Issue no: 1001 • NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... City Hall & KazTransGas Tbilisi: 82 Dead, 350 Intoxicated by CO2 in 3 Years NEWS PAGE 2 Bilateral Arrangements: A Transitional Stage to Heighten Georgia's Security? POLITICS PAGE 4 Russia’s Unlikely Withdrawal from Syria POLITICS PAGE 6 3rd Offi cial Ceremony of the Welcome to Georgia! FOCUS National Tourism Awards ON THE ISANI BUSINESS PAGE 10 TERROR ATTACK What Foreigners Find out the details of Say about Tbilisi the story inside PAGE 3 SOCIETY PAGE 11 Photo source: thepeninsulaqatar.com Sergei Malov to Perform ‘Cello Director of the Secretariat Energy Community & Spala’ on November 24 on Liberalizing Georgia’s Energy Market

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE

he editor wishes to apologize to read- ers and Mr Kopac for printing the incorrect version of this interview in Tuesday’s GEORGIA TODAY Busi- CULTURE PAGE 15 ness newspaper. Here is the correct Tversion in full. Janez Kopac is the Director of the Energy Com- munity Secretariat, an international organization which brings together the European Union and its neighbors, to create an integrated pan-European energy market. The Community has similar insti- tutions as the EU, and the EU is a member of the Energy Community. Presently, the Energy Com- munity has nine Contracting Parties: the six Balkan countries, Moldova, Ukraine and Georgia. By adopt- ing the Energy Community Treaty, the Contracting Parties made legally binding commitments to adopt core EU energy legislation, the so-called "acquis communautaire”. Continued on page 9 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 City Hall & KazTransGas Tbilisi: 82 Dead, 350 Intoxicated by CO2 in 3 Years

quences in the future,” the Deputy Mayor BY THEA MORRISON stated. Chief Engineer of KazTransGas Tbilisi, Giorgi Lepsveridze, talked about the bilisi City Hall and gas sup- social campaign and asked citizens to plier company KazTransGas take into account the recommendations Tbilisi stated that during given by gas experts. the last three years, 82 peo- He noted that only last year, 29 died and ple died and 243 were 125 was intoxicated by CO2 in Tbilisi. Tintoxicated by the Carbon Dioxide in “Unfortunately, 40% of customers do Tbilisi. not listen to our employees' instructions Deputy Mayor of Tbilisi, Irakli Bend- and continue to use improperly installed eliani, and representatives of KazTransGas gas devices,” he noted, calling on Tbilisi Tbilisi, announced that they have residents to be more careful, while Leps- launched a joint social campaign in the veridze urged citizens to call the com- capital, ‘For More Safety’. pany's hot line (2 40 40 04), or call ser- Bendeliani underlined that the vast vice number 114, when they purchase or majority of fatal incidents was observed re-install gas devices. in the winter period. He highlighted that the gas company He explained that in order to eliminate employees work 24/7 and can, on request, intoxication cases, the representatives check any device anywhere in the capi- of KazTransGas plan to visit every fam- tal. ily in the capital and check the installed “Unfortunately, the majority of fatal gas devices. incidents occur in rented fl ats. We call “The employees of KazTransGas will on the population to call us and have also give recommendations to our pop- their devices inspected as soon as they ulation, in order to avoid fatal conse- rent or buy a fl at,” the engineer stated. Economy Ministry: Business House Construction Set for Launch the construction company be absolutely BY THEA MORRISON transparent,” Kumsishvili said, adding that, once operational, business people and legal entities can visit the new Busi- eorgia’s Ministry of Econ- ness House or go online and access the omy and Sustainable Devel- services via a new electronic platform. opment reports that the Business House will be built in the construction works of a Ortachala district of the capital city and Business House are to be will offer the following services: State Glaunched in the near future. property management and privatization, Business House is a new model for Natural Resources Licenses, construc- effective state-business relations that tion permissions, energy projects, agri- will unite more than 600 state services culture assistance state programs, ‘Pro- needed for the business community to duce in Georgia’ project and Partnership function effectively. Fund services. Economy Minister and First Vice-Pre- Spaces inside the Business House will mier Dimitry Kumsishvili, met the rep- be divided into several areas, including resentatives of the construction sector immediate service area, general service on Tuesday at a presentation of the Busi- area and consultation service area. ness House project. The foundation for the country's fi rst The meeting discussed the planned Business House was laid in September, tender terms for construction and instal- 2016. lation works of Tbilisi Business House. It is expected that around 250 people The information was presented by the will be employed at the new Business project company Dmark and Bureau House, which will have the capacity to Veritas Georgia. provide more than 600 services to “It is vital that the selection process of approximately 1,200 customers daily. GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 NEWS 3 Isani Counter-Terrorism Unit Operation: Gunfi re & Grenades

BY THE GEORGIA TODAY TEAM

bilisi was on high alert on Wednesday as a special operation commenced at 4am on Monk Gabriel Street in the Isani district ofT Georgia’s capital city, where gunshots had fi rst been heard during the night. The special operation was carried out by the Counter-Terrorism Unit of the Georgian State Security Service, lead- ing to the inhabitants of two apartment buildings being evacuated and a public school being closed. The Counter-Terrorism Unit tried to negotiate with the suspects, encourag- ing them to surrender, but they refused, opening gunfi re and throwing hand grenades. Photos by: Lukas Aubin for Georgia Today The situation fi nally drew to a close operation, later dying in hospital from provide them with temporary housing. crime, is ongoing within the interna- “Of course, questions can be asked, on Wednesday evening, with the Secu- a series of injuries. He has yet to be The Mayor also offered his condolences tional anti-terrorism cooperation and there are institutional formats in rity Service announcing at 7PM that named. to the family of the counter-terrorism framework. which these questions can be answered, one member of the terrorist group had A further two offi cers were wounded unit offi cer who died. “The safety of Prime Minister of Georgia, Giorgi but we can’t go into too much detail of been arrested and three killed. They and taken to hospital. Two members of our citizens is paramount,” he added. Kvirikashvili; Head of the Georgian State these highly sensitive operations,” he also claim that the suspects were not the Special Task Unit of the Ministry Aslan Jabraelov, believed to be one of Security Service (SSS), Vakhtang Gome- noted. citizens of Georgia, and are allegedly of Internal Affairs of Georgia were also the owners of the apartment in ques- lauri; Interior Minister, Giorgi Gakharia; Kvirikashvili added that it is safe for members of a known terrorist organi- wounded. tion, was interrogated by police. He and Deputy Health Minister, Zaza Sopro- people to go about their everyday busi- zation, having been under surveillance Mayor of Tbilisi, Kakha Kaladze, has claimed he rented out his apartment a madze, visited the offi cers who were ness in the city. for some time as part of an ongoing assured residents of the evacuated apart- month ago at the request of his brother- wounded during the 22-hour anti-ter- “Our main priority was the safety of international investigation. ment buildings that any damage caused in-law, without knowing who the new rorism operation at the referral hospi- our citizens,” The Prime Minister said The mission was not without casual- will be fully compensated for. He also inhabitants were. tal in Isani on Wednesday evening. of the operation, thanking the police ties on the Georgian side, with a 41-year- said that the families who were evacu- Full identifi cation of the terrorist The PM called on citizens to refrain offi cers and the counter-terrorism unit old member of the Counter Terrorism ated will be offered shelter, with the group members, and investigation of from making any speculations at this for their work and wishing a speedy Unit, who was wounded early in the Isani municipality to register them and their possible links with international stage of the investigation. recovery to the wounded offi cers. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 Bilateral Arrangements: A Transitional Stage to Heighten Georgia's Security?

