The message of reply reads, in part:
“At a critical moment in August 2008 we made the difficult but nevertheless, I am convinced, the only correct decision that could guarantee the independence of the young country of South Ossetia. We made our decision at that time and will not revoke it.
Over the past year South Ossetia has made significant strides in developing its nationhood and democratic institutions, protecting its borders, and reviving its socio-economic infrastructure. The main change in the life of the Republic is that people are once again able to live in peace.
In the postwar period we have brought our bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level based on the principles of international laws. The signing of the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance between the Russian Federation and the Republic of South Ossetia has become a solid foundation for the development of bilateral legal relations. Today, increased opportunities for the expansion of ties in the political, social, economic and trade spheres are becoming available to us. One of the priority aspects of our cooperation continues to be our close ties in the security sector.
During my visit to Tskhinval, I witnessed the extent of the tragedy of South Ossetia. We will continue to provide the people of South Ossetia with comprehensive assistance to overcome the consequences of the barbaric aggression by the Georgian regime, and to prevent any encroachment on the Republic's sovereignty.”