Day: May 26, 2026

On May 26, Georgia marks the 108th anniversary of the declaration of its first democratic republic. On the occasion of Independence Day, foreign leaders and international partners extended congratulatory messages and well-wishes to Georgia and its people.

Civil.ge has compiled the international statements below:

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Georgia on your national day. This year offers fresh opportunities to deepen the bonds of friendship between the American and Georgian people and to advance greater security and prosperity for both our nations. The United States remains steadfast in its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. We stand alongside the Georgian people as they pursue lasting security, freedom, and independence. The United States is committed to a partnership in line with Georgia’s aspirations for a secure and prosperous future.”

Statement by the Delegation of the European Union and EU Member States’ Embassies: “The European Union and its Member States extend their sincere congratulations to Georgia on its Independence Day! On 26 May 1918, Georgia declared independence and affirmed its vision for a sovereign and democratic statehood. Today, the spirit of the independence declaration deeply resonates within Georgian society. Georgia’s history has demonstrated enduring aspiration for stronger ties with Europe. Over the past three decades, the European Union and its Member States have stood alongside Georgia, and remain a reliable, long-term partner. Progress on democratic reforms, the rule of law, and the protection of fundamental freedoms remain essential for advancing on the European path. On this important day, we reaffirm the EU’s steadfast support for Georgia’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.”

Charles III, King of the United Kingdom: “On the occasion of Georgia’s Independence Day, my wife and I extend our warm congratulations to the Georgian people. I take great pride in the longstanding friendship between our two peoples, and my wife and I would like to express our sincere good wishes to the people of Georgia for the year ahead. Charles R.”

Israel in Georgia: “Israeli Ambassador, Walid Abu-Haya: On this special day, I send my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Georgia on your Independence Day. May 26 stands as a shining symbol of Georgia’s enduring spirit of freedom, resilience, and national pride, values that deeply resonate with the people of Israel. Our two nations, though separated by geography, are bound by ancient threads of history, shared democratic principles, and a growing friendship rooted in mutual respect and cooperation. Georgia is a country of proud history, beautiful traditions, and remarkable people whose warmth, culture, and spirit are of inspiration to many. I wish you continued peace, prosperity, and success in building a bright and flourishing future.”

Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs: “On Georgia’s Independence Day, Latvia extends its sincere congratulations and best wishes to the Georgian people. Latvia remains firmly committed to supporting Georgia’s democracy and its people’s European aspirations.”

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania: “Happy National Day, Georgia! Romania firmly supports Georgia’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the European aspirations of the Georgian people. Our countries need to work closer together to develop connectivity across the Black Sea region, notably through the Green Energy Corridor and the Black Sea-Caspian Sea Transport Route.”

Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs: “Happy Independence Day, Georgia! On the occasion of Georgia’s Independence Day, we extend our sincere congratulations and best wishes to the people of Georgia.”

More to follow…

Georgia marks Independence Day on May 26, with planned events ranging from official ceremonies in Tbilisi and across the country to an opposition-led protest march later in the capital.

On May 26, 1918, Georgia’s National Council adopted the Act of Independence in Tbilisi, establishing the Georgian Democratic Republic (First Republic), widely regarded as Europe’s first Social Democratic rule. Emerging on the ashes of the Tsarist Empire, which had annexed Georgian kingdoms in the 19th century, the republic was also the product of decades of debate, political activism, and intellectual work, reflecting compromises forged among Georgia’s political and intellectual circles. The short-lived, but vibrant democratic experiment collapsed in the wake of the Red Army’s invasion of 1921, but left a lasting legacy. 70 years later, on April 9, 1991, Georgia declared the restoration of its independence based on the May 26, 1918, act.

The day finds the country amid a prolonged political crisis, divisions, and widespread international isolation, as the Georgian Dream government continues to struggle to secure full domestic and international legitimacy following a democratic crackdown and a series of anti-Western moves.

The date will be marked by traditional public events beginning early in the morning at Liberty Square. Georgian Dream government officials are expected to address the public, while military service recruits are set to take the traditional oath in Tbilisi and twelve “historic locations” across Georgia, followed by a ceremonial flyover by military aircraft.

Public celebrations – starting from around 11 am – are expected to remain largely confined to the Orbeliani area surrounding the presidential palace, as Rustaveli Avenue, the former main venue for the festivities, has been hosting continuous protests since late 2024.

This year’s public celebrations will also be tied to the theme of the 1,700th anniversary of Georgia’s adoption of Christianity as the “state religion.” Government buildings have been decorated with respective “1,700” banners and portraits of late Patriarch Ilia II alongside the national flags.

Opposition Alliance, uniting nine political parties, announced a large Independence Day march in Tbilisi on March 31 to culminate their “national mobilization” campaign. The march will start after 7 pm at Tbilisi State University and end at the parliament. Various civic and activist groups announced joining the march, but the Alliance representatives said that they received rejections both from Tbilisi City Hall and the Interior Ministry over planned events, including setting up the stage or other constructions near the parliament.

More to follow…

Also Read:

• 27/05/2025 – Georgians Celebrate Independence Day
• 27/05/2025 – Photo Story | Georgia’s Independence Day, May 26, 2025