Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili awarded representatives of Georgian Defence Forces with State Awards at the joint nomination of Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili.

PM Irakli Kobakhidze commended soldiers for professionalism, patriotism and committed service and underscored the crucial role of the Defence Forces in strengthening Georgia’s independence and sovereignty.

“Georgian Defence Forces are a solid and reliable foundation of our country’s independence and sovereignty. Today is another recognition of your merit before the Georgian state and motherland.

Peace is the key priority of our government and people. This is the crucial foundation of the country’s progress and development, while a strong, modern and high-standard army is the guarantee of peace and security. This strength is grounded in your military dignity and commitment to your work. We express this gratitude to you. I congratulate each of you on your well-deserved state award – a fair recognition of your daily work and dedication to your homeland.

On behalf of the Georgian government, we pledge full support in the future. We will constantly continue caring for the perfection of the Defence Forces for the army to be provided with modern infrastructure and each soldier, officer or sergeant to have the best living conditions and be properly valued,” he said.

Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili and the Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Irakli Chikovani, congratulated representatives of the Defence Forces on receiving state awards.

For special merit to the motherland and nation, President Mikheil Kavelashvili awarded Chief Commander of Defence Forces General-Lieutenant Giorgi Matiashvili with Vakhtang Gorgasali First Quality Order. For special contribution to building the Georgian State, the President awarded 7 representatives of the Defence Forces with Orders and Medals of Dignity.

The awarding ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace.