President of Georgia, Mr. Mikheil Kavelashvili, delivered his annual address at the first plenary session of Parliament’s spring session, in accordance with the Constitution of Georgia.

"Following the presidential elections under the new system, Georgia has become a full-fledged parliamentary republic. Within this framework, each institution must, through close coordination and cooperation, do its utmost for the benefit of our country and people", - Mikheil Kavelashvili stated.

Discussing key national issues, the President emphasized that the Georgian people are currently undergoing a critical test of statehood. He noted that Georgians fully understand the principles and values they must uphold, what must be safeguarded, and what kind of Georgia must be built. He stressed that, even in challenging times, the Georgian state and its people stand united in protecting the country.

The President highlighted that on October 26, the Georgian people chose peace and development, as well as the protection of traditions, values, faith, family, and dignity. He asserted that, whether adversarial forces accept it or not, they must respect the choice made by the majority of Georgians.

Touching on the nation’s economic progress, Mr. Kavelashvili stated that Georgia’s economic growth remains strong, making the country increasingly attractive to investors. He underscored that none of this would be possible without ensuring peace and stability.

The President also pointed out that sustainable peace, economic success, and high levels of prosperity are key factors that bring Georgia closer to reconciliation with its Abkhaz and Ossetian brothers and sisters, emphasizing that there is no alternative to this path. "I am confident that we will soon heal the wounds of war and continue our happy coexistence in a united, strong, and flourishing Georgia", - he declared.

M. Kavelashvili expressed concern over what he described as unjust attacks on Georgia by certain European partners, noting that it is particularly disappointing given the path the Georgian people have chosen toward justice, mutual respect, the rule of law, national identity, and sovereignty. He criticized the "double standards" applied to Georgia, arguing that they harm both European values and the credibility of European partners.

In his address, the President also commented on the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States, expressing hope for a "reset and normalization" of Georgian-American relations.

"Following Donald Trump's victory, we are witnessing a shift away from the pseudo-liberal order worldwide. I would call this the 'Trump Effect'. The alignment of values and worldviews gives me confidence that we can successfully reset our relations with the United States", - he stated.

M. Kavelashvili also highlighted the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle and sports, as well as supporting cultural development. He stressed that demographic issues should not be overlooked and expressed gratitude to the Georgian Patriarchate and the Catholicos-Patriarch for their contributions to the nation’s survival.

Concluding his address, the President called for national unity despite differences, stating: "By standing together, we can finally build a united, strong, and independent Georgia that lives in the heart of every Georgian!"

The Speaker, H.E. Shalva Papuashvili thanked the President for his significant messages.

"It is important that we reflect on the past year and assess the narrow path our country had to navigate for its survival. Thank you for this evaluation and for outlining a future vision that our country must embrace in all directions", - he said.

The annual presidential address in Parliament was attended by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, members of the government, leaders of the Autonomous Republics of Abkhazia and Adjara, the Chair of the Supreme Court, the Mayor of Tbilisi, the Chair of the City Council, and representatives of the Georgian Patriarchate.