TBILISI, August 11. /TASS/. Georgia does not intend to restore full diplomatic relations with Russia as long as Moscow continues to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent territories, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze told reporters.

"As long as Russia’s so-called recognition [of Abkhazia and South Ossetia] remains a fait accompli, diplomatic relations will, of course, not be restored. Our objective with regard to Russia is a peaceful settlement of the conflict," he said, adding that resolving the situation peacefully is among Georgia’s foreign policy priorities.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin earlier told TASS that Moscow was ready to expand pragmatic ties with Tbilisi. He said that Georgia’s successful development depended on cooperation with Russia rather than confrontation.

Tbilisi severed diplomatic relations with Moscow on September 2, 2008, following Russia’s recognition of the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Georgia’s Foreign Ministry said at the time that it would maintain consular relations with Russia. Since March 2009, a Russian interests section staffed by Russian diplomatic and technical personnel has operated at the Swiss Embassy in Tbilisi. A Georgian interests section has also been established at the Swiss Embassy in Moscow.