A consultative meeting was held at the Plenipotentiary Representation of the Republic of Abkhazia to the Republic of Turkey with representatives of the Federation of Abkhaz Associations— Yavuz Ilkuchar (Atyrshba), Chairman, Shamil Zeren (Yashba), Secretary, General Board Members Bulent Barysh (Pechlia), Selda Oztaş (Byjpkha), and Dzhankat Yelkat (Ubykh), as well as Chairman of the Abkhaz Cultural Center "Daryeri" Atanur Aksoy (Akuspa)—and the initiative group "End the Isolation of Abkhazia," consisting of Cengiz Gul (Gogua), Anit Baba (Pabba), Ulvi Ozcan (Khukshi), Ahmet Babaoglu, Bilge Eken, and Dilara Tan (Kabypkha).
During the meeting, an exchange of views took place on maintaining and developing of humanitarian, cultural, and social ties between Abkhazia and the Abkhaz diaspora in Turkey. Particular attention was paid to transportation issues, as well as ongoing efforts to promote the recognition of Abkhaz travel documents.
Representatives of the Federation of Abkhaz Associations and the "End of Abkhazia's Isolation" initiative group briefed the participants on their ongoing work and approaches to further cooperation. They exchanged assessments of current activities and possible areas for their coordination.
Ibrahim Avidzba, Representative of the Republic of Abkhazia to the Republic of Turkey, emphasized that ensuring the ability to maintain stable ties with their historical homeland, visit relatives, and maintain humanitarian and cultural contacts with Abkhazia is essential for members of the diaspora. In this regard, it was noted that it is appropriate to consider these issues primarily from a humanitarian perspective, taking into account the interests of citizens and universally recognized principles of human rights.
During the meeting, participants emphasized that advancing these issues requires a balanced and constructive approach, consistent dialogue with stakeholders, and clear coordination between public organizations and relevant institutions.
The importance of consolidating the efforts of various representatives of the Abkhaz diaspora, developing a unified communications position, and avoiding disunity when addressing issues of humanitarian and social significance was also noted.Ibrahim Avidzba expressed gratitude to all participants for their contribution to developing of contacts between the diaspora and their historical homeland and confirmed his readiness to continue consultations and constructive interaction with relevant organizations and public associations.
Special thanks were expressed to the Federation of Abkhaz Associations and the "End of Abkhazia's Isolation" initiative group for their work and participation in the discussion of pressing issues.
