President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, met with Abkhaz leader, Sergey Bagapsh, in Moscow on March 23, Lukashenko’s administration said in a statement.

Bagapsh, who is referred in the statement as “the President of Abkhazia,” and Lukashenko discussed issues related with the economic cooperation, according to this report.

“There are many issues to be discussed, first of all those related with economy. After all, much work emerges after gaining independence,” Lukashenko told Bagapsh. “We would be happy if Belarus’ involvement could help to solve problems in this region.”

Belarus has not yet followed Russia’s suit and has not recognized Abkhazia’s or South Ossetia’s independence. Minsk said the issue needed a thorough consideration including by its Parliament.