“Today we celebrate the Day of the Georgian Defence Forces — a day that symbolically unites our historical memory, a sense of national dignity, and responsibility for the future. This day is a tribute to those who defend the country’s freedom, independence, and sovereignty at the cost of their own lives”, - said the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, H.E. Shalva Papuashvili, in his address at the event dedicated to the Day of the Georgian Defence Forces.

As Shalva Papuashvili noted, the history of Georgia is full of examples of heroism.

“For centuries, our nation has stood on the front line of struggle — not only to defend its land and faith, but also to preserve dignity, identity, and freedom. This tradition continues today in the form of the modern Georgian army, which faithfully serves the state and the people.

However, our strength is not only in arms. Our main strength lies in prudent policy, unity, and the ability to maintain peace. A strong state is built not only by a strong army, but also by correct and responsible policy — policy that anticipates threats, strengthens partnerships, reinforces institutions, and creates a safe environment for every citizen.

Peace is not accidental. Peace is a result. It is the outcome of well-calculated policy, strong institutions, reliable partnerships, and the steadfast protection of national interests.

It is under such conditions that the Defence Forces acquire their full significance: they not only defend the country, but also serve as a guarantor of peace. The solid backing that the state has in the form of the Defence Forces makes the government’s peace policy more flexible”, - the Speaker stated.

According to Shalva Papuashvili, today the Georgian Defence Forces are a modern, professional, and development-oriented institution.

“Our servicemen have extensive experience in international missions and, at the same time, defend our land on a daily basis. This is a great responsibility and, at the same time, a great honor.
Today we mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of the Georgian Defence Forces — a path that began on April 30, 1991, with the first conscription and military oath, and has transformed into a strong, professional, and dignified force that today protects the sovereignty and freedom of our state.
Today’s date acquires even deeper significance as we also mark one of the most important events in Georgia’s history — 1700 years since Christianity was declared the state religion. This was an event that defined the spiritual identity of our nation, its culture, values, and historical path.
The Christian faith has taught us unity, self-sacrifice, resilience, and love for one’s neighbor — values that still live on in the Georgian army today. It is on this spiritual foundation that the heroic spirit of our soldiers stands — the belief that defending the homeland is not only a duty, but a high moral act.
I would like to express special gratitude to the families of our servicemen. Your strength and support are the invisible foundation on which our army stands.
Today, we also remember the heroes who sacrificed themselves for Georgia. Their self-sacrifice is an eternal example of what it means to love one’s homeland. Their memory obliges us to be worthy, to safeguard our freedom, and to continue the work they began.
The Defence Forces are a symbol of Georgia’s strength, unity, and faith in the future. Your service reminds us that freedom is not a given — it is the result of daily struggle, effort, and readiness.
It is our duty to ensure that this struggle is conscious, united, and unwavering. Congratulations on the Day of the Georgian Defence Forces! Glory to Georgian soldiers! Glory to Georgia!” - said Shalva Papuashvili.

The event dedicated to the Day of the Georgian Defence Forces was attended by the President of Georgia, the Prime Minister, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of the Defence Forces, members of the Government and Parliament, and the Mayor of the capital.