OP-ED BY VICTOR KIPIANI

hilst the security architecture of the Cold War largely remains in place, some noticeable changes are undermining its ostensibly formidable character, Wand these should not be overlooked. This trend is of paramount importance, and Tbilisi must keep a close watch on events in order to avoid being side- lined or ‘lost in translation’ when designing a national security agenda and communicating the latter to Georgia’s strategic partners. Among the developments that need to be care- fully monitored are a number of bilateral defense agreements of various shape and size which may complement and underpin the Alliance's collective defense system. These notably include attempts to further boost the US pivot to East Asia by out- lining new prospects for partnership with Japan and increasing military co-operation with South Korea; but whilst creating an effective counterbal- ance to the North Korean threat by may be a lead- ing factor of this new confi guration, creating new regional security alliances capable of deterring China’s revisionist policies calls for a long-term strategy. In addition to the numerous geographical factors administration; America’s growing defensive stance author has been arguing for some time that Tbilisi the administration of Japan would be dangerous infl uencing efforts to redesign both global and sub- in Poland and Warsaw’s willingness to become a deserves to be granted a ‘short cut’ to NATO inte- to its own peace and safety’. In turn, America’s regional security models, several other equally new ‘center of gravity’ for efforts to counter Rus- gration, and that the country could be waved through mutual defense treaties with South Korea and the challenging processes both within NATO and sian revisionist pressure between the Baltic and the Alliance’s often overly orthodox (and occasion- Philippines use almost identical language (with between its members are adding to Georgia’s head- the Black Sea; and the de facto operations of the ally obsolete) membership criteria (q.v. ‘Georgia's some caveats for disputed territories claimed by aches. Readers will no doubt already be quite ‘Northern Group’, an alliance of 12 northern Euro- Foreign-Policy "Great Game": a Multifaceted Coin’ the latter), and are also considered as pillars of familiar with the various centrifugal movements pean nations keen to reinforce their regional secu- or ‘Georgia's NATO Membership: A Defi nitive America’s strategic rebalancing in Asia. calling for more national sovereignty in various rity and defense. And as if that was not enough, Decision Has (Yet) to Come’, both published in Overall, the key factor which unites this network NATO (and EU) member states, which therefore NATO’s western and eastern halves continue to GEORGIA TODAY), we should all be aware of of asymmetric alliances is a ‘common danger’ which need not be discussed here. More alarming, how- argue over the desirability of further eastwards current contradictions and discord, and recognize does not necessarily trigger an armed response, ever, are the issues that are gradually driving wedges expansion to new states sharing borders with Rus- the fact that bilateral security arrangements can and each alliance is predominantly premised upon between the Alliance’s 29 members, and that have sia. complement the country’s chosen strategy of NATO a political agreement rather than a strict legal obli- led to a growing number of regional clubs and But all this is just the tip of iceberg when consid- integration. gation. That said, these agreements undeniably intergovernmental agreements. Some relatively ering the question of Georgia progressing from ad serve as a solid deterrent to any aggressive asser- recent examples of this include Macron's France hoc, project-based forms of co-operation with the SOME (HELPFUL) PARALLELS tions of revisionist powers. seeking greater rapprochement with Trump's Alliance to more systematic ones. Although the At fi rst glance, the case of Israel seems rather obvi- ous. The 2012 US-Israel Enhanced Security Co- WHAT THIS ALL MEANS FOR GEORGIA operation Act, after referring to the ‘special bond’ Military considerations are the key ingredient of which links the two nations, deepens security and any asymmetric bilateral treaty alliance, but they Energy in the Taste: A New defense ties through a variety of actions including are by no means the only one. Georgia is in many the expansion of ‘joint military exercises’, the pro- ways the West’s key partner in the region, but its vision of ‘defense articles and defense services’, status needs to be upgraded to it formally becom- Wine from Georgian Mountains the expansion of ‘already-close intelligence co- ing a major defense partner. The co-operation operation’, etc. More importantly, and particularly framework should go beyond the supply of defense considering the fact that Israel is not a member of articles, and should instead focus heavily upon NATO, the Act also calls for ‘an expanded role for issues of organization structure, planning and per- Israel within [the Alliance], including an enhanced sonnel. Having been granted a ‘Substantial Package’ presence at NATO headquarters and exercises’. In by NATO, Georgia is already half-way to a higher addition, the agreement recommends that addi- level of partnership (and therefore status). Putting tional surplus United States Department of Defense aside any shyness or hesitation, the synergy has to items and services be transferred to Israel under be full and unreserved, and history remembers certain conditions. Yet although the 2012 US-Israel quite a few successful attempts to reform foreign Act does provide some helpful tips and guidelines, armed forces (the American program to transform and therefore may at fi rst seem to be a good exam- Greece’s military after World War II being a par- ple, it is not really relevant to Georgia (contrary to ticularly good example). But one must also remem- widespread public belief). Beyond the ‘special ber that in Georgia’s case, the story is not merely bond’, the Act rests upon Israel’s contributions to about weapons. military innovation (which have saved the lives of Tbilisi’s loftier goal is to ensure a solid and reli- American soldiers and have yielded advanced able system for the country’s defense, particularly military technologies), its fi rst-hand experience of as Georgia surpassed all its neighbours long ago modern combat, and the value of the satellite in terms of democracy building, accountability, imagery and other intelligence it can share. governance, the sustainability of public services, An example which is perhaps closer to the Geor- etc. The country is also a reference among a num- gian scenario of seeking to ‘upgrade’ the country’s ber of Eastern European nations in terms of trans- status to that of a strategic defense partner is the parency, and efforts to support its welfare and San Francisco System. Named after the city in which encourage further success would obviously send the United States and Japan signed two treaties in a powerful signal to other, perhaps less exemplary, 1951 setting out the terms according to which Japan’s countries. independence would be restored, it grew to become Making any choice clearly requires a careful cal- known as the ‘hub and spokes’ system. In essence, culation of pros and cons. Bilateral agreements, on the United States were the hub, and the spokes the other hand, which involve two states enjoying were a number of bilateral defense treaties with different levels of status and power, are about achiev- various Far Eastern countries, notably Taiwan, ing a balance. Consequently, they can be likened to Taste the South Korea and Japan. The case of Taiwan, by the a contract whereby a major power guarantees and way, is unique, since the US do not entertain dip- supports a smaller country’s security in case of lomatic relations with the island. Instead, a Taiwan military confl ict and, in return, infl uences its foreign best wine! Relations Act states that in case of ‘any threat to policy. For Georgia, however, this latter disadvantage the security or the social or economic system of will always largely be watered down by the strong the people of Taiwan’ and ‘any danger to the inter- alignment of its foreign policy agenda with those of TEL: 514 12 22 99, 597 122 277 ests of the United States arising therefrom’, the its partners. And besides, the country needs a real Facebook: @georgianmountainswinecompany American President and Congress shall ‘determine and effective response to mitigate the subversion E-mail: [email protected] the appropriate action in response to any such and military threats which seek to punish Tbilisi for danger’ (not to mention sales of advanced military its unwavering commitment to the free world (unique equipment). Yet whilst the Taiwanese example is in the region, alas). ‘Thinking fast’ but not ‘thinking Consumers can also relatively vague in terms of defi ning a legal obliga- slowly’, with creativity and boldness present, is the fi nd our ‘RN’ wines at tion to defend, the US-Japan Security Treaty explic- pre-requisite for both Georgia and the free world itly states that ‘each Party recognizes that an armed goal of making this country safer while simultane- Alcorium stores attack against either Party in the territories under ously improving Western agendas.

GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 You Can’t Have Your Cake & Russia’s Unlikely Eat It, Too Withdrawal neck for the lost nation, and a mended love affair OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE between Russia and Georgia could very well be an effective painkiller. Conversely, the western-direc- tion fans maintain that a recovered Russian-Geor- istorically speaking, there have been gian embrace is conducive to an inevitable fi asco tons of fi ts and starts, pros and cons for the Georgian nation, which might even mean from Syria and ups and downs in Russian-Geor- that Georgia will plunge into poverty and misery gian relationships, but the geopoliti- forever as a result. cal deadend that the two nations are Two controversial positions, within which the sufferingH right now is the worst of all the previously Russophiles are desperately trying to break the ice endured incisive bygones. Russia and Georgia are and endear themselves into Russian decision-mak- today nowhere in their state-to-state relationships, ing circles to earn certain dividends and favors. At within which diplomatic methodology is no longer least, this is what the wicked tongues are saying and functional, economic exchange is moribund, polit- perpetuating. One cannot persist with the idea that ical efforts are ineffective, cultural ties are lackadai- the Russophiles are not doing anything useful at all, sical, grassroots interaction is lukewarm and military as the lovers of the West try to purport, but the action is irrelevant. The past was a little better: results of the Russophile efforts are nothing but something, if not everything, worked somehow and peanuts as yet. had a certain effect. Currently, the name of the situ- One of the reasons for the paucity of the outcome ation is frustration, impotence and hopelessness. should be the fact that those Russia-oriented groups The future is blurred. And there is not even an iota and politicians are egregiously disparate. What if of exaggeration in all this. somebody put them and their endeavor together as So, what to do? Nothing! Just watch and wait, and one monolithic political power and went on the do not upset the hardly moving remaining Russian- offensive together instead of making separate ways Georgian applecart, as decrepit as it is at this moment to the hearts and minds of the reigning Russian in time. This is one position. There is another out political and administrative elite? Well, to do this, there: go and talk to Russia and make them do some you need to be a little away from the Georgian positive thinking in favor of the wounded and defeated national character which has its solid say in politics: Georgia which does not seem to be very interesting we are separation-prone more than consolidation- to Russia right now. The impression is that, for Rus- oriented, and this must be the gist of every evil that sia, Georgia has lost the charm it once enjoyed. The we have been stumbling over in the last thirty years, mainstream Russian political thought has it that not to say the full history of our nation! The West- Mother Russia needs no more panhandling satellites lovers in Georgia have every chance to take it easy and dependents on her dilapidated bandwagon. and relax because the western vector of prospective Notwithstanding this Russian attitude, there are development is part of the political offi cialdom of some political groups and personalities in Georgia, the country. Russia-lovers are in a more diffi cult some of them offi cially recognized and some not, stance for two reasons: the fi rst is that the Russians Photo source: pix.avaxnews.com who are tearfully squeezing their rugged path are not wealthy enough potential partners and the through the piles of the rotting debris of Russian- second must be the broken-down Russian-Georgian Russia to leave the Syrian battlefi eld now. For OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI Georgian fumbled-up affairs. There are many of relations that have come to this tragic political cul- example, Moscow's relations with important Syr- them and they have a good number of supporters de-sac. Understandably, this is very diffi cult to over- ian rebel backers such as Turkey and the Gulf in the country, too. The proponents of the unde- come. The lightest and brightest Georgian dream Cooperation Council have been shaken since Rus- layed reinstatement of the Russian-Georgian mar- would be that we have the friendship, benevolence he Russian entrance in the Syrian sia’s intervention in 2015. From the Russia point riage, as unequal as it has always been, think that and cooperation of both Russia and the West, but war has certainly increased the rep- of view, re-establishing former contacts with these Georgia’s western orientation is a huge pain in the can we have our cake and still eat it? utation of the Russian military, allowed Middle East countries will be a profi table foreign valuable training, and enhanced Mos- policy move for the country’s economy. Relations cow’s political clout in the confl ict with Turkey are developing fast and many believe itselfT and the Middle East overall. Still, even though that this might come at the cost of Russia leaving Get More for Less with "Travel Co." Bashar al-Assad’s regime managed to survive and its positions in Syria. even become stronger, Moscow is looking at ways Beyond that, there is also a purely psychological Get to Know Georgia with "Travel Co." to get out of the Syrian war. Yet, this will be very reason: Russian support for the Syrian govern- diffi cult to see through as Russia would face con- ment has come at a price as the rate of Russian siderable geopolitical constrains in doing so. military casualties has steadily risen over the past Despite earlier reports from 2016 of Russia with- several months, resulting from greater Russian drawing its forces from Syria, Moscow is now military involvement in the Syrian battlefi eld. openly hinting at closing off its operation in the Related to that is the Russian fear that Moscow Syrian battlefi eld. One of the latest signs that the might be stuck in Syria for a long time, increasing Kremlin is exploring possible exit strategies came the potential for more casualties. The Russians during a recent visit by the Syrian president Bashar are still haunted by Soviet misfortune in Afghan- al-Assad, to Sochi, Russia, where he met Putin istan in the 1980s and believe that the time is now and the latter expressed his satisfaction with the ripe for withdrawal as Moscow amid its various military operation in Syria. Putin also said that Middle East successes. the war is nearing an end. But there are serious constrains on Russia. Mos- In October, Russian media outlets announced cow needs a negotiated political resolution to the that the future of the Russian involvement in Syria confl ict where Moscow’s position would be strong was discussed at the meeting in Tel Aviv between enough to safeguard its military and political Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and his infl uence. There is also a real possibility that Israeli counterpart, Avigdor Lieberman. The Rus- potential Russian withdrawal would look like what sia minister said that the Russian operation in happened in 2016 when President Putin ordered Syria is nearing its completion. Moreover, the the immediate pullout of the bulk of his forces Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov from Syria after 5½ months of airstrikes. However, also noted that Russian military successes in Syria it is also remembered that back then this was only and described them as “the beginning of the end” used by the Russians to regroup their forces in of the war in Syria. Syria to further continue their operations along- Yet another sign came on November 22, when side the Syrian loyalists and Iranian allies on the the Russian, Iranian and Turkish presidents met ground. and released a joint statement on the future of To look at the potential Russian withdrawal from Syria. The leaders agreed to organize a “congress” the bigger strategic view, one should remember involving the Syrian government and Syrian oppo- that the Russians also entered the war in Syria sition forces. with the hope that by gaining momentum on the Indeed, since Russia's intervention in Syria, Syrian battlefi eld, the West would become more Moscow has succeeded in many ways to stabilize amenable to Russian interests in other confl icts the Syrian battlefi eld by providing the loyalist around the globe. forces with concrete military support for future One such confl icts is Ukraine. The Kremlin’s operations. For one, Russia's involvement restored intentions appear clear: political leverage in Syria the military advantage to Syrian troops. Further- would infl uence the West’s negotiating position more, its entry into the confl ict not only secured in Ukraine, which remains the most crucial theater the existing Russian military infrastructure on the for Russia’s position in the Eurasian landmass. Mediterranean, but also allowed it to expand. However, so far, the West has successfully blocked Travel Agency Services: Moreover, the military successes increased Mos- these Russian initiatives. 9 Kote Apkhazi, Tbilisi, Georgia cow's geopolitical weight, making the country ++995 557 59 14 08 (whatsapp, viber) one of the major players in the Syrian confl ict, Emil Avdaliani teaches history and international relations • Individual and Group Tours Around +995 593 400 601 (whatsapp, viber) and, through its participation in the war, it also at Tbilisi State University and Ilia State University. He has Georgia www.travelco.ge weakened any serious potential for fi ghters in worked for various international consulting companies • MICE Tours [email protected] [email protected] Syria and Iraq to increase their operations across and currently publishes articles focused on military and • Accommodation FB: TravelCoGeorgia most of the post-Soviet space and in Russia itself. political developments across the former Soviet space • Car rental services Inst: travelcogeorgia There do exist additional strategic reasons for and the Middle East.

