The 5Th Tbilisi International Conference Kicks Off in Rooms Hotel

Issue no: 1184/197 • SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue...

Weekly Entrepreneurial News @entrepreneur.ge NEWS PAGE 2 Summertime Sadness! Business Conﬁ dence Index Q3 2019 ISET PAGE 4 The Economic Roots of Georgia’s “Defection” to the West BUSINESS PAGE 7 FOCUS Executive Chairwoman, ON THE NEW PM CEO of VEON, Ursula Burns A look at PM Gakharia's Visits Beeline Georgia economic plans for Georgia PAGE 3 The 5th Tbilisi International

Conference Kicks off in Rooms Hotel BUSINESS PAGE 9 BY LORRAINE VANEY Success of the Night Serenades Festival he 5th Tbilisi International Conference started on September 9 for the 5th con- CULTURE PAGE 10 secutive year under the title “Now What”. Organized by the McCain Institute for International Leadership and the Economic Georgian Museum of Fine PolicyT Research Center (EPRC), the two-day event will focus on solutions and actions on topics related to the Arts and Art House – The future of the Georgian democracy, its Western ambitions and the issues posed by current Russian politics in the Place to Meet region. Panels will also discuss the Baltics, Ukraine, CULTURE PAGE 11

Turkey, Russia, state capture, Brexit, and US foreign policy.

Welcoming high-ranked political and diplomatic staff, security experts, Prepared for Georgia Today Business by activities, policymakers and the business community from the US, Markets Asof06ͲSepͲ2019 Europe and Georgia, the conference is a major political event for Geor- STOCKS Price w/w m/m BONDS Price w/w m/m gia, underlining the strategic importance of the region in international BankofGeorgia(BGEOLN) GBP13.30 Ͳ2,3% Ͳ GEOROG04/21 104.78(YTM3.70%) Ͳ0,0% +0,0% GeorgiaCapital(CGEOLN) GBP10.14 +1,6% +2,4% GEORG04/21 105.93(YTM3.02%) Ͳ0,1% +0,1% political affairs. GHG(GHGLN) GBP2.04 Ͳ10,1% Ͳ12,4% GRAIL07/22 109.97(YTM4.00%) +0,0% +0,1% In his opening speech, Ambassador Kurt Volker, the Executive Direc- TBCBankGroup(TBCGLN) GBP12.20 Ͳ1,0% Ͳ8,8% GEBGG07/23 102.93(YTM5.16%) +0,1% +1,0% tor of The McCain Institute for International Leadership, reminded the COMMODITIES Price w/w m/m CURRENCIES Price w/w m/m CrudeOil,Brent(US$/bbl) 61,54 +1,8% +4,4% GEL/USD 2,9592 +0,3% +1,2% audience that Georgia is “a small country facing very serious challenges” GoldSpot(US$/OZ) 1506,82 Ͳ0,9% +2,2% GEL/EUR 3,2661 +0,9% Ͳ0,2% in a difﬁ cult geopolitical context. He said he hoped that the move towards GEL/GBP 3,6380 +1,4% +2,2% INDICES Price w/w m/m GEL/CHF 2,9991 +0,7% Ͳ0,1% the elections can “be seized by the Georgian people and by the politi- FTSE100 7282,34 +1,0% +1,5% GEL/RUB 0,0450 +1,8% +0,4% FTSE250 19705,52 +1,6% +4,6% GEL/TRY 0,5175 +2,4% Ͳ2,3% cians to make the Georgian democracy stronger and prove that Georgia DAX 12191,73 +2,1% +5,4% GEL/AZN 1,7401 +0,1% +0,9% deserves all the support and engagement of its foreign partners.” DOWJONES 26797,46 +1,5% +3,0% GEL/AMD 0,0062 Ͳ +1,6% NASDAQ 8103,07 +1,8% +3,4% GEL/UAH 0,1179 +0,4% +3,0% The ﬁ rst panel, composed of Archil Talakbasdze, Parliament of Geor- MSCIEMEE 171,42 +2,6% +1,6% EUR/USD 0,9067 Ͳ0,4% +1,6% gia, Giga Bokeria, European Georgia and Salome Samadashbili, UNsM MSCIEM 1007,96 +2,4% +3,6% GBP/USD 0,8138 Ͳ1,0% Ͳ1,0% SP500 2978,71 +1,8% +3,4% CHF/USD 0,9875 Ͳ0,3% +1,1% and of Stephen Nix from the International Republican Institute, on MSCIFM 2620,80 +0,1% Ͳ3,1% RUB/USD 65,7381 Ͳ1,6% +0,7% Monday debated the future of the Georgian democracy. GTIndex(GEL) 1582,68 ͲͲTRY/USD 5,7118 Ͳ2,1% +3,4% GTIndex(USD) 1208,13 ͲͲAZN/USD 1,7001 Ͳ +0,1% GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 Parliament Unanimously

@entrepreneur.ge Expresses Conﬁ dence in Gamarjoba! I’m the Editor-in-Chief of the Georgian edition of Entrepreneur magazine and I’m here to share the top weekly Entrepreneurial news with you:

In a contest launched by the British Council and Renewed Government bringing together 90 participants from 7 countries, Georgian startup SAPO was named the winner. The innovative concept of Naili Vakhania and Tengiz Kavkasidze. SAPO is handmade soap made of natural ingredients, aiming to encourage children to love handwashing. The soap comes in the shape of an animal, each with its own character story in a booklet. The stories are missing the last page, which are rolled up and hidden in the soap. To ﬁ nd out how the story ends, children are motivated to use the soap frequently. SAPO was launched on the base of the Art Incubator at the Business and Technology University.

