Georgian prime minister Irakli Garibashvili on Friday named war as a “main enemy of freedom” in his Independence Day speech, claiming his government's policy had ensured the country’s presence as a “oasis of peace and stability” in the region. 

He noted “despite numerous destructive attempts by ill-wishers, internal and external enemies”, Georgia maintained peace.  “The first enemy of freedom is war. Today, our fraternal Ukrainian people are making huge sacrifices to protect their freedom in the brutal war started by Russia. I once again express my support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. I wish for a quick end to the war, peace, reconciliation and freedom”, Garibashvili said. 

He also noted “lies and misinformation are enemies of freedom”, adding “as our wise Patriarch says, one can lose his freedom in the name of false freedom”.

“Full-fledged freedom for us first of all implies the unity of the country. Today, if there is any shadow over the celebration of our freedom, it is the temporary occupation of our territories”, Garibashvili siad in reference to Abkhazia and Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) regions that are currently occupied by Russia. 

In comments on Georgia’s European integration, the PM stressed the country’s success on the path was “impressive” and claimed the Georgian authorities were doing their “utmost” to obtain the bloc’s membership candidate status by the end of this year. 

“A fair recognition of our merits by Europe will be a historic step that will help end the polarization in the country”, Garibashvili said.