In today’s evolving world, where the rules-based international order is under unprecedented pressure, diplomacy and the role of diplomacy are gaining a new and distinct significance, Speaker of the Parliament said in his address at the solemn ceremony dedicated to the Day of Diplomacy.

As he noted, diplomacy has transformed not only into a profession but the front line of a state’s defense.

“Happy Professional Day to all Georgian diplomats who steadfastly protect our country’s independence, sovereignty, and national interests with unity and dedication. In today’s evolving world, where the rules-based international order is under unprecedented pressure, diplomacy and the role of diplomacy are gaining a new and distinct significance. Diplomacy has transformed not only into a profession but the front line of a state’s defense. The era when countries interacted solely through official channels, and a diplomat’s duty was limited to defending national interests before officials of the host or third countries, is rapidly becoming a thing of the past. Today’s world presents entirely different, complex, and fast-evolving challenges - where a diplomat is simultaneously a negotiator, an information gatherer, an analyst, a political actor, and a public figure, who must defend the interests of their country not in one or two, but in multiple directions at once. In our cosmopolitan, globalized world, some portray national interests as an anachronism - a relic of the past, the defense of which may be associated with regression or backwardness. Yet we know that, regardless of time or circumstance, a diplomat has been, is, and must remain a patriot of their own country, viewing universal human values and goals through the prism of serving their nation. Therefore, abroad, a diplomat safeguards state interests not only before adversaries but also in relations with partner countries; and within their own country, stands firm against groups indifferent to national interests - those who often value illusory global trends more than the tangible, vital, and decisive local interests of their homeland. We must realize that there is no such thing as an official who represents an abstract state or its abstract interests. Each of us embodies the dynamic evolution of Georgian society - we represent the Georgian people, with their aspirations and ambitions. These interests and aspirations, as in every democracy, are expressed through elections, where the nation’s main directions are defined. The people give a mandate to the Parliament; the Parliament determines foreign policy; and the elected government turns it into reality. Any attempt to establish a direct link between the people and a diplomat outside this framework violates the principles of democratic governance and is an act of arbitrariness”, - he stated.

As the Speaker emphasised, the task of diplomacy is to navigate the crosswinds of information and combat perceptions and tendencies.

“Today, when information warfare is often more dangerous than real wars, diplomats bear an extremely difficult mission - to defend the truth amid the noise of falsehood. Diplomats are tasked with navigating the crosswinds of information and leading the struggle within the clash of opinions, perceptions, and narratives. A diplomat who doubts their own country’s history and culture, or the importance and righteousness of their state’s interests, can never form a proper position nor convey a convincing message to the right audience. Let no one presume that the challenges faced by Georgian diplomats go unnoticed or unappreciated. I want you to know that the Parliament of Georgia fully understands your struggle and difficulties. The Parliament stands with you and values your work, your fight, and your dedication. It is our loyalty to national interests that has allowed us to preserve peace in our country and achieve unprecedented economic growth for Georgia. Through this shared struggle, we - the government and diplomats alike - have come to fully realize that our primary concern must always be our national interests. We must stand firm in our positions and not yield to false emotions or external pressure, despite the loud criticism that may accompany difficult but necessary decisions. Being principled does not mean being inflexible - it means that in every situation, we know who we are, what our values are, and where we are heading. Our path lies in building a strong, independent, European, and democratic state, and our success depends on a principled, pragmatic, and patriotic foreign policy. Diplomacy is not an instrument designed to please everyone; its purpose is to defend the national interests of the country by building bridges that ensure a peaceful and prosperous future. On behalf of the Parliament of Georgia, I once again congratulate you on Diplomats’ Day and sincerely thank you for your devoted, loyal, and conscientious service to the Georgian state”, - said the Speaker.