Patriarchate of Georgia: We are against violence, in favour of country’s traditions

The Patriarchate of Georgia on Tuesday expressed its sorrow over the violence and injuries which occurred the previous day, during protests in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, against a so-called gay pride parade.

At the same time, the Georgian Orthodox Church strenuously rejected criticism that it in any way incited aggressive behaviour, reminding that the Patriarchate had throughout the recent period expressed its condemnation of any violence. The Georgian Church also noted that it had briefed local authorities and embassies of foreign countries in Georgia that its position is squarely against violence and in favour of the country’s traditions.