Issue no: 1229 • FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... Majority Members Assess Merabishvili's Release NEWS PAGE 2 Adjara TV Staff Speak about Threats to Editorial Independence NEWS PAGE 3 On Georgian Strategy Towards the Occupied Regions POLITICS PAGE 4 EU, UNDP Reps on Polarized Nature of FOCUS Georgian Politics ON MERABISHVILI POLITICS PAGE 4 The former Minister of Internal Affairs is released and dives straight back into An Ex-President, Ex-PM & the the political battle. PAGE 2 Former Parliament Speaker All in One Party? Georgian President on Femicide: The POLITICS PAGE 5 Beeline Introduces Updated Problem Comes from Society’s Mentality Website with Additional emicide is the killing of a woman or Features girl, in particular by a man and on account of her gender. The issue was BUSINESS PAGE 8 thrown into the spotlight again this week when a man killed his wife in public,F in Samtredia, western Georgia, ahead of Sleeves Up: Etseri, Svaneti their divorcing. Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili released SOCIETY PAGE 10 a statement on femicide, emphasizing that any kind of violence against women is unacceptable and all cases of murder “are terrifying.” Fresh Perspectives: A New Zurabishvili pointed out that when a woman is killed because she is a woman, it is a problem Window on High-drama within society, and that the active involvement of the state and education system in culture and Caucasian History as Told civic awareness-raising is crucial. “It is necessary to raise public awareness. Joint work and efforts from state, public, and religious by a Maker organizations are important to prevent violence,” CULTURE PAGE 12 the statement reads. Taking into account the alarming statistics and the importance of the issue, the President has called for a meeting to be held at Orbeliani Pal- Georgian Traditional Supra ace next week with the participation of interna- tional and non-governmental organizations who to Be Put Forward for work on the prevention of violence against women. UNESCO List Continued on page 2 Image source: nbcnews.com CULTURE PAGE 15 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 Vano Merabishvili Released from Prison, Dives Straight Back into Politics

now been released. BY THE GT TEAM "This story is a stain on our recent his- tory of democracy. That is why Ivanish- vili's regime must end peacefully through ormer Interior Minister of elections so that such things never hap- Georgia Vano Merabishvili pen in Georgia. Nobody should ever be was released from the put in prison due to such a political “Matrosov” penitentiary facil- order," Bokeria said. ity early Thursday morning, Giorgi Vashadze, leader of the New havingF spent almost seven years there Georgia party, said that the fi ght for free- as, according to the opposition, “a polit- dom continues and Vano Merabishvili ical prisoner”. will play his part in it. In light of Ivan- On February 17, 2014, the former Inte- ishvili's eight-year rule, the success and rior Minister, one of the most infl uential progress that Georgia achieved from fi gures of the United National Movement, 2003 to 2012 was clearly visible, he said. was sentenced to imprisonment after “I welcome the release of Vano Mera- being found guilty of the brutal disper- bishvili from illegal detention. In the sal of the May 26 rally, hiding of evidence wake of Ivanishvili's eight-year reign, in the Sandro Girgvliani case, voter brib- the efforts, successes and progress that ery, and physical abuse of opposition Georgia made from 2003 to 2012 have MP Valeri Gelashvili. He was sentenced become even clearer. The fi ght for free- to 6 years and 9 months in prison. dom continues, and I believe that along Merabishvili denied all charges, claim- with thousands of patriots of the new ing they were politically motivated. The generations, Vano Merabishvili will play opposition in turn said his imprisonment his part in this fi ght. Freedom for all Photo: IPN was a ‘witch hunt’ against the former illegal prisoners!” he stated. government. strength, energy and belief to continue decent pensions to older persons. We confi dence and improve their social The former President of Georgia, The trial for the November 7, 2007 rally to fi ght to end this regime this year. I will defi nitely win. situation,” he noted. Mikheil Saakashvili, also welcomed the crackdown, in which water-cannons guarantee that this government will be "I guarantee you that by the end of the Opposition leaders Giorgi Vashadze news of the ex-interior minister’s release. were used against demonstrators, and fi nished within a year," he said. year, after toppling this government, the and Giga Bokeria welcomed Merabish- "I welcome Vano Merabishvili's release for the raid on Imedi TV, is still ongoing He also promised that "by the end of doors of this prison will be opened for vili's release. after many years of imprisonment," he against him. In both cases he stands the year, after toppling the government, [the release of] every political prisoner. Giga Bokeria, one of the leaders of wrote on social media, adding that he is accused of abuse of power. the doors of the 'Matrosov prison' will Everyone I know in this prison is a polit- European Georgia, believes that Mera- "proud of Merabishvili's strength and Merabishvili told those waiting for him be thrown wide open." ical prisoner," the former Interior Min- bishvili's detention is a stain on Georgia's bravery." outside the prison that he plans to return Merabishvili then stressed the need to ister said. recent democracy. As he told reporters, “I am proud of his strength and brav- to active politics, adding he "guarantees" change the current government. “It is He then addressed the Georgian police Bidzina Ivanishvili's political repression ery. I agree that Bidzina Ivanishvili's that the ruling party Georgian Dream, necessary to do so and we will certainly offi cers, saying that he will do his best targeted people representing a political regime will defi nitely end. He will be under Bidzina Ivanishvili's leadership, do so,” he said. “It is necessary for the to “restore the dignity” of law enforcers danger to him. out not because of our personal feelings, will lose power this year. country to start developing, to move in the country. “This person had been in jail for seven but because, like Vano said, our country "I would like to thank my supporters forward, to improve the welfare of our “I would like to address the Georgian years and I can't talk on his behalf. He needs progress and development. gathered here and those who show sup- people, to dissolve hopelessness, to give police offi cers and tell them that we will has to say it. I’m just glad that after serv- "I call for reconciliation. We must be port from far away. With their support prospects to the youth, to increase do our best, together with our friends, ing such a sentence of seven years in oriented to the future and not to the and hope for the future, I have retained employment and wages, and to give to restore the dignity of the police, restore confi nement, the political prisoner has past,” Saakashvili wrote. Majority Members Assess Merabishvili's Release almost 7 years of imprisonment, and to overthrows. taria, Via Volski and Irakli Sesiashvili spoke about it today when he left prison. his statements about the need to "change “I did not want to talk about this today, said that Merabishvili is a person We all know that he is guilty of that for the current government." but it is once again confi rmed that the "demanding dead bodies from his which he was sentenced to imprison- Merabishvili said he "guarantees" that National Movement is already of the employees and issuing orders to brutally ment. He committed a crime and is still the ruling party Georgian Dream, under past. We must think about tomorrow, disperse demonstrations, and he will aggressive instead of repentant,” Gia Bidzina Ivanishvili's leadership, will we must work to make this country not never gain public support again." Volski, the First Deputy Speaker of Par- lose power this year. a country of challenges and coups, but "I advise opposition member Giga liament, said. He also promised that "by the end of a country of opportunities for young Bokeria, who is a friend of Merabishvili, Ruling team member Nukri Kantaria the year, after toppling the government, people. Today, in the fi rst minutes of to explain to him that he no longer lives noted that "Merabishvili has no chance the doors of the 'Matrosov prison' will freedom, this person spoke about top- in a country where he can overthrow of success and the political parties may be opened wide [to free the political pling the government. Let us all agree the government or demand corpses," accept collaboration with him only prisoners there]." that we are looking to the future. There Irakli Sesiashvili, Chairman of the symbolically." Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakh- have been attempts to overthrow the Defense and Security Committee, said "It is impossible for a person who was BY ANA DUMBADZE aria has responded to the statements, government several times, and they after Merabishvili's release. demanding bodies to return to active saying that "there have been several have never succeeded. Our goal is to “This is a man who not only demanded politics and realize his threats to topple attempts to topple the government, but create a better future and a strong state, bodies but who committed real crimes. the government," he said. he ruling party Georgian they have never succeeded." which will be a country of opportuni- Those crimes were committed in real- Former Minister of Internal Affairs Dream representatives He added that the goal of the govern- ties, not a place for coups and over- ity. The United National Movement's Vano Merabishvili left the so-called have responded to ex- ment is to create a better future and a throws, which we have left in the past,” tactics and strategy were to blackmail Matrosov prison this morning, after 7 interior minister Vano strong state, which will be a country of PM Gakharia said. people and take away their lives; they years of imprisonment with promises TMerabishvili's release after opportunities, not a place for coups and In turn, ruling party MPs Nukri Kan- thought it was right. Vano Merabishvili to return to active politics. Georgian President on Femicide: The Problem Comes from Society’s Mentality

