2017-07-24
Today, Patriarch Theophilos III of the Holy City of Jerusalem and All Palestine awarded Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili with the Golden Cross with Crown, Wreath, and Star, marking the first time this award being granted to highest-ranking officials by the Patriarch of the Holy City of Jerusalem and All Palestine.
According to Theophilos III, it is an honor hosting the Prime Minister of Georgian in the Holy Land.
"Your country and your people, Georgia and the Georgians, have a special link to Jerusalem, the Holy Land, and the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. According to certain legends, Saint Nino, the patron saint of your country, was a niece of Patriarch Juvenal of Jerusalem. Of course, there are many other historical and cultural factors that link us. The Patriarchate of Jerusalem has played an important role in guarding and protecting the Orthodox Faith," the Patriarch of the Holy City of Jerusalem and All Palestine stated.
During the conversation the Prime Minister emphasized the contribution of Theophilos III to keeping peace and stability in the region, and invited the Patriarch to Georgia.
"Allow me to invite you to Georgia. Although the Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia has already invited you, We will be happy to have the honor of hosting you," the Prime Minister addressed the Patriarch of the Holy City of Jerusalem.
Prime Minister's Press Office