GEORGIA TODAY 8 POLITICS NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 Giragosian: Russia is taking Armenia for granted

Crimea and Moscow’s aggressive actions INTERVIEW BY MALGOSIA to support a war in Ukraine have been KRAKOWSKA fairly signifi cant. But the most dynamic factor for Arme- nia has not been Ukraine, but rather, rmenia’s foreign policy is Russia’s policy to arm Azerbaijan. rife with security dimen- Moreover, there is a deepening crisis sions. On the one hand, it in Armenian-Russian relations, driven hosts a Russian military by various factors, but most notably due base, yet on the other it to Armenian resentment over Russian Ahas close relations with NATO. We met arms sales to Azerbaijan and frustration with Richard Giragosian, the Founding over the inadequacy of faith in Russian Director of the Regional Studies Center security promises after the April 2016 (RSC), an independent “think tank” “four-day war” over Nagorno-Karabakh. located in Yerevan, Armenia, Senior The crisis is also deepened by the degree Expert at Yerevan State University’s of arrogance and asymmetry with which Center for European Studies (CES) and Russia “takes Armenia for granted”. a contributing analyst for al Jazeera and Oxford Analytica, a UK-based global HOW DOES ARMENIA’S analysis and advisory fi rm. MEMBERSHIP IN THE EEU, AND THE EASTERN WHAT GUIDES ARMENIA’S PARTNERSHIP DEFINE THE RATHER UNIQUE NATURE OF THE COUNTRY’S SECURITY STRATEGY? NATIONAL SECURITY? For Armenia, the guiding principle for In terms of overall national security, Photo source: eurocaucasusnews defense, military security, economic Armenia is seeking to garner greater development and foreign policy is strategic alternatives. This is seen fi rst little genuine appeal or attraction for SPEAKING OF OPPORTUNITIES, THE NEWLY LAUNCHED defi ned by a “small state” strategy in the country’s move to overcome the the post-Soviet countries. Many, if not WOULD YOU CONSIDER BAKU-TBILISI-KARS (BTK) designed to seek “balance” between the setback from the forced sacrifi ce of its all, these countries are merely seeking CHINA’S NEW SILK ROAD A RAILWAY BYPASSED competing interests of much greater Association Agreement with the EU to manage the threat of a resurgent Rus- STROKE OF GEOPOLITICAL RUSSIA AND ARMENIA. regional powers, such as Turkey, Russia following Russian pressure on it in 2013. sia. Even for the more authoritarian LUCK FOR YEREVAN? SOME EXPERTS BELIEVE and Iran. For Armenia, this quest for In March, Armenia was able to regain states, appeasing Moscow is about For Armenia, as the smallest country THAT IT MAY INTENSIFY balance also involves efforts to maxi- European confi dence and, in a rare “sec- regime survival. in the region, the strategic opening of ARMENIA’S ISOLATION. DO mize strategic options, as evident in the ond chance,” was able to “initial” a new the Belt Road Initiative offers an YOU THINK THAT THOSE country’s approach to managing the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and WHAT VALUES DRIVE important reversal of decades of exclu- FEARS ARE MERITED? inherent contradiction of maintaining Enhanced Partnership Agreement THE FORMATION OF sion and reaffi rms the imperative for China seeks to recapture the dynamism a close relationship with Russia while (CEPA). This new EU-Armenia CEPA RUSSIAN FOREIGN POLICY overcoming the country’s pronounced and repeat the display of the globalized deepening ties to the West. presents a fresh start for the deepening TOWARDS ARMENIA? geopolitical and geo-economic land- benefi ts from an Asia-centered trade Obviously, the danger for Armenia of relations between the two parties. In the battle of ideas and ideals, Russia locked status. And yes, it is a “stroke network. Such a revitalized “Silk Road” stems from the now apparent over- Despite a diffi cult and complicated con- offers little in terms of values. The Rus- of luck” in terms of a rare case where also offers a chance of “connectivity” dependence on Russia, whereby, after text, both the EU and Armenia have sian position is one of threat and coer- Armenia’s geography is less a prison for formerly remote and isolated regions, several years of a steady mortgaging of demonstrated the necessary political cion. This stands in stark contrast to and more a promise for economic and an opportunity for connectivity over Armenian national interest, involving will to negotiate a new compromise Western or European ideals of attrac- engagement. conflict and trade integration over the Russian acquisition of sectors of the agreement that takes into account Arme- tion or seduction, based on values of Although the pace of closer Armenian- destruction, essential for regions like economy, a reliance on Russian gas nia’s commitments and limitations as a political pluralism and opportunities China relations has accelerated in recent the South Caucasus. imports, and more structurally, Arme- member of the Eurasian Economic Union. for economic prosperity. years, Chinese interest and engagement For the three countries of the South Cau- nia’s position as Russia’s foothold in the Against this backdrop, it is also clear in Armenia is not necessarily a new or casus, the sheer scale and scope of this South Caucasus, have combined to upset DESPITE THE HUGE that Russia’s position stems from one novel development. For example, China initiative reinforces a broader strategic that delicate balance. POPULARITY OF PRO- of weakness, not strength, is driven by has provided economic aid to Armenia vision that has been demonstrably lacking. EUROPEAN BLOCK insecurity not confi dence, and is rapidly every year since 1999, and in terms of And for each of the three states, there are AFTER THE 2014 RUSSIAN “TSARUKIAN”, RUSSIAN exhibiting signs of dangerous over- bilateral trade, Armenia has also unique opportunities which only foster a INVASION OF UKRAINE, FUNDED RULING extension. These fundamental weak- embarked on a low-profi le effort to turn convergence of mutual interests over the RUSSIA HAS DONE QUITE POLITICAL PARTIES AND nesses of Russia’s much heralded, but to China. more traditional confl ict that has impeded WELL LOSING FRIENDS RATHER INVESTMENTS DOMINATE often exaggerated soft power are most This has also been surprisingly suc- all efforts at restoring regional trade rein- THAN MAKING THEM. AS THE ARMENIAN ECONOMY. evident in Armenia. cessful, as China recently emerged as vigorating economic cooperation. A RESULT OF SANCTIONS, ARE YEREVAN’S EUROPEAN For Russia’s approach toward Arme- Armenia’s second-largest trading part- Paradoxically, the membership in the THE KREMLIN’S IMPERIAL ASPIRATIONS UNDER THE nia, there has been a heavy reliance on ner, as bilateral trade increased to some Russian-dominated EEU may offer an AMBITIONS HAVE BEEN KREMLIN’S THUMB? instruments of hard power, exploiting $480 million in 2015 according to offi cial advantage. More specifi cally, as an EEU HUMBLED. WATH IS RUSSIA Unlike many of the former Soviet states, Armenian military insecurity over the Armenian statistics. But the most impor- member state, Armenia can offer a degree UP TO WITH ARMENIA? where Russia’s reliance on instruments unresolved Nagorno-Karabakh confl ict tant element of Armenia’s strategic of dual access, for the BRI to attract Armenia is the host of the only Russian of “soft power” have triggered serious with Azerbaijan and manipulating the “pivot to China” is not limited to trade. interest from other EEU members using base in the region, a member of the Col- concern, in the case of Armenia, the country’s economic insecurity. The The emergence of a more robust mili- Armenia as a platform, and also as a lective Security Treaty Organization limits of Russian power are evident. You Karabakh confl ict remains the simplest tary and security relationship with China mechanism for the BRO to widen its (CSTO) and, most recently, of the Eur- can say that Russian soft power in Arme- instrument for leverage over both Arme- stood out as an equally signifi cant reach by utilizing Armenia as a bridge asian Economic Union (EEU). nia is neither soft, nor very powerful. nia and Azerbaijan, with Armenia as a achievement for Armenia. More spe- into much larger markets and to link to Although Armenia has sought to avoid I think that the main point to be made willing recipient of Russian security cifi cally, despite its security partnership the vaster Russian transport networks. being caught in the broader confronta- is that, from a broader perspective, the promises and cheaper weapons, and with Russia, Armenia is seeking an tion between Russia and the West, the effective application of Russian soft Moscow now as the number one arms alternative to an over-reliance on Rus- Malgosia Krakowska is a Polish journalist impact from the Russian annexation of power is inherently limited. There is provider for Azerbaijan. sia. focusing on international security issues

