Georgian PM highlights national unity on Mother Language Day

Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has marked Mother Language Day by praising the unity shown during the historic events of 14 April 1978, describing them as a defining moment in the country’s modern history.

In a statement on Tuesday, he said the day holds a “distinct place” in Georgia’s past, recalling how the nation “stood as one” to defend the Georgian language in the face of Soviet-era efforts to alter its constitutional status.

He described the events as unprecedented, adding that the Georgian people demonstrated to the world their determination to preserve national dignity.

According to the prime minister, the defence of the language at the time was closely tied to the idea of statehood.

“Protecting the language then meant preserving the idea of an independent state,” he said, noting that the outcome gave significant momentum to the national liberation movement.

Kobakhidze also stressed that the legacy of those who took part in the 1978 protests continues to underpin Georgia’s sovereignty today.

He added that safeguarding and developing the Georgian language remained a long-term responsibility, particularly in the modern world where maintaining national identity requires sustained effort.

“The strength and development of the mother language is one of the key foundations of the Georgian state’s resilience,” he said.