13 years ago, Russia recognized the independence of the Republic of Abkhazia and this day is now celebrated as the Day of International Recognition of the country's independence.

On August 26, 2008, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev announced the signing of decrees recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

On this day in Sukhum, after information about the recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by the Russian Federation, enthusiastic citizens began to gather with the flags of the three countries on Freedom Square.

On the same day, the Second President of Abkhazia Sergei Bagapsh (1949-2011) - whose name is directly linked to the international recognition of Abkhazia, returning from Moscow and immediately came to the square to congratulate the people.

This day has become truly fateful for the peoples of Abkhazia. Recognition is the beginning of a new historical era - an era of peace and prosperity, and the date of August 26, 2008 will forever go down in history as the long-awaited day of the celebration of historical justice.