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 BUSINESS 9 Director of the Secretariat Energy Community on Liberalizing Georgia’s Energy Market

Continued from page 1 is to bring EU energy rules into the it. If it is too high, however, the produc- TREATY BRING GEORGIA? if Georgia’s electricity production wider European neighborhood, to cre- ers make an excessive profi t and additional The new legislation, soon to be adopted exceeded its consumption, companies GEORGIA TODAY spoke to Janez ate an internal energy market that is suppliers will enter the market. Of course, in Georgia as a result of its signature of could stop producing energy, or sell it Kopac on his recent visit to Tbilisi, where transparent, competitive, environmen- under EU energy market rules, every the Accession Protocol, will increase the to neighbouring countries. Turkey is he was attending a two-day event organ- tally sustainable and secure. Unfortu- consumer has the right to choose a sup- transparency of retail markets and already voluntarily quite aligned with ized under the auspices of the EU4En- nately, Georgia cannot benefi t from all plier. The electricity network (cables, strengthen consumer protection. A lib- EU rules in the electricity sector and we ergy Governance project. these elements because it is not geo- distribution and transmission systems, eralized energy market will offer the hope that Armenia will start to apply The EU4Energy Initiative is part of the graphically connected with any EU state high voltage cables) is regulated by the best deal for consumers, which for the European, and now also Georgian, rules Eastern Partnership. In this specifi c ini- or Energy Community Contracting national energy regulator. In Georgia this fi rst time can choose the energy supplier, and standards as soon as possible. tiative, the European Union works with Party. Yet, it can signifi cantly benefi t is GNERC. The new electricity market whether it be the one offering the cheap- That said, any cooperation is better the six Eastern Partner countries (Arme- from using the same approach, which rules are designed to bring more compe- est price or the best services. Member- than no cooperation; any element of the nia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Mol- is based on many years of experience tition to the market. One such measure ship in the pan-European Energy Com- internal energy market norms and rules dova and Ukraine), as well as the fi ve in the European Union. It is not easy to is allowing third-party access to energy munity will also support the development is better than no element. For example, states of Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyr- establish a functioning electricity and infrastructure, thus allowing others to of energy infrastructure projects of Turkey is already a member of the South gyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and gas market and mistakes are easy (and use it. This is the main idea of the com- regional signifi cance. In addition, the East European Capacity Allocation Offi ce, Uzbekistan), to improve energy supply, quick) to make. The EU learnt from its petitive market: how to dismantle natural Energy Community also has a strong which means it offers cross-border elec- security and connectivity, as well as to mistakes. So, Georgia can benefi t from monopolies of transmission and distribu- sustainability dimension under which tricity capacities via tenders organized promote energy effi ciency and the use the EU’s experience and avoid making tion cables from the competitive activity Georgia will have to follow EU norms in Europe. Georgia can also start the of renewables in the region. As far as a such mistakes, and thus implement the of supplying electricity. Supply and gen- in a number of energy effi ciency, envi- process within the South East European robust legislative and regulatory frame- necessary reforms effectively. In Geor- eration are free from state intervention, ronmental and soon also climate related Capacity Allocation Offi ce. The result work is vital for the development of a gia, the energy market, electricity and and networks remain regulated. On an areas. Policies like decreasing air pollu- would be the country’s fi rst direct con- sustainable energy sector, the EU4Energy gas, which is over-regulated, is defi nitely unregulated market, the seller and buyer tion and preventing environmental dam- nection with Europe. Turkey is also an governance project, part of the EU4En- not effi cient. sign a bilateral agreement; the state, min- age, thus contributing to a healthier liv- observer to the European Network of ergy Initiative of the European Union, istry or energy regulator has nothing to ing environment, are at the heart of the Transmission System Operators for Elec- works with the six Eastern Partner coun- TO RENDER ITS ELECTRICITY do with it. The government can only Energy Community. The EU4Energy tricity (ENTSO-E), and tries to follow tries to strengthen their legislative and SUSTAINABLE, GEORGIA intervene in exceptional cases. Such inter- Governance Project, fi nanced by the all the rules of ENTSOE. I am sure that regulatory frameworks, to draft policy MUST ENSURE THE FULL vention is called “public service obliga- European Union, helps Georgia and the Georgia will become a member and not recommendations, and to help identify TRANSPARENCY OF ITS tion” and must be very limited in time Energy Community to achieve these an observer of ENTSO-E in the near investment opportunities in key strate- ELECTRICITY MARKET, WHILE and well-justifi ed. The government defi nes objectives. future. This will create two Transmis- gic energy infrastructure projects. GRADUALLY MOVING who is to be deemed as a ‘socially vulner- sion System Operators in the region that “This international organization is the AWAY FROM PRICE able’ customer, which is someone who HOW CAN GEORGIA must apply common rules, which is vital waiting room for EU membership. We REGULATION. WHAT KIND cannot afford to be exposed to the free COOPERATE WITH ITS for cross-border cooperation. This will were bigger in the past (Romania, Bul- OF RESPONSIBILITIES IS market and thus receives support from NEIGHBOURS IN THE bring benefi ts to both sides. It will always garia and Croatia were also Contracting GEORGIA TAKING ON? the state budget. Such a system must be ENERGY FIELD UNDER THE be a win-win situation. This (Georgia Parties), but after they became EU In general, an electricity market should transparent. NEW FRAMEWORK? becoming an ENTSO-E member) would members, they seized to be individual be liberalized, which means that every The EU is surrounded by countries who be a very responsible decision. I am Parties of the Energy Community, producer sells electricity at the market WHAT BENEFITS DOES SIGNING respect the same rules. Georgia is sur- optimistic about the future of energy because the EU is an integrated unit. price, because if the market price is not THE ACCESSION PROTOCOL rounded by countries that do not need reforms in Georgia, which will follow The main purpose of the organization high enough, the producer will not sell TO THE ENERGY COMMUNITY to respect such rules. This means that the European pathway. GEORGIA TODAY 10 BUSINESS NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 US Promises to Ensure Poland's Security from Russia for $9 billion

ment deployed a number of Iskander BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE tactical missile systems on the territory of Kaliningrad, the Russian exclave, along the border with Poland and Lithuania, he US is to sell Patriot anti- which aroused the vigilance of the East- missile systems to NATO ern European neighbor. ally Poland, a transaction The Patriot system is a mobile ground- which, the State Depart- based system that provides protection ment argues, is carried out against attacking missiles. Its launchers Tin the name of a "safer Europe". Congress can be placed on trucks, and guided mis- is allowing 15 days for objections to be siles can be launched from aircraft in raised, which, the German edition of Die order to destroy the target mid-air. Zeit reported on November 21, given the The deal on the purchase of military close defense cooperation with Poland, equipment between the US and Poland is extremely unlikely. involves the acquisition of four radars, Speaking about concluding the deal with four control stations, 16 launchers and Poland, the State Department stressed: 208 PAC-3 rockets, as well as related "Security in Europe, which can withstand additional equipment plus training. The air and missile threats, as well as other cost of delivery of nine Patriot batteries forms of aggression, is a guarantee of peace is said to be up to $9 billion. According and stability not only in NATO, but also to preliminary estimates, the deal should on the European continent as a whole." bring US defense companies Raytheon, The terms of the deal were agreed dur- Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grum- ing the offi cial visit of President Donald man up to $ 10.5 billion. Trump to Warsaw in July this year. It is Earlier, the US supplied the advanced assumed that Patriot will become part Patriot PAC-3 anti-missile systems to of the Polish defense system in case of Japan, another ally. Now the complexes possible aggression from Russia. The are on the air base of Yokota with the Polish leadership is motivated by the aim of striking in case of a threat from fact that last year, the Russian govern- North Korea. Georgia’s Kumsishvili: 3rd Offi cial Ceremony of Tourism & Export up the Welcome to Georgia! by 28% National Tourism Awards

