A solemn ceremony celebrating Georgia’s Independence Day was held at Liberty Square in Tbilisi, where the Georgian Defence Forces were officially presented.

Nearly 700 recruits took the military oath, joining the Defence Forces.

In addition to the event in Tbilisi, oath-taking ceremonies were held at five other historic locations across the country: Nokalakevi, near Geguti Palace; Samtavisi Cathedral; Vedzhini Ascension Monastery; and Mount Elia in Khevi.

A minute of silence was observed to honour those who sacrificed their lives defending Georgia’s independence, territorial integrity and during international missions.

President Mikheil Kavelashvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, and Defence Minister Irakli Chikovani delivered the speeches. Representatives of the Diplomatic Corps also attended the event.

As part of the celebrations, the public can view military equipment and weaponry in 21 cities and municipalities, including Tbilisi, Gori, Akhaltsikhe, Mtskheta, Rustavi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi, Ozurgeti, Poti, Ambrolauri, Khoni, Batumi, Telavi, Akhalkalaki, Marneuli, Senaki, Samtredia, Bagdati, Chkhorotskhu, Abasha, and Martvili.