Continued from page 1 gia and Article 109 (2). The crime envis- killed in domestic violence and three murders of women, of which fi ve of the not recognized as fully independent ages from 13 to 17 years in prison,” the were victims of attempted murder. victims were led to attempt suicide and persons who can be strong, who can lead “The meeting will discuss additional MIA announced. “The fragmented efforts made by the 46 contained signs of domestic abuse. the country, who deserve their own needs and possible initiatives related to Public Defender of Georgia Nino Lom- state to prevent violence against women Other motives were identifi ed in 23 cases. money, whose salary is not 36% less than this issue,” the statement reads. jaria condemned the incident, saying are not enough! There is also much to Also, according to the Ombudsman, men’s, who can have a free sex life and Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs women need to feel that there exist such be done in terms of education, changing the fi rst 10 months of 2019 saw 16 killings who can freely choose to end their mar- (MIA) reports that a husband was arrested institutions in the country where they societal stereotypes, victim support and of women reported, of which one of the riages,” Pataraia stressed. in Samtredia for killing his wife this can get help. According to her, much economic empowerment, and gender- victims was led to suicide and nine She added that if society does not make Tuesday. According to the Ministry, the work is needed not only in law enforce- sensitive approaches when reporting showed signs of domestic abuse. Other changes to its mentality to place women man infl icted wounds on his wife, born ment agencies but in the education sec- femicide cases,” Lomjaria’s Facebook motives were identifi ed in seven cases. equal with men, the “current attitude in 1994, at the Citizens' Service Hall of tor too. post reads. In the same period, there were 16 towards women will continue.” the Samtredia Branch of the Civil Reg- “The mentality of society must change. In December 2019, Lomjaria reported attempted murders of women. Signs of MIA statistics read that 10,266 restrain- istry Agency, prior to the commencement Attitudes towards women are stereo- at the Conference on the Prevention and domestic abuse were identifi ed in 12 ing orders were issued to protect victims of divorce proceedings. The wounded typical and discriminatory. It is very Monitoring of Femicide held in Tbilisi cases, while other motives were identi- from domestic violence last year, which woman died on the scene. important to empower women victims that 151 femicide cases had been reported fi ed in the remaining four cases. is 34% more than in 2018. The ministry Law enforcers arrested the man, born of violence. When a woman has no inde- in Georgia in the preceding six years. Baia Pataraia, Head of the NGO Sapari, says the order was violated by 376 indi- in 1992, shortly after the incident at the pendent income, she endures violence. Lomjaria said that according to the says that the whole problem regarding viduals, which is a decrease compared Service Hall, and seized the murder Even in the case of publicly speaking Prosecutor's Offi ce, 135 killings of women violence against women is in the men- to the previous year. It further reports weapon, a knife. about violence, they do not have the were reported in 2014-2018. Of these, tality of Georgian society. that the number of people convicted for “Investigation is underway of a fact of opportunity to live independently from three victims were led to suicide, while “We have a huge problem with our driving a family member to suicide has premeditated murder of a family mem- the abuser,” Lomjaria stressed. 64 showed signs of domestic abuse. Other mentality. Women are still not consid- increased. In total, 4564 persons were ber in aggravated circumstances, under The Ombudsman says that in the fi rst motives were identifi ed in 71 cases. In ered full-fl edged members of society… charged with domestic violence and Article 11 of the Criminal Code of Geor- months of 2020 alone, three women were the same years, there were 69 attempted Nothing will change while women are domestic crimes in Georgia last year. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 NEWS 3 Adjara TV Staff Speak about Threats to Editorial Independence

corps, international and local organiza- BY TEA MARIAMIDZE tions to help “save the broadcaster.” “Not only will journalists be affected, but the idea of a public broadcaster will mployees of the Adjara Tel- be damaged, which will further damage evision News Service of the the media environment, pluralism and Georgian Public Broadcaster democratic processes in the country,” released a joint statement and Adjara TV employees stressed. called on the diplomatic corps, The Adjara TV company was distin- andE international and local organizations guished for its free and impartial edito- for assistance to protect the editorial rial policy, which was many times praised independence of the company. by local and international authoritative The statement reads that the Adjara organizations. TV and Radio Advisory Board on Wednes- Questions were raised after Natia day made a decision regarding staff Kapanadze, Director of the broadcaster, changes which, according to the state- was impeached by the Board of Advi- ment, “restricts the editorial independ- sors in April 2019. The Board failed to ence of news staff.” elect a new Director General a number “The abolition of the position of deputy of times, but after half a year, Giorgi chief of news service, occupied by Maia Kokhreidze was elected as the new Merkviladze, is a direct attack on the director. The process of electing the editorial policy,” the employees say. new director raised suspicion among The staff explains that disciplinary civil society and the TV staff that the proceedings were launched against process may have been orchestrated by Image source: batumelebi.netgazeti.ge Shorena Ghlonti, the Head of the News the government. say Zoidze's resignation was evaluated those members who were selected “It is particularly noteworthy that Adjara Service, which has further exacerbated The non-governmental sector says that negatively by international organization through the quota of the ruling party TV is a publicly-funded broadcaster, suspicions that the management of the Kokhreidze expressed his discontent Reporters Without Borders, which linked Georgian Dream) to stop the persecu- which was founded with the aim to air broadcaster want to bring new people with the Adjara TV journalists on the the above to increased political pressure tion of employees who are critical of the impartial and diverse programs that into the organization that are “desirable very fi rst day of his coming there, and on state-owned media in Georgia. management; to adopt all decisions would be free of infl uence and would for the management.” soon presented a reorganization plan, The non-governmental sector noted through discussion and broad consensus serve public interests. In order to ensure The employees of the channel claim which some of the staff suspected was that recent reports of planned staff so as not to deepen further the mistrust this function, the TV channel has a num- that after the company’s ridding itself of an attempt to rid the channel of “unde- changes in the TV company, disciplinary between management and staff, and to ber of obligations under legislation, full Maia Merkviladze, the editorial staff of sired employees” and to change the edi- proceedings against the head of the news address the questions of the public con- fulfi llment of which is essential given Shorena Glonti will be also removed torial policy. service and the expected removal of one cerning the independence of the TV the polarized media environment in the from the editorial policy department. Deputy Director Natia Zoidze there- of the presenters of the Hashtag program station,” the TI-Georgia statement reads. country,” Lomjaria stated. “We believe that the situation created after repeatedly stated that she was being are particularly worth noting. Georgia’s Public Defender, Nino Lom- The Ombudsman also called on the in Adjara TV and Radio in the year of pressured by the director to digress from NGO Transparency International (TI) jaria, also made a comment on the Adjara Board of Advisors of Adjara TV to crit- the parliamentary elections aims at the editorial policy. Later, she was Georgia expressed its solidarity with the TV and Radio case, saying the recent ically review the proposed staff changes removing unwanted staff, especially removed from the management of edi- employees of Adjara TV. developments raise suspicion about an and make a reasoned decision aimed at critical journalists,” the statement reads. torial policy on the broadcasting plat- “We call on the director of Adjara TV attempt to change the editorial policy dissolving doubts and ensuring the The staff addressed the diplomatic forms and eventually quit her job. NGOs and the Advisory Council (especially of the critical media outlet. smooth functioning of the TV Company. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 On the Georgian Strategy Towards the Occupied Regions

OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI

he Russia-occupied Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions remain a major problem for Tbilisi. Diplomatic attention to economic resources of the Tstate is diverted towards these two terri- tories. Though there is at times much pes- simism among the Georgian population as to how the two regions can ever be re- engaged, there are several long-term trends (conditioning the future of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region) which could provide Tbilisi with powerful tools to increase its infl uence in the two territories:

ECONOMIC UNDER- DEVELOPMENT World powers and even regional players will be increasingly hesitant to provide any economic incentives to the two regions. The Tskhinvali region’s fate is especially diffi cult, as the region mostly borders Georgia proper and has no access to any other state except for Russia. Abkhazia, meanwhile, is in a relatively better position as it enjoys sea access and its tiny diaspora in Turkey can pro- vide limited economic support. Still, any serious economic lifeline is unlikely to be provided to Abkhazia. The US factor will remain a major hindrance, as the country would sanction any state which provides direct economic support to Georgia’s territories.

