Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili Expresses Gratitude to Military in Speech at Defense Forces Anniversary Event
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, May 1, 2023
On the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the Georgian Defense Forces, Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili declared during a ceremonial event at the 4th Infantry Brigade's training ground in Vaziani that the Georgian army plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
He further emphasized the army's importance and expressed gratitude towards their dedication and service, emphasizing the responsibility to recognize their achievements and honorable contributions.
Irakli Gharibashvili expressed his gratitude towards the military for their loyal and dedicated service to the homeland:
"Congratulations on the Day of the Defense Forces of Georgia. Today, I want to congratulate all of you, our distinguished and proud military personnel, who serve our country with dignity. On this day, I would like to congratulate our undefeated, dedicated and heroic wounded fighters who, along with all the veterans of the defense forces, fought bravely and continue to fight for the freedom of our country.
I want to thank you all for your honorable service. I would like to point out once again that the Georgian army is the main guarantor of the protection of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country," Irakli Gharibashvili said.
He expressed his respect and paid tribute to the brave fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country. According to Gharibashvili, their dedication and struggle for freedom have been instrumental in shaping the Georgian identity and preserving national and state values.
The Georgian Prime Minister also acknowledged the ongoing war in Ukraine and Russia's aggressive actions in his speech, which have led to a difficult-to-predict and turbulent geopolitical environment.
He recognized the responsibility of the government to exercise wisdom in such circumstances and emphasized the need to strengthen the country's institutions, especially the Georgian army, which is crucial for maintaining peace and security. Gharibashvili said that the government is committed to continuing the development of its defense capabilities and transformation of the defense forces, with the aim of further strengthening the army.
The Prime Minister of Georgia expressed gratitude towards the international partners in his speech, including the USA and NATO member states, who have assisted in building up the Georgian army. In honor of the Day of Defense Forces, the Prime Minister congratulated the soldiers and wished them victory and protection.
"Russia's aggression in Ukraine, a war that does not stop. In an already difficult to predict, turbulent geopolitical environment, we, the government, our authorities owe special wisdom.
At the same time, we understand very well that we should further strengthen the institutions of our state and, first of all, the Georgian army as the most important force for the security and peace of our country.
We continue to develop our defense capabilities according to the long-term plan, we continue the process of transformation of the defense forces, and I believe that our army will become even stronger.
Today, I would like to once again thank our international partners, the USA, NATO member states, everyone who helped and is helping to strengthen our Georgian army. Once again, I congratulate you on the Day of Defense Forces, I wish you victory, may God protect you," said Gharibashvili.
