries of 'Misha! Misha!' Then Abashidze escorted Saakashvili to the airport. Abashidze told journalists that all questions had been decided. He declined to comment further.