Kumsishvili, talking on the sidelines BY THEA MORRISON of the IMF Annual Meetings, said that to achieve such robust growth, the gov- ernment had worked out a Four-Point irst Vice-Premier and Minis- Reform Plan which combines four nec- ter of Economy Dimitry Kum- essary strategic directions: economic sishvili told International reforms: open governance, infrastructure Monetary Fund (IMF) that investment, and reforms in education. tourism and Georgia's exports “In the fi rst two quarters [of 2017], the Fhave increased by 28% compared to last private sector created an additional 5% and, within this partnership, two Special monitored all the processes, calculated ADVERTORIAL year. of new jobs,” he added. Nominations were created: “FASTEST the results and, based on the points “Tourism is booming, generating 28% The IMF states the Georgian economy GROWING COMPANY OF THE YEAR awarded to each Nominee, determined more revenues than last year. Exports has performed well in recent years, post- IN THE SME SEGMENT AWARD” and the fi nalists and the winners in each have grown by 28% and remittances ing a 4.7% growth rate for the fi rst eight n November 22, the Wel- “THE BEST WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR nomination. transfers by 22%,” the Minister stated. months of 2017. come to Georgia! National IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY AWARD”. The Offi cial Awarding Ceremony is a Tourism Awards Project, Bank of Georgia is preparing special closed event and will host more than together with the Offi cial prizes for the winners of these two 650 guests: all nominees and project JSC Georgian Railway Sponsor JSC Bank of Geor- nominations, to be announced at the partners, the government sector, private Ogia, held a Press conference at the head Offi cial Ceremony itself. business, and international and local offi ce of the Bank. 270 different companies representing media. Appoint New Director The press conference was attended by the tourism and hospitality market from The main mission of the Welcome to Co-Founder/CEO of the Welcome to Geor- all over Georgia, including hotels, travel Georgia! National Tourism Awards is to he JSC Georgian Railway gia! National Tourism Awards, Maryna agencies, festivals and events, restau- encourage the tourism and hospitality Supervisory Board have Chayka; Head of MSME Banking Depart- rants, cafes, wineries, and travel photog- industry in Georgia and to promote appointed Davit Peradze ment in Bank of Georgia, Zurab Masur- raphers are hold the status of Nominees awareness of the high-achieving tourism as the new Director of the ashvili; Head of the Georgian National of the Welcome to Georgia! National business and brands that create a posi- company. Davit Peradze Tourism Administration, Giorgi Chogo- Tourism Awards 2017. tive image of the country worldwide. Twas the Director of Mtkvari HPP Ltd vadze; Deputy Head of the Economic Each nominee was assessed in accord- For the third year already, the Georgian in the Co-Investment Fund of Georgia. Development Department at Tbilisi City ance with internationally recognized National Tourism Administration of the He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the Hall, Alexandre Togonidze; Partner of methodology by the Professional Jury Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Faculty of Mechanics, Mathematics, BDO Georgia, Maiko Khachidze and hon- Board, which consists of experts of inter- Developments of Georgia is Co-organizer Finance and Banking of the Ivane Javakh- orary Jury Member, Irakli Lekvinadze. national and local travel, culture and of the Award Project. Tbilisi City Hall ishvili Tbilisi State University, and has On December 6th, the Third Offi cial hospitality markets, who were separated is Offi cial Supporter; Alliance Group is a Master of Science in Civil Engineer- Ceremony of the Welcome to Georgia! according to categories depending on the General Sponsor of the Award Pro- ing and Architecture from Kharkiv National Tourism Awards will be held their main professional activity. As a ject. National University in Ukraine. Peradze at the Rustaveli Theater, where the 20 novelty, organizers implemented Round “We see this project as globally impor- has worked in various positions at best companies will be named among Table meetings for the Jury Board to tant,” Maryna Chayka said. “The hospi- Georgian Railway, between the years the different nominations. analyze and discuss all processes. To tality sector needs such a project that of 2004-2007 under the Booz Allen Bank of Georgia is the Offi cial Sponsor guarantee fairness and transparency, will motivate market leaders and help Hamilton / USAID project. of the Award Project for the second year independent auditor “BDO Georgia” Georgia develop as a tourist destination”. GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 SOCIETY 11 What Foreigners Say about Tbilisi

much enjoy the other side of the river ities that don’t break the bank. Lots of (away from Rustaveli, Saburtalo and interesting places, good food, good wine, Vake), where the city looks much more good art and music, and lovely people. original. Most of the time I feel happy, Anything I don’t like? Of course! Even but I’ve been depressed here. Tbilisi is the most wonderful places have a nega- a very stressful city, especially when it tive or two. I don’t like the trash in the comes to traffi c, commuting and reck- streets. I don’t like the number of smok- less behavior in the streets. ers blowing their smoke into my face. I like Georgian food very much. It’s But I wouldn’t trade living here for any- very rich and tasty, but I can’t eat it every thing; the positives outweigh the nega- day. My all-time favorite Georgian dish tives. is Khachapuri Ajaruli. It’s very heavy, I was in Georgia when corruption was but never disappoints. high, when it took 13 hours to drive from The variety of bars, pubs and restau- Tbilisi to Batumi because you were rants has been blossoming in the last stopped every 15 minutes or so to pay a couple of years, which refl ects one aspect bribe. Saakashvili changed all that, but of positive city development. Tbilisi has there is much that still needs to be done. a huge variety of different pubs and bars, The government should pay attention so you can fi nd something special for to pollution and parking problems in the every taste. city, not by creating more parking in the I believe [Georgian wine] is the best center, but introducing park-and-ride in the world. I don’t like European wines from outside the city. They could learn anymore.” a lot from other large cities.” Shahnoza Muminova is a business Kenneth Monette from New York owner from Uzbekistan, who has been retired from the US Navy and now teaches back and forth since 2008. English. He has lived here for just over “Sometimes, I feel like I want to leave seven years. and never come back because everything “Tbilisi is very safe; I’ve never been annoys me so much, but when I go, I hassled. I’m an easygoing person, so I start missing it within 2-3 months. Now feel relaxed and thoroughly enjoy just I know that, wherever I am, I need to about everything in the city. I’m always come back regularly. in a good mood here, especially in Old cheap, and effi cient. straight to the belly/hips! My favorites I love the food here (except Khachapuri… Tbilisi! BY TOM DAY Georgians are unlike any people I’ve are Khinkali and chips or Chakapuli (beef but please don’t tell the Georgians!), I really like Khinkali, Mtsvadi, Lobiani ever met; they are unique. Generally, and tarragon stew- I make my own var- however, I think they could have a bit and Khachapuri (only when it’s fresh, they are extremely friendly and welcom- iant at home). more seafood. It’s a pity because they though). My favorite Georgian meal is he number of foreign citi- ing, especially when you’re their guest. I love Machakhela restaurant (a chain), have a sea, but no seafood culture. My Khinkali: cheap, fi lling, delicious and zens coming to Georgia I've learned that in Georgian culture, a the Okrokhana branch- you can sit in favorite restaurants are Taverna Mona- goes well with beer. It’s great to have grew by an impressive 26% guest is considered a "gift from God" the wooded garden and enjoy the fresh dire, Taghlaura and Shemoikhede genats- with a small group of friends and enjoy last year and that number and should be treated accordingly. Geor- air and views across the hills to the vale great conversation while eating it. is expected to increase by gians are direct and, in my opinion, can Botanical Gardens- just 10 min up from One bad thing about Tbilisi is the pub- I love the Georgian wine, especially T40% this year, according to a recent sur- be aggressive at times, but nothing ever Freedom Square! DiveX in Fabrika is one lic transportation. It is slowly improving; homemade wine from the villages. I vey. seems to be done or said out of hate.” of my top choices for bars, as is Ibis a few modern busses on the route, with was never a fan of white wine, but I like This isn’t hard to believe: everywhere Rebecca Ernest from the US, has been Styles. air-conditioning, etc., but it’s way too the Georgian white. Red wine is the you look, foreign nationals are exploring here since September. I’m very happy with the public trans- slow. Minibuses are hell and the metro best here, in my opinion: Saperavi is my and enjoying the country. Many are even “I feel happy [here], but still very much personal favorite, I drink it with just deciding to stay and even build busi- feel like a foreigner. I think that not about every type of food I eat, even with nesses here. This is more evident than speaking Georgian is a bit of a hindrance, pizza. anywhere in the capital city. But what but it’s pretty easy to get by with English. I’ve lived and traveled in many coun- do they really think about the place? I’ve also noticed that a lot of Georgians tries around the world, but I can honestly This week, GEORGIA TODAY took to will go out of their way to help someone say the Georgians are the most hospita- the streets of Tbilisi to interview a num- out. They may seem a bit cold, but as ble people I’ve ever come across, and, ber of foreigners who have spent an soon as you get to know them, you see like me, they are ‘crazy’! I mean crazy in extended amount of time here, from a they’re warm, kind, and helpful. a fun and good way of course! couple of months to a few years. They I’m 100% obsessed with Georgian food. Message to other foreigners: Keep an were asked about a range of topics, Khinkali is one of the best creations on open mind, be patient, and always expect including how they feel here, opinions this earth, and don’t get me started with the unexpected when you live in Tbilisi, on food and drink, public transport and the wine. I really like the restaurant and Georgia in general, because every the local people. Sakhli #11. I’ve had two amazing dinners day can be so different from the last!” Feedback was generally positive, but there since moving to Georgia, and they the majority expressed bad feelings about easily accommodate a big group.” Erika Copeland from the US has been public transport. All (except one) Katie Davies from the UK is the author here for 6 years. expressed great appreciation for Geor- of the Blood Omen Saga and Dark Wings “[Tbilisi] a few years ago was a depress- gian food, such as Khachapuri and book series and has been here for 10 years. ing place. Now, with it becoming a more Khinkali. The vast majority agreed that “I feel very free here. I very much felt modern city and seeing attitudes chang- local people are warm, welcoming and that the UK was a ‘nanny state’- looking ing, I’ve really started to love this place. helpful and most were in agreement that over your shoulder at every turn and port here and use it all the time. They is dirty, not [regular] enough during peak I like how new businesses are constantly Tbilisi is a city full of opportunity and providing nice clear signs to guide you could do with more buses and minibuses hours…and taxi drivers smoke inside the popping up and neighborhoods are growth. on the way; total chaos here in com- at rush-hour, but otherwise the service car and are not always polite. changing. It's a great city to just wander Here, they tell us about the city in their parison, but a defi nite sense of ‘use (or is great for getting around the central [Georgians] are special people… It takes around and have a look at the mix between own words: not) your common sense and on your districts and further afi eld. The big dis- time to understand their mentality and old and new. Natalie Taylor, 25, from San Francisco, head be it.’ advantage is no metro in Vake, but a lot behavior, and then it takes even more I feel very free and happy to go to dis- California, teaches English as a foreign What I like most is the POTENTIAL of buses and minibuses fi ll the gap.” time to accept it. Once you do, you can tricts I love...but the traffi c and the num- language and has been here for the past of the place: that it is far enough behind Daria Kholodilina, 28, was born in be very comfortable with them.” ber of cars is making this nearly impos- three years. that it can be guided by the experiences Ukraine has been here for four years. Ian Shynkarenko from Ukraine has sible for most people. I’ve never seen a “I absolutely love it here. I’m a foreigner, of the West and yet it has the chance to “Tbilisi has so much potential, and lived in Georgia for 2.5 years working city so small with this many cars.” but I’m a foreigner at home in Georgia. make better choices, so in that respect there are a lot of things to be done and on international projects. Neil Hauer (27), a Canadian analyst I feel completely free to do what I like, it is a creative atmosphere which encour- niches to be fi lled. I’m glad to have cho- “Every time I come back to Tbilisi from and journalist who has been here since and I think Tbilisi is such a cool, fasci- ages innovation: “Your only limit is your- sen this city. my business trips, I say ‘it’s good to be the start of September. nating city. I’ll never get bored of it. self,” as they say. Georgian food is the best. I like Shavi back home!’ “I feel quite inspired here. The city is Traffi c is a nightmare, so I usually take I love Georgian food, but too much Lomi, Leila and Salobie Bia restaurants. Kharcho is my favorite food; it’s differ- the exact opposite of where I came here the metro to get places because it's fast, without enough exercise and it goes Cafe Volver is my choice when I feel like ent in each place you eat it and, in most from. It’s exciting, bustling, in the mid- Georgian wine and non-Georgian food. cases, very tasty. My favorite restaurants dle of everything and with a great inter- Cafe Hurma and Pin-Pon Cafe are for are The Terrace on Kokobadze Str., national scene. I’ve only really scratched breakfasts. Armazi’s Tskaro near Mtskheta and Tom the surface of the city and the country There’s a good deal of laziness [from Yum Asian Food on Baratashvili Street. at this point, so I’m still very excited to locals], negative thinking, patriarchal Hazem H., a Syrian national, has been be here. mentality, infantilism or things like not in Tbilisi for more than four years. Honestly, I can’t imagine how anyone answering the phone or messages. But “I feel comfortable in this city; free, lives here in the summer, given that it there’s also kindness, hospitality, and already familiar with transport, direc- was 33 degrees and humid for most of understanding that life is short and tions and streets. I’m also seeing a lot of September. The weather lately has been sometimes you should just take your changes in this city compared to when very nice and mild though, given that time and enjoy it for a while. I made I arrived four years ago, which makes my hometown in Canada has been blan- several loyal friends here, and I'm happy me happy about the future of this coun- keted in snow for a month, I think I’ll to have them in my life.” try. enjoy the winter here. Anna N. came here from Germany in I’m not a wine-lover, but when I taste I have almost exclusively good things May 2012 and teaches German and Jap- Georgian red wine, I fi nd it very smooth to say. Georgians are very kind and anese at an international school. and delicious. friendly people, with a good balance “I’ve felt many emotions living in Tbi- Carolyn Rice, originally from the US, between modernity while maintaining lisi. There have been good and bad times. has been here nine years but fi rst visited their culture and traditions. The only In the beginning, I loved to explore the in 2002. thing I’d change is the amount of shout- city and its mixed architecture. I very “I’m happy here; there are loads activ- ing that happens.” GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 Not about the Math, 2

