Georgia: The Georgian minister of State for reconciliation and civil equality, Tea Akhvlediani, opened an event dedicated to the International Day of Missing Persons on August 30, 2024.
The Minister of State addressed the community gathered at the memorial of missing persons in Tbilisi and drew attention to the particular importance of the armed actions of the 1990s and the Russian-Georgian war as a result of August 2008, the state program of searching for missing persons and the events dedicated to their memory.
Tea Akhvlediani said, “August 30 symbolizes the respect and compassion that community shows to families of those lost without a way, their strength and resilience. This day is significant for those 2000 families who still know nothing about the fate and location of their missing loved ones. “
She also mentioned,” It is both our sincere desire and our obligation through public politics that society and future generations always remember our lost compatriots, military and civilian personnel, and their sacrifices to the country. Once again, my sympathy goes out to the families whose involvement and wishes are the maximum consideration. We continue to intensify the implementation of the State Program for Searching for Missing Persons, supported by the International Committee of the Red Cross.”
“I would like to express my gratitude to all the participants of today’s events both in the capital, as well as in Gori, Kutaisi, Batumi, and Zugdidi, to all our partners, representatives of state agencies, local governments, and non-governmental organizations for their support,” said Minister of State Tea Akhvlediani.
The Office of the Minister of State supported and hosted the event, which was held in Gori, Kutaisi, Batumi, and Zugdidi. Representatives of state agencies, local self-government, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and civil society attended.
The goal of celebrating International Day of Missing Persons, August 30, is to raise awareness about the search for missing persons, support families, and remember their missing loved ones.
As a result of the armed actions of the 1990s and the Russian-Georgian war in August 2008, up to now, 2000 people are considered missing; searching for them and returning them to their families is one of the priorities of the state policy.
