Ceremonial Event Dedicated to Georgia’s Independence Day Held at the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul

On 9 June 2026, a ceremonial event dedicated to Georgia’s Independence Day and a concert by the Gori Women’s Chamber Choir, was held at the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Botchorishvili addressed the audience.

In her welcoming remarks, Maka Botchorishvili highlighted the historical significance of Georgia’s Independence Day, as well as the country’s unique culture and identity.

“National Day is a moment to reflect on Georgia’s long and rich history. Over centuries, Georgia has stood at the crossroads of civilizations, preserving its identity, language, and unique cultural heritage,” stated the Deputy Prime Minister. 

Maka Botchorishvili also emphasized the strong strategic partnership and close friendship between Georgia and Türkiye. According to the Minister, the trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Georgia, and Azerbaijan held in Istanbul serves as further evidence of their shared commitment to regional cooperation.

The Minister also noted Georgia’s chairmanship of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) and emphasized the importance of dialogue in the Black Sea region.

“As Georgia currently holds the Chairmanship-in-Office of BSEC, we remain committed to promoting dialogue across the Black Sea region,” the Minister for Foreign Affairs said. 

The guests attending the event were also addressed by Alparslan Bayraktar, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of the Republic of Türkiye, and Aleksandre Jishkariani, Consul General of Georgia in Istanbul. Among the distinguished guests invited to the event was Lazar Comanescu, Secretary General of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC).

The event was attended by representatives of the government of the Republic of Türkiye, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, the business community and the Georgian diaspora.