NATO does not recognize the elections held on Friday in Abkhazia.

“The holding of such elections does not contribute to a peaceful and lasting settlement of the situation in Georgia. The Alliance reiterates its full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders,” reads the statement by Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

The acting president of Abkhazia, Vice President Alexander Ankvab won election polling 54.86% of votes.

Snap presidential elections in Abkhazia were called for August 26 after President Sergey Bagapsh passed away.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has already congratulated Ankvab on his victory.