Orthodox Church Patriarch hails efforts of Georgian Gov’t, people in obtaining EU candidate status

Ilia II, the Catholicos Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church, on Friday hailed the efforts of the current Government and Georgian people in obtaining the European Union membership candidate status.

Today is a special day, because receiving the EU candidate status opens up new opportunities for political stability within the country and increasing the [country’s] status in international relations, as well as [for] cultural, scientific and economic progress”, the Patriarch noted in his message.

His Holiness expressed hope the partnership between Georgia and the EU would be “mutually enriching” and help strengthen the Christian traditions and spiritual values of Georgia.

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Since the restoration of independence in 1991, all governments of Georgia have contributed to paving the way for the EU, he added. 

The Patriarch wished the Georgian people unity, peace and a successful future with the blessing of the Holy Mother of God.