Georgian First Deputy Defence Minister awarded top French state prize
In a meeting held along with the distinction of the Georgian official, Chikovani thanked the French Government for its contribution to the development of Georgia's defence capabilities and pointed out the partnership in the field between the two countries. Photo: Georgian Defence Ministry
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Lela Chikovani, the First Deputy Defence Minister of Georgia, has been awarded the National Order of Merit under a decree of the President of France Emmanuel Macron for “exceptional contribution” to the deepening of cooperation between the countries, the Georgian Defence Ministry announced on Monday.
The prize, awarded for the most significant military and civilian achievements, is the highest national award of France, the Ministry added.
In a meeting held along with the distinction of the Georgian official, Chikovani thanked the French Government for its contribution to the development of Georgia's defence capabilities and pointed out the partnership in the field between the two countries.
Representatives of the two countries’ defence bodies discussed questions of bilateral cooperation and future prospects, in addition to joint efforts of Georgian and French troops in the ongoing peacekeeping missions and multinational exercises in Africa.
Meeting participants also highlighted the support of France in the development of Georgian air defences under the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package, designed to develop Georgia’s defence capability and interoperability with the alliance.
Georgia’s “unwavering” Euro-Atlantic aspirations were also emphasised during the meeting, in addition to the officials reviewing the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine and their impact on the Black Sea region.
The strategic dialogue between France and Georgia provides “intensive multilateral consultations," including in the field of defence and security, the Ministry said.