“We have a General Staff built to the highest modern standards, regional commands, and specialist units. Our most vital priority, military education and the cultivation of future generations, is served at the highest professional level by the National Defence Academy and the Cadets’ Military Lyceum,” declared Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze in his address at the ceremony held in Vaziani to mark the 35th anniversary of the founding of Georgia’s Defence Forces.

Kobakhidze affirmed that the country’s Defence Forces are today institutionally stronger than they have ever been.

“Today, as the world and our region face a host of formidable challenges, our government continues its resolute and consistent policy of peace. Peace is the foundation upon which the unification and development of our country must rest. At the same time, the Georgian armed forces stand ever ready to defend our land and the safety of our people. The state places its enduring trust in your steadfastness and professionalism.

Dear conscripts, the oath you have taken today is a testament to the great responsibility you have assumed to protect our country’s security and stability. I am confident that your service will become the bedrock of that unshakeable peace which is indispensable to the progress of our state and to the well-being of each and every one of our citizens.

Once again, I congratulate you on Defence Forces Day and on this 35th anniversary. May God watch over our country, and may God watch over every one of you,” the Prime Minister declared.