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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Bzhania, I know that Sirius has students from Abkhazia as well.

President of Abkhazia Aslan Bzhania: Yes, it does.

Vladimir Putin: This centre provides vast opportunities. Hopefully, our cooperation in the humanitarian sphere, in education and in our efforts to support children – particularly, talented and high-potential kids – will continue.

Overall, how satisfied are you with the training the students are getting here?

Aslan Bzhania: Well, this is the third time I have visited the centre; I took a tour a while back, and I still remember it very well. I met with the kids who study at this centre, and it is great. I come from a family of Soviet teachers. To compare what we had back then and what is available now, all these innovations and opportunities – they are obviously our investments in the future, which will definitely bring tangible results.

We are happy that such a centre is located close to us, to Abkhazia, due to your efforts and your patronage. Thank you very much.

Vladimir Putin: Mr Bzhania, just recently Abkhazia celebrated two holidays – Day of Recognition as well as Victory and Independence Day. I would like to congratulate you once again and wish all the best to you, to Abkhazia and its people.

First, I would like to note that the overall situation is developing well; our mutual trade increased by 73 percent last year. As many as 64 regions of the Russian Federation maintain relations with Abkhazia in different areas. Over 200 joint ventures are operating, and I hope they will continue their work.

All events are underway under the programme of adaptation to the economic and social working conditions in Russia, as well as our joint programme for the development of Abkhazia’s socioeconomic sector.

Possibly, there are issues that require some additional attention, and we will proceed on that with you.

Aslan Bzhania: Thank you very much, Mr Putin.

Actually, we have noted with satisfaction that our relations have recently received additional impetus. The coordination process is underway, with much already achieved and a lot to be done. This is what brings our stances closer as part of our work on creating a single socioeconomic space as well as a defence space. This is essential, and we will continue this work.

Our joint efforts have resulted in a recently adopted document that allows citizens of Abkhazia to acquire Russian citizenship through a simplified procedure. This is also a big step as our citizens are very positive in this regard. We are willing to and will follow the agreements formalised in our fundamental documents. We want to take part in the integration processes initiated by Russia and with its participation; this goes in line with Abkhazia’s fundamental interests, which we believe to be very important.

We would like to thank you for that.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you very much.

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