The meeting took place at a new border crossing between the two countries where a new "friendship" bridge is also to constructed

Peaceful change is in demand in the South Caucasus this autumn. All three countries face important challenges, and need the necessary political model that can respond to them.

The Defence Ministry said that the purpose of the exercises will be to test the armed forces command and control capacity and check weapon systems.

The case of Ildar Dadin has attracted unprecedented attention, despite the fact that Russians seem to be more ready than most to close their eyes at abuses by their government officials

"Yesterday's second round reconfirmed that Georgia's 2016 parliamentary elections enabled candidates to campaign freely and voters to make informed choices about their options," said Ignacio Sanchez Amor, the Special Co-ordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission.

The period of democratic transition is over, and a new phase, where the emphasis must be on state and democratic consolidation, has opened. The October 2016 Parliamentary elections in Georgia were not perfect, but they were the best the country ever had, and within the accepted international standards. Well organised, competitive and fair elections now need to become a habit, so that politicians and voters alike can focus on policies and substance.

The elections were held in those single seat contituencies where candidates failed to secure 50% of the vote in the 8 October polls.

Usupashvili cited disagreements with the party leadership and said he will remain an opposition politician and will make further announcements in 2 to 3 months time.

During his visit to Barda Herbert Salber said that it was important that the voices of those most affected by the conflict is heard.

Georgia in many ways offers a vision for the two countries - one that cannot be copied into the completely different governance and economic models that exist in Armenia and Azerbaijan, but one which still can inspire.