“Today marks the 33rd anniversary of the Defense Forces of Georgia. I wish all of you a happy holiday as we celebrate it with special pride. This day belongs to you, each brave and professional service member protecting our country’s independence, peace, and freedom,” said Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in his speech at today’s event in Vaziani celebrating the 33rd anniversary of the Defense Forces of Georgia.

According to the Head of Government, caring for the army and service members, and further appreciating their merits, is one of the main priorities and duties of the Government.

“Greetings, Mister Parliament Speaker, Mister Tbilisi Mayor, Mister Defense Minister, Mister Chief of the Defense Forces, generals, officers, sergeants, privates and corporals, honorable guests, ladies and gentlemen!

In my greeting, I intentionally omitted the previous speaker, and I will not insult the Georgian army by commenting on her political statements that are totally inappropriate for today’s event and the high rank of president. Everyone will be held responsible by God for violating the Constitution and betraying the country,” the Prime Minister said.

According to Irakli Kobakhidze, the Georgian army has always stood guard over the country’s freedom and independence.

“I bow my head in remembrance of all fighters who have fallen protecting their homeland and participating in international missions. Their courage, patriotism, and steadfastness are values that underpin the Defense Forces. I wish a happy holiday to all veterans and thank them for their loyal service to the homeland. I wish a happy anniversary of the Defense Forces to our wounded and injured fighters. Our state and society are obligated to maximally support them and appreciate their self-sacrifice. Caring for the army and service members, and further appreciating their merits, is one of the main priorities and duties of the Government. We are proud of our army, an inseparable part of our national identity,” the Prime Minister underlined.

As the Head of Government pointed out, the army is a big family that belongs to and brings together all Georgian citizens.

“We give priority to upgrading the army’s readiness, equipping it with modern weapons, and putting in place modernized infrastructure. Along with national efforts, equally important down this road is further deepening our international partnership. I thank our partners for their invaluable years-long support of the development and empowerment of Georgia’s Defense Forces. Our cooperation also lays the firm foundation for regional peace and stability, something that is especially important in light of the complicated security situation in the region. I am excited to see that our Defense Forces successfully continue the military traditions and proud legacy of the Georgian army with doubled resolve, high-level commitment, and motivation. Once again, I wish you a happy anniversary of the Defense Forces and wish you further victories. Long live unified, independent Georgia!” the Head of Government stated.

The official event opened to the accompaniment of a march and a procession with the national flag of Georgia and the banners of the Defense Forces. The Exemplary Orchestra of the National Guard of the Defense Forces performed the national anthem. During the performance, a cannon salvo was fired in a salute.

The personnel and guests observed a moment of silence to honor the memory of service members fallen in the fight for Georgia’s unity and in line of duty. Today, recruits recited the oath of allegiance and officially joined the Georgian army.

An awarding ceremony honoring service members was also held at today’s festive event, followed by service members reciting the Soldier’s Creed. The event’s finale featured the helicopters of the Defense Forces flying in the air.

The Prime Minister also familiarized himself with the military equipment and weapons displayed at the parade grounds.

Held in the territory of the 4th Infantry Brigade, the event was attended by members of the executive and legislative branches of government and representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Georgia.

Prior to the event’s opening, the Head of Government laid a wreath at the Memorial of Heroes in the brigade’s territory.