STEEP POPULATION DECLINE There is a steep population decline in Abkhazia. Photo by Mike Goldwater the Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions. The decline will further complicate THE GEOGRAPHIC FACTOR fl ict, the struggle for historic truth is which can provide Sokhumi and Tskh- mer Soviet space. There is a rising fatigue already low chances of the two regions Whatever the number of Russia’s mili- nevertheless a signifi cant battleground invali with meaningful support. What is with fi nancing the Abkhazian and Osse- developing economically. The popula- tary installations in Abkhazia and Tskh- to be won. The very fact that both regions troublesome in this scenario is the lack tian political elites, which have become tion there is mostly goes to Russia and invali, the two are geographic continu- were always populated mostly by Geor- of diversifi cation of foreign contacts. increasingly predatory over the past two supports its families back in the two ations of the rest of Georgia. Moreover, gians and were the place where the Ossetians and especially the Abkhazians decades or so. Russians will be more regions through remittances. The decline the two are divided from the north by creation of the unifi ed Georgian mon- clearly see what this is fraught with: loss hesitant to spend indiscriminetly on the also means that there are little, if any, the Caucasus range, which in the long- archy took place in the 10th century, of national languages and virtual Rus- Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, as there chances for the regions be a part of the run signifi es that Tskhinvali’s and Sokhu- points to Abkhazia and Tskhinvali being sifi cation (which has already taken place has been little progress made on the local developing road and railway infrastruc- mi’s attention will be always directed an integral part of the South Caucasus among the political and cultural elites), level with Russian money, which is mostly ture transcrossing the rest of Georgia. towards the south. and Georgia in particular. and exodus of the population to Russia. spent in corruption schemes. The declining population is also a sign All of this will complicate the two Still, this is not the whole story. Though These long-term developments open of signifi cant problems (with no real HISTORICAL ARGUMENTS regions’ hopes for building secure enti- heavily dependent on Russia, the latter a wide range of opportunities for Tbilisi hope for development) seen in worsen- Though many nowadays argue that his- ties. But this also means that in the long has been changing its attitude towards in the 2020s to increase its economic ing education and healthcare conditions. tory is of very little essence in this con- run, Russia will remain the only state separatists entities throughout the for- footprint in the occupied regions. EU, UNDP Reps on the Polarized Nature of Georgian Politics

tough situation. Although, we’ll see what which this polarization can be overcome, BY BEKA ALEXISHVILI can be done, I want to say that time is while further stating that Georgia’s running out. In order to make changes friend-nations are worried about the to the legislation, a core bilateral foun- current situation in Parliament. SFRC Staff Director Holds Meetings arl Hartzell, the Ambassa- dation must be sought, because the win- “I think Georgia had a diffi cult road to dor of the European Union dow of opportunity is closing. We are establishing its reputation and building to Georgia, commented on in coordination with all sides, to see the a democratic republic. Today, the coun- with Georgian Offi cials in Tbilisi the highly polarized nature opportunities we have. We are certain tries which are associates of Georgia are under Russia's illegal occupation,” read of Georgian politics and that successful completion of the dia- concerned about the overall situation BY BEKA ALEXISHVILI the statement. Csuggested what could be done to decrease logue will help sort out the issue of highly and specifi c occurrences happening in The statement issued by the Embassy the ideological gap. The Ambassador polarized politics,” said Hartzell. the Georgian Parliament. For example, further states what Mr. Socha had to say spoke with the Georgian media and con- Resident Representative of the United yesterday we were attending a hearing, enate the Foreign Relations about Georgia’s internal political prob- cluded that the main provision for suc- Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the seats apportioned to the opposi- Committee Staff Director, Chris lems, such as the issue of polarization cessful advancement is ‘dialogue’ between in Georgia, Louisa Vinton, also expressed tion were empty, which is quite hurtful. Socha, arrived in Tbilisi to and the legitimate functioning of Geor- the Government and the Opposition. concerns about the polarization in Geor- In order to overcome this polarization meet with Georgian adminis- gia’s democratic institutions. “As far as we know, presently there’s a gian politics. She stressed the ways in issue, different methods must be trative and opposition offi cials. “[Mr. Socha] also discussed concerns researched, for the Parliament to factu- SThe SFRC Staff Director met with the about a weakening of Georgian democ- ally continue its consensual workings,” Georgian Prime Minister Gakharia, as racy and governance and carried a Vinton noted. well as parliamentarians and NGO rep- clear message from the chairman of The Resident Representative also com- resentatives. the committee, US Senator Jim Risch mented on the elections. The US embassy issued a statement in (R-Idaho), that the United States sup- “I want to return to the issue about the which they summarize the formal meet- ports Georgia's democratic develop- elections. In this case, a very careful ings held with the Senate offi cial: “In all ment, but the institutions of govern- approach is necessary. We should not of his meetings, Mr. Socha reiterated the ment must respect everyone's think about who has what opinion on United States’ commitment to Georgia's political rights and continue to this or that issue, we must think about territorial integrity and its Euro-Atlantic strengthen the checks and balances what has already been done. What impres- integration. He specifi cally raised the that ensure government power is prop- sions are left, that’s what we should think situation in Abkhazia and South Ossetia erly constrained.” reads the statement. about.” states Representative Vinton. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 POLITICS 5 An Ex-President, Ex-PM & the Former Parliament Speaker All in One Party?

OP-ED BY ZAZA JGARKAVA

he former stars of the Geor- gian Dream are making a comeback to show business and are planning to coop- erate with the political Tmovement Lelo. Yet another ex-GD megastar is forecasted to return to the big scene, Irakli Alasania, but he has his own party so it is quite unlikely he’ll also be joining Lelo. In any case, the transfer window to Lelo will open this spring for everyone, even Alasania. The ex-Speaker of Parliament, Davit Usupashvili, was the fi rst to sign a con- tract with Lelo, joining the new political movement after the infamous election “trick” played by the Dream at the end of last year. Next in line are ex-President Margvelashvili and ex-PM Kvirikashvili, whose contract terms have yet to be revealed, but who, according to ongoing developments, seem very likely to end up in Lelo. What matters most is that our country, so that Georgia is formed his neutrality, which he has been able to The fi rst two answers were most popu- after his resignation, the bankers, his with Lelo we are getting a power in the as a pro-Western democracy,” Margve- maintain successfully for years. The Tbi- lar, however, the correct one is still native New Rights Party and most impor- election “market” whcapable of boldly lashvili told Palitra News. lisi elite looks at this important asset with unknown. Although the ex-PM is already tantly a group of MPs, announced their joining the “Battle of the Titans.” The rumors about Margvelashvili’s merciful eyes. Nevertheless, an advantage considered as a supporter of Lelo if not support, the latter still in parliament and The main messenger informing us of return to big politics fi rst spread when even more signifi cant is the Patriarchal a member, we shouldn’t forget that resign- waiting for his signal. Therefore, the the new political reality came from Giorgi he was still the President and could have locum tenens, Shio, who has been Marg- ing offi cials in this country tend to have ex-PM is as strong an asset for Lelo as Margvelashvili a few days ago, fi nally run for his second term. The political velashvili’s friend since childhood. Based only two choices: prison or politics. the ex-President. proving himself not to be made of “plas- establishment envisioned the creation of on these electoral treasures, it is easy to Imprisonment of the former mayor Gigi Today, Lelo is mainly comprised of ticine,” as he described himself earlier a new political center precisely around guess what sort of acquisition the fourth Ugulava for the second time once again Margvelashvili’s personnel, people who in his political career. “It is time to leave him, but the 4th president resigned as president embodies for Lelo. proved this. Hence, it can’t be ruled out are disappointed by Ivanishvili’s govern- our comfort zones and ove our country quietly as he had come, disappointing Former PM Kvirikashvili will also bring that the ex-PM’s road could lead to the ment. So it can be asserted that today away from this provincial dictatorship. everyone. Despite this, the idea of the quite an important benefi t for Lelo. Two Matrosov Prison instead of Lelo’s head- Lelo is the bigger competitor of the I urge everyone, be they Giorgi Kviri- formation of the that political center years ago, when he resigned, everyone quarters. Ivanishvili’s scandalous inter- Dream, rather than the United National kashvili, Irakli Alasania or others, eve- around him remained, not only within wanted to know where he would go, and view supports this opinion, seeing him Movement or European Georgia, who ryone who stood before 2012 and created the opposition but also within the gov- there were four possible answers: a) accuse the PM of making 700 million have their own electorate and aren’t the 1st of October: we are all obliged to ernment. Margvelashvili’s chief asset is politics b) prison c) home d) abroad. disappear. Despite these accusations, planning to leave the arena anytime soon. GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 President Addresses WHO, UN, CoE on Seizure of Georgian Meds in S. Ossetia

