Georgian PM: strong defence is key to peace, veterans’ legacy must be preserved

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Saturday said that protecting peace was the government’s top priority and that peaceful development depended on a strong military and national defence capabilities.

Speaking at an event marking Veterans Day, Kobakhidze stressed the importance of veterans’ experience and knowledge in educating future generations about the value of peace and the lessons of war.

“Protecting peace is our top priority. Peaceful development rests on a strong military and defence capabilities. You, the veterans, understand better than anyone the value and importance of war and peace. Making use of veterans’ knowledge and sharing your invaluable experience with future generations is vital”, he said.

The Prime Minister further noted that more than 4,000 people have received training through a volunteer organisation established to support the principle of total defence, adding that schools are also introducing a pilot subject, “Defence and Security”, for which 18 veterans have undergone special training.

“The government has also covered 50% of tuition fees for veterans and their children under an education programme, allocating a total of ₾8.6 million. Children of fallen veterans and veterans with severe disabilities are eligible for educational grants”, he said.

“We have also addressed legislative gaps. Combatants who served in the territories of other states have been exempted from tax on annual taxable income of up to ₾3,000. Internally displaced veterans receive additional points when applying for housing. Free legal services, annual financial assistance for blind veterans and concessions on state services have also been introduced”, Kobakhidze continued.

He added that transport concessions are already available in Tbilisi and major municipalities, as well as on Georgian Railway services.

“Work is continuing to extend a similar approach nationwide. The government will, of course, continue to care for veterans in the future”, Kobakhidze said.

He further emphasised that preserving historical memory was a fundamental responsibility, adding that the state was taking steps to honour fallen heroes. Dozens of streets, squares and schools have been named after them.

“Preserving historical memory is our foremost responsibility. A nation that does not remember its heroes cannot build a better future. That is why the state is taking steps to ensure their memory lives on”, the Prime Minister said.

“Dear veterans and family members of heroes, I congratulate you once again on this day and thank you for your service to the homeland. I wish you peace, prosperity and long life”, he concluded.