Defence Minister highlights int’l partners’ “great contribution” to Georgian armed forces on anniversary

Georgian Defence Minister Irakli Chikovani on Tuesday said the country’s international partners had made a “great contribution” to the formation of the modern Georgian armed forces, in comments on the 33rd anniversary of the Georgian Defence Forces.

In remarks at an event dedicated to the date, Chikovani said the “close cooperation” with international partners would be “further strengthened”.

I would like to thank them for their unwavering support of Georgia and its Defence Forces, and their contribution to strengthening [the latter] over the decades. Today, when the European security architecture is in danger, [and] Russia's aggressive war in Ukraine is ongoing, it is important to further strengthen partnership relations”, he told the occasion.  

Chikovani also pledged the Government would continue its efforts to “strengthen the military, equip the troops, increase their readiness, and ensure care for each and every one of you”.

He also stressed the armed forces would need to be ready to respond to “modern challenges”.

The Georgian armed forces, taking into account modern challenges and real threats, should become even better adapted to technological changes, be properly equipped and trained, and each soldier should be more valued”, the Minister said.

Chikovani added it was “important to draw conclusions based on reality”, and ensure a “consolidation of the public” and “unity of the armed forces and citizens” on the backdrop of the geopolitical situation in the wider region.