The head of state addressed the participants with a welcoming speech:

Dear deputies of the Parliament,

Dear participants of the conference,

I greet you on behalf of the people of Abkhazia!

The chosen topic of the conference and the very fact of its holding within the walls of the Italian Parliament are especially important for the Republic of Abkhazia.

Abkhazia, whose statehood dates back many centuries, has all the attributes of a state. Our people overcame all the hardships of the chauvinist policy of the Georgian authorities.

On August 14, 1992, Georgian troops treacherously attacked our republic. Despite the difficulties, we won and defended our historical right to a peaceful and independent life.

Our country was in an economic blockade. In the difficult post-war years all efforts were aimed at restoring the country, its economy, strengthening state institutions; the Constitution of the Republic of Abkhazia was adopted; the act "On State Independence of the Republic of Abkhazia" was signed.

The turning point for us was the recognition of the independence and sovereignty of Abkhazia by the Russian Federation. It is gratifying that the number of countries with which we have established diplomatic relations is gradually increasing.

We understand that wide international recognition is a complex and lengthy process.

Abkhazia is open to mutually beneficial cooperation with all states that respect its position.

It's nice that more and more Italians are discovering our country, its culture, links are being established between the cities of Abkhazia and Italy. After all, there are long-standing historical ties between our peoples.

Dear friends,

I am convinced that this conference will be held in a constructive manner and will become a solid basis for the development of friendly relations between the peoples of Abkhazia and Italy.

I wish you fruitful work.