Georgia marks 32nd anniversary of armed forces

Today Georgia marks the 32nd anniversary of the creation of its armed forces. 

The event, dedicated to the establishment of the National Guard, which was established according to a resolution of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Georgia in December 1990, was celebrated at the parade at Vaziani military base.

Photo via Defence Ministry

On April 24, 1991, Georgia’s Cabinet Ministers issued a decree to recruit the country’s youth for compulsory military service, and conscription into the army was officially launched on April 30 of that year.

The official ceremony was opened with the national anthem, during which ceremonial volleys of cannons were fired, which was followed by a march, as well as with raising of Georgian and defence forces flags. Members of the Government and Parliament, as well as Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze and representatives of the diplomatic corps, attended the event.

Photo via Defence Ministry

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, President Salome Zourabichvili, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, Defence Minister Juansher Burchuladze, as well as Major General Giorgi Matiashvili, the Chief of the Georgian Defence Forces, congratulated defence forces and laid a wreath at the memorial for those fallen for Georgia’s independence.

Photo via Government Administration

This day is not and should not be only a day of formality, ceremony or speech filled with pathos, this day for a country with the history like Georgia at its head means that we fully understand and appreciate the great importance of defence forces for centuries in gaining and maintaining the independence of our country”, Zourabichvili said, highlighting their “invaluable service” to the country “not only during war, but also during peace and every day or every minute”.

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Burchuladze noted the Ministry had been working to further develop the army and its combat capabilities, including by “gradually increasing” the expenses of the Ministry. He emphasised the importance of creating all conditions for military personnel to serve under modern NATO standards.

On this day, I would like to congratulate our honoured veterans, who have worn the military uniform with dignity for years, and we are obliged to always appreciate them. I also congratulate our invincible wounded and injured fighters, who served the country at the cost of their own health, and some of you are still serving the country”, Burchuladze added.

Photo via Defence Ministry

Papuashvili also congratulated the defence forces, stressing “the Georgian military has been defending the most precious thing” for the country - independence, security and peace. He also emphasised the forces’ significant experience of participating in NATO and EU missions, contributing to global security and stability.

Photo via Defence Ministry

Within the framework of the event, an oath-taking ceremony of 145 recruits was held and at the end of the event, the guests got acquainted with the Georgian and foreign equipment and weapons in the arsenal of the Georgian Defence Forces displayed on the parade.