"If certain political forces attempt to organize actions in the area surrounding the Russian military base in Batum in order to accelerate its withdrawal from Georgia, then such actions will fuel the destabilization of Adjaria. The authorities of the region will not tolerate this," he said.
Moreover, the Adjari Prime Minister noted that Russian military bases provide employment to a significant number of local inhabitants. Mr. Meladze does not rule out the possibility that tension may arise between the local population and political forces that may attempt to organize destabilizing actions on the territory of Adjaria.
"The decision on the withdrawal of Russian military forces is the prerogative of the central powers of Georgia. In order for this to happen, Tbilisi must sit down to the round table with Russia. Such problems are not and cannot be resolved through political action " Mr. Meladze stressed.
Nodar Notadze, leader of the Georgian Popular Front Party, demanded at a press conference on Monday the immediate withdrawal of Russian military forces from the territory of Georgia. In his opinion, political parties and the people of Georgia have the right to undertake any necessary measure to force the withdrawal of Russian troops.
According to a source from the Russian government, the Foreign Ministry RF is preparing a "harsh demarche to Georgia for the provocative and vehement anti-Russian pronouncements" of the Popular Front Party leader.
