Georgian Defense Minister Juansher Burchuladze asserted during the hearing in the Georgian Parliament that the country’s security hinges considerably on the efficacy of its deterrence and defense strategies. The minister delved into the pressing security issues facing Georgia and the Black Sea region. He commented on the unstable geopolitical landscape, the reforms Georgia has implemented, and Russia's forceful measures.

Burchuladze criticized Russia's hostile tactics, emphasizing how Moscow employs forceful strategies and wars to further its geopolitical aspirations. He accused Russia of limiting NATO and the EU's access to the Black Sea region, breaching international law through occupation, promoting separatism, and instigating chaos using hybrid tactics. He also reminded the Parliament that Russia continues to occupy 20% of Georgia's land.

Despite the persisting problems in the Black Sea region, Burchuladze voiced optimism about Georgia's alignment with European standards and values and its closeness to the Euro-Atlantic community. He underlined the pivotal role of the Georgian armed forces, underscoring their importance for the successful implementation of national policies. He emphasized the priority given to bolstering the military, making them more competent and modernized.

The Defense Minister conveyed that Georgia's pragmatic approach ensures the protection of national interests and peace, even though Georgia is not a full member of NATO. Highlighting the effective collaboration between NATO and Georgia, he cited the successful implementation of the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package, which is a testament to their robust partnership.

Burchuladze also highlighted the collaborative efforts in strengthening cyber defense capabilities with international organizations. He acknowledged the €4 million fund provided by the EU over the past two years and announced the creation of a cybersecurity lab in Georgia, backed by a €700,000 grant from NATO. He mentioned the UK for its collaborative role in cybersecurity, revealing a joint project funded by the UK (£5 million) and the Georgian Government. The minister also announced plans to commence the construction of a cybersecurity center in Tbilisi by 2024.

Burchuladze also revealed that over the past four years, around ₾360 million ($135mln) had been expended on construction and refurbishment efforts to upgrade the nation's military infrastructure to be on par with NATO member states.

While addressing the Parliament during the Minister's Hour, Burchuladze emphasized the continued focus on infrastructure enhancement and mentioned an allocation of ₾100 million ($37.52mln) from the 2024 ministry budget.

This year alone, twenty construction projects are underway, and over 50 facilities are undergoing renovation. Burchuladze highlighted the commencement of critical infrastructure projects, including the special operations forces base in Mukhrovani, the aviation and air defense command base in Tbilisi, and the cadet military lyceum in Tbilisi designed to serve eastern Georgia.

Burchuladze also underscored Georgia's "persistent and deepening" ties with global allies, particularly emphasizing the strengthening bond with their primary strategic partner, the United States. During his Parliament address, he remarked that the alliance with the US rests on "shared trust and mutual values." He acknowledged the tangible and fiscal support the US has rendered to enhance the proficiency of the Georgian Defense Forces.

Detailing the upcoming collaborations with the US, Burchuladze noted that Georgia had benefited from roughly $68 million in US aid and expects similar assistance in the current year.