MOSCOW, September 30. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Abkhazian leader Badra Gunba on the republic’s Victory and Independence Day, noting that Russia will continue to assist Abkhazia in addressing pressing socio-economic development challenges.

"Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of Victory and Independence Day. This glorious holiday is a symbol of the resilience, courage and unity of the people of Abkhazia, who defended their legitimate right to a free and peaceful life," the Russian president said in a message published on the Kremlin website. "Russia will continue to provide active assistance to our Abkhaz partners in addressing pressing tasks of state building and socio-economic development."

Putin noted that Russian-Abkhaz relations are friendly and allied in nature. "I am confident that they will continue to strengthen for the benefit of our peoples and in the interests of ensuring regional stability and security," the Russian president said.