“The position of our political force is that we will accept any decision made by the Holy Synod. Of course, such decisions should be determined by the Holy Synod and the Church,” stated MP Tata Khvedeliani, a member of the Gakharia for Georgia party.

He emphasised that “any external attacks are entirely unacceptable.”

When asked whether references by some individuals to Bishop Shio as the Russian Exarch could damage the Church’s image and processes, Khvedeliani responded that such statements are deeply troubling and extremely serious.

“It has been nine days since the passing of His Holiness and Beatitude. As Christians, we are in mourning. Naturally, such remarks are very distressing and difficult at this time. Therefore, they are categorically unacceptable to us. Our stance remains that we will respect any decision of the Holy Synod. No one should interfere in the affairs of the Church or the Holy Synod,” Khvedeliani affirmed.