PM expresses condolences following death of ex-President

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili has voiced his sympathies following the death of Georgia’s second President Eduard Shevardnadze.

Georgia’s former leader Eduard Shevardnadze died this afternoon at the age of 86 in his Tbilisi home.

"I give my condolences to Georgia’s ex-President Eduard Shevardnadze’s death,” Garibashvili said in a statement.

"Eduard Shevardnadze’s contribution was especially important in shaping Georgia’s geopolitical role in the modern world.”

Garibashvili said Shevardnadze was a politician of international importance who largely contributed to the end of World War II and helped establish new world order.

"I express my condolences to his family and friends,” the Prime Minister said.

Garibashvili decided Shevardnadze would be honoured appropriately and decided a State Funeral Commission for Shevardnadze would be set up, meaning all funeral expenses and organisational matters will be covered by the state.

Members of Shevardnadze’s family confirmed to media today that Georgia's second President had passed away this afternoon at his Tbilisi house after a long illness.