International Partners Congratulate Georgia on Independence Day
On May 26, Georgia celebrates the 107th anniversary of the declaration of its first democratic republic and the 34th anniversary of its independence restoration. In celebration of Georgia’s Independence Day, foreign leaders, diplomats, and officials shared congratulatory messages and well-wishes to Georgia.
Civil.ge has compiled the following messages from international partners:
Joint Statement by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish PM Donald Tusk: “On the occasion of the Independence Day of Georgia, we would like to send a message of friendship and solidarity to the Georgian people, and reiterate our unwavering support for the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of Georgia. We support the democratic and European aspirations of the Georgian people. These aspirations reflect a willingness to be part of the European family. We, therefore, condemn all activities of the Georgian authorities resulting in the democratic backsliding and the attacks against civil society, media and government critics. Freedom of expression and of assembly must be upheld. Reports of excessive violence must be investigated. Laws that contradict European standards must be amended and the much-needed reform process must be picked up again. The Georgian authorities need to re-establish a dialogue with opposition and civil society. The people of Georgia should not be deprived of the opportunities associated with the country’s European path.”
Marco Rubio, United States Secretary of State: “On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my greetings to the people of Georgia on this national day. For over thirty years, the friendship and partnership between our nations has been built on shared values of democracy, sovereignty, and the pursuit of a better future. On this day, we celebrate the strength and resilience of the Georgian people and our enduring bonds. The Georgian people’s love of and commitment to freedom and independence is inspiring. The United States remains committed to a partnership in line with Georgia’s aspirations for a secure and prosperous future.”
Charles III, King of the United Kingdom: “As the people of Georgia celebrate Independence Day, my wife and I are delighted to send our warmest congratulations. I look forward to the continuing close friendship and the strong partnership between the people of our countries. My wife and I have great pleasure in conveying our very best wishes to all Georgians in the year ahead.”
The EU’s Ambassador to Georgia, Paweł Herczyński, recorded a congratulatory video, addressing the citizens of Georgia, stating: “Today, I congratulate all the citizens of Georgia on the Independence Day. You have every reason to be proud for preserving the century-old legacy of the First Democratic Republic while building an independent state for the past 34 years. Over these years, the European Union has always stood by Georgia’s side. We have been providing vital assistance, supporting democratic reforms, opening access to European markets, and enabling visa-free travel for citizens of Georgia. Yet today also serves as a powerful reminder that independence and democracy must never be taken for granted. The European Union remains firmly committed to Georgia in solidarity, in partnership, and in shared belief in a democratic European future. We are proud to be friends of Georgia. Happy Independence Day! Go Forward, Georgia! Go!”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine: “I congratulate the Georgian people on Independence Day and sincerely wish Georgia strength and happiness. Ukrainians have always felt a warm emotional connection with Georgia. Our state supported Georgia’s sovereignty and defense in 2008 during the difficult period of Russia’s invasion. And we will always stand together in the joint aspiration of peoples – all peoples of Europe – toward free and dignified life, which is unimaginable without Ukraine and Georgia. Thanks to everyone who supports our people. Long live independent Georgia! Glory to Ukraine!”
Edgars Rinkēvičs, President of Latvia: “Congratulations from Latvia to the people of Georgia celebrating Independence Day. Liberty and democracy are priceless and must be guarded always. My full solidarity with all freedom-loving Georgians at this very important day.”
Alar Karis, President of Estonia: “I send warmest wishes to the people of Georgia, to freedom-loving Georgians. Independence Day honours the courage it takes to choose and protect freedom. Freedom, once claimed, must be guarded – may you always have the strength to do so.”
Maia Sandu, President of Moldova: “Happy Independence Day to the brave people of Georgia. Moldova stands with all who believe in freedom, dignity, and a European future. Our journeys may not always be easy – but they are worth taking, together…To honour the strength of the Georgian people, we award the Order of the Republic – Moldova’s highest distinction – to President Salome Zurabishvili. Her leadership and dedication to democratic values inspire us all.