The fi rst wine bar and library has been launched in Tusheti. An economist by profession, Mari Lavilava was inspired to do more with her husband’s century-old house, which has been serving as a guest house for years. The bar was named Odila and the founders say they wanted to create a pleasant environ for tourists and promote local viticulturists. Plans for the future move beyond the limits of the region: guests of Odila will soon be able to taste wines from different regions of Georgia. To add more comfort to the venue, a library was also launched on site. Meet Izolda Kvitsiani, a Georgian emigrant, has launched a Georgian restaurant with Georgian spirit in The lawmakers expressed confi dence Minister of Justice - Tea Tsulukiani; the city of The Hague, The Netherlands, and named it BY ANA DUMBADZE in the following ministers: Minister of Internally Displaced Per- Sokhumi. Kvitsiani was displaced from Abkhazia and Prime Minister - Giorgi Gakharia; sons from the Occupied Territories, carries a very diffi cult story. However, after moving to Minister of Defense - Irakli Gharibash- Labor, Health and Social Affairs - Ekat- The Netherlands, life improved. She is a great cook and he Parliament of Georgia vili; erine Tikaradze; her choice of career came easy. Hard work for 18 hours has unanimously expressed Minister of Internal Affairs - Vakhtang Minister of Regional Development and a day made it possible to launch the idea inspired by confi dence to the renewed Gomelauri; Infrastructure - Maia Tskitishvili; her homeland’s national spirit. As a result, the composition of the govern- Minister of Education, Science, Culture Minister of Foreign Affairs - Davit Zal- restaurant has already gained popularity among the ment. The New Cabinet of and Sport - Mikheil Batiashvili; kaliani; residents of The Hague, as well as guests of the city. TMinisters was confi rmed with 98 votes. Minister of Environment Protection Minister of Finance - Ivane Machavar- Follow the Entrepreneur Georgia Instagram page to get the latest updates from The members of the National Movement, and Agriculture - Levan Davitashvili; iani; Georgian Entrepreneurs. For doing business with Georgian Entrepreneurs, write us on European Georgia and the Alliance of Minister of Economy and Sustainable State Minister for Reconciliation and [email protected] Patriots did not take part in voting. Development - Natia Turnava; Civic Equality - Ketevan Tsikhelashvili. GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 BUSINESS 3

Image source: marneulifm.ge On the New PM’s Economic Plans "We need to have such communication with busi- BY THEA MORRISON nesses that we can make a forecast in the medium term so as to create more jobs and have a more robust business sector. Of course, we, the state, n September 8, with 98 votes in favor must talk about social responsibility. Unless we do to 0 against, the Georgian Parliament that, this social responsibility will be a burden on approved a new Cabinet under Prime the state and we will have to bear it,” he added. Minister Giorgi Gakharia. Gakharia also stressed the need to concentrate Gakharia, who has occupied mul- on the development of the country’s industrial tipleO posts in the Georgian government, was nom- capacities. inated to the PM’s post after the former PM, Mamuka “We need to enhance human capital development, Bakhtadze, announced his resignation on Septem- and this should be facilitated by an effective bureau- ber 2. During Bakhtadze’s time in offi ce, Gakharia cracy whose work will be a key principle and objec- was the Deputy PM and Interior Minister, as well tive for the new government. Before we can achieve as the Secretary of the National Security Council. the ultimate reduction of poverty, of course, our Before that, from November 2016 to November social services and the social responsibility of the 2017, he served as the Minister of Economy and state must be focused on social protection func- Sustainable development of Georgia. tions,” he said. The PM has said he does not think new initiatives In addition to this, PM Gakharia noted that the are necessary at this stage, noting that fi rst, all pro- economy of the country does allow for a further pen- jects that are underway need to be concluded. sion increase but that this is not the main priority. “We also have to do an audit of what we have “We need to make fundamental changes in the already done, be it programs or initiatives. We have system. We need to establish certain rules for retire- to bring these to a close and analyze the results. ment provision at the legislative level. We will try We need less talking and more work and results. to make some changes here too. However, we have We need to have something we can compare and international commitments, and if we are to change rely on,” he told Parliament prior to his team being our position in negotiations with the IMF, we will approved. try to introduce some form of indexation where Gakharia says discipline and effective bureaucracy the increase in pension provision is not a matter are also necessary to achieve effective economic of political speculation and is directly linked to results. economic growth,” he explained. “This government will be focused on that. Effec- The new PM also noted that everything related tiveness will be the most important criterion and, to logistics is critically important and a priority for of course, discipline,” he said, adding that without the country, including the Anaklia Deep Sea Port effective bureaucracy, no reform can come to a project, which is of crucial importance to the state. logical end nor make sense to citizens. Logistics, he said, is one of the most important The Prime Minister noted that, conceptually, the components of Georgia's developing economic solution to the problem of poverty ultimately comes potential. down to employment. “It should be understood by everyone that each “We’ve seen some positive trends in this regard. Lari the state spends on this project, and it has The poverty level is down, jobs are up, but this is already spent hundreds of millions, is the contri- not satisfactory: we need more. We have to agree bution of each of our citizens. People should also on a concept at the formula level, and that concept understand that by doing so, the state, in all its is simple,” he said. steps, has the right to demand from private part- The Prime Minister said the country needs both ners a fulfi llment of their obligations in a timely political and macroeconomic stability and a trans- manner,” Gakharia said. parent and predictable business environment in The Prime Minister underlined that the state will order to create jobs. do its best to ensure the project is implemented. Minister of Finance Candidate on Tax Legislation e will have one of the most lib- environment. eral, fl exible and effective leg- “We had very infl exible legislation in this regard islations in terms of paying that prevented companies from going through taxes, - the new Finance Min- rehabilitation or bankruptcy. Today, this legisla- ister Ivane Machavariani said tion is practically ready. We often boast about atW a joint sitting of parliamentary committees on being ranked #6 in the World Bank's Doing Busi- Friday, noting that many important steps have ness ratings, but if you look at the details, you will been taken by the state in recent years to assist fi nd that we have one of the lowest scores because taxpayers. of the lack of solvency law. This is important both Machavariani noted that about 67,000 taxpayers in terms of practical considerations and in strength- were freed from debt payment as of January 1, ening our country's position in the ratings. We 2013, totaling GEL 3.4 billion, including private have discussed the document together with the entrepreneurs. Ministry of Justice and I think we will have one “Such a move by the state came about for several of the most liberal, fl exible and effective legisla- reasons. One considered the diffi cult years for tions in this direction,” he said. doing business. We know that many have been He also noted that while discussing the need to affected because business was at risk. The second write off tax debts, the disadvantages should also factor was the August 2008 war, and the third, of be taken into consideration. course, was the fault of taxpayers themselves. For "These kinds of decisions also have negative these reasons, the state has shown political will consequences, such as lowering the tax culture and these tax debts have been written off,” and putting the honest taxpayer, paying taxes for Machavariani said. years, in an unequal position. Consequently, this He once again spoke about the need to adopt an type of amnesty is not being discussed at this insolvency law in order to improve the business stage,” he said. GEORGIA TODAY 4 BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019

Summertime Sadness! Business Conﬁ dence Index Q3 2019

verall, BCI has declined by 18.7 points expectations and past performance have led to a PAST PERFORMANCE compared to Q2 2019. Expectations fall in the overall BCI. Businesses’ actual performance decreased by 23.5 next three months. Furthermore, only 16% of fi rms in the private sector in Georgia BCI decreased in almost all economic sectors, points compared to Q2 of 2019. In Q3 2019, sales stated that they would employ more employees in decreased signifi cantly by 23.7 index namely in the retail trade (-45.5), fi nancial (-24.4), (production or turnover) of the 149 fi rms surveyed the future. points, dropping to 21.7 index points. construction (-21.5), manufacturing (-19.0) and service decreased from 23.0 (Q2 2019) to -0.5 (Q3 2019). 38% of the surveyed fi rms expected that the eco- BusinessO performance over the past three months (-16.6) sectors. The exception was in agriculture, in nomic condition of their businesses would improve decreased as well, reaching nearly 0 points (down which the BCI improved by 41.8 index points. Busi- over the next three months, and 42% did not expect from 23.0), indicating a downturn in production/ ness confi dence in the third quarter of 2019 dropped turnover/sales. Thus, reductions in both business for both large fi rms (-20.2) and for SMEs (-1.9).

