Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Abkhazia Sergey Shamba congratulated the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov on his birthday.

The congratulations reads, in particular:

"Abkhazia highly values ​​your principled position on the development of the independent Abkhazian state, Abkhazian-Russian relations and your invaluable contribution to strengthening the friendship and strategic alliance between our countries.

You are deservedly one of the world’s most outstanding diplomats, who, in the conditions of unprecedented pressure exerted on Russia today, with unwavering firmness and dignity defends its interests in the international arena. Your unique talent, wisdom and unwavering will evoke profound respect and admiration.

I remember with particular warmth our meeting in Moscow on October 4 last year. It became an important stage in strengthening the trusting dialogue between our countries. Your readiness for an open and substantive discussion of key issues in bilateral relations, as well as the unity of our approaches to the international agenda, have once again confirmed how strong and multifaceted the ties between Abkhazia and Russia are.

On this significant day, I wish you good health, inexhaustible energy and prosperity."