Diplomatic missions and Embassies in Georgia have expressed their condolences following the passing of His Holiness and Beatitude, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, who died at the age of 93. A period of national mourning has been declared in Georgia.
Peter Fischer, German Ambassador to Georgia, said: “My sincere condolences to the people of Georgia on the passing of His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. As a spiritual father, he guided the nation through joy and sorrow. May His Holiness rest in peace.”
The Delegation of the European Union to Georgia expressed sorrow over the loss of the spiritual leader, highlighting his role in preserving national identity and uniting believers. “We extend our condolences to the Orthodox Church, the clergy, and the people of Georgia,” the statement read. Similarly, the U.S. Embassy in Georgia stated: “His life and remarkable service will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.”
Other diplomatic missions joining in condolences include the embassies of France, Poland, and Israel. The French Embassy emphasized Ilia II’s lasting legacy of faith, love, and spiritual guidance, noting he had around 50,000 godchildren. The Polish Embassy called him the “highest moral authority and a symbol of survival in times of trial.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described him as “a great leader, friend of Israel and the Jewish people.”
Leaders from the United Arab Emirates also offered condolences. President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent a letter to Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili, while Vice-President and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent messages of sympathy to Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev expressed his “profound condolences,” recognizing the Patriarch’s spiritual and national legacy. Latvia’s Foreign Minister Baiba Braže highlighted Ilia II’s devotion to faith, unity, and the future of the Georgian people in a social media post.