A signifi cant drop in performance was observed any changes in the future, while a smaller share of in retail trade (-91.7), construction (-28.3), fi nance businesses expect their business conditions to (-23.8) and service (-17.6). A signifi cant decrease worsen. means that in these sectors, the weighted balance between positive and SALES PRICE EXPECTATIONS negative responses The Sales Price Expectations Index decreased decreased compared to from 16.9 points (Q2 2019) to 12.9 points (Q3 the previous quarter. 2019). This fall is mostly driven by a decrease in In the remaining sec- the manufacturing and service sectors. The over- tors, production/turn- all Sales Price Expectations Index increased for over/sales for the past SMEs while the index decreased for large com- three months improved: panies. agriculture (57.0) and 48% of all surveyed fi rms are not going to manufacturing (6.7). Business activities improved change the prices they charge over the next three for SMEs and declined for large businesses. months. Only 12% of fi rms expect to decrease prices, and 34% expect to increase prices in the future. EXPECTATIONS Lack of demand and limited access to fi nance The Expectations Index decreased by 23.7 index continue to be two of the most signifi cant obstacles points in Q3 2019. Expectations about the next three for SMEs and large companies. months worsened for all business sectors except It should be noted that the BCI results presented agriculture (18.7). The greatest reduction was here may be overestimated, as the survey only cov- reported in retail trade (-63.0). Business expecta- ers businesses currently operating and not those tions worsened for both large fi rms and SMEs. that have already exited the market. Firms still in The majority (72%) of surveyed businesses do operation are, to some extent, more likely to have not expect any changes in employment over the a negative outlook.

GEORGIA TODAY 6 BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019

Dreamland Oasis Chakvi for all visitors, whether they seek an open waterpark, built in a rocky fortress friends, or team up with other guests. recently launched yet another facility BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA active holiday or quiet relaxation. style, are ready to host adventure-lovers. Ensuring a pleasant stay for minors is focused even more on the comfort of Sprawled across 10 hectares, Dream- Those wanting a calmer stay are very also of vital importance for the admin- visitors – a bracelet pay system, remov- land Oasis Chakvi offers a multifunc- welcome to try the Finnish and Turkish istration of Dreamland Oasis Chakvi. ing the need to carry cash with you hen you think of tional complex, of hotel and apartments. sauna, as well as an excellent array of That is why there are fabulous and safe during your stay. holidays, the first Both the accommodation options have treatments at the Spa Center. children’s playgrounds and a kinder- We can’t end without mentioning the ideas that spring to been smartly designed by a team of The founders of Dreamland Oasis garten supervised by animators and professional staff, who are available mind are usually professionals and come with all the Chakvi had the importance of greenery other carers. 24/7 to ensure the positive mood and comfortable accom- necessary facilities, thus representing very much in mind while launching the The exceptional culinary is not to be fi ne stay of their guests. modation,W nice infrastructure, beautiful an ideal venue for holidays with friends complex. There are almost 8,000 plants missed. Various restaurants are ready Through its well-developed and diverse nature and a turquoise sea with calm and family. of 85 varieties on site, creating a won- to serve guests the best specialties of infrastructure, integrating a huge num- waves. If you want to discover all of this The infrastructure of the complex is derful synthesis of colors and enabling Georgian and European cuisine and ber of facilities, as well as immaculate in one place, Dreamland Oasis Chakvi, certainly nothing short of spectacular. guests to delve into the atmosphere of ensure a unique gastronomic experi- services, Dreamland Oasis Chakvi has a wonderful resort on the Black Sea, is While you can lie back on the private tranquility and harmony from the very ence of fresh and healthy food. Bars on certainly established itself as one of the for you. half-kilometer beach and enjoy the end- fi rst step. the complex are equally signifi cant, as treasures of the Georgian hospitality Separated from the noisy, crowded less stretch of sea and breeze carrying Sport has become an inseparable part they provide a wide assortment of color- industry, and despite the Russian tour- cities and other tourist attractions, the fresh salty spray, various other enter- of many people’s life. Therefore, Dream- ful and mouthwatering cocktails, as well ist embargo, which raised various prob- Dreamland Oasis Chakvi is a small town taining facilities, including billiards, bowl- land Oasis Chakvi offers guests a wide as other refreshments. lems for the tourism sector this year, with unique infrastructure, representing, a video games room and even a cin- range of sport facilities. You can enjoy Dreamland Oasis Chakvi is an ever- Dreamland Oasis Chakvi has managed ing a home to the best facilities and ema are also ready to serve you on site. tennis courts, as well as football, bas- developing complex in accordance with to complete the summer season with ensuring an unforgettable experience The enormous colorful slides in the ketball and volleyball pitches with your the latest world trends, which has success. GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 BUSINESS 7 The Economic Roots of Georgia’s “Defection” to the West

