“The threat will remain high until, in my opinion, the war in Ukraine ends and the groups promoting the interests of foreign countries in Georgia are further weakened”, he told lawmakers.

“Over the past few years, our Government has responded firmly to numerous attempts to engage in war, destabilize, and start a revolution. We can call these years the period of Georgia’s survival, which, unfortunately, has not yet ended”, he claimed.

Kavelashvili also credited the “Georgian people” with “preserving the nation’s stability”, saying that they had demonstrated “caution, wisdom, and patriotism” in “preventing the country’s destruction”.

The official further urged “continued vigilance” against what he described as “forces seeking to undermine Georgia’s sovereignty”.

Reflecting on the country’s October 26 general elections last year, Kavelashvili argued the results had been a “clear indication of the public’s preference for stability and traditional values”.

“On this day, the Georgian public chose peace and development, protection of traditions, values, faith, family, and dignity, and rejected the pseudo-liberal ideology that threatens our identity and uniqueness”, he claimed. “Whether the forces hostile to Georgia inside and outside the country want to or not, they will have to accept the choice of the majority of the Georgian people and respect it”, Kavelashvili added.

He noted Georgia had transitioned into a full-fledged parliamentary republic following the elections, claiming it would “enhance governance through closer institutional cooperation”.

“Our economy has grown by an average of 10 percent over the past three years, and strategic projects have been implemented”, he said. “Despite wars, crises, and economic difficulties worldwide, Georgia’s economy continues to thrive, making our country increasingly attractive to investors”, the President added.

He further attributed the growth to the Government’s “ability to maintain peace and stability”, saying “without peace, it is impossible to talk about any kind of development and success”.

In his address, Kavelashvili expressed hope for reconciliation with people currently living in the Russian-occupied Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions.

“I believe that we will soon be able to heal the wounds of war together with our Abkhaz and Ossetian brothers and sisters and continue our happy coexistence in a united, strong, and prosperous Georgia”, he said.

He noted peace, economic progress, and well-being were “essential for national unity”, describing them as a “path that has no alternative”.

In his remarks, Kavelashvili referenced a political shift in the United States, attributing it to President Donald Trump’s influence.

“It is gratifying that, after Donald Trump’s victory in the US, a change in the pseudo-liberal order has begun in the world. I would call it the ‘Donald Trump effect”, he said. “This alignment of values gives me confidence that under the new US administration, we will be able to reset and normalize relations with the US”, Kavelashvili added.

He also claimed recent developments in the US and their global impact had “once again reinforced the Georgian people's confidence in the state's policies and values”.

A policy of peace, prioritization of national interests, protection of conservative and traditional values, the strength of the family, and promotion of Christianity - these are the principles that have guided our Government over the past decade. It is evident that these same values will shape US policy for the next four years”, the official added.

Kavelashvili also voiced frustration over what he described as “unfair criticism” from unspecified European partners, accusing them of “applying double standards”.

“This is particularly disappointing considering the path the Georgian people have chosen - driven by hopes for justice, mutual respect, the rule of law, and the preservation of national identity and sovereignty. The double standards applied to Georgia on a near-daily basis regrettably undermine European values and the credibility of European partners”, the President said.

He further noted “after centuries of striving for the European ideal, Georgia does not deserve such unfair treatment. We must continue to act in our national interest, pursuing peace and the strengthening of our country”.

The President claimed he was “committed to strengthening” social policies, including a crackdown on “drug addiction” and promotion of sports and education.

“We must strengthen the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and sports. The fight against drug addiction will be one of the main directions of my activities”, he pledged, adding “sport and culture should play a special unifying role in our society”.

The President also claimed his “main guiding principle” in pardoning 613 individuals last month was “maintaining a balance between humanity and public safety”.

Addressing concerns raised by domestic opposition and the civil sector over the number of the pardoned individuals, Kavelashvili expressed confusion over the controversy.

“I do not understand the agitation caused by certain groups. How can one not be pleased that individuals are given the opportunity to reunite with their children, partners, parents, and friends? Within a tight timeframe, we actively collaborated with multiple agencies to ensure these individuals could return to their families as soon as possible. I would like to extend my gratitude to the heads and representatives of each agency involved in this process”, he said.

In his address, Kavelashvili also emphasized the importance of unity among citizens “despite their differing opinions”. He called on the youth to “put aside divisions” and “work together to build a united, strong, and independent Georgia”.

“Despite our differences, we cannot be enemies of each other”, he said, urging the youth to recognize that they “share a common language, culture, history, and homeland that must be protected”.

He further highlighted the “necessity of dialogue and the ability to see and admit one’s mistakes in the pursuit of national unity”.

The President also suggested “emotional volatility of youth”, noting that “impulsive emotions could be exploited by those who seek to harm the country”.

Concluding his address, Kavelashvili reaffirmed his commitment to “safeguarding national interests” and maintaining Georgia’s “strategic role” in connecting East and West.

He noted “the key to the survival and success of a small country like ours lies in our smart and cautious actions, which in itself implies foresight and flexibility”.

AzVision.az

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