Italian President says Rome and Tbilisi continue to promote ‘new opportunities for cooperation’ in Independence Day message

Italian President Sergio Mattarella has congratulated Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili and the Georgian people on the occasion of Independence Day, stressing the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation despite ongoing geopolitical challenges.

In a congratulatory letter, Mattarella said Rome and Tbilisi continue to promote “new opportunities for cooperation” in the spirit of their long-standing friendship, despite regional instability linked to the war in Ukraine and other international crises.

The President also reaffirmed Italy’s support for Georgia’s European path, expressing hope that the country’s integration process with the European Union would continue with “new and strong momentum” based on democratic values and constructive engagement.

Mattarella additionally recalled Kavelashvili’s participation in the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, wishing the Georgian President “well-being and a successful future.”