PM Kobakhidze marks church autocephaly anniversary amid mourning for Ilia II

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has said Georgia is marking the restoration of the autocephaly of the Georgian Orthodox Church under the shadow of national mourning for Ilia II.

In a statement on Wednesday, Kobakhidze described the anniversary as a historic date, while emphasising the late patriarch’s role in securing international recognition of the church’s status.

He noted that although the church restored its autocephaly in 1917, it was only in 1990, through Ilia II’s efforts, that the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople formally recognised it and granted the patriarchal title.

Kobakhidze said this achievement was significant not only for the church but also for strengthening Georgia’s sovereignty. He added that the anniversary, coinciding with the ninth day since Ilia II’s death, highlights what he described as the enduring legacy of the patriarch.

The prime minister called on the public to preserve unity and continue the path shaped by Ilia II’s leadership.