A
delegation representing the Union of Latvian Writers paid a visit to Sokhumi State
University on June 4, 2026. The meeting was held in the Latvian Auditorium of
the university.
The
event was moderated by Professor Indira Dzagania, Head of the Department of
International Relations and Intercultural communications at Sokhumi State
University. In her address, she highlighted the historical importance of
Georgian-Latvian relations and celebrated the enduring, productive partnership
between Sokhumi State University and various Latvian higher education
institutions. Professor Dzagania pointed out that collaborative initiatives
with Latvian universities over the years have successfully strengthened
academic, cultural, and friendly bonds.
Professor
David Jalaghonia, Head of Administration at Sokhumi State University, extended
a warm welcome to the visiting delegation. He underscored the vital role of
international partnerships, noting that exchanges of this nature are essential
for fostering intercultural dialogue, reinforcing ties between academic
institutions, and connecting the intellectual communities of allied nations.
A
series of remarks were delivered by prominent figures, including Makvala
Gonashvili, Chairperson of the Writers' Union of Georgia; Latvian authors Erika
Berzina and Iveta Shimkus; Regina Iakobidze, Latvia’s inaugural Honorary Consul
to Georgia; entrepreneurs and philanthropists Imedi Kokaia and Iakim Domotsev;
as well as Tengiz Patchkoria. Nana Kvashilava, a poet, translator, and
co-founder of the "Kuji" Association, also spoke during the session.
The
event brought together representatives from the Writers' Union of Georgia
alongside members of "Avesol", the Latvian Society in Georgia.
Established
in 2015, the Latvian Auditorium at Sokhumi State University was made possible
through the dedicated efforts of Her Excellency Elita Gavele, the Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Latvia to Georgia, and Ms. Venta Kocere,
Director of the Latvian Academic Library. Since its opening, this space has
evolved into a vital hub for advancing educational, scientific, and cultural
exchange between Georgia and Latvia.
Ultimately,
the gathering reaffirmed the profound value of Georgian-Latvian cultural and
educational initiatives, while highlighting Sokhumi State University’s ongoing
commitment to collaborating with international allies to broaden academic and
social networks.