Medicines with annotation in the BY ANA DUMBADZE Georgian language have been banned from two pharmacies in the Russian- occupied Tskhinvali (South Ossetia). he President of Georgia, The seized medicines include Vol- Salome Zurabishvili, has taren, Flu Cold, Crestor, Hemoral, sent letters to the Director- Tolarin Plus, and more- Russian media General of the World reports. Health Organization, the This is not the sole case of pharma- UNT High Commissioner for Human cies undergoing inspections and con- Rights and the Council of Europe Com- fi scations of Georgia-made products in missioner for Human Rights in connec- the Russian-occupied territory. The sale tion with the seizure of Georgia-pro- of Georgia-produced medicine (along duced edication in Russian-occupied with other products) has been prohib- Tskhinvali region, the President's admin- ited in Tskhinvali, conforming to a istration reports. resolution adopted by the region’s de- In the letters, the President of Georgia facto Ministry of Internal Affairs in also notes that in addition to the seizure, 2006. The resolution likewise forbids the crossing point to Akhalgori, a town the import and sale of meat, alcohol, in so-called South Ossetia, is closed, non-alcoholic beverages, mineral water which has directly led to a humanitar- and other produce from Georgia. ian crisis on the ground. In response to the above-mentioned, Due to this situation, the population State Minister for Reconciliation and living in the occupied territories and Civic Equality of Georgia, Ketevan especially pensioners, those suffering The President points out that by block- right to health, the right to life and the sioners to respond to the situation in Tsikhelashvili, said this is “a deliberate from chronic diseases and in need of ing the crossing point and banning the right to freedom of movement, are the occupied territories of Georgia and policy” of Russia-controlled Tskhinvali permanent medical treatment, are in use of Georgia-produced medicines, restricted. the closing of the crossing point within aimed at “cutting ties and contacts with diffi cult conditions. fundamental human rights, such as the The President called on the commis- their capabilities and competence. the rest of Georgia, at any price.” Georgian FM: Despite External Shocks Georgia’s Economy Showed Resilience

that last year was manifested by sub- BY BEKA ALEXISHVILI stantial positive advances, which was greatly due to improved revenue and tax system management. eorgia’s Finance Minister, “We planned the budget for 2019 with Ivane Machavariani, states 4.5% of economic growth, and despite that despite internal incon- internal disparities and external shocks, sistencies and external our economy showed signifi cant resil- shocks, Georgia’s econ- ience. As a consequence, according to omyG showed important ‘resilience’ in the preliminary data, economic growth 2019. hit 5.2%. The sustainability of our coun- The Finance Minister spoke at the try's economy was highlighted in the plenary session of Parliament in the reports of the three most trusted rating ‘Hour of the Minister’ format. Machavar- companies. Along with the implemented iani said that the country's progressive reforms, the sustainability of the econ- economic indicators and economic omy is one of the most important com- durability could be visualized in the ponents, due to which, all three com- offi cial assessments of international panies raised our sovereign rating,” the rating companies. The FM further stated Finance Minister said at the hearing. Vakhtang Gomelauri Appointed Secretary of Georgia’s National Security Council

I present to you a new Secretary of the BY ANA DUMBADZE Security Council, Interior Minister Vakh- tang Gomelauri. "I congratulate Mr. Gomelauri on his akhtang Gomelauri, the appointment to this important and Minister of Internal Affairs responsible position. Of course, at the of Georgia, has been same time, he serves as the Minister of appointed as the Secretary Internal Affairs of Georgia, which means of the country’s National that the functionality [of his position], VSecurity Council, Georgian Prime Min- as well as effort, will be increased and ister Giorgi Gakharia announced at the more effective," PM said. Executive Government Meeting this The post of the secretary of the Secu- week. rity Council was occupied by Levan ”The Security Council is a vitally impor- Izoria, who resigned a few weeks ago. tant body, especially today; one that is Izoria is to be appointed Georgian Ambas- expected to work and function effectively. sador to Germany. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 BUSINESS 7 Winners of Media Competition 'Journalists for CSR 2019' Awarded n February 18, the Center Since January 2017, a consortium led for Strategic Research and by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, in part- Development of Georgia nership with Georgian civil society (CSRDG) awarded the organizations: Center for Strategic winners of media compe- Research and Development (CSRDG), titionO - “Journalists for Corporate Social Civil Society Institute (CSI), Center for Responsibility 2019”. The competition Training and Consultancy (CTC) and was held within the framework of the Education Development and Employ- “Georgian Civil Society Sustainability ment Center (EDEC), has been imple- Initiative” funded by the European Union menting the Georgian Civil Society and co-funded by Konrad-Adenauer- Sustainability Initiative (CSSIGE) in Stiftung, while the award ceremony was order to address key challenges of the held at the Writer’s House in Tbilisi. Georgian civil society sector. 5 journalists were awarded for their The project is funded by the European works featuring CSR topics in the fol- Union and co-funded by Konrad-Ade- lowing categories: nauer-Stiftung. Best TV report: Manana Gigineishvili, The Center for Strategic Research and First Channel - http://bit.ly/3229cJM Development of Georgia, which was Best Radio coverage: – Nino Khugash- established in 1995, has a successful multi- vili, Radio Imedi - http://bit.ly/2vHv2pU year experience in the fi eld of civil sector Best Online/printed article: Katie Ruth prizes (1,500 GEL). The partner company inculcating the concept of CSR and its 'Journalists for Corporate Social development in Tbilisi as well as in the Davies, Georgia Today-http://bit. of the award - Japan Tobacco International right understanding in society. Therefore Responsibility' is the fi rst competition regions of Georgia. CSRDG has been ly/2P3OBiY (JTI) nominated two journalists – Shorena CSDRG counts multiple years of active of its kind, successfully implemented by focused on results that can improve the Best multimedia, video material: Nino Labadze, (Kviris Palitra) and Vakhtang work with central and regional media CSRDG for the second year in a row. lives of individuals and societies in gen- Vartapetiani, TV Borjomi http://bit. Daraselia (Fortuna) - who, with the sup- to raise awareness about CSR.” The purpose of the award is to promote eral. It was the fi rst Georgian organization ly/328B9Qb port of JTI, will attend the European Dominika Skubida, Attaché, Program active and accurate media coverage of that prepared and published: the sustain- Best blog: Marika Mchedlidze, Forbes Publishing Congress held in May 2020 Manager for Civil Society of European CSR and raise awareness on the CSR ability report in accordance with GRI Georgia - http://bit.ly/326wTAB in Vienna, an outstanding event with the Delegation to Georgia stated: “Coverage concept and its understanding through (Global Reporting Initiative) sustainabil- The competition was announced earlier participation of media professionals from of the Corporate Social Responsibility media. The competition was preceded ity reporting guidelines; the fi rst Georgian- in 2019, while submissions were evaluated all over the world discussing present by media constitutes a far-reaching with a number of training and consulta- language textbook on CSR for higher by an independent jury comprised of challenges and achievements of media. incentive for business for complying tion meetings both with central as well educational institutions; and comprehen- prominent journalists and CSR experts. During the award ceremony, Eka Uru- with human rights, labor and environ- as regional media. The competition is sive analytical research on “Corporate A total of 36 materials were submitted by shadze, executive director of the CSRDG, mental standards, as well as for better organized within the framework of the Social Responsibility and Public Sector’s 33 journalists across Georgia. welcomed the guests: “The role of media addressing consumers’ needs and sup- Georgian Civil Society Sustainability Role” (analysis and recommendations for Winners were awarded with monetary is extremely important in the process of porting socio-economic development.” Initiative. the government of Georgia). AREA EXPO 2020 - The Largest Real Estate Exhibition-Sale in Georgia

