Badra Gunba recalled that during the most difficult period – the years of the Patriotic War of the Abkhazian people – Tatarstan provided significant support to the fraternal people. The Head of State noted that it was precisely during these days in 1993, in the midst of the war, that the representative office of the Republic of Abkhazia was opened in Kazan, which gave a powerful impetus to support our country. The Republic of Tatarstan provided assistance with medicines, essential goods, and petroleum products – all of this was done as part of supporting the people of Abkhazia.

Badra Gunba emphasized that Abkhazia will never forget the appeal of the leaders of Tatarstan, Bashkortostan, and the President of Kazakhstan with a demand for the withdrawal of Georgian troops and the cessation of hostilities. The Head of State noted that in those days, this decision inspired citizens and gave them firm faith that the country had reliable support from friendly republics.

The President noted that this high level of fraternal ties is maintained by the Rais of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, and the assistance provided today is invaluable. Badra Gunba called the opening of the renovated Sukhum Embankment, a favorite recreation spot for residents and guests of the country, a historic event, emphasizing that a part of this large-scale project is now inextricably linked with Tatarstan and the personal efforts of its leader.

The Head of State also noted the significance of holding the Sabantuy national holiday in Abkhazia, calling it a wonderful opportunity for cultural enrichment and demonstration of the Tatar people's identity.

Rustam Minnikhanov expressed gratitude for the warm welcome, appreciation for the attention to the development of ties, including with the regions of the Russian Federation, and emphasized the importance of active work to strengthen contacts within the framework of the allied relations between Russia and Abkhazia.

He emphasized that holding the national holiday Sabantuy on Abkhazian soil is a vivid cultural event that unites close peoples.

Rustam Minnikhanov called trade and economic interaction the foundation for all areas of cooperation, including culture, sports, and education. Among the key areas, he highlighted agriculture, food production, and tourism.

Rustam Minnikhanov also noted the deep historical roots of bilateral ties, which were laid by Vladislav Ardzinba and Mintimer Shaimiev in difficult times.

Rustam Minnikhanov named the educational sphere as an important area of joint work. The Head of Tatarstan expressed readiness to expand opportunities for Abkhazian students to study in such in-demand fields as agriculture, veterinary medicine, energy, and architectural and construction engineering, as well as to organize retraining and professional development for current specialists.

The Head of Tatarstan shared his personal impressions of Abkhazia, noting the priceless beauty of the country's nature, as well as the openness and kindness of its residents.

Rustam Minnikhanov expressed confidence in the successful implementation of all planned development plans for the republic and emphasized that Tatarstan will always remain a reliable partner.

Rustam Minnikhanov also noted the significant role of the First Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation, Sergey Kiriyenko, calling him an experienced and authoritative leader whose support brings immense benefit to both Russia and Abkhazia.

For his significant personal contribution to strengthening friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Abkhazia and the Republic of Tatarstan, socio-economic development of Abkhazia, and active support, the President of Abkhazia, Badra Gunba, awarded the Order of "Akhdz-Apsha" of the II degree to the Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov.