Information on Georgia Independence Day Reception held in Canberra

On May 21, 2023, in Australia’s capital Canberra, the Embassy of Georgia to the Commonwealth of Australia hosted a reception on the occasion of the Independence Day of Georgia at the National Gallery of Australia. The representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australian governmental institutions, members of the Parliament of Australia, non-governmental organisations, academic and business circles, the members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Canberra and Georgian diaspora members attended the event.

 

Loyal toasts to Georgia as well as to His majesty the King and the people of Australia were proposed, respectively, by Mr. Arthur Spirou, Chief of Protocol of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of Australia and by H.E. Mr. Beka Dvali, Ambassador of Georgia, followed by renditions of National Anthems of Georgia and Australia.

 

In his Independence Day Address, Ambassador Dvali spoke on the significance of 26 May for Georgia. Ambassador highlighted Georgia’s foreign policy priorities, including European and Euro-Atlantic integration processes, elaborated on the security challenges posed by the Russian occupation of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions of Georgia and the problem of internally displaced persons. Ambassador Dvali emphasized the importance of the partnership and shared values between Georgia and Australia, and highlighted Georgia’s diplomatic efforts towards developing relations with the countries throughout the Pacific.

 

On the occasion of the Independence Day celebration, the Canberra-based choir "Worldly Goods," performed two ancient Georgian polyphonic folk songs. In particular, the choir delivered stirring renditions of "Mravalzhamieri" and "Shen Khar Venakhi", showcasing their musical talent and deep appreciation for Georgian cultural heritage.

 

During the evening, guests had the opportunity to observe the artwork of Ms. Nino Bosikashvili, a Georgian multidisciplinary artist based in Melbourne. Ms. Bosikashvili has been named among the world's best illustrators by Australian CapsulesBook Pictoria and has participated in over 30 exhibitions, captivating audiences with her unique artistic vision.

 

Attending audience also had the opportunity to enjoy the screening of video highlights of Georgia and its landmarks.

 

Guests had the opportunity to enjoy Georgian wines produced by Georgian companies “Winiveria” and “Pavilion Wines” as well as Georgian Grappa-Chacha produced by “Tbilvino”.

 

Through the sponsorship of Sydney-based company “Tamada” (www.tamada.com.au), the Embassy of Georgia had the opportunity to offer each guest the gift-bags with various Georgian products.