President: Long live free Abkhazia and our courageous and industrious people!

Sukhum. September 30. Apsnypress. The message says: 

"Dear compatriots! Today we are for the 22th time celebrating our most important, the most sacred holiday - the Independence Day of the Republic of Abkhazia. 

It's been a long time since the moment when the state border of Abkhazia on Inguri River hoisted the banner of our victory. But still, our hearts in this day filled with joy and pride that we have achieved the main dreams of our people. Despite the sacrifices and hardships, through which has passed our people, we are a happy generation, because for the first time in many years, we have the opportunity to build our own state. 

On this day with particular acuteness we remember our comrades, who did not return from the battlefields. Among them - are the citizens of our country, volunteers from the Northern Caucasus and from all over Russia, representatives of our diaspora. Eternal memory and eternal Glory to the Heroes! On behalf of the people of Abkhazia, I want to bow to our dear mothers, who have demonstrated courage and perseverance, proved invaluable support to our armed forces at a time when the fate of the motherland. 

I would like to congratulate the veterans of the War of our people. You are a living example for the younger generation and active participants in the building of our country. I wish you to be remained in the ranks for many years.

On this day, we pay tribute to the chief of the army-winner, the founder of modern Abkhaz state Vladislav Ardzinba, who has been and will always remain a symbol of our victory. His talent and outstanding leadership qualities have enabled us to survive in the difficult postwar years, to create a basis for the development of the state. 

We now live in a peaceful, internationally recognized country, which is in close alliance with the Great Russia. Sergey Bagapsh played a major role in solving these problems. We've got to rely on in order to build a decent future for our people. For steady movement towards national goals, we need to join forces. I am convinced that there are no differences that would hinder work together for the good of our people in our society. 

Dear compatriots! I heartily congratulate you on a great holiday, I wish you peace and happiness in every home, and prosperity of our sacred homeland.  

Long live free Abkhazia and our courageous and industrious people!"