Georgian politicians: Russia blackmailing Belarus

• 23.01.2009, 9:30

Georgia believes that a decision of the Belarusian MPs to consider recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia is a result of blackmailing by Russia.

This thought was expressed by Petre Tsiskarishvili, leader of the ruling party “United National Movement”, told in an interview to Rustavi2 broadcasting company.

“This country is under serious pressure and blackmail from Russia and if this country wants to join the international society and accept new western values, they should refuse to take such a decision,” he said.

The Belarusian MPs have already set a date when a question on recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia is to be considered. According to “MP” Valer Ivanou, a decision will be adopted at a session April 2.

It should be reminded that Russia recognized independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in late August, and has been forcing Belarus to do the same. However, official Minsk hasn’t taken this decision yet.

Alyaksandr Lukashenka left this question for the parliament, which postponed its consideration till the spring session.

It has been supposed by media that Russian gas prices for Belarus and an opportunity of getting another loan from Russia will depend on recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Belarus.