Defence Minister views pursuing national interests-based policy as decisive in preserving sovereign future

Georgian Defence Minister Irakli Chikovani stressed the historical significance of the declaration of Christianity as the state religion in Georgia 1,700 years ago and its role in shaping Georgia’s national identity during the festive event on Georgia’s Independence Day.

“This historic event defined our identity, culture, civilized choice and further enhanced state consolidation. In modern reality, where the attempts to erase traditional values and national identity are obvious, pursuing a national interests-based policy is decisive to preserve a sovereign future,” he said.

According to the Minister, the Georgian Armed Forces have always been co-participants of Georgia’s history, and the Defence Forces, which celebrate their 35th anniversary this year, are not only armed forces and modern combat capabilities, but represent love of country, patriotism, and self-sacrifice.

The Minister accentuated late Patriarch Ilia II’s contribution in strengthening Georgia’s spiritual development and respect for eternal values and greeted new Catholicos-Patriarch, His Holiness and Beatitude Shio III.

“It is symbolic that your enthronement coincided with this jubilee year, which assures us that with your prayers, blessings and leadership, and the contribution of the clergy, the spiritual strength and Christian values ​​of our nation will be further strengthened,” he said.

Georgian Defence Minister expressed hope that with the strength of the team and through defending eternal ideals – homeland, language, and faith – future generations in a united Georgia will have vast opportunities for development.