Shalva Papuashvili, Speaker of the Georgian Parliament representing the ruling party, extended New Year greetings to citizens of Georgia, compatriots abroad, and Georgian, Abkhaz, and Ossetian communities.
In his address, Papuashvili said that Georgia enters 2026 with “great hope, clear plans, and new energy,” emphasizing that the coming year will serve as a new point of departure for the country.
“Dear compatriots, fellow citizens living abroad, our Abkhaz and Ossetian brothers and sisters,
The challenging and turbulent year of 2025 has come to an end—a year that proved to be historic and remarkable. It was a year that clearly defined Georgia’s state choices and national priorities.
Throughout the past year, our country withstood decisive pressure aimed at restricting Georgia’s sovereign rights, influencing the will of the Georgian people, and subordinating us to plans made by others,” the Speaker stated.
According to Papuashvili, 2025 was the year when Georgia firmly rejected participation in external scenarios and refused to allow its future to be manipulated.
“We collectively defended this choice and demonstrated strong unity. Together, we restored the concept of national interest as the fundamental basis for state action.”
Speaking about the year ahead, Papuashvili said that 2026 marks the beginning of a new stage.
“We welcome 2026 with great hope, clear plans, and new energy. This year will become a new starting point. Step by step, calmly and thoughtfully, we must begin a new phase of building. This development must be rooted in our historical heritage while clearly shaping a modern national identity suited to the era.”
He emphasized that Georgia must clearly communicate to the world “who we are, where we stand, what drives us, what we protect, and what we are building.”
Papuashvili highlighted the importance of historical memory, inherited wisdom, and love for the homeland as guiding forces.
“For this reason, we are not afraid of any decision that serves Georgia’s vital interests. We stand united in this service—young and old, women and men, clergy and laity.”
The Speaker also noted the significance of the upcoming year, which marks 1700 years since the Christianization of Georgia—a milestone emphasizing the country’s historical continuity, spiritual foundation, and civilizational role.
Delivering his message from Bodbe Monastery, Papuashvili concluded:
“May Saint Nino bless all of Georgia and protect our parents and children. Let us remain united, for strength lies in unity.”