Isaac Herzog, President of Israel, sent a congratulatory letter to GD-elected President Mikheil Kavelashvili: “Your Excellency, On behalf of the State of Israel and its citizens, please accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of Georgia’s Independence Day. Here in Jerusalem, we hold a deep appreciation for the important relations we enjoy with Georgia as we share a number of common geopolitical interests. I am committed to using my time in the office of the presidency to continue working to expand and strengthen the partnership between our two nations, in fields as vital as they are varied including commerce, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Beyond politics, there is a deep and historic connection between our two peoples. Georgia’s vibrant Jewish community and Jews of Georgian origin both serve as a living bridge connecting our two nations, creating an unmovable anchor securing our bonds of friendship. Once again, on this day of celebration and pride, please accept my warmest congratulations to you and the people of Georgia. May the coming year be one of peace and prosperity for your nation.”
Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, sent a congratulatory letter to the GD Prime Minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, the GD government’s press office reported. The letter states: “On behalf of myself and the Azerbaijani people, I sincerely congratulate you and your country’s population on Georgia’s Independence Day. The foundation of Azerbaijan-Georgia interstate relations is built on the firm will of our peoples, who have historically lived in an atmosphere of friendship, good neighborliness and mutual support […] Your recent visit to our country, along with our contacts on international platforms, is clear evidence of the dynamic nature of our bilateral relations. […] I am confident that through our joint efforts, Azerbaijan-Georgia friendship and strategic partnership will continue to advance on an upward trajectory, which will contribute to the well-being of our peoples and the peace and security of our region. On this wonderful day, I send you best wishes and sincerely wish long-lasting peace and prosperity to the friendly Georgian people.”
According to the GD’s press service, Irakli Kobakhidze received a congratulatory letter from Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister, Oljas Bektenov, which states “I am pleased to note that today Georgia, as a state that has taken significant steps toward comprehensive development and occupies its rightful place on the international stage, is Kazakhstan’s important partner in the South Caucasus. Your official visit to Kazakhstan in February of this year gave new impetus to the development of bilateral relations, including strengthening cooperation in the “Middle Corridor” direction. […] I wish you health and success in your responsible public activities, and to the friendly Georgian people – peace and prosperity.”
Poland’s MFA: “Best wishes of peace, solidarity, and prosperity to the people of Georgia on the occasion of their Independence Day!”
Lithuanian MFA: “Congratulations to the people of Georgia on Independence Day! For 180 days, you’ve stood firm for a European, democratic future. Your voices are heard, and they inspire all who believe in freedom and the power of unity. Dghegrdzeli ikhos evropuli Sakartvelo!”
Estonian MFA: “Estonia wishes all freedom-loving people of Georgia heartfelt congratulations on Georgia’s Independence Day.”
Bulgarian MFA: “Happy National Day of Georgia! Bulgaria supports the strong commitment of the Georgian people to democracy, shared European values and a EU future, which will further strengthen our long-standing friendly ties.”
Azerbaijan’s MFA: “Congratulations to our friend, neighbor and strategic partner Georgia on the occasion of Independence Day! Happy Independence Day to the Government and People of Georgia!”
Turkey’s MFA: “We celebrate the Independence Day of our neighbour and strategic partner Georgia.”
Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India: “Greetings to FM Maka Botchorishvili, the Government and people of Georgia on their Independence Day. Will continue efforts towards deepening of our ties.”
Sherarz Gasri, Ambassador of France to Georgia: “On May 26th, 1918, Georgia proclaimed its independence from the Russian empire and have been fighting for freedom ever since. Today, France supports Georgia sovereignty & territorial integrity. We stand by the people of Georgia in its European and democratic aspirations.”
Peter Fischer, Germany’s Ambassador to Georgia: “Congratulations to our Georgian friends on Independence Day! Georgians have always worked tirelessly for independence, freedom, and democracy in their country. We respect and admire this unwavering commitment. Germany and Europe stand by your side. Gagimarjos Sakartvelo.”
Meline Arakelian, Ambassador of the Netherlands: “On behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, I would like to extend my warm congratulations to the Georgian people on their Independence Day. Georgia’s independence is hard-won. It has come with many sacrifices. Until this day, Georgian people continue to defend their freedom. For themselves and for future generations. The Netherlands has been a reliable partner and friend for Georgia since its independence. We remain committed to Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, also through our steadfast contribution to the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia. We are – and will remain – with you. Long live Georgia!”
Ashot Smbatyan, Ambassador of Armenia: “I warmly congratulate the friendly Georgia and the brotherly Georgian people on their national holiday, Georgia’s Independence Day! I wish you peace, unity, strength, and prosperity! Our people share many common values, the most cherished of which are love for the homeland and preservation of national identity. Once again, I congratulate brotherly Georgia and wish it nothing but progress! With respect, Ashot Smbatyan.”
