SOCHI, Bocharov Ruchei. Nov 24 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin and Abkhazian leader Raul Khadzhimba have signed a new Agreement on Alliance and Strategic Partnership.
On Monday, the Russian and Abkhazian leaders held talks at Putin's residence in Sochi. The heads of state first spoke one on one and then were joined by members of their delegations.
Following the meeting in an expanded format, the presidents put their signatures on the document.
"This will improve and consolidate the legal framework which has been formed in recent years. The question is to ensure absolute security for Abkhazia's existence, to ensure security of its borders, to create conditions for further development of the trade and economic ties," Putin said after the signing.
Ultimately, the document aims to improve the lives of ordinary Abkhazians, he said.
Putin recalled that the document stipulates further efforts to increase economic, social and humanitarian cooperation between the two countries.
It was reported that on November 20 the Russian government decided to recommend to the Russian president that Russia and Abkhazia should sign a new Agreement on alliances and strategic partnership.
Separate agreements will be signed under the new Agreement to develop stipulated areas of cooperation, including the creation of a common defense and security space and countering organized crime.
The agreement will be signed for a ten-year period with an option of extension every five years thereafter.