Statement on the Death of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church

State Dept Press Releases

Published March 19th, 2026

Detected March 20th, 2026

Summary

The U.S. Department of State issued a statement mourning the passing of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The statement offers condolences to the people of Georgia and the faithful of the church, acknowledging his spiritual leadership.

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What changed

The U.S. Department of State, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, issued a press statement on March 19, 2026, to express condolences on the death of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The statement acknowledges his spiritual leadership and legacy.

This is a routine diplomatic notice. There are no compliance obligations or regulatory changes for regulated entities. It serves as an expression of international relations and condolences.

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Home Office of the Spokesperson Press Releases … On the Death of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church hide

On the Death of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church

Press Statement

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

March 19, 2026

We mourn the passing of His Holiness, Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II, and offer our sincere condolences to the people of Georgia, as well as to all the faithful of the Georgian Orthodox Church. His spiritual leadership and enduring legacy will be remembered for generations to come. May he rest in peace.