As part of an official visit to Canada, a delegation of the Parliament of Georgia, led by the Vice Speaker of Parliament and Head of the Georgia–Canada Parliamentary Friendship Group, Nino Tsilosani, together with the Chair of the Diaspora Committee, Irakli Zarkua, met with representatives of the Georgian diaspora at the Iveria Church of the Icon of the Most Holy Mother of God in Toronto.

During the meeting, it was noted that, through the joint efforts and support of the church’s parish priest, Father Thomas, and members of the Georgian diaspora, the community independently succeeded in purchasing a building for the church and establishing the parish.

Members of Parliament also visited the Sunday school operating on the church premises, where Georgian children learn their native language, Georgian literature, and the history of Georgia. A dance group has also been established, where Georgian youth are taught traditional Georgian folk dances.

The participants discussed the challenges facing Georgian compatriots living in Canada. Members of the delegation expressed their gratitude to diaspora representatives and Sunday school teachers for their outstanding contribution to preserving Georgian national identity, culture, and traditions abroad.

The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining close and continuous ties with Georgian communities living overseas. It was emphasized that support for the Georgian diaspora remains one of the key priorities of both the Georgian state and the Parliament of Georgia.

Particular attention was devoted to the role of the diaspora in strengthening Georgia–Canada relations. It was noted that every Georgian living in Canada serves as an important bridge between the two countries, contributing to the enhancement of bilateral cooperation and the further development of Georgia’s cultural diplomacy.

The Georgian parliamentary delegation includes: Nino Tsilosani – Vice Speaker of Parliament and Head of the Georgia–Canada Parliamentary Friendship Group; Mariam Lashkhi – Chair of the Education, Science and Youth Affairs Committee; Irakli Zarkua – Chair of the Diaspora Committee; Gocha Enukidze – Deputy Chair of the Committee; Viktor Sanikidze – Chair of the Sports Committee; and Giorgi Khakhubia – Deputy Chair of the Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Committee.