The Chief of the Defense Forces has a great responsibility, especially today, when the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country is violated, said the President of Georgia during her speech at the ceremony of transferring powers of the Commander-in-Chief of Defense Forces on the territory of the IV Mechanized Brigade

“Today is an important day for the Georgian army. Today is the day of the transfer of power. This means that a new phase of strengthening and development is beginning for the Defense Forces. You are the backbone of the state. The Georgian army stood and stands on loyalty, devotion and dignity to the homeland.

The new stage of development, strengthening, and perhaps most importantly, institutional sustainability is beginning for the Defense Forces. The position of the Chief of Georgian Defence Forces has paramount importance as the Chief is responsible for the operational management, planning, readiness and full development of the Defense Forces.

The Georgian army has been a carrier of national values and a reliable force for our partners. The Georgian Defense Forces have strong international support.

I believe that the final result of the cooperation will be what Georgia needs and Georgia will gain its place in the European family. I would like to thank you for your professionalism, devotion and loyalty.

We are future-oriented country and we have the ambition to set an example for others. The Georgian Defense Forces have strong international support and I believe this cooperation will result in Georgia’s place in the European family”, - concluded Salome Zourabichvili.