Georgian PM hails UNESCO recognition of Georgia’s wheat traditions

The Intergovernmental Committee of UNESCO has made a historic decision to inscribe the culture, traditions, and rituals of Georgian wheat on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Speaking at the event commemorating the inscription, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Sunday described it as a global acknowledgment of a truth deeply coded into the Georgian genetic heritage.

“For millennia, wheat has been an inseparable part of Georgian identity, spirituality, and daily life”, the Prime Minister said.

He further highlighted Georgia’s unique place in wheat history.

“Georgia is one of the oldest centers of wheat cultivation. Out of the world’s 20 recognized wheat varieties, 15 thrive on our soil, and five are endemic, found only in Georgia. This biodiversity is a living treasure preserved by our ancestors. For centuries, the Georgian people have labored tirelessly, baking bread and upholding traditions that strengthened family life. The result is the extraordinary diversity that enriches our regions and forms the foundation of our unified, vibrant national culture”, the PM continued.

Kobakhidze emphasized that UNESCO’s recognition underscores another important aspect - wheat and the tradition of breaking bread symbolize peace and social unity.

“Today, when the world needs harmony more than ever, the Georgian table and bread serve the ideals of hospitality and human connection. This recognition is also a message for the future. Protecting and developing endemic wheat varieties represents enormous potential for our agricultural sector, agritourism, and the green economy. Our goal is for this tradition to remain alive and evolving, bringing prosperity to our farmers and our country”, the Prime Minister added.

Kobakhidze expressed gratitude to scientists, researchers, government ministries, the Georgian Patriarchate, and all those involved in preparing the nomination. He stressed that this achievement is further proof that Georgia, with its unique culture, is an integral part of global civilization.

The historic significance of UNESCO’s decision was also highlighted by President Mikheil Kavtelashvili, Minister of Culture Tinatin Rukhadze, Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Botchorishvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture David Songhulashvili, and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Nino Tsilosani.

The ceremony was attended by Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, members of Georgia’s executive and legislative branches, and representatives of the Patriarchate.