Protesters broke onto the facilities of Abkhazias parliament structure on Friday, opposing an investment arrangement with Russia they declare threatens the breakaway areas financial and security interests.Scores ofdemonstrators gathered in Sukhumi as lawmakers gathered to consider ratifying the controversial Russian-Abkhazian investment contract, with activists arguing the offer would make it possible for Russians to buy recently developed complexes in the area, effectively undermining regional control.Protesters hurled stones and sticks at security forces, while an automobile rammed through the parliaments metal fence, Russias state-run TASS news company reported.
A fire truck was brought outside the structure to obstruct the crowd from entering.Law enforcement released tear gas, and shooting was reported at the scene, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Libertys Russian-language bureau for the Caucasus.
Amid the intensifying unrest, Abkhazias parliament delayed the session where the arrangement was set for ratification.Abkhazias Interior Minister and head of state security went to speak with the crowd of protesters to de-escalate the circumstance, TASS later reported.
At least two people were injured throughout the clashes.The controversial treaty has been promoted by Abkhazias Russia-backed leader, Aslan Bzhaniya, who has actually invested the past 2 years advocating for the so-called apartments bill.
It looks for to lift the areas restriction on foreign ownership of residential property, enabling Russians to purchase property on the Black Sea coast.