Patriarch : It is a regrettable that there is no mutual understanding between the government and the opposition

It is a regrettable fact that there is no mutual understanding between the government and the opposition. First of all, we must learn to listen to each other, His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II Catholicos Patriarch of All Georgia said at a meeting with ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic corps.

The Patriarch thanked the Ambassadors for their visit and support for Georgia, noting that the country’s goals can be achieved through patience and mutual understanding.

“We live in difficult times when there are many problems in countries and in their relationships. As you know, there are many problems in Georgia, too. First of all, the territorial integrity is violated. 20% of our territory - Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions - is not under our control yet. I have been the Metropolitan of Abkhazia for 11 years and I was elected as Patriarch of Georgia from Abkhazia 42 years ago, of course, this side is very painful to me. It is a regrettable fact that there is no mutual understanding between the government and the opposition. First of all, we must learn to listen to each other. We will achieve what our country’s goals through listening and mutual understanding.

I am grateful and Georgia is grateful for your help, your support, ”the Patriarch said.

At the meeting, the Ambassadors expressed their support to Ilia II. They noted that the role of the Church and of His Holiness personally in the development of Georgia is great.