Photo by Katie Ruth Davies/GT (EEU) did not produce the expected results nor BY EMIL AVDALIANI did it stop Ukraine drifting from Russia in 2014. Again, Russian political thought failed to recog- nize that Kyiv's choice to move closer to the Euro- n important part of a country's foreign pean Union was based on the latter's economic policy lies in its economic moves. attractiveness. As no brotherly relations with Rus- This is particularly true in the case sians could stop Ukrainians' drift to the western of large states seeking a bigger role economic space, much less surprising is Georgia’s in the international arena. eagerness to join the European market. AFor example, China has been implementing the Simply put, Russia has not been attractive enough. 'Belt and Road Initiative' (BRI), while the US dur- Even those countries which are economically close ing the Cold War brought in the famous Marshall to Russia are so because they have no alternative. Plan to help Europe restore its shattered fi nancial Take for example Armenia, the large population of strength. Both projects pursue(d) projection of which is not inclined to Russia but is close to the political power through economic means. Russian economy because there is no other option. Long gone are the times when it still was possible The same goes for the Central Asian states, which to occupy territories solely through military power. still prefer the Russian economy to the Chinese Increasingly, as modernity enabled the rise of self- market (however even this trend based on Central consciousness and nationalism among small states Asia's cultural and historical closeness with Russia and ethnic minorities in large countries, it has has been shifting and the region's economic rela- become diffi cult to rely on repressive measures. A tions with China now thrive). policy of active economic initiatives targeting one When it comes to choosing between Western and ethnic group inside the country or a separate state Russian economic spaces even countries culturally has thus gained additional importance. closest to Russia still choose the West. The roots Looking at the last 30 years of Georgian-Russian of this problem for Russia are its inability to build relations, there has been almost everything one powerful state institutions and a thriving economic could imagine: from cordial talks to wars to a full- space with opportunities for peaceful development scale economic embargo. More negative than across the former Soviet territories. positive, but well illustrative of the limits of Rus- What is troubling is Russia's failure to understand sia's foreign policy. the source of that weakness – the need for a rapid It is true that Georgia has not been economically restructuring of the economy to yield higher indus- so important to Moscow as, for example, Ukraine, trial and technological results. When high-level Kazakhstan or Belarus, but Russia is always inter- politicians openly discuss this, it often ends with ested in infl uencing Tbilisi. Still, Georgia is a vital no specifi c results. transit corridor between west and east as well as It can be argued that for the last 30 years, Russia north and south. Moreover, without Georgia, it will has not pursued a consistent economic policy always be diffi cult for Russia to effectively control towards Georgia. Investments were occasional, the restive North Caucasus in the long run. while other political decisions only further ham- The Russian political establishment failed to see pered bilateral relations. The case of Georgia's that a major reason in Georgia's shift to the West "defection" to the West well refl ects how less atten- in the early 2000s was a shattered post-Soviet tion is paid nowadays in Russia to economic com- economy and no help from Moscow. Russia was ponents in the country's foreign policy. There are not perceived as an enemy when the Rose Revolu- even hints that Moscow now prefers military moves tion was about to happen in 2003: there were sim- to economic ones. ply no concerted efforts from the Russian side to Even from a strategic point, one can say that Rus- lure Georgia economically. sia simply has not had a foreign policy towards Russia was also experiencing turbulent times and Georgia, except for militarily preventing the coun- was self-absorbed with internal problems when try from joining NATO and the EU. No long-term Vladimir Putin came to power in 1999. Even when approach of economic, cultural and other compo- Russia became fi nancially stable in the late 2000s, nents was ever formulated. As a result, by 2003 it no viable long-term economic vision was offered was already too late to reverse the existing trend to the former Soviet countries. The announcement in Georgia, while a similar process is now being of the creation of the Eurasian Economic Union seen in Ukraine. GEORGIA TODAY 8 BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 Chevening’s 13

