Azerbaijan, Baku, 15 May /corr. Trend A.Gasimova / The USA calls on Russia to give up its provocative steps with regard to Georgia and to co-operate with Washington in the problem of Abkhazia. "We urge Moscow to repeal the recent provocative steps it has taken and work with us to provide all parties a sense of security," the US Assistant Secretary of State, Matthew Bryza, reported to Trend on 15 May.
In April Moscow highlighted its intentions to make contribution to population of unrecognized republic. In addition, recently Russia increased the number of the peacekeeping contingent up to the level being specified in the relevant agreements on the Georgian-Abkhazian conflict settlement and it caused sharp critics by Tbilisi.
"The situation in Abkhazia, Georgia remains serious. The way forward is direct talks between Tbilisi and Sukhumi to develop a common view of how to resolve the conflict," Bryza said.
Russia and all the Friends of the UN Secretary General have a key role to play in encouraging the parties in this regard, the US diplomat said.
After collapse of the USSR, Abkhazia which was part of Georgia SSR announced its independence. In August 1992, Georgia brought troops to Abkhazia, but faced armed resistance. The armed conflict where Georgia lost control on Abkhazia ended on 30 August 1993. Since then, Abkhazia has been insisting on its independence. Tbilisi suggests it large autonomy as part of Georgia.
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