Georgia’s Special State Protection Service celebrates 21st anniversary

About 150 young men have pledged their allegiance to serving their country and officially were welcomed into the Georgian Special State Protection Service at a special celebration today.

The ceremony was part of the celebrations marking the 21st anniversary of Georgia’s Special State Protection Service.

Today's official celebration was attended by the country’s President Giorgi Margvelashvili, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and other officials.

Within the celebration 140 recruits made the oath to their country, followed by speeches by the President and Prime Minister. 

"We, Georgia's top officials, make decisions based on our conscience and state interests and we know that our backs are protected by you,” said President Margvelashvili, adding Georgia’s State Security Service officers "perform their duty with a high degree of professionalism”.

Margvelashvili also said State Security officers’ job was "extremely important” today, when the world has declared a war on terrorism.

"It is a battle we have not won yet, unfortunately, but it also is a fight in which Georgia has taken many steps. You know that historically we have been playing an important role in global security and fighting terrorism,” said the President in his speech.

Meanwhile Prime Minister Garibashvili said Georgia’s Special State Protection Service met all international standards, which was achieved thanks to efforts of each officer.

PM Garibashvili emphasized the assistance of the United States, Israel and other strategic partners in strengthening the capabilities of the Special State Protection Service and thanked these parties for their support for Georgia.