Public organizations of Abkhazia spoke out against joining Russia, emphasizing that the issue of the status of the republic is not subject to discussion. It is reported by RIA Novosti.

“We believe that the format of existing relations with the countries that have recognized us, primarily with the Russian Federation, completely suits all parties and does not need any changes. We consider all speculations on the topic of bringing Abkhazia into the Russian Federation, including the statements of some officials, irresponsible and harmful to our relations,” the statement of a number of public organizations says.

Earlier, the ex-presidential candidate of Abkhazia Astamur Tarba said that its citizens do not want to join Russia. “The issue of joining Russia is often raised, but the majority of the population of Abkhazia is against it. This issue is not on the agenda,” Tarba said. According to him, from the very beginning, the country announced partnerships with Moscow. He stressed that Abkhazia will always be Russia's partner.

Abkhazia declared independence after the 1992-1993 war with Georgia. In August 2008, Georgia sent troops into South Ossetia in an attempt to bring the region back under its control. After the intervention of Russia, the Georgian military were forced out of the conflict zone. In the same month, Moscow officially recognized the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.