“I would like to wish a happy 45^th anniversary of enthronement to our beloved Patriarch. It is indeed hard to find words to describe your enormous merit and mission. Our people know well what a great mission you have fulfilled and continue to fulfill for our people and country,” Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili stated at the Patriarchate as he wished a happy 45^th anniversary of enthronement to Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All-Georgia.

As the Head of Government noted, Ilia II has fulfilled and continues to fulfill a great mission for the people and the country.

“Your Holiness, Your Eminences, Madam President, Mister Speaker, dear audience! I greet you, and I want to join your heartfelt, sincere wishes. Firstly, I would like to wish a happy 45^th anniversary of enthronement to our beloved Patriarch. It is indeed hard to find words to describe your enormous merit and mission. Our people know well what a great mission you have fulfilled and continue to fulfill for our people and country. I know from my parents, the generation of my parents, how difficult the times were when you, through the will of God, were chosen and consecrated as Patriarch. Back then, as you all know well, only a few churches and monasteries operated in Georgia. But today, thanks to God and you, and your wise deeds, your immense love and patriotism, several thousand churches and monasteries have been built. Needless to say, enormous is your contribution to this cause, to the cause of reviving faith among our people and giving faith and hope to our people. We can say a lot about your merit and your mission. But one thing I want to say as an ordinary citizen is that I am immensely grateful to you for fulfilling this tremendous historical mission. I believe that your biggest dream and idea, that of seeing a unified Georgia soon, will come true through the grace of the Lord. Once again, I would like to thank you and reassure you of our great love, our great respect for you. I want to express gratitude once again, personally. Your every word and piece of advice is very important to us, and I always remember your wise counsel. Once again, thank you! I wish you good health and good cheer,” the Prime Minister said.

On his visit to the Patriarchate, the Prime Minister was joined by the President of Georgia and the Speaker of Parliament.