Her Excellency Tamar Beruchashvili, Georgia’s ambassador to Romania, was awarded the Order of the “Cross of Saint Maria Brâncoveanu”, describing the distinction as “an enduring symbol of our common journey towards an ever deeper spiritual and cultural harmony”.
The distinction was presented during a reception held on Wednesday at the Festivitas Reception Hall of the Patriarchal Palace in Bucharest, on the occasion of Georgia’s National Day.
Support for joint projects
The award was announced by Patriarchal Auxiliary Bishop Varlaam of Ploiești, who conveyed Patriarch Daniel’s message and explained the significance of the distinction.
“Considering the ambassador’s energetic involvement, together with the embassy staff, in carrying out common projects, the Patriarch of Romania confers upon Her Excellency the Order of the Cross of Saint Maria Brâncoveanu.”
The bishop also highlighted the connection between the wife of the Holy Prince-Martyr Constantine Brâncoveanu and Saint Anthimos the Iberian.
“She knew the holy metropolitan closely, given the well-known collaboration between the martyr prince and Saint Anthimos the Iberian in supporting the Church throughout the Orthodox East and especially in Transylvania.”
“We warmly congratulate you in the name of Patriarch Daniel and wish you health and success in your activity,” Bishop Varlaam added.
Spiritual bond between Georgia and Romania
Ambassador Tamar Beruchashvili said she received the distinction as recognition of the relationship between the two nations.
“I receive this high distinction not only as a personal honour, but above all as recognition of the enduring spiritual and cultural ties uniting the Georgian and Romanian peoples.”
She also referred to Saint Maria Brâncoveanu, canonised last year.
“She is a remarkable personality whose faith, courage and devotion to Christian values continue to inspire us. To be associated, even modestly, with such a legacy fills my heart with respect and reverence.”
The diplomat highlighted the cooperation developed over the past few years with institutions of the Romanian Orthodox Church. “This distinction recognises the efforts made by the Embassy of Georgia to strengthen the spiritual and cultural dialogue between our two nations.”
“In recent years, we have built close partnerships with the Basilica News Agency, Trinitas TV, the Library of the Holy Synod and especially with the Monastery of Saint Anthimos the Iberian, a place that holds special significance in the hearts of all Georgians visiting Romania.”
A living bridge between nations
The ambassador also referred to Saint Anthimos the Iberian as a symbol of closeness between the two countries.
“Our common saint, Anthimos the Iberian, unites us in a wonderful way. He remains for us a living bridge between our peoples and a powerful symbol of the profound spiritual connection between Georgia and Romania.”
“May God bless the Romanian people! May God bless the Georgian people and the Holy Church that unites us in faith,” Tamar Beruchashvili concluded.
The Georgian ambassador to Romania gave an interview to the Basilica News Agency in April on topics ranging from Romanian-Georgian relations and digital communication to the role of women in society and the spiritual models and inspiration they offer.
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Photo: Basilica.ro / Raluca-Emanuela Ene