rea Expo 2020, Georgia’s number of projects presented this year. persons whose business is related to the largest real estate exhibi- These two days allow attendees to see real estate sector. Here, one can observe tion-sale, will take place on ongoing projects in different neighbor- market trends, discover business players April 4-5 at the Sheraton hoods and regions, all in one space. in the fi eld, and choose a business part- Grand Tbilisi Metechi Pal- Potential clients can evaluate the choice ner to invest in a real estate business. Aace. Area Group is holding the event for of apartments or other types of property The business forum and talk series will the third time in Tbilisi. for sale and thus save time. They can provide an overview of the fi eld, and this To fi nd out why we should mark this compare terms, and compare developer year's theme is ‘Innovations in Develop- date on the calendar as a must-see event, bids to fi nd solutions best tailored to ment,’ with speakers from both local and GEORGIA TODAY spoke to Tamar their needs. international industries. These are help- Mashava, the Group Director. To simplify the fi nal stage, that is, the ful resources from real estate profes- buying process, banks are also repre- sionals, who gather in one space to offer AREA EXPO IS BEING HELD FOR sented at the exhibition, and consumers tips for making a real estate investment THE THIRD TIME THIS YEAR. THE can control access to fi nancial resources. profi table, choosing the right apartment, EXHIBITION-SALE IS BECOMING Our pivotal aim is to facilitate the best and more. A TRADITION. COULD YOU deal possible between a developer and We try our best to equip market play- TELL US ABOUT THE EVENT? a real estate seeker, and to ensure a ers, product creators and consumers Area Expo is a platform whereby Geor- streamlined communication. with useful and necessary information. gian developers get a chance to offer special prices and terms to those inter- AREA EXPO OFFERS THE EVENT IS SUPPORTED ested in purchasing residential or com- INNOVATIONS ON AN ANNUAL BY THE MINISTRY OF mercial spaces. Area Expo represents BASIS. WHAT ARE YOUR ECONOMY AND SUSTAINABLE an annual exhibition-sale where the PLANS FOR THIS YEAR? DEVELOPMENT. CAN YOU developers and fi nancial institutions To effectively implement our goals, we TELL US ABOUT YOUR presented on the Georgian market gather have invited My Home Real Estate's COOPERATION WITH THEM? in one space to provide access to diverse largest digital platform as a General Yes, we are pleased that the Ministry of products and fi nancial resources for Partner of the event to pre-deliver indi- Economy annually represents state- people interested in acquiring real estate. vidual offerings to participating devel- owned property that is prepared for The exhibition is likewise interesting opers on their projects, in line with the investment, and offers interesting poten- for those who want to fi nd information specifi c customer preferences; major tial to those interested in investing in about the real estate market and study emphasis will be on sites, budget, func- Georgia. The National Agency for State it. tional loading of the buildings, and more. Management is our constant partner and At the same time, a new registration ensures that the country's investment HOW DOES PARTICIPATING feature has been added to areaexpo.ge, potential is presented to interested par- IN THE EVENT ASSIST CLIENTS enabling registered visitors to pre-deter- ties. IN PURCHASING A FLAT OR mine their preferences; we then provide OTHER TYPE OF REAL ESTATE? information about the participating HALF A MONTH IS LEFT BEFORE Buying real estate is a complex process, developers 1-2 weeks before the exhibi- THE EXHIBITION. CAN YOU TELL requiring a lot of time, energy and atten- tion. US WHO IS PARTICIPATING? tion to minor details. The competition Exhibitors from both large and medium- is fi erce, and the choice is quite varied, AREA EXPO DOES NOT MERELY sized developers are taking part in the making professional consultant advice FOCUS ON THE REAL ESTATE exhibition, so the choice really is impres- and their projects to your readers. developers took part, presenting more vital. Searching on a one-to-one basis is EXHIBITION, BUT ALSO ENTAILS sive and meets the needs of any user. Area Expo has become a tradition. This than 100 projects in total. The develop- a lot more time-consuming; but the expo A BUSINESS FORUM. WHO IS The registration of participants has not year will mark the third largest exhibi- ers included Unixdeveloper, Binadary, area brings together developers, with YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE APART yet been completed, so we will refrain tion-sale of real estate. Also interesting Owen Capital, York Towers, as well as customers having immediate access to FROM THOSE INTERESTED IN from disclosing the complete list, how- are the Area Expo 2019 statistics, an event developers working in Batumi. The num- up to 100 projects. PURCHASING REAL ESTATE? ever, in your subsequent releases, you which was also held at the Sheraton ber of visitors in two days climbed to We expect a signifi cant increase in the Area Expo is an interesting space for will doubtless present the participants Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace. About 30 2000 interested persons. GEORGIA TODAY 8 BUSINESS FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 Beeline Introduces Updated Website with Additional Features

Visit Our Updated Website

features, the website is tailored to the want. Existing Beeline subscribers can subscribers will be happy to hear about to the company contributed signifi cantly BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI needs of the user and is much simpler also quickly and easily perform transac- is the Beeline computer game, which to the creation of the new Beeline web- to use. The updated website integrates tions, such as money transfer, automatic gives users the ability to earn mobile site, seeing it updated to meet the best all of the company's products and ser- payment and credit activation, or pur- internet. The game is available on the interests and needs of Beeline clients. eeline, a member of the vices into one space, enabling custom- chasing of voice and mix packages from updated website and new versions are Beeline continues to create and develop international group VEON, ers to perform operations quickly and both their mobile and bank card accounts. planned for the future. The website is digital products and will offer many introduced a modern, easily. With the integrated “Personal Cabinet”, adapted for both smartphone and tablet innovations in the future. This will include updated website that meets Any visitor to the website can learn customers can check their personal data screens. an updated version of MyBeeline's modern, digital require- about Beeline services, easily purchase and balance. Subscribers who participated in the favorite Android app, among other Geor- ments.B With new design and additional a SIM card and activate the package they Another interesting piece of news that relevant study and provided feedback gian ones. TBC & Tbilisi Wine Museum Host Meeting for Wine Sector Representatives

BC Capital has presented emaking is expected to decline. Ben- Wine Sector Research efi cial for the sector is the gradual to help companies and growth of organized viniculture, which entrepreneurs to dis- will increase the average productivity cover up-to-date market of vineyards in the country. Tinformation and sector development “TBC is the leading fi nancer of the potential. wine industry, accounting for more The Tbilisi Wine Museum opened than 50% of the market share,” says its doors to TBC and Maidan Group the Deputy CEO of TBC Bank, Giorgi and hosted an Adriatic Capital event Tkhelidze. “We actively cooperate a few weeks before its offi cial open- with international institutions and ing. government programs to provide Pursuant to the research conducted best funding opportunities for the by TBC Capital, total exports of sector. Along with standard banking Georgian wine increased by 13.2% products, TBC offers international in 2019 (compared to 2018), to reach winemaking guarantees and inter- $222.9 million. According to the study, national credentialing services to there is a positive trend of export facilitate trade and export operations. growth being seen in the Georgian Our research provides a trustworthy wine markets, although dependence basis for determining the sector's on foreign markets is still high. Inter- growth potential. The culture of wine esting export countries for Georgian consumption is improving on the wine are: Germany, USA, China, local market and, with the rapid Japan, and Poland. growth of tourism, the potential of In line with the survey, there are cur- local sales is more and more promis- rently 5.2 tons of vineyards per hectare ing”. in Georgia on average; large companies Since 2017, TBC Capital has been produce 8-9 tons, and a third of wine an advisory arm of TBC Bank offer- production is maintained by domestic ing fi nancial consulting, corporate winemakers. Yet, in parallel with the advisory, rating services, bond issu- growth of urbanization and formal ance, sector research and brokerage production, the share of family win- solutions to its clients. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 SOCIETY 9 The Travel Book Launch Reception on Georgia & Armenia

he Danish edition of Politiken (a lead- ing Danish daily newspaper) has pro- duced a 144-page travel book about Georgia and Armenia - two of the oldest Christian nations in the world. TThe book provides plentiful insights into the his- tory, geography, culture and traditions of the two countries and is intended primarily for those who plan to travel there. The book also aims to draw the attention of Danish citizens to the skyrocket- ing tourism opportunities in the two countries. "Politiken now features for the fi rst time a solid guide book on Georgia and Armenia, available in book stores from early March. The travel guide, written by Tom Trier and Søren E. Hansen, zooms in on the two small countries in the South Cauca- sus. With short but insightful introductions to society and culture, it provides a wealth of back- ground and also practical information for the trave- ler and introduces the most important sights, including UNESCO world heritage churches and monasteries, spectacular mountain hiking routes and some of the best restaurants, eateries and vine- yards the South Caucasus has to offer," reads the Facebook post by the Embassy of Georgia to the Kingdom of Denmark. The travel book launch reception is scheduled for March 19 15:00-17:00 and is hosted by the Embassy of Georgia to the Kingdom of Denmark. Address: Kalvebod Brygge 45, 1560 Copenhagen Tbilisi City Hall to Redeem Saburtalo Tennis Courts

