The Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia the Second considers recent discussion on the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages unacceptable. Patriarch’s statement was introduced to the journalists by his secretary, Father Michael Botkoveli at the Tbilisi international Airport before the Patriarchs’ departure to Helsinki.

“The recent discussions on the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages are unacceptable, as it will strengthen separatist movement and cause new, most serious problem in the country. Till the need of learning the official language by the national minority is solved and territorial integrity of the state is restored, we consider its ratification by parliament is unacceptable”, - the Patriarch’s statement says.