US hails flight of Georgian separatist leader as 'historic'

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2004

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States applauded the resignation and flight into exile of the leader of Georgia's separatist region of Adjara as an "historic" event for the people of the former Soviet state and pledged to continue cooperation with Tbilisi.

"The United States notes the departure of Aslan Abashidze and welcomes the peaceful restoration of Tbilisi's authority in the Autonomous Republic of Adjara," State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said.

"We view this as an important step toward restoring the rule of law and democratic governance in Adjara," he said in a statement. "This is an historic day for all the people of Georgia.

"We look forward to continuing our close cooperation with Georgia on democratic and economic reform."

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