Georgian Patriarch Shio III, French Ambassador discuss historical, cultural ties

Historical and cultural ties between Georgia and France were discussed on Thursday in a meeting between Georgian Patriarch Shio III and Olivier Courteaud, the French Ambassador to the country.

The meeting underscored the importance of bilateral relations.

Ambassador congratulated the head of the Georgian Orthodox Church on his enthronement as Patriarch and personally conveyed congratulations from the French Government.

The Patriarchate said the meeting was held in a warm atmosphere.

Courteaud said France supports peace in Georgia, its sovereignty, and the continuation of cultural and educational cooperation.

At the end of the meeting, Shio III presented the Ambassador with a commemorative cross created to mark the 1 700th anniversary of Christianity being declared the state religion of Georgia.