S. Ossetia, Abkhazia hail recognition
Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:49:00 GMT
Residents of South Ossetia celebrate Russia's recognition of independence
The leaders of the two breakaway Georgian regions have praised Russia's move to recognize their independence, as an historic move.

Both leaders formally expressed their gratitude to Russia for taking the first step, Interfax reported Tuesday.

"This is an historic day for our people. I am grateful to the Russian leadership and Russian people for this great step taken today on recognizing Abkhazia's independence," Interfax quoted Abkhaz leader Sergei Bagapsh as saying.

"This is a great day in the history of our country and our people. Russia saved us from genocide and gave us the opportunity to develop and live in our land," South Ossetian leader Eduard Kokoity told the agency.

Meanwhile, some EU countries were quick to voice strong objections over Moscow's decision.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel condemned President Medvedev's decision on Tuesday, calling it ā??absolutely unacceptableā? in a speech in the Estonian capital of Tallinn.

Italy also rejected Russia's decision. Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini claimed the move did not apply in an international legal framework.

ZHD/DT
texas grass Reviewed by texas grass on . south ossetia and abkhazia want independance from georgia Separatists in appeal to Russia Thousands gathered in a central square in Tskhinvali, South Ossetia's capital Tens of thousands of people in Georgia's breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia have staged rallies calling on Russia to recognise them as independent states. Eduard Kokoity, the separatist leader of South Ossetia, told crowds in Tskhinvali, the capital, that their drive for independence would ensure a place in history for their "small Caucasus nation". "At this Rating: 5