Edinburgh: her goal being to move beyond BY KYRA DEVDARIANI the economic targets and policies driven by the electoral cycle. She plans to dive into the methodology that is geared hirteen Georgian hopefuls towards sustainable, inclusive social are on their way to the UK policies; to have the voices of the mar- as you read this, fi nanced ginalized population heard in a meaning- by Britain’s Foreign and ful way. Gvantsa’s two kids, aged 14 and Commonwealth Offi ce to 9, initially questioned her decision, but continueT their graduate studies as a part she is true to herself, stepping out of her of a long-running and overwhelmingly comfort zone, riding that development successful, on a global scale, Chevening curve – not for the fi rst time, either. In Scholarship program. In the last 25 years, 1998, at the peak of the brain drain from over 250 scholars from Georgia have Georgia, she came back from the USA, benefi ted from it; a number which would leaving her family there, readjusted to likely have been even higher had the the life of hardships, and interned at a winners not had a tendency to drop out computer school, getting into website at the very last moment. This year, for design before it was cool – all that at the example, the fi nancing was in place to age of 19! Biggest achievement? “Being cover 18 scholarships, but Georgia lost happy with who I am,” she says. several spots when, even after activating Likewise, Natia Zoidze, 28, has come the reserves, they could produce only 13 to the conclusion that “you cannot please people ready and willing to go. On a everyone, nor should you”, and is not positive note, we have interviewed twelve take on the gender composition of the behind her full-time work at the Minis- graduate degrees in Finance at Kozmin- seeking external validation. This is no of them, and they are every bit as deserv- group: 10 females, 3 males. He says he’d try of Internal Affairs to concentrate on sky University, but also three-plus years small feat in the culture where women ing as one would imagine: bright, tal- be comfortable with any ratio, as long cybercrime and data protection, of experience working for the local branch apply to high-level positions only when ented, eager to learn, and bringing their as it is merit-based, he says in a straight- approaching studies with the same impec- of Citibank. Upon return, he hopes to they’re signifi cantly overqualifi ed, and life stories and experiences to the table. forward manner. cable professionalism and work ethics transform state-owned enterprises into if accepted, have to work twice as hard Ninutsa (Nino) Nanitashvili will be The UK Embassy-provided demographic as her role model, Roger Federer. modern corporations with western val- to prove their worth. Natia will take on studying Social Innovation and Entre- stats show that over the years, an average Mariam will be joined in Edinburgh by ues and vision. an LLM in Human Rights Law at Queen preneurship at the London School of of 72% of the Chevening applicants have the youngest in the group, Koka Kap- While London and Edinburgh have Mary University in London, to ensure Economics and Political Science, having been female, with males slightly boosted anadze, who is set to study Public Policy. multiple members of the Georgian class that those who haven’t been afforded found her true calling in “bridging tech for the winning, up to 35%. I found it The 23-year-old Tbilisi native’s work of 2019/20 descending on them, Nino the full protection by the state, who have with social good”. The 26-year-old, who perplexing: where are all these brilliant experience revolves around Parliamen- Gorgiashvili is the only one heading to been persecuted for gender identity or has earned a B.A. in Sociology and Mass women in Georgia’s public life? Why don’t tary Committees, covering issues from Cardiff, Wales. The sociable 28-year-old, religious affi liation, get justice. Intelli- Communications as well as an M.A in we see more of them in top positions, sexual harassment and domestic violence hailing from the small Lagodekhi village gent and compassionate, she is prag- Public Policy, has managed to build a both in the government and in private to labor policy and mediation. Koka plans of Apeni by the way of Rustavi, has a B.A. matically content with the incremental network in the budding startup ecosys- corporations? That is the question I ask to concentrate on labor rights in his the- in Business Administration and Finance, changes, and plans to roll her sleeves up tem in Georgia, creating a team of like- all of the class 2019/20, and the answers sis, and to change parental leave regula- but chose Computing and IT Manage- for NGO work once again upon her return minded people, and is not afraid to dream go along the same lines: women in Geor- tions in Georgia, citing a “very selfi sh ment for her Master’s degree. Her long- from the UK. big. The main challenge she identifi es, gia are more driven and geared toward prospective, as a future father”. His big- term goal is to improve online educational While most of the Cheveners I’ve spo- and hopes to get tools to tackle, is achiev- self-development. Tiko Kurdghelashvili, gest champion, confi dante and friend, his programs and ensure their accessibility ken to learned of their applications’ suc- ing commercial sustainability in the 33, who holds a Ph.D in English Philology, older sister has been a powerful infl uence, in rural areas, especially remote ones, cess back in June, Keti Vashagashvili got projects she’s involved in. A self-pro- the highest academic rank among the impacting Koka’s views through sacrifi ces such as Racha, the region from which her her Final Acceptance Letter literally the claimed cheerful workaholic, Ninutsa group, mentions that at the interview she had to make in her career in order to ancestry is traced. Nino knows of the day before we sat down for an interview. manages to balance her workload and stage, in April, most of the male applicants raise children. Unlike many of his peers, educational opportunities being vastly She knew she was in reserve, but had social life with the help of the robust have yet to select three universities, as he doesn’t go to the “making an impact” different not just up in the mountains very little hope left by August 17th, when support system of parents, siblings and required by the Program. For a Kaspi or “raising awareness” clichés when asked where villages are cut off due to harsh she got a congratulatory email and real- friends. Now that the LSE will be adding native who is heading to Birmingham to about his biggest achievement: instead, weather conditions for several months a ized there was little time to tie all the studies to her already overfl owing plate, study Special Education Management, Koka recalls saving a random person’s year, but also in rural valleys, having spent loose ends. With an M.A in Media Man- her husband and biggest cheerleader is this is a lapse in organizational skills. Tiko life by performing CPR. most of her childhood and early school- agement and Journalism from GIPA and leaving his job in Georgia and relocating won the scholarship on her second try, A valedictorian graduate of GAU, with years in the village. Lucky for her, her years of professional experience at var- to London to stand by her. but last year’s setback only served to Quantitative Finance under her belt, Ana dad’s job took them to Rustavi when Nino ious TV stations, Keti has fi lmed and Michael (Misho) Golijashvili is 26, too, increase her enthusiasm and motivation. Bakuridze, 25, would like to make an was 14, and she got more opportunities directed several successful projects, from but his life path is distinctly different. Finding her way in a fi eld that is barely impact, too, but “not on the scale of being which led to undergrad studies at the a Channel 9 documentary on the tough Born in Akhalgori, he joined the thou- supported by the Ministry of Education, the fi rst person on Mars”: she’d be happy Georgian-American University. Ambi- life of a homeless mother to a US Embassy- sands of IDPs when he was too young misunderstood and stigmatized by par- to have her own securities brokerage tious, but “not too much, or else you’ll fi nanced short on urban development. to understand what was happening, as ents and students alike, she laments not fi rm in 10-15 years. Until then, this bub- overestimate yourself” and amicable, It comes as no surprise that she will the family fl ed to Tbilisi. Perhaps the having suffi cient knowledge to deal with bly Batumi native would try her hand at Nino doesn’t fi nd the prospect of spend- study Journalism and Documentary feeling of helplessness and inability to autism, cerebral palsy, PTSD (post-2008 NBG, Georgia’s Central bank, writing ing a year away from family for the fi rst Practice at Sussex, with plans to return change anything on an individual level war) and other conditions that she has regulations and developing international time all that daunting. In fact, she plans and cover a wide range of topics that her that he describes as his biggest fear and come across, or helped fellow teachers markets. That’s after she gets a Finance to bring a fl avor of Georgia to Wales, NGO is involved in. A classical self- driving force, is what pushed him into a with. Setting high standards for herself Degree at the University of Manchester, introducing culture via culinary exploits, doubting perfectionist, this 37-year old military career. A 4-year degree in West and constantly striving to improve, Tiko of course. with staples like khinkali and khachapuri! Tbilisi native gets encouragement from Point Academy instilled discipline and is sure to absorb every bit that the uni- If you’ve been following the Facebook The oldest in the group at 41, Gvantsa her family – her husband is a feature values of “duty, honor and country”, as versity program will provide. page of the UK Embassy, you’d notice Meladze is a seasoned professional with fi lmmaker and understands her need to Misho explains in somewhat scripted Two Cheveners who hail from Borjomi, that the photos of the September 3rd a very unique story of passion, pioneer- develop professionally. As Keti’s biggest phrases – one gets the sense that he is Mariam Chaduneli and Ana Beridze, farewell dinner show only two male win- ing and patriotism; her achievements fan, her 9-year-old son, put it, “all kids repeating the points made many times have picked LLM programs in Scotland: ners. The third, 29-year-old Beka Phut- span from being a managing partner of need successful mothers!” before – to him, by him. His fi eld is Intel- Innovation, Technology and Law at Edin- karadze of Batumi, is already in London, the Regional Development Association A diverse group as they are, the Cheven- ligence and Securities Studies at King’s burgh, and Environmental Law at Dundee, as his Master’s in Finance started mid- and Export Agency to consulting both ing class of2019/20 is united in one goal: College, London, so we talk of the upcom- respectively. Ana will suspend her LLM August. Unlike most of the Georgian the private sector and the government to get a quality education and return to ing studies and the security fi eld in in Business Law at Free University for Cheveners, he doesn’t need much adapt- on policy issues. With an academic back- Georgia with skills needed for the coun- Georgia where he hopes to work one a chance to study environmental regula- ing to life abroad, having lived in Poland ground in Economics and an MBA from try’s progress and development. We wish day. Since Misho is the fi rst male Chevener tions and help shape relevant policies for several years. In that time, Beka Caucasus University, Gvantsa is seeking them the best, and hope to follow up whom I get to interview, I ask about his in Georgia upon return. Mariam leaves completed not only his undergrad and a degree in Comparative Public Policy at with them in the fall of 2020. SUBSCRIBE!

