"Given the changing geopolitical situation, continuing joint Georgian-NATO military exercises sends a powerful message of unity and reaffirms that NATO continues to support its partners' national ambitions”, - the Speaker, H.E. Shalva Papuashvili stated.

Shalva Papuashvili dwelt on the long-term close cooperation between Georgia and the North Atlantic Alliance.

"Georgia has always supported NATO and NATO partners in times of need, and often Georgia did much more than it was supposed to do. In the most difficult parts of the world, our male and female soldiers fought at the cost of their own lives and health alongside American, German, Turkish, Polish, French, British, Romanian, and other partners, defending the interests of our country and partners, regional and world peace and security. On the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq, 35 of our brave men gave their lives in the pursuit of our goals and principles, while more than 300 others were injured. I salute their bravery and tenacity; this is a sacrifice that everyone should remember. Georgia was one of the largest participants in the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan. Our brave warriors, far from their town or village, in Afghanistan and Iraq, defended what was most precious to each of us - freedom and homeland. Finally, even during the withdrawal of NATO forces from Afghanistan, Georgia has faithfully and unselfishly stood by its partners and assisted them in the evacuation operation of troops and refugees”, - Shalva Papuashvili said.

According to the Speaker of the Parliament, the NATO-Georgia partnership, which is based on the values of freedom, independence, respect for human rights, and love for the homeland, has contributed to the development of the Georgian army, combat readiness, modern equipment, and training.

"80% of the Georgian Defense Forces have served with dignity within the framework of NATO and EU missions. Today our proud military personnel can accomplish the most difficult tasks. All questions regarding their professionalism and readiness, as well as compatibility with NATO standards, have been removed. Georgia has repeatedly proven that it is a reliable and experienced partner of NATO, capable of making a valuable contribution to global peace and security”, - Shalva Papuashvili stated.

The Speaker emphasized that today's military exercise is particularly important in light of the rapidly deteriorating security situation and Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Shalva Papuashvili also noted that this war is not only about Ukraine, but also a threat to Georgia, the whole of Europe, and the international order.

"Once again, we express our solidarity with the Ukrainian people and hope that the war will end soon. Our commitment and vigilance are the main guarantees of peace. Given the new geopolitical reality, the holding of a joint Georgian-NATO military exercise is a strong message of unity and confirms that NATO continues to support the sovereign aspirations of its partners”, - the Speaker added.

The Speaker also noted that along with the representatives of the health and law enforcement bodies, ensuring security and order was again ensured by the Defense Forces during the global pandemic.

"In 2008, when Russia was bombing Georgian cities, villages, airports, civilians, our hopes, and our European future, the defense forces stood with dignity on the front lines. In 2020, when the global pandemic hit our country and families hard, along with representatives of the health and law enforcement agencies, the Defense Forces again took on the task of ensuring security and order. Against the background of visible or invisible threats, we have high hopes for the defense forces, which have always given examples of patriotism, heroism, dignity, and humanity to the people and society, and today are a progressive force on the path of our country's Euro-Atlantic integration. We reaffirm the support and assistance of the Parliament of Georgia to each military serviceman. We are grateful for the opportunity to host the exercise and are ready to continue implementing reforms and working closely with NATO and Partner countries for lasting peace and prosperity in Georgia and the region as a whole”, - Shalva Papuashvili said.