Georgian President: voices of Georgian diplomats must heard loudly on international stage

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on Wednesday said that the voices of Georgian diplomats had to be heard loudly on the international stage, emphasizing that Georgia would never give up its sovereignty and its choice to live in a free, democratic, and peaceful state.

In his speech during an event dedicated to Diplomat’s Day, Kavelashvili noted the crucial role of diplomats in protecting Georgia’s national interests on the international stage.

The event was attended by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, members of the executive and legislative branches, representatives of the Patriarchate and the diplomatic corps, as well as invited guests.

“This day carries special symbolic significance, as it is associated with the great Georgian writer, public figure, and diplomat Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani. Since 2020, it has become a tradition that, on Diplomat’s Day, distinguished diplomats who have made exceptional contributions to our country and people receive the departmental award named after Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani, which is highly commendable. Symbolically, today’s event also honors the memory of Akaki Chkhenkeli, the Foreign Minister of the First Democratic Republic and Ambassador to France”, he said.

“For the first time this year, Georgian diplomats will receive the departmental award named after Akaki Chkhenkeli. Today, as international relations among states become increasingly intensive, the role of you, diplomats, in defending our national interests on the international stage is particularly significant. A strong diplomatic corps that protects the state’s interests is one of the main guarantees of a strong state”, Kavelashvili continued.

He also emphasized that the work of diplomats is strategically important for building and strengthening Georgia’s economic and cultural relations with other countries.

“You are the people who protect and strengthen our country’s position on the international stage, proving to everyone that we are a small but historically, culturally, and traditionally rich nation. Given today’s extremely complex geopolitical situation, your professionalism and unconditional dedication to the homeland are particularly important for every Georgian. Your role in protecting our country’s sovereignty and maintaining peace is immense. Additionally, your work is strategically important for forming and strengthening Georgia’s economic and cultural relations with various countries”, the President said.

Kavelashvili added that serving one’s people and state and protecting the country’s best interests is a great honor alongside the responsibility.

“I am proud that professionals like you represent Georgia in various countries! Today, the voices of Georgian diplomats must be heard loudly on the international stage, showing that Georgia will never give up its sovereignty and its choice to live in a free, democratic, and peaceful state. This mission is entrusted to you, and I believe that with your commitment to professional standards, you will fulfill your duties faithfully. Finally, I would like to extend my special congratulations to the laureates of the Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani and Akaki Chkhenkeli departmental awards. I also congratulate all diplomats once again on your professional day and wish you success in your responsible work”, Kavelashvili concluded.