Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Botchorishvili released a statement on the X Platform over the death of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II.

“Today, the entire Georgia bows its head in grief. His Holiness Ilia II was not only a Patriarch, but a spiritual pillar and the conscience of our nation — a guiding light for generations, a guardian of faith, and a symbol of resilience,” she wrote.

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II passed away on March 17 at the age of 93.

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, will be laid to rest on Sunday, March 22, in the Sioni Cathedral.

Today, the entire Georgia 🇬🇪 bows its head in grief. His #Holiness Ilia II was not only a #Patriarch, but a spiritual pillar and the #conscience of our nation — a guiding light for generations, a guardian of #faith, and a symbol of #resilience. pic.twitter.com/8SyYvk3nwI

— Maka Botchorishvili (@MakaB__) March 18, 2026