All news

Russia is satisfied relations with Georgia begin to normalize — Lavrov

Russia and Georgia may begin talks on easing visa restrictions only after the two countries’ law enforcement agencies will streamline collaboration in security, Russian Foreign Minister said

MUNICH, February 18. /TASS/. Russia is satisfied that relations with Georgia begin to normalize, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters on sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on Saturday.

"We are satisfied that the relationship has begun to normalize at last and trade is growing," Lavrov said.

Russia and Georgia may begin talks on easing visa restrictions only after the two countries’ law enforcement agencies will streamline collaboration in security, Lavrov said.

"In regard to visa-free travel, (I would say) it is a rather knotty issue as it does not refer to just diplomatic relations. Although, it is a bit strange to lift visas when such (relations) do not exist," Lavrov said. "Apart from this, it is connected to the need to ensure security when both Central Asia and South Caucasus become route militants and extremists are trying to use."

"When we streamline cooperation between Russian and Georgian law enforcing agencies, when these risks can be eliminated by both sides, we will be able to talk about easing of visa restrictions," he said.