Since gaining independence, the future of Georgia is based on the idea of returning to the European family - and this goal can only be achieved through unity and strength, - the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Ilia Darchiashvili, writes about this on the social network.

According to him, despite the acute geopolitical situation in the region, today Georgia maintains its independence and peaceful course.

"Exactly 34 years ago, on April 9, 1989, when the Georgian people, who came out on Rustaveli Avenue to defend statehood, were dispersed by the punitive army of the Soviet Union, a new stage in the history of our country began - the struggle for independence - a struggle that became a conscious choice of the Georgian people and continues to this day.

Despite the sacrifices and blood shed, I consider April 9 as a day of victory for our nation - a day of historic significance that activated the Georgian national movement and brought it to its logical conclusion: exactly two years later, on April 9, 1991, the Supreme Council of Georgia, headed by Zviad Gamsakhurdia, adopted the Act of Independence of Georgia. This is how April 9 acquired a double meaning, combining the nation's unhealed pain and victory.

The history of independence did not end in 1991. The struggle to protect the acquisition continues to this day. History preserves the names of the heroes who died on April 9, 1989, but heroism is not only manifested on the battlefield, heroes also are living next to us. Day by day, step by step, they are serving Georgia and are creating the future of the country.

Since gaining independence, the future of Georgia has been based on the idea of returning to the European family. Since the day of gaining independence, our country has consistently continued to move in this direction. This is an irreversible process, because Georgia is a European state, because our Government made the European choice of the Georgian people a strategic goal. Achieving this goal is possible only with unity and strength.

Despite the acute geopolitical situation in the region, today Georgia maintains its independence and peaceful course.

Our country is going through the most difficult road, but with tireless work, professionalism and responsibility, we will surely overcome all challenges.

Once again, I bow before the heroes who died on April 9 - many thanks to those who paved the way to freedom for us with their dedication!", - the head of the Foreign Ministry said.