24 april 2013

Alexander Khloponin speaks at a meeting of the Russian-Abkhaz Intergovernmental Commission on Socioeconomic Cooperation

Participants:

Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the North Caucasus Federal District Alexander Khloponin spoke on the need to create a transparent planning and financial reporting system for Russia's material assistance to Abkhazia.

"The most important condition is to establish a modern and transparent planning and financial reporting system for spending funds. Our common interest is to form an effective legal space," he said.

Alexander Khloponin said that the relations between the two countries are developing dynamically and are characterised by close partnership.

"Russia has been extending aid for reconstruction of the Republic of Abkhazia since 2009. In 2010-2012, social facilities, transport and other infrastructure facilities were reconstructed and built, and interregional links are developing dynamically. Between August and November 2012, Russia conducted a health examination of the whole Abkhaz population. Over 30 Russian regions have agreements on cooperation with Abkhazia," he said.

The participants in the meeting of the Russian-Abkhaz Intergovernmental Commission summed up the results of the 2010–2012 comprehensive plan for the socioeconomic development of Abkhazia, discussed the 2013-2015 draft investment programme and discussed the issue on extending Russian financial support to Abkhazia, including additional funds for some events in 2013.