South Ossetia celebrates its independence - and dreams of renouncing it

“Ossetia should become a part of Russia,” said the President of South Ossetia, Anatoli Bibilov, declaring this the main strategic aim of the republic while speaking at a discussion on the ‘Nine years since the recognition of the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia by the Russian Federation: expectations and reality’ theme.

This time around, South Ossetia celebrated its recognition by Russia with several activities and festivities.In the morning, in the village of Khod, there were off-road sports competitions. Riders from the North Caucasian republics of Karbardino-Balkariya, Dagestan, Cherkessia and North Ossetia participated in the competitions.

Next, a ceremonious gathering of civil society representatives and a meeting under the name of ‘Iron kazt – visiting the youth of Alania’ was held. In the evening there were also fireworks. One commentator on social media said: “Thanks to Russia, we survived. We receive our salaries and pensions. What did it give me? I live in the world, I feel protected, I work, I am raising my children and I feel like a free person – I’m not afraid of dying before my time.”