Irakli Kobakhidze: We are confident that very soon the Gelati Monastery complex will be returned to us, fully restored, without scaffolding

The government and the church have developed a joint plan, which was a key issue, as the rehabilitation process of Gelati would not have proceeded properly without the cooperation between the authorities and the church. This form of cooperation fully aligns with UNESCO's principles and requirements, said Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze during his speech at the event related to the implementation of conservation programs for the wall paintings and mosaics of Gelati Monastery.

According to him, the close collaboration between the church and the state ensures the proper and proper implementation of the initiatives.

"We have a coordinated strategy – the Patriarchate, as the owner of the monument, takes responsibility for the methodology of the works, while the government ensures full financial and material support, which is our responsibility. This form of cooperation fully aligns with UNESCO's principles and requirements, which means that the preservation process should be participatory and involve broad engagement. This collaboration creates a new experience in the field of cultural heritage protection and it is important that all relevant projects are implemented in this way. I am confident that the committee's work will be very fruitful and successful, and this is important both for the proper management of the ongoing process and for planning a long-term strategy for the future. On behalf of the Government of Georgia, I once again promise our support in this very important task. We are confident that very soon, the Gelati Monastery complex, this invaluable church, will be returned to us, fully restored, without scaffolding or temporary structures, and we will all once again take pride in this priceless heritage of our country," said Irakli Kobakhidze.

He also noted that the work carried out in Gelati is aimed at achieving the goal of fully restoring the Gelati Monastery complex.

"The universal value of Gelati's unique architectural ensemble has been recognized by UNESCO. Gelati's rich history and its global significance impose on each of us a great responsibility to protect it and pass on this invaluable heritage to future generations. We all remember very well the challenges Gelati faced in the recent past; among them was the serious risk that Gelati Monastery could have been removed from the list of World Heritage Sites. However, through joint efforts, we managed to maintain its status," said the Prime Minister, thanking everyone involved in this important work.

As he mentioned, he had visited Gelati Church just a month ago, and in his assessment, "significant work has already been carried out."

"This work is well-planned and precisely aimed at the result of fully restoring the monastery complex," the Prime Minister stated.

Irakli Kobakhidze also emphasized the contribution of foreign experts in the restoration of Gelati and thanked them for their work.