Bezhan Javakhia, a signatory of the 1991 Independence Act, remarked, "We won May 26 with the support of the Europeans!"
Today, May 26, marks Georgia's 106th year of independence. Across the country, Georgians unite in commemorating this historic date, reflecting on the journey that led to the nation's independence. This year, Georgia marks this occasion for the first time as a candidate country for the European Union, a testament to the enduring European aspirations of the founders of the First Republic of Georgia. With Georgia now being closer than ever to EU integration, nothing should impede its progress on this path.
On the road to independence, Georgia has faced numerous challenges and conflicts, and overcoming them with the support of European allies and partners. According to Bezhan Javakhia, Professor at Ilia State University and a signatory of the 1991 Act of Independence, Russia has been the primary obstacle to Georgia's independence and development, while Europe has remained its steadfast supporter. Javakhia emphasizes that Georgia's historical ties to Europe through culture, history, and religion make its path toward European integration irreversible.
"Our historical legacy underscores that Georgia's journey toward European integration is inevitable—we achieved victory on May 26 with the backing of Europeans!" Javakhia asserts. "It is incumbent upon us to safeguard the state's independence and its European values together."
Erekle Natadze, another signatory of the 1991 Independence Restoration Act and the son of Nodar Natadze, reflects on his family's legacy of commitment to Georgian independence. Notably, four members of his family have signed the Acts of Georgian Independence (1918) and Restoration of Independence (1991) at different junctures. According to Natadze, independence represents Georgia's greatest achievement, one that should culminate in EU membership. He recalls his father's unwavering belief in Georgia's independence and European identity, even during the Soviet era.
"In the face of renewed threats and the imperative to forge a new world order, Georgia cannot afford to remain on the sidelines," Natadze declares. "This peril has reignited the rallying cries and appeals of the independence restoration era. The new generation reveres those individuals whose unwavering dedication and struggle for the European future of our country are legendary. There can be no turning back from the path to the European Union, and I am confident that we will not waver."
The "Coalition for Information Reliability" extends heartfelt congratulations to Georgia on its Independence Day, celebrating alongside the nation and expressing confidence that Georgia, with its values, will bolster the united European family through its steadfast commitment to independence.