Anne Toft Sørensen, Ambassador of Denmark to Georgia: “Congratulations to all Georgians on your Independence Day! Denmark continues its unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Freedom cannot be taken for granted.”
Petr Kubernat, Czech Ambassador to Georgia: ” Dear Georgian friends my sincere congratulations to your Independence Day! Czechia continues to support your sovereignty and territorial integrity. You deserve a democratic and peaceful future. We stand on your side! Gagimarjos Sakartvelo.”
Bergljot Hovland, Norwegian Ambassador to Georgia: “Dear Georgians, Happy Independence Day! We pay tribute to those who bravely stood, and continue to stand, in defense of Georgia’s independence and freedom. We reiterate our support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. გილოცავთ! [Congratulations]
Embassy of Sweden in Tbilisi: “Dear Georgians, warmest congratulations on your Independence Day! Sweden remains a steadfast supporter of Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We continue to stand firmly with the Georgian people and its European aspirations.”
Embassy of Ukraine in Georgia: “The Embassy of Ukraine in Georgia sincerely congratulates Georgia and the Georgian people on Independence Day! We wish you peace and prosperity, happiness and harmony, prosperity and restoration of territorial integrity! Happy holiday, Georgia!”
Congressman Joe Wilson: “I am grateful to wish the freedom-loving Georgian people a HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY. I urge the Senate to move swiftly in passing #MEGOBARI in support of the brave people of Georgia, marching for over 180 days for their country and families.”
Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement: Congratulations to the people of Georgia on Independence Day! The EU continues to stand firmly by your side to build a democratic, European future for your country.”
Rasa Juknevičienė, MEP: “Happy Independence Day to Georgia! Today, you are continuing the same fight that has been lasting for more than a century. I stand with all the brave Georgian people who demand what they deserve – freedom, democracy, and a pro-European future of their country.”
Bjorn Berge, Deputy Secretary General of CoE: “Happy Independence Day Georgia! დამოუკიდებლობის დღე გაგიხარდეთ.”
Marko Mihkelson, Chairman of the Estonian Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee: “To the freedom-loving people of Georgia! On this sacred day – Georgia’s Independence Day – we stand with you in deep admiration and unwavering solidarity. You are the descendants of a proud heritage – guardians of a land where courage flows through the rivers and resistance echoes in the mountains. Against tyranny, against injustice, and against those who seek to dim your light, you have risen – strong, proud, and united. May your flag fly high today – as a symbol of your enduring will, your love of peace, and your unwavering commitment to a free, democratic, and European Georgia. Gamarjoba Sakartvelo! Glory to Georgia – free and forever proud!”
Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of Ukraine’s President: “To the proud people of Georgia – Happy Independence Day! Your strength and dignity earn admiration. With respect and solidarity, from Ukraine.”
GD’s press service released a congratulatory letter sent by China’s State Council Premier, Li Qiang, to Irakli Kobakhidze, that says: “I want to heartily congratulate you on Georgia’s Independence Day and wish you and Georgia’s government all the best. In recent years, the China-Georgia strategic partnership has maintained positive dynamics, while bilateral cooperation within the framework of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative is fruitful. I am ready to continue joint efforts with you to ensure solid progress of mutually beneficial cooperation and further deepen China-Georgia relations. I wish Georgia prosperity and the Georgian people happiness.”
Gabrielius Landsbergis, Former FM of Estonia: “Dear freedom-loving people of Georgia, Happy Independence Day! We know you will never surrender, and we want you to know we will never abandon you. With love, and solidarity, from Lithuania.”
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of the Belarusian opposition: “Congratulations to the people of Georgia on Independence Day! We strongly support your sovereignty, territorial integrity & European aspirations. Belarusians & Georgians know: freedom must be fought for, and our future lies with Europe. გილოცავთ, [congratulations] Sakartvelo!”
Pavel Latushko, Former Minister of Culture of Belarus and opposition figure: “Happy Independence Day to #Georgia! Georgians, like Belarusians, know freedom isn’t a given – it’s a hard-fought battle that must never be lost. I wish you to stay strong & steadfast in your commitment to the ideals of freedom, democracy & the European choice. @Zourabichvili_S.”
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