By empty (12/10/2003 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Georgia welcomes the simplified visa system between Russia and Adjaria (Georgian autonomy bordering on Turkey) introduced on December 9th but as well expresses its dissatisfaction that this step was not coordinated with Georgian authorities. This was disclosed by Georgian Ambassador to Russia Zurab Abashidze. \"We understand Russia\'s intention to simplify entrance and exit for citizens living in Adjaria,\" the Ambassador said.

By empty (12/9/2003 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Imprisoned Uzbek journalist Ruslan Sharipov has received the 2004 Golden Pen of Freedom award from the Paris-based World Association of Newspapers (WAN) for his promotion of press freedom in the face of physical attacks, torture, and constant harassment. The award is to be presented at the World Newspaper Congress in Istanbul in May 2004. In its citation, WAN\'s board said that Sharipov has faced unspeakable hardships because he refused to stop criticizing the Uzbek government in his writings or end his human rights work.

By empty (12/9/2003 issue of the CACI Analyst)

David Rstakian, head of the unregistered political party Virk that represents the interests of the predominantly Armenian population of Georgia\'s southern region of Djavakheti, wants talks with the new Georgian leadership on granting the region formal status, whether autonomy or as part of a federation or confederation. Rstakian said that while autonomy \"is the way to preserve everything that helps us feel Armenian: our language, culture, and traditions,\" autonomy \"may not be enough\" to satisfy the local Armenian population. Rstakian also said the Russian military base in Akhalkalaki, the swift closure of which the new Georgian leadership is demanding, serves \"as the guarantor of the physical security\" of Djavakheti\'s Armenian population.