In his speech, the Head of State said: 

"Dear compatriots, dear guests!

August 26 is a special day in the modern history of Abkhazia. On this day 18 years ago, the Russian Federation recognized the independence of the Republic of Abkhazia.

After the victory in the Patriotic War of the people of Abkhazia, this is certainly the most significant event in the modern history of our state. At the cost of huge sacrifices, we defended our right to live in our native land. And on August 26, 2008, independence, for which our defenders fought and died, was recognized by the Russian Federation.

On this day, we remember with special gratitude our leaders — Vladislav Grigoryevich Ardzinba, under whose leadership our people won the Patriotic War of the people of Abkhazia and defended the independence of our state, Sergei Vasilyevich Bagapsh, whose name is inextricably linked with the recognition of the independence of the Republic of Abkhazia.

We remember with deep gratitude the support of Russia and its people to Abkhazia during one of the most difficult moments in our history. We particularly appreciate the historical responsibility shown by the leaders of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev.

Today, this support remains unchanged. President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin consistently pays special attention to relations with Abkhazia, supports our country, helps ensure its security, strengthen sovereignty and statehood, develop the economy and social sphere, and provides support to Abkhazia at the international level.

Over the past years, Abkhazia has been able to develop peacefully as an independent State, independently determine its path, and strengthen State institutions, the economy, and the social sphere. Today, we are particularly clear about the price of this opportunity.

We must protect our independence and statehood, which have come at such a high price. This is not only our right, but also our responsibility to those who gave their lives for the freedom of Abkhazia, and to future generations.

We believe that Abkhazia's independence will gain wider and wider international recognition over time. 

We will consistently pursue this goal by strengthening our State, developing peaceful and good-neighborly relations, and preserving the unity of our people.

On this festive day, I wish all residents of Abkhazia peace, prosperity, health and confidence in the future.

Happy holidays, dear compatriots!

Happy Day of International Recognition of Abkhazia!"