Georgian FM: “we welcome steps that strengthen Ukraine's independence”
By Gvantsa Gabekhadze
Friday, January 18
Georgian Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani has stated that Georgia welcomes any steps that will strengthen Ukraine's independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
He said that the Georgian government, namely the Prime Minister and he, expressed their position on the issue.
Zalkaliani stated that the major decision should be made by the Georgian church over the topic.
"Considering the relevant processes of the canonical church, the Orthodox Church of Georgia should make a decision on this issue. As for the state, you know that the state does not interfere with the church activities.
“We welcome any steps that promote Ukraine's independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. How can you imagine us not happy with this fact?! I do not think we are refraining from expressing our position. We are watching the processes. The main issue should be made within the Church. However, the Prime Minister, as well as the Foreign Minister, has made a statement regarding this church’s independence," Zalkaliani said.
Georgian Vice Prime Minister Maia Tskitishvili also stated that she welcomed the independence of the Ukrainian church from the Russian one, adding that the first official statements regarding the issue should be made by the Georgian Patriarchate.
“First of all, I share the view that the Georgian church should be the first in the country to share its position regarding the issue.”
“On the other hand, I welcome any step which will provide opportunities for our ally state to strengthen itself as an independent country,” Tskitishvili said.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Metropolitan Epiphany, head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, signed the independence of Ukrainian church on 5 January in Istanbul.
The decision is strongly condemned by Russia.
The Georgian Patriarchate has not yet stated when they will make a statement regarding the issue.
