Today, in the most brutal conditions, Ukraine is fighting to save its land and state, it is fighting for its own language - we stand by them and know that with such an attitude they will be able to do the impossible, we dedicate this day to them, Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili said at the event dedicated to Mother Language Day at the Orbeliani Palace.

The President congratulated the population on the Mother Language Day and said that the day is one of the most important dates by which Georgia was able to maintain its identity, save and strengthen its statehood.

According to the President, Russia continues the war against Georgian culture in Abkhazia today.

"As a result of the Russian occupation regime, both Abkhazian and Georgian languages ​​are equally restricted in Abkhazia. The number of speakers of Abkhazian language is decreasing from year to year. Georgians living in Gali and nearby villages are not allowed to receive school education in Georgian.

Along with the protection of the Georgian and Abkhazian languages, which are defined by the Constitution, we are responsible for the protection and survival of Megrelian, Svan, Zan and Laz, since these languages ​​are an integral part of our culture and represent a unique treasure. We will be able to do this if we create elective classes in schools, first of all, for Megrelian and Svan,” the President said.

She reminded the public that "it is the result of a 200-year history of Russification that the vast majority of the languages ​​of the Caucasian family are in danger of extinction today."

source: IPN