Located in one of the oldest and most picturesque districts of Tbilisi, Mtatsminda and distinguished for its fairytale architecture, restaurant Funicular opened its doors to guests for the first time eight decades ago in 1938 and since then has hosted several honorable guests, from Margaret Thatcher to Indira Gandhi and Fidel Castro. young people grew up there, including successful BY ELENE DZEBISASHVILI athletes. The government sold the area to a Kazakh company in 2009 and buildings were to be built on If you are looking for authentic experience of Tbilisi, served with the site. The investor lawfully took hold of the land mouth-watering gourmet food and a memorable evening in an bilisi City Hall has redeemed Sabur- and requested to construct residential buildings. atmosphere that lets you travel back in time and experience talo tennis courts from a Kazakh com- With our involvement, the process was ceased due best of what the city could offer, then Restaurant Funicular is a pany, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze to the great dissatisfaction from the population, said at Thursday's government meet- who demanded the courts to be redeemed, "Kaladze definite must visit place during your visit to Georgia. ing. He noted that a sports complex said. Twith four tennis courts and a swimming pool is “We want to announce a tender for a sports com- planned for the site. plex with four tennis courts, one outdoor or indoor +995 032 2 98 00 00 “The previous government engaged in yet another swimming pool and a gym to be set up at this loca- +995 577 74 44 00 shameful act that deals with the tennis courts at tion. I'm sure this will be interest many investors. [email protected] the intersection of Saburtalo Street and Bakhtrioni Next week all due documentation will be ready,” Street. Many people enjoyed these courts; many Kaladze added. GEORGIA TODAY 10 SOCIETY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 Sleeves Up: Etseri, Svaneti into workable clay simply by putting back that water. Fire it to a high enough initial temperature, though, and you permanently change its chemical com- position, driving out all remaining H2O: bisque or biscuit fi ring. Then, after glaz- ing it if desired, you can fi re it again, hotter, to about 1000-1150 degrees C for earthenware, over 1200 degrees for stone- ware and porcelain. At these tempera- tures some of the material in it actually ered tarpaulin under which is my fi re- very handsome cracks. Thrilling stuff, vitrifi es, or begins a bit of melting; once wood! It’s there waiting for me. if we can do it. cooled and hardens, the piece is now We’re not glazing yet, partly because The looks on young people’s faces as much stronger, as strong as it can get, the glazes are virtually impossible to clay responds to their touch are all the matured. come by in Georgia, and partly because reward they, and we, need. Last year I discovered, because it was I have no oven hot enough to do the too easy not to try, that my Svan wood- second fi ring. But we’re already thinking Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since burning stove will get hot enough for an about future clay camps, including an 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a earthenware bisque fi ring… and com- outdoor raku fi ring, which involves tak- weekly writer and photographer for GT since menced using it to do just that, with ing nearly red-hot pieces out of the kiln early 2011. He runs the “Svaneti Renais- everything we made. This time we plan with tongs, plunging it into a container sance” Facebook group, now with nearly to do the same. I’ve been storing cut and of combustible material like hay, letting 2000 members, at www.facebook.com/ for the fi rst time ever. (Most important split wood in a crawl space right under that catch fi re, then putting a lid on it. BLOG BY TONY HANMER groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ lesson, at the wheel as in life: if it’s cen- where the clay room is, accessed by a The fi re, trying to continue burning, He and his wife also run their own guest house tered, the possibilities are limitless; off- trapdoor. No more dressing to go out- takes oxygen from the piece’s glaze and in Etseri: center, and sooner or later it’ll betray doors and dig down to fi nd a snow-cov- deposits salts onto it, along with some www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti t’s been about a year since my friends you and fail). Occasional power outages brought a pottery wheel, quite a few don’t faze us: the generator takes over kilos of raw earthenware, and other and the wheels turn. The big Svan stove associated tools and supplies to our provides heat as necessary, along with house and gave the local children some blessed days of sunlight melting aI couple of weeks of intensive after-school the accumulated snow outside and warm- classes in ceramic arts. ing our hearts. They’re back now, with two wheels, Those who fell in love with ceramics 100 kg, and a whole lot more experience last time are back for more. Others who and expectation. Once again they have never gave themselves a turn at the wheel transformed one of our dining rooms are feeling the sheer, actual magic of that into a plastic-covered safe area for explor- lump responding to their hands, arms, ing and getting one’s hands “dirty” with fi ngers, growing up, shrinking down clay. This time, music plays in the back- again, opening out into a vessel. They’re ground and a slideshow offers inspira- hand-building too, with all sorts of instru- tion for young eyes and hands. ments to roll out, add texture, pierce, The children have been waiting for this carve. return for weeks, since we told them, Once everything is “bone dry”, when and are now several days into it. New no more water can come out of it at room ones are trying their hand at the wheel temperature, it can still be dissolved back

CULTURE Georgian Polyphony Given Status of ‘National Importance’

BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI

ntangible cultural heritage ‘Geor- gian Polyphony’ has been identi- fi ed, along with the tradition of the Georgian Supra (traditional feast- see page 16), as having the statusI of “national importance,” a fact that is expected to promote, preserve and transmit unique Georgian culture and traditions to future generations. Georgian polyphony, recognized by UNESCO in 2001 as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of Man- kind, has always been an integral part of the traditional musical culture and existence of the Georgian people. Through syncretistic forms typical of the pagan era, it expressed the features and representations of the vision of the world, fi rstly of the Kartvelian tribes and later of the Georgian nation. In the Christian era, it continued to be an integral part of both secular life and theological worship and, along with folk Image source: playbill.com performances, expressed the Christian outlook of the Georgian nation. Changes secular and theological polyphony. still exists in the form of performances. tion and represents one of the most Georgian polyphony was granted the in public life since the 1980s have also In some villages of Georgia, secular Due to its high artistic value, it currently important factors of the Georgian status of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ been refl ected in Georgian traditional polyphony, which is mostly original, performs an artistic and aesthetic func- national identity. in 2014. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 CULTURE 11 ‘IERI of 8 Infi nite Faces’ – Chubika’s Exhibition at the IERI Concept Store The performance-exhibition to be pre- sented to Georgian fashion and art enthu- siasts is called ‘IERI of 8 infi nite faces.’ It features a unique collection of rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces, which are made of brass and are plated in gold or silver. Each piece comes with a post- card signed by the designer herself. “These items are supposed to be visual metaphors of our collective unconscious, linked to mythological archetypes, which help us navigate between ideal and real, and embrace the hypnotism of mystery,” Chubika said of the pieces. The opening event of ‘IERI of 8 Infi nite Faces’ was held at the IERI fl agship store on February 20. For the night, IERI store transformed into a “Museum of Chubika”. Two dresses and eight jewelry pieces were presented in spotlights, accompa- nied by a mysterious audio show. If you weren’t there, no worries- the museum- like concept of the IERI store is on until the end of March. Visitors to IERI will be able to see not only the unique jew- elry pieces crafted by Chubika, but also get a glimpse of her famous sculpture called ‘Elena’. Chubika received her bachelor's degree in Stage and Costume Design at the Tbi- lisi State Academy of Arts, and her graduate degree in Fashion Design from the Institut Français de la Mode in Paris. Her shows and performances have been held in numerous countries, including France, the Netherlands, and Germany. She has worked with many fashion brands including Kenzo and Pierre Cardin, and has designed costumes for theater com- panies throughout Georgia. IERI store is a multifunctional concept- store that opened in May on the fi rst fl oor of the historic winery in Tbilisi. The opening of the store was followed by several pop-up projects in Tsinandali Estate during the Tsinandali Festival of classical music, in Republic and in City Mall Tbilisi. The store has a special name. The word IERI can’t be translated from Georgian to English in just one word, as, in one word, it means: look, appearance, image, outfi t, and attitude. It’s a brand new con- cept for Tbilisi- a store, a gallery, a cof- fee-spot, and a wine-bar. Anka Tsitsish- vili, a well-known fashion expert, is the creative director and buyer of the IERI store. Sofi a Guguberidze, an international Image source: IERI expert in luxury business management, unique styles of jewelry made by Chubika is the project director. The design pro- BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE will be on at the IERI store from Febru- ject of the IERI store was made in coop- ary 21. eration with Georgian studio “OBJECTS” Nino is a conceptual artist who emerged owned by Keti Asatiani and Nuka Korin- ounded in May of last year, on the scene in 1991. Throughout the teli. IERI concept store has opened years, she has created many art perfor- The main aim of the IERI store is to many doors of perception in mances and shows around the world. change the stereotypical perception of Georgia’s understanding of One of the big names in the world of the country and to develop the fashion fashion and beauty. In an fashion that the Georgian artist has col- retail industry. It’s the fi rst store based Fattempt to brighten up what’s left of laborated with is Pierre Cardin, the in Tbilisi to gather all Georgian brands this gloomy February in Tbilisi, IERI renowned Italian-French fashion designer in one unique space. The team behind has collaborated with famous Georgian known for his avant-garde style. Later, IERI likes to call the space an “inspira- artist Nino Chubinishvili, also known Nino started experimenting and trans- tion spot” rather than just a concept as Chubika. The exhibition of eight mitting her art into objects. store. GEORGIA TODAY 12 CULTURE FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 Fresh Perspectives: A New Window on High-drama Caucasian History as Told by a Maker

