A gala event dedicated to Georgia’s Independence Day, featuring a concert by the Gori Women’s Chamber Choir, has been held at the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.

Georgia’s Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maka Botchorishvili, addressed the assembled guests.

In her welcoming remarks, the Minister highlighted the historical significance of Georgia’s Independence Day, as well as the country’s unique culture and identity.

“National Day is a moment to reflect on Georgia’s long and rich history. Over centuries, Georgia has stood at the crossroads of civilisations, preserving its identity, language, and unique cultural heritage,” the Vice Prime Minister noted.

Maka Botchorishvili also spoke of the robust strategic partnership and close friendship between Georgia and Turkey. The Minister stated that the trilateral meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, held in Istanbul, serves as further testament to their shared commitment to regional cooperation.

Furthermore, the Foreign Minister pointed to Georgia’s current presidency of the Organisation of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), emphasising the vital importance of dialogue within the Black Sea region.

“Georgia currently holds the presidency of the Organisation of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation, and we remain steadfast in our support for fostering dialogue and cooperation across the Black Sea region,” the Head of the Ministry declared.

The guests were also addressed by the Republic of Turkey’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, and the Consul General of Georgia in Istanbul, Aleksandre Jishkariani. Among the guests of honour invited to the gala was Lazar Comanescu, the Secretary General of the BSEC.