Georgian culture is precisely what reminds us what we fight for, what we defend, and what we cherish, stated Speaker of the Parliament of Georgiain his address at the award ceremony honoring representatives of Georgia’s cultural sphere.

As Shalva Papuashvili noted, culture is what tells us why Georgia must be independent, indivisible, and united.

“It is a pleasure to once again be guests in the grand hall of the Presidential Palace of Georgia, and it is doubly gratifying to attend such a distinguished event as the award ceremony for representatives of Georgia’s cultural sphere. Approximately 5 months ago, we participated in a similar event, and it is highly commendable that this excellent tradition continues. I said it then and I will repeat it now: culture in Georgia is alive and free; for Georgia, culture represents one of the principal pillars of its individuality and identity. We are a generation that comes from the 2nd half of the 20th century, a period when Georgian culture and Georgian art stood out for their exceptional achievements and remarkable heights. We all possess a sense of its significance, uniqueness, and distinction. During that period, sport and culture provided special grounds for pride and self-expression.

In the last week of February each year, we recall the events of a century ago, first and foremost, the proclamation of the independence of the Republic of Georgia and its subsequent loss.

We remember the 70-year Soviet past, with its good and bad, its losses and gains, its sacrifices and achievements. Such has been Georgia’s destiny: throughout our history, times of prosperity have been rare. We had peace but lacked independence. We had independence, yet enemies attacked us from all sides, unable to accept a free Georgia.

Today, in the 35th year since the restoration of Georgia’s independence, we have managed to unite, to awaken national self-awareness, to safeguard sovereignty, to revive the dignity of being Georgian, and to take independent steps in defense of our country, our homeland, and our state. These steps cannot but inspire a sense of dignity and pride.

Georgian culture is precisely what reminds us of what we fight for, what we defend, and what we cherish. It is what tells us why Georgia must be independent, indivisible, and united. I congratulate you all on receiving these honorary awards and wish you to proudly bear the title of devoted servants of Georgian culture, for it is precisely this ideology and self-awareness that nurtures our nation and society”, - said the Speaker.

Upon the nomination of the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, and Speaker of the Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, the President of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili, awarded representatives of the cultural sphere with state decorations of Georgia - the Order of Excellence and the Order of Honor.

The laureates were granted state awards for outstanding achievements in the field of culture and for their significant contribution to the development of the sector.