two or more equal pieces, as many as with many other new ones…) Infi nities BLOG BY TONY HANMER you like. The number of divisions is the can be both thrilling and daunting, tak- SIZE of the shape. The shape’s interior ing a fi nite human mind to the edge of can similarly be divided, based on its madness if dwelt upon to the point of till with me, dear reader, or property of being a reptile, reducible obsession. A tile for every person on the joining for the fi rst time? You’ll into smaller copies of itself. (The interior planet? As many per persons as you like, need to look at last week’s line segments are all “double-sided” actually. The same for every atom in the article for this one to make lines, each line segment being shared by universe! That’s what infi nity means. much sense, as this is part 2, exactly two of the reptile’s smaller shapes.) My tiles can be programmed using the Sthe fi nal part. Again, no formulas, just a These divisions give us all the working simple L-systems or Iterated Function few fractions. And more pictures, of material we need from which to con- Systems (IFS) languages for generating course. struct our tiles. Each line segment must fractals on a computer. They can, too, My tiles of the square can take up the be used exactly once in the tile-making be drawn on squared or triangularly following proportions of it: all (1: not process. ruled paper. I mostly use the freeware really a tile), ½, ¼ or 1/8. The ¼ ones I The simplest kinds of tile have: 1) all program FractInt, originally in DOS but consider to be the main type for the line segments (interior and exterior) now available for non-DOS Windows, square, though all four types are infi nite connected; 2) all their exterior line seg- Apple and Linux too. in number. This is because there are the ments on one side of the shape; 3) all This concludes my introduction of same number of tiles required as the their interior line segments made up of what I call Hanmer Tiles, which I dis- square has sides. The triangle’s versions double sided lines. Other types break covered in 2003. Any book showcasing can be one (also not really a tile), 1/3 or one or more of these rules, but are also them will only ever be an infi nitely small 1/6 of its space, with the 1/3 type my main tiles. All can be beautiful or ugly or any- part of the whole, no matter how many one here, again related to the triangle’s where in between. And there IS a roughly thousands or millions of pictures it con- number of sides. We won’t be getting common perception among different tains. But that should not prevent such further into tiles of the cube here, as people of “more or less beautiful”, which a book from being produced. For more square- and triangle-fi lling ones are is a profound admission. examples online, please see https://www. enough of a subject in themselves, and If a square tile has all its interior and behance.net/gallery/729496/Endless- this newspaper is also effectively 2D, exterior lines parallel, then the resulting Tiles-of-the-Equilateral-Triangle-and- making clear 3D tiling representations tile will fi ll ½, not ¼, of the square; there Square a challenge anyway. are infi nitely many such tiles. If a trian- A tile of these kinds has two parts, like gle’s lines, on the other hand, are all Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since its parent shape: exterior (edge) and parallel, its tile will fi ll 100% of the tri- too, is an infi nity, though just of patterns to the end of time. I found over 6000 of 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a interior (fi lling). The programming of angle. You might then conclude that in a triangle, not of tiles of it. them in a few years’ occasional work, weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He each tile requires both parts to be used, there is only one of this triangle-fi lling We need not go into 1/8 tiles of the using only squares and triangles up to runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook in the correct amounts and proportions shape, and in one sense you are right. square or 1/6 ones of the triangle here, size 6! (The larger the size of the parent group, now with over 1700 members, at to each other, to result in a tile: no holes However, the order in which its line seg- as the ones described above are the most shape, the more tiles can be found for www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- (too small) or overlaps (too large), ments are selected will affect the fractal interesting, and they are all infi nite, any- it, although the formula for calculating sance/ remember! pattern of its coloring, should we choose way. But there is another thing we should the number of tiles based on size has He and his wife also run their own guest house Consider one side line of a square or to color it based on this order and not think about: no-one will ever exhaust eluded me so far. All the tiles for size 2 in Etseri: triangle. This line can be divided into just as a boring solid triangle. So here, the set of tiles of the square or triangle, are duplicated in size 4, and 16, etc., along www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti Vaccinations against HPV: The Road to Preventing Cancer

and other diseases connected with HPV comprises of the types (type 16 fact that the support of the alliance is recommended to see ta doctor in case BY MAKA LOMADZE human papilloma virus represent an and type 18) which are the most wide- suffi cient for the two-fold vaccination of any side effects. “This vaccine is only acute problem on a global scale, from spread, causing cervical cancer or gen- of 15,000 girls, the vaccination will be implemented on the market 11 years ago. the point of view of protecting public ital warts. Vaccines also guarantee’s the delivered to Tbilisi, Kutaisi and two Research suggests that two-fold vacci- n November 15, at Court- health, and includes the recommenda- protection from the strains of HPV autonomous republics of Ajara and Abk- nations can ensure protection for the yard Marriott Hotel Tbilisi, tion to include the vaccine against HPV which are not in the vaccine. hazia. It is a pilot program, which in case rest of patients’ lives. There are no cases a national conference enti- in the national immunization programs. In 2016, with the support of the Global of success will become a ground for a of cancer among the fi rst cohorts of vac- tled ‘Implementing Vac- From 2006, the aforementioned vaccine Alliance of Vaccination and Immuniza- gradual implementation of HPV in the cinated girls. The papilloma virus is a cine against Human Papil- was implemented in 71 countries (31%), tion (GAVI), the vaccine against HPV country, and will drastically decrease perfi dious illness because it has no symp- lomaO Virus (HPV)’, was held, organized among which are the USA, Austria, was implemented in 23 countries. Sup- the cases of diseases caused by HPV. toms. Nobody can diagnose its existence by the National Center of Disease Con- Australia, Belgium, Israel, United King- port from the alliance will enable the all The best age for vaccination is the 9-14 before the pre-cancer or cancer symp- trol and Public Health, under the Geor- dom, Italy, Canada, France, Greece, parties to protect 40 million girls from age group, which boosts a formation of toms emerge. Around 200 women die gian Ministry of Labor, Health and Social Latvia, Luxemburg, Denmark, Finland, cervical cancer by the year of 2020. In strong and effective immune responses of cervical cancer per year in Georgia,” Affairs. The event was supported by Czech Republic, Cyprus, Lithuania, this way, it is calculated that 900,000 before starting a sexual life. In most Paata Imnadze, Scientifi c Head of National World Health Organization (WHO). Slovenia, Croatia and others. Over 100 deaths will be avoided globally. GAVI cases, the infection arrives before the Center of Disease Control and Public Papilloma virus represents the most million people worldwide have been gives an opportunity to various coun- age of 25, shortly after the start of sexual Health told us. wide-spread virus infection of the uri- vaccinated. Vaccination represents an tries, including Georgia, to vaccinate contact. “Cervical cancer is a very serious pub- nary tract (UTI) and reproductive organs, effective way to protect women against 9-year-old girls who were born in the The minimal interval between the two- lic health issue in countries of the WHO amongst other diseases in women as cervical cancer – almost 95-100% of years of 2008-2009, free of charge, within fold vaccinations is 6 months. HPV is European region, and also in Georgia. It well as men. According to the data of vaccinated patients develop anti-bodies. the period of 2017-2019. Considering the safe, and has almost no side effects. It is is very important to have a comprehen- WHO, 630,000 cancer cases are regis- sive approach to vaccinate girls early in tered among women, caused by papil- their life to protect them through their loma virus, among which 530,000 (84%) lives, and then, to have a cervical cancer are cervical cancer cases. There are screening to make sure that the risk can 266,000 reported cases of mortality from be detected through screening. Why is this, which represents 8% of the mortal- vaccination so important? It prevents ity fi gure of cancer cases in women. As not only cervical cancer but also other far as frequency is concerned, cervical cancers which can be caused by HPV,” cancer is in fourth position globally, and Liudmila Mosina, Technical Offi cer of in fi fth position in Europe. In Europe, WHO regional offi ce for Europe, com- over 67,000 cervical cancer cases have mented. been registered, with 28,000 resulting “Today’s conference is very important. in death. I represent Kutaisi, which has been Oncological diseases remain an impor- selected. I used to work at the screening tant challenge for the Georgian health program for 5 years. This problem is care system. 70% of new cases of new quite topical. Sexual life has rejuvenated, cancer diagnoses is in the 30-70 age and that is why, I believe, that vaccina- groups whilst 26% is over the age of 70. tions will contribute a lot to protect girls, Only 1% of these cases is within the age and boys too, from cancer” Irma Ioseli- group of 0-15, and 0.4% - among 15-19. ani, gynecologist- reproducer told us. 24% of all female age groups is between The free vaccinations against HPV will the ages of 15-49. begin from December 1 at relevant pol- WHO realizes that cervical cancer yclinics. GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 CULTURE 13

