Georgia, Tbilisi, Oct. 23 /Trend corr. N.Kirtskhalia /
As long as there are Russian embassies in Tskhinvali and Sukhumi, diplomatic relations with Moscow will not be restored, Georgian candidate for foreign minister Maya Panjikidze stated at a hearing of parliament.
According to her and following her appointment, the non-recognition of separatist Abkhazia and South Ossetia will remain one of the main priorities of the Foreign Ministry.
Panjikidze noted that restoration of relations with Russia is impossible without the renewal of cultural and economic relations.
"It's always thought that Georgia has to concede to Russia. This is out of question, but a dialogue can be started on issues such as cultural and economic relations. We don't have a prepared plan on how to settle relations with Russia, but are taking certain steps that can lead us to political dialogue, "Panjikidze added.
Military actions were launched in the Georgian territory, South Ossetia on Aug.8 in 2008. Later Russian troops occupied the city of Tskhinvali and drove the Georgian military back. Russia recognised the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in late August. In response, Tbilisi broke off diplomatic relations with Moscow and announced the two unrecognised republics as occupied territories.
Earlier the leader of the Georgian Dream coalition which won the recent parliamentary elections, Bidzina Ivanishvili proposed candidates for ministers in the new Georgian government.
Ivanishvili intends to become prime minister.