Erekleoba is a day when each of us must once again reflect on the importance of Georgian statehood, the price of freedom and the extremely arduous path our country and state have traversed over the centuries. It was stated by Prime Minister of Georgia in his keynote speech at the event dedicated to Erekleoba.

He spoke about the historic significance of the date and highlighted the achievements and legacy of King Erekle II.

"King Erekle II is for us a symbol of political wisdom, courage and devotion to the motherland. Erekle II was a king who fought hundreds of battles to defend his people, the Christian faith and his native land. Beyond that, King Erekle was the greatest reformer of his time, caring for the modernization and development of the country. It is to his name that the founding of the first industrial enterprises, the revival of manufacturing, the opening of the Tbilisi and Telavi seminaries, the restoration of the printing press and the formation of the first secular theatrical troupe are tied. King Erekle II understood well that the strengthening of a nation required knowledge, economic power and cultural progress", - said Irakli Kobakhidze.

The Head of Government noted that detractors of Georgia, both inside and outside the country, have recently tried to re-evaluate and question Erekle II`s contributions to his country.

"Those who assess the decisions made by Erekle II superficially, biasedly and by disregarding historical reality-against the backdrop of daily attacks and a dire demographic situation in a country situated at the crossroads of empires-are artificially attempting to distort our history and diminish the monumental merits of Erekle II. The era of Erekle was a grueling struggle for the physical and spiritual survival of the Georgian people-for the preservation of our homeland, language and faith.

The fact that Georgia today is a free, sovereign, European-style Christian state is in itself a crystal-clear answer to anyone who fails to properly appreciate and interpret history. Today, as the modern world and our region once again face profound challenges, the life of Erekle II serves as an invaluable example and lesson for each of us. Governing a state requires immense responsibility, foresight and putting the country`s interests above all else-and King Erekle II and his reign were the finest example of this. Our top priority is to protect peace, strengthen the country and pursue a policy that firmly secures Georgia;s national interests. I congratulate everyone on Erekleoba and wish peace, unification and strength to our motherland", - noted Irakli Kobakhidze.

The Prime Minister of Georgia attended the event dedicated to Erekleoba alongside members of the Cabinet, Parliament and representatives of the local authorities. During the event, Honorary Citizens of Telavi were awarded.