The new head of the State Security Service, Mamuka Mdinaradze, emphasized the importance of robust security institutions for Georgia’s sovereignty and unity during a press briefing.
“A strong state needs strong special services. This is natural. Without a strong security service, it is impossible to even approach the goal of a unified, sovereign, independent Georgia,” Mdinaradze said.
He outlined the main threats facing the country, highlighting occupation, external interference, and provocations as top priorities for the Service.
“Occupation and its consequences, external interference, and threats of provocation within the country are the main challenges Georgia faces today. The State Security Service is tasked with addressing these issues,” Mdinaradze explained.
On the issue of the country’s occupied territories, he stressed that overcoming the occupation remains a critical challenge. “We are a country where up to 20% of the territory is occupied. Fighting the ongoing consequences of occupation will be one of the Service’s main priorities,” he said.
Mdinaradze also responded to comments by National Movement member Levan Khabeishvili regarding a so-called “peaceful overthrow.”
“The word ‘overthrow’ cannot be peaceful; overthrow and peace are mutually exclusive. While some may try to cause minor disturbances, the State Security Service exists to prevent such actions. There is no serious threat to the country; our focus is to ensure national stability and protect the economy,” he said.
Addressing transparency and internal priorities, Mdinaradze promised increased openness while reaffirming the secretive nature of some operations. He also underscored anti-corruption as a major goal.
“The Service has multiple functions, including anti-terrorism, intelligence, counterintelligence, and anti-corruption. Corruption must be practically eliminated within a few years. People must trust that high-ranking officials can act without engaging in corrupt practices. This will be achieved through real, effective action, not excessive rigidity,” Mdinaradze said.
The Parliament approved Mamuka Mdinaradze as the head of the Security Service of Georgia today.
