New PM presents Defence Minister to staff

The newly appointed Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday officially introduced Irakli Chikovani as an incoming Defence Minister to the Ministry personnel. 

Chikovani, who was greeted by his predecessor, Juansher Burchuladze, is the only new face in Kobakhidze’s cabinet, following the resignation of Irakli Garibashvili as the PM in January and the subsequent confidence vote in the state legislature on Thursday. 

Addressing the gathered audience, Kobakhidze commended the “dedication and loyalty” of the Defense Forces, pledging “unwavering support” to every servicemember. He also highlighted Chikovani’s “extensive political and professional background”, expressing confidence in his ability to “steer the Ministry forward in alignment with its strategic objectives and ongoing reforms”. 

Kobakhidze also took the opportunity to thank former Minister Burchuladze for his service and “dedication”, ahead of his potential appointment of the country’s new Ambassador to NATO. 

In his inaugural speech, Chikovani reaffirmed his commitment to the defence of Georgia, emphasizing the Ministry’s “firm focus” on strategic goals and the “continuous enhancement” of the Defense Forces’ capabilities. He pledged to work closely with the Ministry’s team to uphold the nation’s security interests and strengthen its defence posture.

With a background in public service, including his tenure as a member of Parliament and his previous service at the Ministry of Defence, Chikovani is a graduate of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University and the NATO Defence College.