TBILISI, DFWatch — Two veterans of Russian and Georgian politics met in Munich and discussed current problems between their two countries and ways of solving them.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 49th Munich Security Conference.

Igor Ivanov, former Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, said he has a long-standing relationship with Tedo Japaridze, chair of the foreign affairs committee of the Georgian parliament and former foreign minister during Eduard Shevardnadze’s time as president.

“If there is a desire, the most acute problems can be solved. It is important not to become hostages of those difficulties, even if those problems are serious. Of course, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t foresee those factors, but they shouldn’t interrupt future cooperation,” Ivanov said.

Japaridze said they discussed the dynamics of Russia-Georgia relations.

“He was positive to steps which are brought out in our relations. He noted this is a difficult and long-term process, but it will be good if adequate steps are taken,” Japaridze said.