Georgian Defence Forces are the unwavering guarantee of our sovereignty and independence, said the Prime Minister of Georgia during his keynote speech in Vaziani at an event marking the 34th anniversary of the establishment of the Georgian Defence Forces.

"We will never forget our heroes and will always pay them the respect they deserve. The sacrifices and acts of heroism made for our homeland will never fade from the memory of the Georgian people - these are examples that every one of us is proud of. I bow before the bright memory of our heroes.

I would also like to express my deepest respect to the veterans of the armed forces, many of whom paid the price of service to the homeland with their health, yet still stand ready to serve with dedication.

The Georgian Defence Forces are the unwavering guarantee of our sovereignty and independence. That is why, among the priorities of our government, you hold the highest place. I am confident that in the task of defending and securing the country, you will be an even stronger and more reliable force and will always live up to the trust placed in you by our country and our people.

I assure you that our government, as in the past, will continue to ensure peace and stability in Georgia. Once again, congratulations on this important day! May God protect our homeland", - said Irakli Kobakhidze.

The event marking the 34th anniversary of the establishment of the Georgian Defence Forces was held at the parade ground of the 4th Infantry Brigade in Vaziani.

At the ceremony, the assembled service members were congratulated on Defence Forces Day by President Mikheil Kavelashvili, Speaker of Parliament Shalva Papuashvili, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Irakli Chikovani, and the Commander of the Defence Forces Major General Giorgi Matiashvili. The guests also viewed the military equipment and armaments displayed on the parade ground. Prior to the start of the event, the Prime Minister, the President, the Speaker of Parliament, the Mayor of Tbilisi, the Minister of Defence and the Commander of the Defence Forces laid a wreath of garland at the memorial on the brigade"s premises to honor the fallen soldiers.