“I am pleased that the tradition of the International Georgian Congress continues in Tbilisi. This event not only celebrates our rich cultural heritage but also affirms our commitment to preserving and promoting our language, literature, history, and culture,” Shalva Papuashvili, the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, highlighted during his address at the international Kartvelology Conference.

As the Chairman of the Parliament stated, we aim to become a full member of the European Union, bringing with us a millennia-old identity and a unique Georgian language that will enrich the European community.

“Today, we honour the significant contributions of our ancestors to our cultural and historical heritage, which reflects our national identity. We take pride in the founders of Georgian scientific schools—Ivane Javakhishvili, Korneli Kekelidze, Akaki Shanidze, Shalva Mirianashvili, and Giorgi Chitaia. Additionally, we are proud that our history and cultural heritage have been examined by renowned European Georgian scholars such as Marie Brose, David Lange, Julius Asfalg, and Hugo Schuchardt, who have highlighted Georgia’s contributions to human civilization.

Our language, literature, history, and culture unite us as a nation. It is through this unique cultural heritage that we embark on our European path. With our rich identity, we will join the European Union, adding our unique language as the 24th official language and its script as the EU’s fourth script. In today’s globalized world, safeguarding our cultural heritage is more critical than ever. Thus, we greatly appreciate the National Academy of Sciences of Georgia for its efforts in preserving and promoting our language, history, and culture,” said Papuashvili.

“Today’s congress serves as an excellent platform for knowledge exchange among researchers and scientists, which will advance the field of Georgian studies in modern contexts,” he added.

Shalva Papuashvili expressed gratitude to Georgian and international scholars of Kartvelology for their invaluable contributions and thanked the National Academy of Sciences for organizing this event for the fourth consecutive time.

“By deepening our understanding and appreciation of our past, we can build a successful future for our country. Our cultural heritage is our strength. We must preserve and protect it to pass on the greatness of Georgian culture to future generations.”

“I wish you all engaging and fruitful discussions,” Papuashvili concluded.