On 11 July 2010, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Venezuela Hugo Jose Garcia Hernandez presented his credentials to Abkhazia's Minister for Foreign Affairs Maxim Gvinjia, and on 12 July, to President Bagapsh.[9] A formal document on the establishing of diplomatic relations at the level of ambassadors was signed on 23 July during a state visit of President Bagapsh to Venezuela. On 6 December, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Abkhazia Zaur Gvajava presented his credentials to Vice President Elías Jaua of Venezuela.[10]