Cholokashvili, administrator of the BY PETER SKINNER Eastern Georgian region centered on Tianeti, which included the remote deep-rural Tushin-Pshav-Khevsur dis- lmost all visitors to Geor- tricts, located high in the challenging gia (and its neighbors in Greater Caucasus range. He was the the Caucasus) report hav- ideal deputy: the prince enjoyed visit- ing had a great time –truly ing and feasting, leaving his young hospitable people, great assistant to administer justice, settle Ascenery, splendid food and wine, vibrant disputes among nobles, and ride out folklore, and exciting cultural and artis- with the militia against raiding high- tic life. But attempts to grasp even the landers – even supervising construction outline of Georgian-Caucasian history of the fi rst wheeled-vehicles road from – even recent history – pose problems. Tianeti to Tbilisi, opening up the region There’s too much of it: Imperial Russia to trade and prosperity. Zisserman invading in 1800; a Georgian republic worked hard to learn fl uent Georgian in 1918-1921; Soviet occupation from and also began making notes on highly 1921-1991; today’s new republic . . . And traditional local life, particularly that what about day-to-day events in Geor- of the highlanders, while also recording gia and beyond; the lives of diverse the often horrifi c events of the drawn- peoples; the traditional cultures; and out Russian-Muslim war, in which the not least, the epic war Imperial Russian great guerrilla leader Shamil led the waged against the Muslim highlanders highlanders. – in Azerbaijan, Chechnya, Dagestan? In 1846 Zisserman had a fortunate And where can a manageable account meeting with the farsighted and liberal be found? Prince Voronstov, Viceroy of the Cau- Truly readable narratives are few casus, when he provided a simultaneous indeed – and almost all in Russian. J. F. translation into Georgian of a speech Baddeley’s admired classic, The Rus- the latter was delivering in Russian. sian Conquest of the Caucasus (1908), Vorontsov recognized Zisserman’s intel- is a military history primarily covering ligence and – despite an immense dif- the mid-1700s to 1859, when the Muslim ference in background and rank – became guerilla leader Shamil surrendered; a well-disposed supporter of the younger Baddeley’s ethnographically-oriented man. The Rugged Flanks of the Caucasus Unfortunately, Prince Cholokashvili (1940) collects pioneering regional trips died in 1847, and his successor was he made between 1898 and 1902. And, hostile to Zisserman, making his life of course, Baddeley wrote as a visitor, as hard and offi ce-bound as possible. not as a resident. Nonetheless Zisserman engineered Is there any hope of fi nding a solid long absences in the fi eld, surviving slice of superbly exciting, action-packed, many adventures, variously reconnoi- high adventure in the Caucasus – a feet- tering mountain routes, meeting mak- on the-ground, I-was-there narrative, ers and shakers in Tbilisi, and explor- but in English? Yes, there is: with the ing Pshavi, Khevsureti and Tusheti in publication of the two very engaging the remote and rugged mountainous volumes of Twenty-Five Years in the northeast, where he carefully compiled Caucasus, 1842-1867, which the much- important ethnographic notes. He also traveled Arnold Zisserman wrote dur- gave much thought – and made many ing his retirement. They were published incisive comments – on the conduct in Russian in 1879, but are now available of the Russian-Caucasian war, and in a fi rst-time English translation – and Shamil’s strategies and tactics. His gifts they come with extras: 352 period illus- of acute observation, of capturing per- trations, 17 maps, appendixes, bibliog- sonalities (particularly those of obnox- raphies and indexes. No other work ious and misguided senior military available in English is so far-ranging, offi cers) and incisive reporting shine vivid and rewarding as this near-ency- through his memoirs. Above all, Zis- clopediac account of a quarter-century serman is far from being any sort of of travel, war, danger and escape through- offi cial propagandist: he is at times out the length and breadth of the Cau- critical of the platitudes about Impe- casus – from the Black to the Caspian rial Russia’s mission civilisatrice. Sea; from the snow-capped peaks of the In 1848 Zisserman secured a new job, Greater Caucasus to the hidden valleys that of police-chief in the dangerous of Dagestan. Sultanate of Elisu, in Azerbaijan, where Russian Empire – the key to Russia’s Chechnya. His thoughtful assessments from a useful ethnohistorical introduc- But who was Zisserman? And why do his predecessor had been killed in action standing among nations. The Army of of Shamil and Hadji Murad in part run tion to these frontier regions. his memoirs merit an English-language against the Muslim highlanders. In his the Caucasus saw itself as even more counter to the received pictures – and Zisserman also describes relaxing edition 122 years after their original new post Zisserman was now fully prestigious and privileged – and the it is of interest that Tolstoy consulted side-trips in Georgia to Tbilisi and to publication? It’s simplest to say he was embroiled in an unending Russian cam- engaging tales of Marlinsky, Lermontov with Zisserman when writing his great Imereti and Kutaisi (where he escorted an exceptional young man who carved paign to crush Muslim resistance to the and Tolstoy added glamor. novella Hadji Murad. the future Tsar Alexander II), to the out a career as an administrator, mili- occupation of their lands. Though events A number of Russian generals wrote What adds depth, breadth and value Caspian Sea and historic Derbend, to tary offi cer, strategist, explorer and – most of them better termed adven- their memoirs, with different degrees to Zisserman’s narrative is the extent Vladikavkaz and on to the fashionable ethnographer in the Caucasus, driven tures – followed thick and fast, with of propagandistic strutting and self- to which it captures the human (some- spa towns of Pyatigorsk and Kislovodsk by his inherent qualities of imagination, Muslim raids, fi eld expeditions, meet- justifi cation, infl ating the numbers of times scarcely human) aspects not only in Russia’s North Caucasus region. Nor curiosity, energy, courage, and compe- ings with generals and with Viceroy Muslim highlanders killed and minimiz- of army life in forts and on campaign is the reader denied knowledge of what tence. For the record, Arnold Zisserman, Vorontsov among them. Finally, with ing Russian losses – and also the immense but also of ordinary Caucasian life, fi lled the literary and news journals that born in 1824 to a German émigré physi- the personal help of well-placed Geor- collateral destruction wreaked on high- whether in the mountains or on the arrived belatedly from Russia or the cian practising in Kamenets-Podolsky, gian generals and that of the Viceroy landers’ families, children and food plains; whether at weddings and funer- social life of the offi cers’ mess, which in the then Russian province of Ukraine. himself, Zisserman achieved his great- sources. Zisserman is virtually unique als, festivals and feasts or during feuds. ran to banquets, even theatrical perfor- At age 9 he became fascinated by mili- est ambition: Emperor Nicholas I com- in describing the abilities and charac- Zisserman is rightly recognized as an mances and much horseplay – to say tary parades and soon thereafter – like missioned him as a military offi cer. For ters of generals (Bariatinski, Evdokimov, acutely observant though not profes- nothing of episodes of neurotic excess Tolstoy and Turgenev – became an avid a civilian of modest birth – despite pio- Muraviev, Vorontsov, Vrevsky, Wrangel sionally trained ethnographer – and his from chronically alcoholic or clinically reader of the exiled Alexander Marlin- neering achievements and action in the and Yermolov among them), and pro- accounts are often cited by later experts. depressed offi cers. sky’s highly colorful tales of life in the fi eld and subsequent awards – this was vides human detail not found elsewhere. Throughout Zisserman’s text the reader Zissserman is a sane, sober but criti- exotic Caucasus. During his 17th year an almost unheard-of transition. Even more importantly he writes of the feels he is present, whether on a razor- cal observer of a great contest: imperial he applied for a government job in the Service in the Dagestan Infantry Reg- Georgian and Caucasian-born generals sharp ice-clad ridge during a blizzard, might vs the Caucasians’ inextinguish- seething multicultural Eurasian city of iment gave Zisserman a broader canvas – Andronikov, Argutinski-Dolgoruki, on the plains in scorching heat, crossing able yearning for independence. We are Tbilisi (Tifl is to the Russians) – and of experience to survey and record in Bebutov, the Chavchavadzes, Eristov, torrential rivers, or standing guard in fortunate to have his ever-colorful before his 18th birthday made the his unique memoir. In every way, the the Orbelianis and others. the fi eld, ever-alert for midnight raid- account and unique insights. exhausting 2000 km stagecoach journey Russian Army was a world unto itself, Zisserman also provides insightful ers. Readers travel far beyond Georgia, to begin unhappily clerking away in the distinctly different to and deemed by portraits of Imam Shamil who, leading accompanying Zisserman on arduous Twenty-Five Years in the Caucasus, 1842- Imperial government’s dreary Offi ce of many to be superior to the civilian world; some 12,000 to 20,000 Muslim highland- journeys into turbulent Chechnya, into 1867, by Arnold L. Zisserman Abandoned Property. it saw itself not only as the sword and ers, held down c. 200,000 Russians for war-torn Ossetia (where he optimisti- (2 Vols with 352 added illustrations and In 1843, at 19, Zisserman secured the shield of the sacred Tsar, but as the very 30 years while operating in regions as cally built churches) and into still 17 maps) will soon be available at Pros- post of an assistant to Prince Mikheil bedrock and sustaining force of the distant as southern Dagestan and untamed Dagestan – and they benefi t pero’s Bookshop, 34 Rustaveli Avenue. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 CULTURE 13 Paint the World International Concert

