Patriarch Ilia II Celebrates EU Candidacy as Path to Brighter Future

patriarchate.ge – OCP News Service – 16/12/2023

Tbilisi -Georgia: In a historic address, His Holiness Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, on December 15, 2023,  celebrated the country’s newly acquired status as a candidate for membership in the European Union. Highlighting the significance of this step, the spiritual leader emphasized its potential to usher in a brighter future for Georgia on multiple fronts.

“Today marks a special day, because receiving the status of a candidate for EU membership opens up new opportunities for political stability within the country and raising the status in international relations,” Ilia II declared in his statement. He went on to highlight the potential for cultural, scientific, technical, and economic progress that this new chapter holds.

The Catholicos-Patriarch expressed his hope that the relationship between Georgia and the EU would be mutually enriching, noting that Georgia could contribute its rich Christian traditions and spiritual values to the European community. He also commended the collective efforts of the current government, the Georgian people, and all those who worked tirelessly to achieve candidate status, acknowledging their dedication since the country’s independence.

“The great efforts of our current government, the determination of our people and the hard work of many people have been invested in obtaining candidate status,” Ilia II stated. “Since the restoration of independence, all the authorities of Georgia have contributed to the construction of this road.”

Concluding his address on a hopeful note, the Catholicos-Patriarch offered blessings for Georgia’s future, calling for unity, peace, and continued success. He invoked the blessings of the Virgin Mary, expressing his faith in her guidance as the country embarks on its path towards EU membership.

“May God bless the unity, peace and successful future of Georgia through the prayers of the Most Holy Mother of God,” Ilia II concluded.

The Catholicos-Patriarch’s statement resonates with sentiments of optimism and anticipation across Georgia. This momentous step towards EU membership has sparked hope for a brighter future, one where the country can flourish both economically and culturally while strengthening its ties with Europe.

Source:

OCP News Services- patriarchate.ge