On 11 June 2026, Catholicos-Patriarch Shio III of All Georgia met with the Ambassador of Israel to Georgia, Walid Abu Haya, at the Patriarchate of Georgia.
Also present at the meeting were: Metropolitan Gerasime (Sarasenidze), Chairman of the Department for External Relations of the Patriarchate of Georgia and Archbishop of Zugdidi and Tsaishi; Archpriest Mikheil Botkoveli, Secretary to the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia; Archpriest Giorgi Zviadadze, Rector of the Tbilisi Theological Academy and Seminary; and Archpriest Andria Jagmaidze, Head of the Patriarchate’s Public Relations Service, as well as other representatives from the same department.
The meeting took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
During his conversation with the Ambassador, the Patriarch spoke of the special relationship of mutual respect and centuries-old friendship between the Georgian and Jewish peoples, setting an example of peaceful coexistence and goodwill.
He emphasised the importance of faith and spiritual values in the history and social life of both countries. Despite their small size and the many historical trials they have endured, he noted that it was precisely their devotion to faith, culture, and national identity that had preserved both the Georgian and Jewish peoples.
The Ambassador congratulated the Patriarch on his enthronement, thanked him for his hospitality, and emphasised that his visit to the Patriarchate of Georgia and his personal meeting with the Patriarch were of particular significance to him. He also noted that, despite their religious differences, he holds Christianity in high regard because the Georgian and Jewish peoples share many common values.
The meeting also addressed prospects for further strengthening the friendly relations between the two countries. The Ambassador noted that the organisation of future joint cultural, educational, and other events would be most welcome.
The two sides also exchanged views on important global developments and the challenges facing Georgia and Israel. The significant role of religious and moral values in the spiritual resilience and development of both nations was emphasised.
The Patriarch praised the favourable attitude and care shown by the Israeli authorities towards Georgians living in Israel. He asked the Ambassador to convey his gratitude to the Patriarch of Jerusalem for the condolences expressed following the death of the late Patriarch Ilia II. He also expressed his gratitude for the good wishes and gifts sent for his enthronement.
At the end of the meeting, commemorative gifts were exchanged.
Photos: Nino Sozashvili
