Recognition of the Independence of Abkhazia

We, members of the General Assembly of the European Abkhaz-Abaza diaspora, appeal to you by way of requesting that the independence of the Republic of Abkhazia be recognised.

The European Abkhaz-Abaza diaspora, which numbers over 20,000 persons, has been and remains firmly convinced that the arguments of the international community in favour of recognising Kosovo to a large degree can serve in favour of the recognition of Abkhazia, which possesses even greater historical, legal and moral rights to recognition.

Abkhazia, which can boast a democratically elected president, a parliament, a constitution, state- and social institutions, as well as a millennium and a half’s experience of its own statehood, conforms to all the criteria of an independent state recognised by international law.

Regardless of the now established precedent of Kosovo and of whether the said example is unique or not, Abkhazia has the right to be recognised as well as the right to be a full member of the international community.

On the basis of what has been set out above, we urge you to demonstrate your commitment to international justice and recognise the independence of the Republic of Abkhazia.

On behalf of the European Abkhaz-Abaza diaspora,

Member of the Executive of the International Association of the Abkhaz-Abaza People,

Zeki Kap

The Honorary Representative for the Republic of Abkhazia in the UK,

Professor George Hewitt FBA