Georgia’s Patriarch Ilia II urges vigilance in defence of independence

The Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, has marked the country's Independence Day with a message urging citizens to remain vigilant in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty.

In his public address, Patriarch Ilia II described independence as “the greatest and most important achievement” of the Georgian people, emphasizing the need for its continued protection.

"I congratulate all compatriots in Georgia and abroad on Independence Day," the Patriarch said in his statement. "Independence is the greatest and most important achievement of our nation and it needs protection and vigilance."

He went on to invoke blessings for the nation, calling on divine support for Georgia's peace, strength, and prosperity.

“May God grant peace, strength and prosperity to our country. May God bless, sanctify and not deprive the Mother of God of Georgia of His mercy,” he added.

Georgia celebrates Independence Day on 26 May, commemorating the adoption of the Act of Independence in 1918, which established the First Democratic Republic of Georgia following the collapse of the Russian Empire.