MOSCOW (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 30th September, 2018) Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a message to his Abkhaz counterpart Raul Khajimba on the occasion of the country's Victory and Independence Day and reiterated Russia's support for the break-away republic, the presidential press service said on Sunday.
"Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a congratulatory message to President of Abkhazia Raul Khajimba on the occasion of the national holiday - Victory and Independence Day ... Vladimir Putin confirmed that Russia would continue providing all possible assistance to the authorities and people of Abkhazia," the press service said in a statement published on the official website of the Russian president.
Putin also noted that Abkhazia had made significant progress in developing its socioeconomic sphere and ensuring national security.
In 1992, Abkhazia proclaimed their independence from Georgia following tensions with Tbilisi. The republic's independence has not been recognized by the majority of countries, including Georgia. Russia recognized Abkhazia as an independent state in August 2008 after it helped to protect the republic from Georgian troops that tried to reestablish control over the territory. The country is also recognized by Nicaragua, Venezuela, Nauru and most recently Syria.
