The first international diaspora theater performance was held at the Orbeliani Palace, featuring Georgian emigrants and young people displaced from the occupied territories.
The event, aimed at bringing young people together and building bridges between them, was opened by the President of Georgia, who addressed the invited guests:
"I am glad that you have gathered here, and we all have the opportunity to see and appreciate your creativity.
I would like to thank Mrs. Tika Svanidze-Venko for her significant initiative, which aims to build bridges between young people living in the diaspora and those displaced from the occupied territories. This event provides an opportunity for you to get to know each other through theater, songs, and dances, all elements of Georgian culture.
As someone who grew up in the diaspora, I understand very well how important it is to stay connected, to return to the country, and to experience the local culture firsthand. While this culture may not be foreign to you, it needs these roots to grow even stronger.
It is important not only for you but for our country that you have this opportunity today. I hope it will continue and grow even stronger in the future.
Day by day, it becomes clear that a significant portion of our population—whether unfortunately or fortunately—is abroad. This situation can become an asset for our country if we handle it thoughtfully and effectively.
If we make citizenship more accessible and open the borders, it will enable more programs and projects for young people. They could collaborate with their peers not only in folklore and culture but also in various fields, allowing them to learn and contribute in diverse areas. This would be very beneficial.
Today, when we look at the Olympic Games, we see Georgians competing not only under the flag of Georgia but also under the flags of other countries, winning medals. This highlights the importance of the talent and power that exists beyond our borders. We must not lose sight of the opportunities these countries provided—allowing them to live, learn, and develop. In today’s world, with dual citizenship, one can serve both countries equally and act as valuable human capital for each.
As a small country, we may need this human resource more, and we should take care of it. This is what you are doing, and you should continue with this effort. Know that you will always have the support of the President of Georgia, and I am confident that whoever holds this position will always support our fellow citizens living abroad," said the President of Georgia.
Tika Svanidze-Venko, the initiator of the project and a Georgian businessman and philanthropist based in the Netherlands, who founded the first international theater 'Return' in 2021, addressed the participants and guests of the event.
