President Kavelashvili: Georgia will never relinquish its sovereignty or democratic choice

Georgia’s President Mikheil Kavelashvili said that the voices of Georgian diplomats “must be heard loudly on the international stage,” reaffirming that Georgia “will never give up its sovereignty or its choice to live in a free, democratic, and peaceful state.”

Speaking at an event marking Diplomat’s Day on Wednesday, Kavelashvili praised the “crucial role” of Georgian diplomats in protecting the nation’s interests amid global challenges. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, members of the executive and legislative branches, representatives of the Patriarchate, the diplomatic corps, and other invited guests.

Kavelashvili noted that the occasion carried “deep symbolic meaning,” as it was associated with Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani, a celebrated Georgian writer, public figure, and diplomat. Since 2020, distinguished diplomats have been awarded the Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani Medal for their outstanding service to the nation. This year’s event, he said, also honours the memory of Akaki Chkhenkeli, the first Foreign Minister of Georgia’s First Democratic Republic and envoy to France - with the Akaki Chkhenkeli Medal presented for the first time.

“The strong corps of diplomats defending our state interests is one of the main guarantees of a strong country,” Kavelashvili said. He highlighted the strategic importance of diplomacy not only in safeguarding sovereignty and peace but also in strengthening Georgia’s economic and cultural relations with other nations.

“You are the ones who protect and elevate Georgia’s position internationally, proving that we are a small but proud nation with a great history, culture, and tradition,” he said, emphasizing professionalism and patriotism as vital for representing the country abroad.

Concluding his address, Kavelashvili congratulated the recipients of the Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani and Akaki Chkhenkeli awards, as well as all Georgian diplomats, wishing them success in their service to the nation.