Abkhazia

Introduction: Abkhazia considers itself an independent state, called the Republic of Abkhazia or Apsny. This status is recognised by Russia, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Nauru, and also by the partially recognised state of South Ossetia. Abkhazia is economically tied to Russia, including tourism. Currency is the Russian ruble. Fertile land produces an abundance of agricultural products. Russians have invested capital in Abkhazia.

Since the year 2000 Russia has paid retirement pensions and other monetary benefits to the people of Abkhazia. Abkhazians do not pay Russian taxes, or serve in the Russian Army.

People

Population
2011 census: 240,705
2006 estimate: between 157,000 and 190,000.

Ethnic groups
2003 census: 43.8% Abkhazians, 21.3% Georgians, 20.8%t Armenians, 10.8% Russians and 0.7% Greeks.

Geography

On the Black Sea, neighboring Russia and Georgia. 8,600 square kilometers (3,320 square miles.) Equivalent to an area 93 by 93 kilometers (58 by 58 miles). Mountainous. Mild and sub-tropical climate.

Recent History

Declared an autonomous Soviet republic by the Soviet Union in 1931.

Following the break up of the Soviet Union, a war for independence in 1992-93 against claims of inclusion by Georgia. Some Georgians forced to flee. Independence declared in 1992 but not recognized by the United Nations and others.