“Today marks 48 years since the enthronement of His Holiness Ilia II. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our beloved Catholicos-Patriarch on this special day, with the greatest love and respect,” writes Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on social media.

The President wishes His Holiness long life and good health.

“For our country, the past half-century has brought enormous challenges and trials, and thankfully, the Georgian people navigated this difficult period under the spiritual guidance of Ilia II.

His Holiness’s contributions to Georgia’s modern history are immeasurable. Through his wisdom, his example of forgiveness and reconciliation, and his unwavering love for God and homeland, he has bestowed countless blessings upon our nation.

I congratulate our beloved Catholicos-Patriarch on this day with the deepest affection and respect, and wish him long life and robust health for the continued strength of our nation, our homeland, and our Mother Church,” Kavelashvili concludes.