Plenipotentiary Representative of President of the Russian Federation in the North Caucasus Federal District Alexander Khloponin sent a congratulatory telegram to the President of the Republic of South Ossetia, Eduard Kokoity, on the occasion of the national holiday of the RSO, the 20 th anniversary of the establishment of the Republic.
The message reads in part:
"I sincerely congratulate you and the people of South Ossetia with the twentieth anniversary of the establishment of the republic. I regret that I am unable to personally congratulate you, Edward Dzhabeevich, and all South Ossetians with this wonderful holiday.
The path to the independence of South Ossetia for the state was uneasy. Defense against repeated attempts of aggression provoked by irresponsible politicians of some countries, the postwar recovery - it all is a heavy burden on the shoulders of the people.
South Ossetia survived under your leadership. Believe me, this strong stand is appreciated not only by Russians – people in dozens of countries around the world praised it.
I sincerely hope that you as president of the republic continue to remain the guarantor of friendly relations between our countries, and South Ossetia will become a model of stability and prosperity in the Caucasus.
Please accept our assurances of deep respect to you and your people."
