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Abkhazia President Dies, New Elections in Three Months


Abkhazia's separatist President Sergei Bagapsh speaks during his meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, unseen, in Moscow, Russia (File Photo - February 17, 2010)
Abkhazia's separatist President Sergei Bagapsh speaks during his meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, unseen, in Moscow, Russia (File Photo - February 17, 2010)

Abkhazia is mourning the death on Sunday of the president of the breakaway Georgian region.

Officials said Sergei Bagapsh, 62, died from complications following lung surgery in a Moscow hospital.

He was in the middle of his second 5-year term as president.

Abkhazia declared independence from Georgia in 1992, but it is only recognized by Russia and a few other countries.

Abkhazia officials say Vice President Alexander Ankvab will be acting president until elections for a new president are held in three months.

Abkhazia's Security Council is meeting Sunday to decide on the official days of mourning as funeral arrangements are finalized.

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