Comments on: Bush, in Georgia, aims talk at Putin

By: Gavin Sheridan

Gavin Sheridan — Tue, 17 May 2005 22:01:06 +0000

I heard that story about Shah Abbass alright - but its brilliant to get your views on the situation Mari, it helps me and anybody else reading this.

By: mari

mari — Mon, 16 May 2005 14:41:48 +0000

ps.
Many in Iran speak Georgian not because of the country’s importance in the region, but because they are the descendants of those 200.000 Georgians (mostly from Kakheti) that Shah Abbass forcedly resettled in Iran (in Fereidahn privince- not sure about the correct spelling, sorry). They managed to retain the language, but ironically are considered to be the most devoted Muslims.

By: mari

mari — Mon, 16 May 2005 14:33:25 +0000

I agree, Saakashvili did stake his presidency largely on the territorial issues. But despite the lack of tangible success in this regard, he did manage to bring back Ajara, which was gradually slipping away. This was a certain blow to Russian interests. (note, they still have a military base in Batumi!)Many think that Russia will do anything not to let the same happen with South Ossetia. After that everything would be lost for Russia in the region. But as for the chances for re-election- as of right now Saakashvili has no credible opposition. He can still secure victory for himself and his party by boasting around with the changes regarding Police, the budget growth-which by the way does not look sustainable, and ‘reuniting’ the country.
As for the strategic location- Shevardnadze thought that this and his personal connections and reputation of a champion of democracy would be enough to compell Russia to stay within the rules of the game- i.e. the international law limitations. But of course Russia could not care less about IL, and the west about Georgia. They all admired great food and wine and the mountains, but did not want to sore the relations with Moscow just because of that. I’m afraid Saakashvili is harboring the same illusions.