Oleg Bartsits, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Abkhazia, sent a note to Félix Ramón Plasencia González, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, on the occasion of the seventeenth anniversary of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela’s recognition of the independence and state sovereignty of the Republic of Abkhazia.

It is noted, in particular:

"September 10, 2009, is a truly significant date in the modern history of our state. Abkhazia will always remember with deep gratitude the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela’s decision to support the historic right of the people of Abkhazia to self determination.

I note with satisfaction that the relations established between our states over years of cooperation are characterized by friendship and mutual respect. We share a high degree of mutual understanding and aligned positions on matters of bilateral cooperation. We are ready to do our utmost to further expand the full spectrum of our bilateral engagement."

Oleg Bartsits wished the fraternal people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela peace, well- being, and prosperity.