Photo source: http://www.trbimg.com A Music Critic on Criticizing the 21st Century Arts

gia, at which point GEORGIA TODAY but at certain historical periods dance BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE caught up with him to fi nd out about his gaining the upper hand, sometimes with standpoint. fatal consequences for democracy, for human rights, for peace and what’s most usic critic Kyriakos IS THIS YOUR FIRST TIME important, for economic growth. Loukakos is a leading IN GEORGIA? WHAT ARE vocal connoisseur in YOUR IMPRESSIONS? WHICH VIEW OR THEME DID Greece. He is an attor- It’s my fi rst visit but not my fi rst acquaint- YOU MOST ENJOY DURING ney at law and a Dr. of ance with the Georgian element: I’m lucky THE COLLOQUIUM? theM Cologne University. In 1991, he was to be in the same executive council with The colloquium focused on critics’ con- hired as a member of the Strategic Pol- a very famous music critic in Greece, tributions and a crucial question was icy Unit of the Greek Ministry of Home George Leotakos, whose wife is Georgian, what criticism does about populism in Affairs and, since 1998, he has been and through her I already gained some theater, if elitism is existent, when elit- working as a senior investigator at the knowledge of the Georgian mentality and ism becomes a target of populism or if Quality of Life Department of the Greek way of thinking. My visit now is a double it is something that is there just to pro- Ombudsman’s Offi ce. But music was mission: to get to know better Georgian mote populist ideas. Many colleagues, always his greatest passion and from culture through this very hospitable Geor- among them myself, stated that critics 1994 to 2010, he commented and pre- gian theater showcase, and at the same don’t have the infl uence they once did sented almost every opera feature for time pay attribute to the fatherland of a because more and more major journals Greek Radio 3, including innumerable very dear person to me. decided not to have a critic as a con- EBU direct relays and deferred trans- tributor: they prefer to have cultural missions, as well as an extensive series WHAT MEETINGS DID YOU journalists who promote to the specta- of vocal artists’ and conductors’ por- HAVE WHILE HERE AND WHAT cles before they are shown. And, despite traits. In 1997, commemorating the 20th ARE THE OUTCOMES? the internet, we have noticed an increase anniversary of her passing, he presented There are two levels in this showcase. in the alienation of the younger genera- a 27- hour step-by-step biographical The main platform is the theater show- tion from traditional cultural interests. radio homage to Maria Callas as well case, organized by the Georgian section as all her recorded roles for the fi rst of the International Association of HOW WE CAN SOLVE time in radio chronicles. Since 1998, he Theater Critics, with the presentation THIS PROBLEM? has been the music critic of the Sunday of a selection of theatrical locales, and No solution was given [during the col- edition of the Athens daily journal “I a parallel, unoffi cial one, allowing us to loquium], but thoughts and views were AVGI”. He has contributed texts for get acquainted with other creators of expressed. It was a kind of introspective practically every major musical institu- the Georgian scene. We had the oppor- into this problem, which isn’t easily solv- tion of his country and has supervised tunity to attend many interesting per- able. If it were, things could improve a seven set CD edition of operas in rare formances in very beautiful theaters. easily. We decided that we must take archival recordings featuring distin- The second level was a small congress, advantage of old technology, as lowering guished soprano Vasso Papantoniou. a colloquium, organized by the President the standards should not be part of our In 2011 he contributed the extensive of the International Association, Mar- tendency; it would undoubtedly fail to texts and overall supervision to a 4-cd gareta Sorenson, and the Georgian rep- bring people closer to art if we let the set, published by “The Friends of Music resentatives, with a very interesting standards drop. It was a very interesting Society” of the Athens Megaron Con- subject: “theater and populism”. This is discussion and, of course, the dialogue cert Hall and devoted to hitherto unpub- something really incendiary in these is ongoing. lished recordings from the archive of times, in which populism seems to be the late (mezzo) soprano Arda Man- gaining ground in even traditional coun- WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE dikian, a close collaborator of Benjamin tries throughout the world. It was really PLANS AND ARE YOU GOING Britten and Sir Peter Pears as well as a very nice occasion and was of particu- TO CONTINUE COOPERATION the Dido in both the fi rst ever complete lar interest to us that the Georgian Min- WITH THE GEORGIAN THEATER? performance of Berlioz’s Les Troyens, istry of Culture offered us two stages for Future plans for the time being don’t (Oxford, 1950), and the subsequent fi rst the colloquium, which is not common, involve visits to Tbilisi, though I consider complete recording of the fi rst part even in countries well known for their this journey merely my fi rst to Georgia, under the baton of Hermann Scherchen. cultural interests. because I want to have a follow up. I In 2005, 2009, 2012 and 2015, Dr. Louk- Now the outcomes. An outcome is not liked the country, I liked the food and akos was elected as a Chairman of the really something one can expect from wine, I liked the people. It was a modal Greek Drama and Music Critics’ Asso- such meetings, but there were very inter- organization on the part of the Georgian ciation. esting views and a pallet of themes that showcase, set in a very friendly and very Kyriakos Loukakos recently attended lead us to know better and remember rewarding atmosphere. So, I hope and a double colloquium planned by the the origins of populism from ancient intend to contribute as much as I can International Association of Theater Greece, the theater of Aristophanes; its from my position to have follow-ups in Critics and Ministry of Culture of Geor- existence, which has always been here, Georgia-Greek relations in future. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER November 24 SUBURBICON Bariatinsky - Deputy of the Tea Gvetadze, Temo Javakhishvili, RECITATIVE IN THE CITY Directed by George Clooney Caucasus, Tambourine painted by Vakho Bugadze and Ushangi Kakha Bakuradze, Sandro Cast: Matt Damon, Julianne Moore, Mihaly Zichy, feminine attire of Khumarashvili. TBILISI ZAKARIA Nikoladze, Irakli Menagarishvili, PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Oscar Isaac Abkhazian and Ingilo women and Simon Bitadze, Dato Kakulia, El BALLET THEATER Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery more. The exhibition will also showcase banda del “ ” Address: 25 Rustaveli Ave. მუდო Language: Russian photo documents depicting 80- Start time: 21:30 Telephone: 2 99 04 56 Start time: 19:10 November 25 – December 14 90s Georgia created by Guram Ticket: 10 GEL Ticket: 17 GEL Exhibition Tsibakhashvili. November 24 FROM TRAVELLINGS November 24 LA TRAVIATA COCO ART PALACE INTRO Giuseppe Verdi Directed by Lee Unkrich, Adrian MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Address: 6 Kargareteli Str. Directed by Kakha Bakuradze Starring: Salome Jicia, Otar Jorjikia, Molina Address: 1 Gudiashvili Str. Start time: 20:00 Sulkhan Gvelesiani, Nutsa Cast: Edward James Olmos, Telephone: 2 99 99 09 THE FIRST TIME IN GEORGIA- Ticket: 15 GEL Zakaidze, Manana Iordanishvili, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach SIMON (SIMONIKA) Tamaz Saginadze, Irakli Mujiri, Genre: Animation, Adventure, March 6 – December 31 DADIANI’S EXHIBITION November 26 George Chelidze, Levan Makaridze, Comedy EXHIBITION THE TEMPEST Paata Sukhitashvili, Temur Akhobadze. Language: Russian MASTERPIECES FROM THE GALLERY Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze Tbilisi State Opera and Ballet Start time: 11:50, 14:10, 16:45 MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Theater choir, Ballet dancers, Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL Ticket: 8-11 GEL COLLECTION THE NATIONAL GALLERY orchestra. Address: 11 Rustaveli Ave. Conductor- Alberto Veronesi (Italy) RUSTAVELI CINEMA November 14 – December 9 Telephone: 2 15 73 00 Director- Laurent Gerber November 19 SILENCE REHEARSAL Address: 5 Rustaveli Ave. Exhibition www.museum.ge (Switzerland/Italy) Telephone: 2 55 50 00 CROSSROAD RELIGIOUS Choreographer- Massimo Bellando Director: Kakha Bakuradze www.kinoafi sha.ge & ETHNIC DIVERSITY OF October 5 – November 30 Randone (Italy) Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10 GEL GEORGIA Dimitri Shevardnadze National Start time: 20:00 Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL Ticket: 30-170 GEL Gallery is to host two Italian CINEMA November 24-30 IOSEB GRISHASHVILI exhibitions: TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM November 30 UNIVERSAL VALUES: LA TRAVIATA AMIRANI CINEMA THOR: RAGNAROK - KARVASLA BOTTICELLI, THE BEAUTY Giuseppe Verdi Address: 36 Kostava Str. Directed by Taika Waititi Address: 8 Sioni St. AND CARAVAGGIO, THE LIGHT, Starring: Salome Jicia, Otar Jorjikia, Telephone: 2 99 99 55 Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Telephone: 2 98 22 81 DISPLAYING MASTERPIECES OF Sulkhan Gvelesiani, Nutsa www.kinoafi sha.ge Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett ITALIAN PAINTING Zakaidze, Manana Iordanishvili, Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi November 24 – December 12 MUSIC Tamaz Saginadze, Irakli Mujiri, Every Wednesday ticket price: 5 GEL Language: Russian CHINESE CONTEMPORARY ART George Chelidze, Levan Makaridze, November 17-23 Start time: 16:45 EXHIBITION Paata Sukhitashvili, Temur Akhobadze. Ticket: 10-11 GEL ART AND PEACE TBILISI STATE Tbilisi State Opera and Ballet KHIBULA The exhibition showcases artworks CONSERVATOIRE Theater choir, Ballet dancers, Directed by Giorgi Ovashvili COCO by various well-known Chinese Address: 8 Griboedov St. orchestra. Cast: Hossein Mahjoob, Kishvard (Info Above) artists from the Chinese Artists Telephone: 2 93 46 24 Conductor- Zaza Azmaiparashvili Manvelishvili, Nodar Dzidziguri, Start time: 12:15, 14:45, 17:15, 19:45 Association. The 29 works include Director- Laurent Gerber Lika Babluani, Zurab Antelava, Ticket: 8-14 GEL oil painting, printmaking, sculpture, November 25 (Switzerland/Italy) Lidia Chilashvili, Galoba Gambarov watercolor, synthetic materials and STUDENT SYMPHONY Choreographer- Nina Ananiashvili Genre: Drama JUSTICE LEAGUE more. ORCHESTRA Language: Georgian with English Start time: 20:00 (Info Above) Vano Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Subtitles Ticket: 10-130 GEL Language: Russian November 28 – January 10, 2018 Conservatoire Student Symphony Start time: 14:15, 19:10, 21:30 Start time: 19:45 GNM Tbilisi History Museum Orchestra SHALIKASHVILI THEATER Ticket: 9-14 GEL Ticket: 8-14 GEL Contemporary Art Gallery will host Conductor: Mirian Khukhunaishvili Address: 37 Rustaveli Ave. the exhibition JUSTICE LEAGUE Soloist: Vato Jordania (piano) Telephone: 595 50 02 03 MUSEUM STATE OF PLAY: ART IN Directed by Zack Snyder Program: Grieg– ‘Peer Gynt’ Suite #1, GEORGIA IN 1985-1999 Cast: Ben Affl eck, Gal Gadot, Jason op.46 Beethoven– Concerto #5, November 24 GEORGIAN NATIONAL The exhibition will present TERENTI GRANELI Momoa, Robin Wright, Connie E-fl at major MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA works by 24 Georgian artists Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili Nielsen, Amy Adams Beethoven– Symphony #8, F major, MUSEUM from the 1980-90s, among Start time: 20:00 Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy op.93 Ticket: 20 GEL Language: Russian Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. them:: Gia Edzgveradze, Guram Start time: 19:00 Start time: 16:10, 22:00 Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 Tsibakhashvili, Iliko Zautashvili, Ticket: 5 GEL November 25 Ticket: 10-14 GEL www.museum.ge Karlo Kacharava, Koka Ramishvili, CHRIST Kote Sulaberidze, Keti Kapanadze, November 30 Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili WONDER Exhibition Kote Jincharadze, Levan MUSIC FOR MENTAL HEALTH Start time: 20:00 Directed by Stephen Chbosky GEORGIAN COSTUME AND Chogoshvili, Lia Shvelidze, Luka Alexandre Tsomaia, America-based Ticket: 20 GEL Cast: Julia Roberts, Jacob Tremblay, WEAPONRY OF 18TH-20TH Lasareishvili, Maia Naveriani, Maia Georgian pianist, will conduct a Owen Wilson CENTURIES Tsetskhladze, Malkhaz Datukishvili, charity piano recital in support of MOVEMENT THEATER Genre: Drama The Royal dress of King Teimuraz Mamuka Japaridze, Mamuka Mental Health. Address: 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave., Language: Russian II, Nino Gurieli's Georgian dress, Tsetskhladze, Misha Gogrichiani, Lasha Bugadze’s lecture on the Mushthaid park Start time: 19:15 Tekla Batonishvili's personal Murtaz Shvelidze, Niko topic of ‘Music and Mental Health’ Telephone: 599 555 260 Ticket: 13-14 GEL sewing machine, robe of Alexander Tsetskhladze, Oleg Timchenko, Art exhibition by people with mental health problems. The charity event aims to raise money for development of community-based mental health care. Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 15-50 GEL

