Georgian PM emphasizes peace policy at World Tourism Day celebrations

In his opening remarks at World Tourism Day in Tbilisi, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze underscored the significance of peace as a priority for the Georgian government.

This year's theme, "Tourism and Peace," aligns with the government's commitment to fostering a stable and peaceful environment, Kobakhidze said, Caliber.Az reports citing Georgian media.

World Tourism Day commenced on September 27, with Georgia being the first country in the region to host the event this year. The Prime Minister highlighted that peace policy is central to his administration, noting, "We are the only government under which there has been no war in Georgia for more than a decade, and we are dedicated to preventing it in the future."

Kobakhidze also emphasized that a peaceful approach is crucial for reconciliation with the Abkhazian and Ossetian communities and for the eventual unification of Georgia. He remarked on the significance of the date, stating, "Today marks exactly 31 years since the fall of Sukhumi. Peace policy is a vital condition for rebuilding trust and mutual respect with our Abkhazian and Ossetian brothers and sisters."

The Prime Minister referenced the historical context of Sukhumi's fall to Abkhazian and North Caucasian armed formations in 1993, which led to the control of nearly all of Abkhazia by September 30 of that year.

In Georgia, September 27 is observed as the "Day of Memory and Hope."

Kobakhidze expressed optimism that the government’s peace initiatives would soon yield positive outcomes for all citizens in Georgia, including Abkhazians and Ossetians. He added that peace is crucial for the effective development of tourism, which can promote friendly relations between nations and cultural exchanges.

"Tourism plays a vital role in establishing and deepening ties between peoples, fostering cultural understanding, and encouraging the exchange of ideas and new initiatives. Therefore, it is one of the most important factors in ensuring world peace," he concluded.