Georgian Railways has denied reports about the potential resumption of rail traffic between Russia and Georgia, clarifying that the matter is not being discussed.

In an official statement, the company said it was unclear why the matter had been raised publicly, The Caspian Post reports, citing foreign media.

“Resumption of rail traffic between Russia and Georgia is not being considered. Therefore, it is absolutely incomprehensible to us why this issue is being discussed publicly,” the statement reads.

The response follows remarks by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, who said that the restoration of rail traffic between Russia and Georgia via the territory of Abkhazia was under discussion.

Overchuk said work is underway to unblock disrupted transport routes in the Caucasus region, including the railway connection through Abkhazia. He added that restoring the line would enhance Russia’s connectivity with Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iran, including access to ports in the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean.

Rail links between Russia and Georgia through Abkhazia have been suspended for decades due to the unresolved conflict over the breakaway region.

Georgian Railways’ statement indicates that no discussions are currently taking place on restoring the route.