Metropolitan of Akhalkalaki, Kumurdo and Kars Nikolai Pachuashvili told the outlet "Pirveli" that Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II wishes to travel to Georgia to bid farewell to the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II.

"I cannot say exactly who will come, because we have sent invitations to all primates, as is customary. In addition, non-Orthodox churches are also reaching out to us. For example, the Patriarch of Armenia wants to come. They had very close and historic relations. There is much unrest in Armenia right now, and the Patriarch is not being permitted to leave the country. We have sent the invitation, and if he is allowed, he will come," the Georgian clergyman said.

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II passed away at the age of 93. Georgia has declared mourning in connection with his death. The Patriarch will be buried at Sioni Cathedral on Sunday, March 22.