Irakli Chikovani, Georgia’s Minister of Defence, together with representatives of the Georgian Defence Forces, honored the memory of Ilia II.

As the head of the Military Personnel Management Center of the General Staff of the Georgian Defence Forces told journalists, Ilia II had a special affection for the defenders of the homeland.

“The Georgian Defence Forces paid tribute to our Holiness. Ilia II especially loved the defenders of our homeland—our soldiers and officers. This is a tremendous loss both for Georgia and for us, the Defence Forces. We extend our condolences to the entire Orthodox world.

As for the army’s involvement, the participation of the Defence Forces will be ensured to the maximum extent, as decided by our leadership,” he stated.

For context, Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, passed away at the age of 93. A period of national mourning has been declared in Georgia, and he will be buried on March 22 at Sioni Cathedral.