For the first time in 12 years, Georgian citizens visit monastery in disputed "David Gareja" Complex

Residents of Georgia came to the "David Gareja" Monastery Complex to celebrate the Independence Day. For the first time in 12 years, they visited the Chichikheti monastery, where they set up the country's flag and performed the anthem.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that the road construction near the monastery had intensified tensions on the Azerbaijani-Georgian border. Activists of the "Strength in Unity" Movement called upon to celebrate the Georgia's Independence Day in the "David Gareja" Complex.

Pilgrims arrived at the Chichikheti monastery that was closed for the last 12 years, located in the territory of the "David Gareja" Complex, the "Rustavi-2" TV Company has reported. David Katsarava, the leader of the "Strength in Unity", has regretted that only few people expressed their intention to come.

In his interview with the ONA Agency, the Georgian Prime Minister, Mamuka Bakhtadze, said that Georgian citizens can no visit the monastery freely.

"This is a very emotional issue ... The two fraternal, friendly countries will find a solution to this issue," he said.

Let us add here that the "Strength in Unity" Movement is also engaged in patrolling villages near the demarcation line with South Ossetia, the independence of which is not recognized by Georgia.