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[email protected] +995 32 229 59 19 Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08   10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 BUSINESS 9 Executive Chairwoman, CEO of VEON, Ursula Burns Visits Beeline Georgia

ogy, Engineering and Math (STEM) in women in the world. In addition to her pany operating in 10 countries through- 2009-2016, during the rule of President business activities, she actively supports out the world. In Georgia, it is repre- Barack Obama, and she served as Chair various educational and non-govern- sented by the Beeline brand. The plan of the President's Export Council in mental organizations. She is the Founder of the company’s highest-ranking ofﬁ - 2015-2016. of an organization aimed at the devel- cial includes paying visits to each She has been listed multiple times by opment of STEM education. country and holding meetings with Forbes as one of the 100 most powerful VEON Group is an international com- local staff.

company is impressive. To close, she TRANSLATED BY ANA DUMBADZE thanked her colleagues for their motivation. Ursula Burns is one of the most suc- xecutive Chairwoman, CEO cessful American businesswomen and of VEON, Ursula Burns, the director of Fortune 500 Company. came to Tbilisi to visit Bee- Currently, she is the Executive Chair- line Georgia, member of woman and CEO of VEON as well as the VEON Group. being a member of the supervisory EThe purpose of the Company’s highest- boards of corporations such as Uber, ranking offi cial was to personally meet Nestle, ExxonMobil, MIT, and others. the team of Beeline, summarize results Prior to joining VEON, she was Chair- and discuss future plans. Within the woman of the Board of the Xerox Cor- scope of the meeting at Beeline HQ , poration from 2010 to 2017 and Chief Burns spoke to company staff and pos- Executive Offi cer from 2009 to 2016. itively apprised the work of the Beeline Burns was a leader of the White House team, noting that the turnaround at the national program on Science, Technol- TBC Status Introduces New, Digital Package Georgia’s Finance Minister Tailored to the lifestyle, a customer is • Preferential rates on withdrawals Predicts GEL Will Gain Value TRANSLATED BY KETEVAN enabled to benefi t from discounts at from savings and current accounts and expected employment growth. We KVARATSKHELIYA BY THEA MORRISON shopping venues, as well as the advan- • Special offers on insurance products have improved current account defi cits, tage of special offers at a number of • Certifi cate and extract free of charge but the depreciation of the Lari covers any events. With it, a Status Concierge will • Queue Priority Card positive effects. It is such a heavy burden BC Status has introduced be ready to respond 24/7 to requests. • 24/7 Status Center service eorgia’s Finance Minister, to our population,” he added. a brand new, Digital Pack- The full list of the banking and non- Non-Banking Products Ivane Machavariani believes He said the authorities, the National Bank age to clientele. The Pack- banking products of the Status Digital • Concierge Service the national currency GEL and the Ministry of Finance, need to take age is designed for those Package is as follows: • Discounts at more than 150 shopping (Lari), which has been depre- "more coordinated, bold and sometimes individuals for whom the Banking Products: venues ciating against the US Dollar extraordinary steps" to stabilize the Lari Tuse of banking products represents an • Premium class VISA/MASTERCARD • Training, masterclasses and events Gand Euro, will start gaining value soon. exchange rate. inseparable part of life, who actively PLATINUM card tailored to the interests of customers The Minister says the Lari depreciated Irakli Mezurnishvili, a member of the consume non-banking products and - Free cash withdrawal from TBC and • Airport Lounge Access Card (Lounge due to external shocks. He also affi rms ruling Georgian Dream faction, also noted offers, and who prefer to manage per- partner bank ATMs Key; Priority Pass) that the Georgian economy is healthy. that the stability of the Lari is very impor- sonal fi nances and banking operations - High daily limit for cash withdrawal Monthly fee for the Package – 10 GEL "First of all, this is due to the fact that tant for the development of the economy. independently, without the help of a at ATMs the region is not developing rapidly ... “It is clear that the Lari is excessively banker. - Terms of interest accrual on card bal- For more information about the Status Digital Regarding the foreign shocks, the currency devaluated. In all other macroeconomic The Status Digital Package integrates ance Package, please visit: https://www.tbcbank. rate is the fi rst to be affected and our main indicators we do have some stability, but all the superiorities and products of a - Free "Premium" card security service ge/web/ka/web/guest/status-digital goal is not to let it move to the real sector. when our country is dependent on imports, traditional set, without a personal banker. • Fixed rates on bank transfers Or contact the Status Center: 2 272700. I believe the GEL will start to strengthen,” despite the current account defi cit being he said. at a historically lowest indicator, of course, Another reason for the Lari devaluation the exchange rate clearly affects the prices named by the minister, was the June 20 of products as well,” he stated in Parliament. developments in Georgia, which started Mezurnishvili also noted that despite with anti-Russian protest rallies in the the objective factors causing the devalu- capital and was followed by a Russian ban ation of the national currency - foreign on direct fl ights with Georgia. This, in shock, regional developments, economic turn, hit the tourism sector and according situation in the countries with which to the minister, resulted in a $60 million Georgia has trade relations, the events of loss for Georgia. June 20, result in a diffi cult situation for The minister says there are all precondi- the business. tions to expect the national currency to The offi cial GEL rate set by the National gain value. Bank of Georgia, shows that $1 equals “Real economic growth was 6% in July, 2.9636, while one Euro is 3.2683 GEL. we see it in August as well, and we can say Around 10 days ago the dollar rate was that it will be quite high. This means that GEL 2.9457 and Euro was at GEL 3.2523. if there are enough jobs and the production New Prime Minister of Georgia, Giorgi of goods and services does not diminish, Gakharia, whose cabinet was approved by the economy is fundamentally healthy and MPs on September 8, says that Georgia it will undoubtedly lead to the strengthen- has a small and absolutely open economy ing of the GEL,” Machavariani said. and the Lari exchange rate is an integral He also noted that the budgeting process part of daily life, which is directly related will start soon, during which he will be not only to the Georgian economy but also able to talk in detail about the 2020 eco- to its main trading partners as well. nomic plans. “However, this does not mean that the Chairman of the Committee on Finance GEL rate should fl uctuate that way. It and Budget, Irakli Kovzanadze, says that should also be remembered that the depre- the real effective exchange rate of the GEL ciation of the Lari has had very important is more impaired than dictated by the effects on our population and our economy. economy. With maximum coordination and work "The reality is that we have a 5.1% eco- with the National Bank, we will do our nomic growth, including a 6.1% growth in best to maintain both economic and fi nan- July, a tendency of reduced unemployment cial stability,” he added. GEORGIA TODAY 10 POLITICS SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 Weekly Round-Up of the Gvaramia/ Rustavi 2 Case not me,” he wrote on social media. of the company Intermedia Plus. by him, will start operating. He added Main Channel is obliged to uphold the BY THE GT TEAM He has