President about volunteers: We can be truly strong nation only in unity with our brothers

Congratulations on the Day of Volunteers from President Raul Khadjimba.

Sukhum. August 15. Apsnypress. The message says:
 
 "Dear compatriots!
 
 Dear volunteers!
 
 We heartily congratulate you on the Day of Volunteers!
 
  It has turned 24 years since the beginning of the War of Abkhazia this year.

 From the very first days of the war, our brothers from the North Caucasus stood next to us, protecting Abkhazia from the Georgian invaders who tried to destroy our people.
 
   The first group of volunteers led by Sultan Sosnaliev came to help us on August 15. Support of our brothers from the North Caucasus lifted the morale of our soldiers and strengthened confidence in the victory.
 
 Next to the Abkhaz people, shoulder to shoulder for freedom of Apsny fought volunteers from the North Caucasus and southern Russia, South Ossetia and Transnistria, our brothers from the Diaspora abroad.
 
 The War of 1992-1993 was attended by over two thousand volunteers. 51 volunteers were awarded the title "Hero of Abkhazia", ​​247 - awarded the Order of Leon, 623 - the medal "For Courage". More than 260 volunteers gave their lives for the freedom of Apsny.
 
 We honor and remember their feat. They will always remain in the hearts of our people. The memory of the heroism of volunteers will be passed on from generation to generation and serve as an example of true brotherhood, courage, self-sacrifice in the name of justice.
 
  Thanks to courage and dedication of people, who protected the freedom and independence of Apsny,  Abkhazia today is a sovereign and democratic state.
 
 We appreciate and value the help and support that we have had from volunteers during the war.
 
   Even in peace time, representatives of voluntary movement continue to be involved in the fate of Abkhazia being in leadership positions in the country, they help us to build and develop our country.
 
 Our task is to keep these good relations and communication with the people who stood side by side in hard times for us, and pass them on to the younger generation. We can be truly strong nation only in unity with our brothers.
 
 My dear fellow volunteers! We infinitely appreciate your heroism and love for Abkhazia.
 
Allow me to wish you good health, happiness and peace!"