Peacebuilding and business: Fostering commercial contact between Georgians and Abkhaz
David L. Phillips | National Committee on American Foreign Policy | 2010
Land: Suedkaukasus
Abkhazia is a territory located on the Black Sea in the northwest of Georgia, which broke away from
Tbilisi’s control after the conflict of 1992-93. The situation remained frozen until the Georgia-Russia War
(August 7-11, 2008). Only Russia and three other countries have recognized and established diplomatic
relations with Abkhazia. The United States, the European Union (EU), and other countries maintain a
policy of non-recognition towards Abkhazia and South Ossetia, another breakaway region in Georgia.
This research report by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP) explores
opportunities for mutually beneficial interaction between Georgians and Abkhaz. It is based on the premise
that private sector representatives are well suited to take a cooperative approach to engagement. Even in the
most intractable conflicts, the private sector is primarily interested in market access and a stable environment
for doing business. There are many examples of commercial contact as a tool for conflict mitigation: the
Southeast Europe Economic Cooperation Initiative promoted stability after Yugoslavia’s breakup. The Greek-
Turkish Business Forum catalyzed bilateral agreements on trade, tourism, maritime and environmental issues.
And trade between China and Taiwan helps reduce tension across the Taiwan Straits.
Recommendations are offered to the Government of Georgia (GoG), de facto Abkhaz authorities (hereafter
called “Abkhaz authorities”), the U.S. Government (USG), the Russian Government, other international
stakeholders, and the private sector. Highlighting opportunities for economic cooperation between Georgians
and Abkhaz, the report focuses on Abkhazia as there is greater opportunity for progress in Abkhazia than in
South Ossetia. The report does not, however, address questions regarding the political status of Abkhazia nor
does it explore security arrangements. Politics and security are considered only to the extent that they impact
economic issues.
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