Blockade Lifted on Separatist Region
Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili lifted an economic blockade on the rebellious Adzharia region in return for more of a say in local affairs. The five-day standoff had threatened to spill into armed conflict and had blocked oil shipments from the port of Batumi, the regional capital. The pact leaves Aslan Abashidze in charge of Adzharia.
Saakashvili will appoint a representative to watch over the Black Sea port and customs officials, a statement released by Abashidze said. Abashidze also agreed to guarantee free election campaigning, allow citizens to move freely and disarm his supporters.
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