Expert: Shmygal's meeting with Patriarch of Georgia may be to benefit OCU

Denis Shmygal at a meeting with Patriarch Ilia. Photo: Facebook / Andrii Yurash

The meeting of the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denis Shmygal with Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia during an official visit to this country could have been motivated by favoritism of the current government towards the OCU, Andrey Zolotarev, Ukrainian political analyst and head of the Third Sector center, said in a comment for the UOJ.

In his opinion, personally Shmygal does not reveal much interest in interfaith relations, but he could have been prompted to meet with the Primate of the Georgian Church to build bridges in the interests of the OCU. “They compelled (Shmygal – Editor's note) to a meeting, given that this government also clearly demonstrates sympathy for the OCU. Perhaps it was about changing relations and facilitating bride-building,” Zolotarev said.

As the UOJ reported, the Prime Minister of Ukraine met with the Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia.

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