The Patriarch of Georgia met with the Israeli ambassador in Tbilisi

On June 11, 2026, Catholicos-Patriarch Shio of Georgia received Walid Abu Hay, Israel’s Ambassador to Georgia, at the residence of the Patriarchate of Georgia in Tbilisi. During the meeting, the parties discussed the historical ties between the Georgian and Jewish peoples, the importance of spiritual values, and the prospects for developing cultural and educational initiatives.

According to the Orthodoxia News Agency, the conversation took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The meeting was attended by the head of the External Relations Service of the Georgian Patriarchate, Metropolitan Gerasim of Zugdidi and Tsaisi; the secretary of the Catholicos-Patriarch, Protopresbyter Mikhail Botkoveli; the rector of the Tbilisi Patriarchal Theological Academy and Seminary, Protopresbyter George Zviadadze, and the head of the Patriarchate’s Public Relations Service, Protopresbyter Andrei Dzhamaidze.

Patriarch Shio noted the special bonds of mutual respect and centuries-old friendship that unite the Georgian and Jewish peoples. In his words, these relations serve as an example of peaceful coexistence and brotherly love. The Primate of the Georgian Church also emphasized that faith, culture, and national tradition have played a key role in preserving the identity of both peoples, despite historical trials and the small size of their respective states.

For his part, Ambassador Walid Abu Hayah congratulated Patriarch Shio on his enthronement, thanked him for the warm welcome, and expressed his joy at visiting the Patriarchate of Georgia. The diplomat emphasized that, despite religious differences, he holds Christianity in deep respect, and that the Georgian and Jewish peoples share many common values and traditions.

During the talks, the parties discussed opportunities for further deepening friendly relations between Georgia and Israel. The ambassador noted that in the future it would be beneficial to develop joint cultural, educational, and other initiatives that contribute to strengthening mutual understanding between the two countries.

The participants also exchanged views on important international events and the challenges currently facing Georgia and Israel. It was emphasized that religious and moral values continue to play a significant role in the spiritual consolidation and development of both nations.

Patriarch Shio expressed his gratitude for the care and goodwill shown by the Israeli authorities toward Georgians living in Israel. In addition, he asked the ambassador to convey his thanks to Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem for his condolences on the passing of the late Patriarch Ilia II, as well as for the congratulations and gifts sent on the occasion of his enthronement. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged commemorative gifts.