also been prohibited from leav- “On the basis of the analysis of the that he does not exclude the possibility law on broadcasting, including the Com- ing the country without special permis- evidence obtained in the course of the of detention, but emphasized that if he mission's resolutions, decisions and all sion. ongoing investigation, we are fi ling new is arrested, the channel will continue authorization requirements,” the GNCC ews broke Monday morn- Gvaramia was fi rst charged in August charges against Nika Gvaramia – he is with another director. stated. ing that former Rustavi 2 by the Prosecutor’s Offi ce for abuse of accused of a large-scale embezzlement On Thursday, the Georgian National After being dismissed from the post of Director-General Nika power and making decisions which were of the property rights of Rustavi 2 broad- Communications Commission (GNCC) Director-General of Rustavi 2 by the Gvaramia has, on the dead- harmful to Rustavi 2 TV Channel. The casting company, as well as of commer- granted a license of 'general broadcaster' current owner of the channel, Kibar line, agreed to pay the investigation was launched based on the cial bribery and production/use of coun- instead of the expected 'specialized enter- Khalvashi, due to a confl ict of interests, N40,000 GEL bail set by Tbilisi City Court statement of the lawyer of Nino terfeit offi cial documents, which caused tainment broadcaster' to Gvaramia’s newly Nika Gvaramia informed media about for his release. He had been refusing to Nizharadze, former owner of 9% of signifi cant damage," a representative of established TV Channel, “Main Channel” the founding of a new TV channel named pay it under claims of innocence. His Rustavi 2 shares, about the alleged crime the Prosecutor General's Offi ce said at (“Mtavari Arkhi”), meaning the channel ‘Mtavari Arkhi’. turn-around decision came, as he said, committed by the management of the the briefi ng. now offi cially has the right to broadcast Gvaramia also published a public reg- because of the growing fears of his wife, TV company. In addition, the statement In addition to Nika Gvaramia, charges news and political talk shows. istry document which shows how the team and investors that he would again of Paata Salia, the new director of the were fi led against Kakha Damenia, the The representatives of Main Channel ownership of the TV Company is shared: be detained. channel, about an alleged crime that former fi nancial director of the channel applied to the GNCC on August 26 to 51% of the channel is owned by Nika “Tomorrow or the day after tomorrow signifi cantly damaged the broadcasting and Zurab Iashvili, director of Interme- modify its broadcasting authorization. Gvaramia and 49% by Kakhaber Anja- is the last day of my bail. My team is very company, was also attached to the case. dia Plus. “The Commission has studied the paridze. nervous, potential investors are also Last Friday, the Prosecutor’s Offi ce again On leaving the Offi ce on Friday, Gvar- documentation submitted by the com- Gvaramia serves as the Director-Gen- concerned. My wife is getting more and charged him, this time for “embezzling amia said that there was nothing new in pany, which fully complies with the eral of the channel, Irakli Nizharadze is more nervous every day. I would not pay Rustavi 2 property.” In addition to Gvara- the accusations and that he links the requirements of the law, and registered Financial Director, while the former the bail. It is your decision to pay the mia, an indictment was fi led against Kakha ongoing investigation to the fact that the channel as a private general broad- lawyers of Rustavi 2: Dimitri Sadzaglish- bail and I obey it. I will borrow money Damenia, the former fi nancial director of soon the opposition-minded new TV caster in the Registry. The Channel will vili and Tamta Muradashvili are men- and I will pay the bail since you wish so, the channel, and Zurab Iashvili, director company, the Main Channel, founded start broadcasting on September 9. The tioned as Directors in the document. CULTURE Success of the Night Serenades Festival tion the performers received from the took to the stage with Manuel De Falla’s is why we do our best to make it inter- public. “The fact the festival was attended “El Amor Brujo” and offered an abso- esting to all age groups by inviting a by ordinary classical music enthusiasts lutely breathtaking performance,” says number of excellent young performers.” as well as professionals in the fi eld, is Issakadze with admiration. The Creative Director of the Festival also certainly yet another indicator of our 2019 was also outstanding in that it was focuses on the huge work done by Maes- accomplishment,” he says. the fi rst time in the history of the festival tro Vakhtang Matchavariani and Lela “This year, we launched a very inter- that performers from Kazakhstan joined Mtchedlidze, who joined the orchestra esting and diverse program, and gave an the program, offering the work of Artyk and raised the bar to a sky-high level, thus opportunity to guests to travel in differ- Toxanbay to guests. contributing to the success of the event. ent epochs and styles, from Baroque to “It is tremendously diffi cult to create “The 11th edition of the Nights Sere- romance, as well as the contemporary a tradition, but it is very easy to forget nades Festival was certainly nothing world music of the 20th and 21st centu- them,” Issakadze notes. “Traditions need short of spectacular, as we managed to ries.” protection and remembrance, and it is offer different moods and atmospheres The program of the fi ve-day event of vital importance to introduce them to our Georgian and international guests. boasted masterpieces of world-renowned to youngsters to enable the next gen- And I do hope this tradition continues composers, and included the Serenade erations to preserve and love them. That in future,” he tells us with a smile. of Tchaikovsky, Barber’s Adagio, and the Chamber Symphony of Shostakovich. Issakadze noted that the virtuoso orchestra managed to mesmerize the attendees of the concert in thee and also a variety of treasures from the Georgian classical music repertoire. Issakadze tells us that cellist Jan-Erik Gustafsson took to the stage with the concerto Vaja Azarashvili, fi rst performed by Giorgi's father- National Artist of Georgia and Professor Eldar Issakadze. “Before the performance, Gustafsson expressed his gratitude to my father and ist and conductor Liana Isakadze launched focused on the strong infl uence of his BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA the fi rst concert within the scope of the recordings in the Azarashvili’s concerto, festival in the city of Pitsunda, Abkhazia. which I had sent them several weeks But, due to political developments, the prior to the festival. It was certainly very he 11th edition of the Night event was suspended for a number of emotional for all of us,” Issakadze tells Serenades Festival, one of years and was given a new life 11 years us. the most outstanding musi- ago, in 2009. The program also included the humor- cal events giving an incred- GEORGIA TODAY spoke to Giorgi ous miniatures of Georgian Sulkhan ible opportunity to classical Issakadze, Creative Director of the Fes- Tsintsadze and the incomplete compo- Tmusic-lovers to enjoy the best composi- tival and nephew of Liana Issakadze, to sition of Aleksi Matchavariani. tions of the genre, was successfully com- gauge the success of this year’s event. The September 2 concert was dedicated pleted on September 4. “2019 and the 11th edition of the Nights to the Autonomous Republic of Abkha- These days, society is offered more Serenades Festival has proved to be very zia. The next day’s event was attended commercial music than classical; com- successful indeed,” he tells us. “We by the President of Georgia, Salome mercial focusing on the better fi nancial launched four concerts in the incredible Zurabishvili, who got to enjoy the rarely gain. However, the Night Serenades Fes- city of Batumi and hosted listeners