Georgia, Tbilisi, October 31/Trend N.Kirtzkhalia/
Georgian Foreign Minister Maia Panjikidze considers the statement of the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin in connection with the election of Giorgi Margvelashvili as being 'positive'.
In his statement to the Russian media outlet, Karasin expressed the hope that the settlement of relations between the two countries will begin during Margvelashvili's presidency.
"It is very good that he optimistically views this issue, as we are supporters of normalisation of relations with Russia and do much in this direction. And when I was asked whether diplomatic relations will be restored, I said and now reiterate that I really wish this to happen as it must be preceded by de-occupation and abandonment of recognition of the occupied territories," Panjikidze said on Thursday.
Large scale military action was launched in South Ossetia on August 8, 2008. Later, Russian troops occupied Tskhinvali and expelled the Georgian military.
Russia recognised the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia in late August. In response, Tbilisi ended diplomatic relations with Moscow and has called the two unrecognised republics of Abkhazia and South Ossetia occupied territories.
The candidate from the ruling coalition "Georgian Dream" Giorgi Margvelashvili won with 62.11 per cent of vote in the Georgian presidential election that was held on October 27.
The president's inauguration will take place on November 17.