PM Kobakhidze vows continued support for strengthening Georgia’s Defence Forces

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday said the Government would continue working to strengthen and modernise the country’s Defence Forces during a state awards ceremony held at the Presidential Palace.

Based on a joint nomination by Kobakhidze and Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili awarded state honours to members of the Defence Forces.

Kobakhidze thanked military personnel for their professionalism, patriotism and service to Georgia, stressing the importance of the Defence Forces in safeguarding the country’s independence and sovereignty.

“The Defence Forces of Georgia are a reliable pillar of our state’s independence and sovereignty,” Kobakhidze said.

He added that peace remained the Government’s top priority and described a strong, modern and high-standard military as the key guarantee of national security.

“We will continue to work constantly on improving the Defence Forces so that the army is equipped with modern infrastructure and equipment, and every soldier, officer and sergeant has the best possible living and working conditions and receives proper appreciation,” the Prime Minister stated.

Papuashvili and Defence Minister Irakli Chikovani also addressed the ceremony and congratulated the award recipients.

For outstanding service to the country and nation, Kavelashvili awarded Chief of the Defence Forces Giorgi Matiashvili the First Class Vakhtang Gorgasali Order.

Seven other Defence Forces representatives received Orders of Honour and Medals of Honour for their contribution to strengthening Georgia’s defence and state-building efforts.