in performed Beethoven’s 8th Symphony, tival is on the list of those few musical the Georgian capital at two concerts. not played in Georgia for over two dec- celebrations that are completely devoted The main concept was absolutely loved ades. to the classical genre and its global pro- by the audiences in both cities.” Along “This year’s Night Serenades Festival motion. Its story began 37 years ago, in with the diverse program of the festival, was completed by famous Georgian 1982, when prominent Georgian violin- Issakadze emphasizes the warm recep- mezzo-soprano Nino Surguladze, who GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 10 - 12, 2019 CULTURE 11 Georgian Museum of Fine Arts and Art House – The Place to Meet “The swimming pool on the rooftop with an amazing city view is a real treasure, as it is almost impossible to fi nd such a spacious outdoor pool in the center of Tbilisi so ideal for relaxation. There’s also a Finnish sauna on site, perfect for speeding you to health.” The founders of the Art House had the importance of nutrition for a healthy lifestyle very much in mind when launching the multifunctional complex, making sure POOL CAFE came ready to serve guests a wide assortment of healthy food, including fresh salads, wraps, detox cocktails and smoothies, to enrich the organism with the necessary pro- teins and vitamins for boosted energy and positivity. Membership of the Art House’s FIT CLUB has a number of other benefi ts GEORGIA TODAY sat down with too, including a 10% discount at all the The Art House is a diverse complex for me, as I can play piano at Publica BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA David (Datuna) Aladashvili, a famous venues found in the Art House and and therefore does not limit itself to and practice, eat, work and exercise, as Georgian pianist among the most loyal four-hours free parking in the three- only local cuisine: European dishes are well as hold meetings here.” guests of the museum and Art House, story carpark, big enough to house up equally terrifi c here. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Art bilisi counts a history of to learn about his experience and dis- to 200 vehicles. The latter is certainly “My friends and I enjoy BRASSERIE House are certainly a new statement in many centuries. cover all the ‘treasures’ of the venue. a special experience, as in Tbilisi it is BUVETTE at Art House very much. I modern Georgia, as they bring together There is plenty to see We met at the MUSEUM CAFE, one a real miracle to fi nd a parking space. can state for sure that this is the only numerous facilities, from thrilling eat- and to do in Tbilisi, but in of the jewels of the Georgian Museum Datuna continues telling us about his French restaurant of such a high level eries to a museum and business meet- addition, there are a num- of Fine Arts, where the dominating day at the Art House: on the Georgian market right now. It ings in the CONFERENCE HALL. berT of ‘must-visit’ places in the heart of white walls and chandeliers ideally bal- “After a morning at Fit Club, I always offers the best cocktails, of which I love Through its smart design, each of the the Georgian capital. The Georgian ance the bright furnishings, posters of try to spend some time at the museum, the Buvette Smash,” says Datuna, noth- venues found in the building represents Museum of Fine Arts and its extension outstanding cinematographic works which brings together nearly 3500 out- ing that the pleasant and super comfy a new dimension, offering an unforget- Art House – The Place to Meet are cer- and a wonderful palette of sweets and standing works of Georgian painters, atmosphere is ideal for holding various table journey for visitors of all tastes. tainly at the top of the list. pastries. The beauty of the environ is each a source of inspiration,” states the business meetings. Here, you can delve into art and keep Shota Rustaveli Avenue, the main completed by an airy terrace overlook- pianist. Like all world-leading museums, Brasserie Buvette also integrates a fi t and healthy at the same time. artery of the city, is incredibly eclectic, ing the stunning Kashveti Church of St. the Museum of Fine Arts also houses a wine cellar, where guests have an oppor- Located in the very heart of the Geor- bringing together a 19th century and George, the frescoes of which were gift shop, giving visitors the chance to tunity to enjoy a glass or two of fi ne gian capital, it is also highly recom- modern style. While walking along this painted by the brilliant Georgian painter purchase some nice souvenirs and a wine. mended as a starting point for discov- avenue, a building with interesting Lado Gudiashvili in 1947. boutique MRKT.COM of Georgian Fash- We then ask Datuna how important ering Tbilisi, as, surrounded with a architecture and a huge eagle perched “First let me say that I really can spend ion Designers. it is in the contemporary busy world number of signifi cant sights, it blazes over its entrance is impossible to miss: the entire day at the Art House,” says “PUBLICA, the new American bar- for different facilities to be integrated a path into the endless and stunning this is the Georgian Museum of Fine Datuna. “In general, I come here early lounge at Art House, is a special place in the same area. history of the ancient city. Arts. The museum has a multifunc- in the morning and start my daily rou- for me, as a year ago we started a tradi- “When I was doing my studies at the tional complex called Art House which, tine working out at the in-house FIT tion called ‘PUBLICA TALKS’, where Julliard School in New York, all the #foryourfi rsttimeingeorgia aside from welcoming locals, always CLUB,” he says, highlighting the excel- we launched more than 10 evenings for venues were located close to each other, Address: L. Gudiashvili St. 18 has its doors open to international lent infrastructure of the fi tness club in music and culture enthusiasts, and gave much facilitating life there. Art House Sh. Rustaveli St. 7 travelers, too, offering them an incred- Art House, where guests can benefi t a new life to the history of this build- reminds me of those days spent in New Tel: 544 44 45 44 ible gastronomic experience and pleas- from facilities of sky-high standards ing,” says Datuna with enthusiasm. “In York, thus it has a special meaning for Art House - The Place to Meet ant surprises. and the service of professional trainers. the 19th century, it was the hotel ‘Ori- me,” Datuna tells us. “It’s a perfect place @arthouse_georgia ent’, the favorite gathering place of the most outstanding Georgian public fi g- ures, including painters, poets and musi- cians, who spent entire nights here creating the history and culture of the country.” Currently, Publica integrates different zones for reading, painting, working or even playing piano, and welcomes everyone to use them free of charge. Pub- lica also serves as an ideal venue for numerous exclusive events. PUBLICA CAFE represents a real gastronomic celebration and offers an impressive menu of mouthwatering dishes and often treats guests by broadcasting major football matches and screening outstanding works of world cinematography. Georgia is famous for its cuisine and it is no surprise when our conversation with Datuna Aladashvili moves on to focus on the Art House’s eateries. “KHARCHO is a fantastic Georgian restaurant, boasting a wide range of traditional Georgian dishes and offering a unique experience through the special touch and fusion of traditions with a sprinkle of modernity. Georgians enjoy the novelties in traditional cuisine, while the gourmet pleasures provided at Kharcho are a real discovery for foreigners,” says the interviewee, picking out his favorite dessert, the “ESMA CAKE,” which is made of Geor- gian pelamushi. “It was inspired by the prominent Georgian painter and poet Esma Oniani, who through her remark- able works left a priceless legacy to the Georgian people. Pelamushi was one her favorite sweets.”

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