Netherlands FM: Patriarch Ilia II served as pillar of faith, unity through turbulent periods in Georgia’s history

Minister of foreign affairs of the Netherlands Tom Berendsen on Saturday extended his condolences to the Georgian Orthodox Church and the “grieving” Georgian people following the passing of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, highlighting his role as a pillar of faith and unity.

In an official statement, Berendsen noted that the Patriarch was widely respected and loved for his wisdom and dedication to Georgia, playing a crucial role in maintaining unity and faith during challenging times.

“On behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands I would like to extend to the Georgian Orthodox Church and the grieving Georgian people our deepest condolences on the passing of His Holiness and Beatitude, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II”, he said.

The foreign minister emphasised that Ilia II served as a spiritual leader for nearly five decades, guiding the Georgian people through difficult and transformative periods in the country’s history.

“His Holiness provided spiritual guidance to the Georgian people for nearly five decades, serving as a pillar of faith and unity through turbulent periods in the country's history. He was loved and respected by the Georgian people for his wisdom and his love for Georgia”, Berendsen noted.

“I wish the Georgian Orthodox Church strength at this difficult time”, he concluded.