TBILISI BAROQUE FESTIVAL www.tbf.ge

November 24 GS, Sergey Malov (Violin, cello da spalla) Part 1 H.I.F. Biber– Passacaglia for solo violin J.S. Bach– Suite for cello in C major BWV 1009 J.S. Bach– Partita for violin in E major BWV 1006 Part 2 J.S. Bach– Overture from Cantata in D major, BWV 29 C.F.E. Bach– Concerto for cello, strings and B.C. W 172 in A major J.S. Bach– Concerto for violin, strings and B.C. BWV 1052R in d minor Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 5-30 GEL Venue: Rustaveli Theater

BUDDHA BAR Address: Rike park

November 25 SOFIA NIJARADZE’S CONCERT Start time: 21:00 Ticket: 30-40 GEL GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 24 - 27, 2017 CULTURE 15 Premiere of Bergman’s Drama at Royal District Theater Well-known Nani Chikvinidze is the only on a person, be it in upbringing or other fac- REVIEW BY MAKA LOMADZE experienced cast member in Kelbakiani’s stage tors. The process was extremely complicated, version, playing the mother of the protagonist as the material is very diffi cult to work with. Peter (Giorgi Sharvashidze). His wife, Katarina, The whole two months of preparation was n November 22-23, a premiere is well-embodied by Natuka Kakhidze. It is full of discoveries”. took place at the Royal District diffi cult to fi gure out whether her character “This role was particularly psychological,” Theater seeing young female really has lovers. To be more exact, she searches actor Sharvashidze told us. “We had to do a director Sophio Kelbakiani stage for them. On this hazardous journey, she meets lot of research. I learned what a catastrophe ‘From the Life of the Mario- psychiatrist (Gaga Shishinashvili), her hus- bad relations can lead to in one’s life, career Onettes,’ based on the well-known namesake band’s doctor who openly fl irts with her. and family: one has to fully analyze every- movie drama of Ingmar Bergman. Peter drinks a lot and sleeps less and less. thing. It’s better to end such unhealthy rela- Successful businessman Peter Egerman is He says that he fi nds joy in nothing, confess- tions, otherwise, it can end tragically,” he deeply in love with his wife, and yet is ready ing that even though he hates his wife and added. to kill her at any instant. the universe, he is still eager to watch her The drama was translated by Guram Ghong- “I tried to offer separate scenes as physical body moving, having wild sex with her with- hadze and the set decoration is by Elisabed evidence to spectators by means of fragmented out feeling. He asks his psychiatrist to help Chichinadze from the Gogi Alexi-Meskhish- story-telling,” Ingmar Bergman wrote about him, as he has a savage desire to kill his wife; vili Design School. the original fi lm. “I have consciously denied however, the latter responds that there is The fi lm ‘From the Life of the Marionettes’ any defi nitions: this is a case is for spectators “hardly any medicine to cure the human was directed in 1980. It was produced in West to unknot. There is not a single character who mind”. Germany, as Ingmar Bergman was at the time will tell the whole truth or reveal their own “We tried to see this drama from our own a tax exile from his native Sweden. The title motives. Here, all of them are guilty in differ- prism,” Kelbakiani told GEORGIA TODAY. is an excerpt from a quotation in ‘The Adven- Nani Chikvinidze and Giorgi Sharvashidze ent ways”. “We studied what infl uences society can have tures of Pinocchio’ by Carlo Collodi. Sergei Malov to Perform ‘Cello & Spala’ on November 24

As a solo performer, he has collaborated with orches- ADVERTORIAL tras such as the London Philharmonic, BBC, Bavaria Radio, Helsinki Symphony and many others. Also of note is his cooperation with Baroque Ensemble or the fi rst time in Georgia, ‘Cello and ‘Berlin Academy of Old Music’ (AKAMUS Berlin). Spala’ is to be performed on a Georgian Malov's repertoire is diverse, featuring many stage, a performance which dates back pieces, from Baroque to contemporary. The com- three centuries. On November 24 at 19:30, poser's creation and great improvization is always Sergei Malov will hold a concert at visible in his performance. Malov, in his multilevel RustaveliF Theater. recordings, also exquisitely combines numerous Cello and Spala is a series of German and Aus- instruments. trian Baroque music, namely the works of Heinrich A Sibelius concert will be performed at the Hel- Babier, Yohan Sebastian Bach and his son, Carl sinki Philharmonic Orchestra, and a Stravinsky Philip Emmanuel Bach. concert, with the Tampere Symphony Orchestra, After graduating from Salzburg Mozartum and are planned this upcoming season. Hans Aisler High School in Berlin, Malov won Public lectures will also be held within the frame- several international competitions as a violinist work of ‘Tbilisi Baroque Festival’: On November (Hayeksee Competition 2008, Mozart Competition 29, Gia Bugadze's lecture ‘Karavajjo and Karava- 2010, Michael Hill Contest 2011) and Alist (Tokyo, jizism’ will be held and on December 5, Tea Muke- 2010). In September this year, he became a Profes- ria will conclude with the public lecture ‘Voice sor of Music at the Zurich Music Academy, and from Venice – Vivaldi’. Attendance at lectures is released his latest album ‘Hommage á Ysaÿe’. free and are held at 18:00 at the Tbilisi Conserva- Nowadays, he performs concerts around the world. toire Chamber Hall (3rd fl oor).

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