Rustam Minnikhanov meets President of Abkhazia Badra Gumba in Sukhumi

On 3 July, speaking at his meeting with the President of Abkhazia Badra Gumba during his working trip to Sukhumi, the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov thanked the President of Abkhazia for his attention to the development of bonds with the republic within the framework of friendly Russia-Abkhazia relations and an opportunity of organizing Sabantuy in Sukhumi.

The Rais of the republic noted the active development of the economy of the country and emphasized that relations between Russia and Abkhazia are characterized by a strategic partnership. There is a working intergovernmental commission and interaction in political, trade, economic, humanitarian and cultural spheres, he said.

“Tatarstan as one of the leading regions of Russia is interested in further development of cooperation with Abkhazia. Our relations have long history as the foundation for long-term bonds were laid by the First President of Tatarstan Mintimer Shaimiev and the First President of Abkhazia Vladislav Ardzinba when they signed an agreement of friendship and cooperation in 1994. Delegations from Abkhazia regularly participate in our events and there is an agreement on interaction between municipalities,” Rustam Minnikhanov said and informed about a substantial growth of the trade turnover with Abkhazia which amounted to about 14m dollars US last year.

“However the capacity of trade and economic bonds is much higher. It is necessary to increase the mutual tourist flow, develop ties in the spheres of culture, science and education.  Cooperation has also been established between our universities. Four students from Abkhazia are currently studying in Tatarstan, and we would welcome an increase in their numbers,” the Rais of the republic added.

In his turn Badra Gumba noted that friendly relations between Tatarstan and Abkhazia have deep historical roots and continue to develop. He expressed his gratitude to the republic for its invaluable support, particularly for assistance in the reconstruction of the historic embankment of the city of Sukhumi.  The Head of the state also thanked for the decision to hold Sabantuy in the city. ”This is a good opportunity for cultural enrichment and demonstration of rich traditions of the Tatars on the brotherly land of Abkhazia,” the President of the country emphasized.

In the end of the meeting Badra Gumba handed in the highest order of Abkhazia "Akhd-Apsha" (Honor and Glory), 2nd degree to Rustam Minnikhanov for his great personal contribution into strengthening friendship and cooperation between the republics, the development of economic and cultural ties and active support of Abkhazia