Chechen Refugees Demand Security Guarantees for Repatriation

 
(Tbilisi, June 10 2003, Civil Georgia) - The part of Chechen refugees living in Georgia's Pankisi gorge are strongly against repatriation in Chechnya, while another part emands security guarantees in case of return.

Chechen refugees expressed concerns regarding the possible repatriation during the meeting with the delegation of the Russian Ministry for Emergency Situations today in Pankisi gorge.

"Russia is ready to provide living conditions for you in Chechnya. Georgian side agreed to convey you in Tbilisi and then the Russian side will provide planes to return in Chechnya," Russian Deputy Minister for Emergency Situations Yuri Brazhnikov told the refugees.

He added that the security conditions in Chechnya had improved. However refugees recalled the recent terrorist attacks in Chechnya and expressed doubt regarding the security conditions in the rebel republic.

Russian official also said that the repatriation will be held step-by- step. Before the meeting with the Chechen refugees, Russian delegation held talks with the Georgian Interior Minister Koba Narchemashvili.