Abkhazia, Russia sign energy cooperation agreement

SUKHUM. April 6 (Interfax) - The governments of Abkhazia and Russia have signed an agreement on steps to ensure the joint operation of the unified energy system of Russia and the energy system of Abkhazia.

The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of an international economic forum in Abkhazia.

Abkhaz Energy Minister Batal Mushba and Russian Deputy Energy Minister Yevgeny Grabchak are the signatories.

The agreement envisages coordination of the joint work of the two energy systems, interaction in emergencies, development of energy infrastructure, and assistance in the conclusion of agreements between industry entities.

"The agreement lays a legal foundation for further cooperation and aims to ensure sustainable power supply in Abkhazia," Mushba said after signing the document.

Abkhazia hosted the international economic forum on April 2-4.