“We put together a program and invited INTERVIEW BY NINI guests that could help the kids feel DAKHUNDARIDZE uplifted and cheerful. In total, we hosted 300 children from orphanages, centers for the deaf and blind, centers for chil- n February 15, an Interna- dren with autism and centers with chil- tional concert organized dren with disabilities. We also had 400+ by organization called youth volunteers from all over Malaysia, “Paint the World” took helping to us to bring it all together. place in Kuching, Malaysia. “We made everyone dance and sing all IfO you’re wondering why it should be an day long, showed performances and even interesting topic for GEORGIA TODAY, made the little guests participate in a here’s the twist: the founder of the Paint fashion show, where they had to walk the World organization, and hence, one alongside professional models. of the main organizers of the interna- “The message of the concert was to tional concert, is Lika Torikashvili, Geor- share knowledge about sustainability, gia’s Youth Ambassador to the United wildlife preservation, women’s right to Nations. education, youth leadership and entre- Lika told us that the international con- preneurship. We had guest speakers at cert featured many speakers from around the event- Young Peace activists and the globe, and brought colors to the lives Malala Yousafzai’s friends Kainat Riaz of young people with disabilities and and Shazia Ramzan. severe illnesses. But that’s not all. Get- “This year, the concert was supported ting to know the work Paint the World by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of is doing will revive your faith in human- Sarawak, Borneo, and we had the pleas- ity. So, to bring some colors into your ure to host the Minister of Youth, Datuk own life and read on. Karim, who is now a very good friend of Paint the World. It means a lot of us WHAT DOES THE PROJECT that now we have the offi cial support of YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING the Government of Malaysia”. ON AIM TO ACCOMPLISH? Lika shared with us, that she, too, had Paint the World - Gauperade Samkaro doubts about realizing her dream. But - was originally established in 2012. I was as she fought the hard current of chal- 14 at that time, and I wanted to fi nd a lenges, her story became an inspiration way to contribute to society. I noticed resources we had: made them dance, Atlantic College, I met my future best differences and showing the world that to many who want to make this world a that some people live “grey” or “black sing, organized carnivals and concerts, friend and soulmate Aziza Aznizan. differences must unite people, not sepa- better place. and white” lives, because they are suf- performed plays and held magic shows, Together, we decided that Paint the rate them. We not only paint the world, “A long time ago, I would have consid- fering or going through diffi cult times asked famous TV stars to join us and World needed to be an international but also promote peace and unity, because ered myself a dreamer. I wanted to paint and need support. That’s how the idea visit the kids with us. And every time, movement, because everyone needs without those the world will always lack the entire world. But today that is exactly was born “to paint the world”. I associ- we had tons of colorful objects with us- those colors of positivity, all around the color. what my friends and I are doing- not ate colors with happiness, and I thought balloons, facepaints, toys, and presents: world. only in Georgia, but internationally. We that my friends and I could fi nd more we wanted our visits to be very colorful, So, we decided to bring the idea of WHAT WAS THE CONCERT have run projects in countries like Kenya, like-minded young people and unite to metaphorically and literally. Soon, the Paint the World to Malaysia. Alongside ABOUT? WHO DO YOU PLAN Tanzania, Swaziland, Mozambique, Leb- bring colors, smiles and positivity. Our Movement went international and now the message of activism and empathy, TO BRING "COLORS" TO NOW? anon, Indonesia, Oman, Serbia, Spain, target was places where young people we have many supporters and various we also sent a message of peace. Aziza “We have been organizing a Paint the the UK, and Timor-Leste. And we don’t were undergoing treatment, or lacked branches around the world. and I are sending a very powerful mes- World Concert in Malaysia for the past plan to stop any time soon! support: we started going to orphanages, sage to the world. Aziza is a Muslim girl 4 years. “The story of Paint the World is a real hospitals, centers for young people with HOW DID MALAYSIA START from Malaysia; I am a Jew from Georgia. “The purpose of the concert is to life example that you must dare to dream disabilities, old folks’ houses. We painted TO “PAINT THE WORLD”? And we are painting the world brighten the day of young people with big- because dreams turn into goals and their world by using all the skills and When I left Georgia to study in UWC TOGETHER. We are celebrating our disabilities and severe illnesses. goals turn into reality.”

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Address: 17 Wine Ascent Tbilisi, Georgia Tel: (+995) 322 22 11 16 www.facebook.com/BricksTbilisi/ GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER Ekaterine Gabashvili, WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH of artistic or stylistic evolution Dato Japaridze Niniko Avaliani, Viqtoria Kosova, CENTURIES from the Roman Republic to Director: Bakur Bakuradze Tazo Kikalishvili NUMISMATIC TREASURY Neoclassical era. Start time: 19:30 TBILISI ZAKARIA Start time: 13:00 EXHIBITION STONE AGE Ticket: 10-30 GEL PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Price: 10 GEL GEORGIA SPHERO BALLET THEATER ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE City Mall Saburtalo, DJ. KAKHIDZE TBILISI 25 Rustaveli Ave. February 23 NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL Veranda, II Floor CENTER FOR MUSIC & TEL (+995 32) 2 99 04 56 DIVINE COMEDY COLLECTIONS CULTURE Based on the work of Dante Alighieri SPHERE 123a D. Agmashenebeli Ave. February 26, 27 Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze A domed cognitive-entertainment GAETANO DONIZETTI'S OPERA MUSEUM OF SOVIET Composer/arrange: Sandro space where you can become L'ELISIR D'AMORE OCCUPATION February 22 Nikoladze part of an impressive 360-degree Two-act ballet 4 Rustaveli Ave. CONCERT DEDICATED TO THE Choreographer: Lasha Robakidze panorama image. For all ages. A co-production of the Auditorio TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF Start time: 20:00 de Tenerife, Tbilisi Opera and www.museum.ge LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Price: 20 GEL TBILISI DIGITAL SPACE Ballet State Theater and Teatro Participants: Tbilisi Symphony Tbilisi Mall Comunale di Bologna The exhibition hall is equipped Orchestra, Georgian State Choir, Conductor: Levan Jagaev February 27 with monitors, where visitors pianist Giorgi Gigashvili and Stage Director: Pablo Maritano FAUST can see documentaries of various The fi rst museum of digital art in narrator David Pataridze Scenographer: Serena Rocco Based on the work of Johann historical events. Tbilisi, where you will meet three Program: Beethoven’s concerto Costume Designer: Lorena Marin Wolfgang von Goethe different spaces: Vazha-Pshavela's for piano and orchestra No.5; Lighting Designer: Virginio Levrio Director, Designer: Kakha Bakuradze MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS "Dried beech", the world of torches, Symphony No.4 of Johannes Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Composer: Sandro Nikoladze, Davit 10 Betlemi Str. and a digital space decorated with Brahms and “A survivor from Theater Choir and Orchestra Kakulia various graphic and visuals effects. Warsaw” for narrator, choir and Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 Discover the Museum of Illusions In the main hall decorated with symphony orchestra of Arnold Ticket: 10-200 GEL Price: 10, 15 GEL Be brave and jump into an illusion video projections and mirrors Schoenberg. created by the Vortex, deform the you will discover that there is no Conducter- Maestro Shavleg GABRIADZE THEATER Every Wednesday image of yourself in the Mirror boundary between Man and nature. Shilakadze 14 Shavteli Str. A LO CUBANO NIGHTS Room, free yourself in the Infi nity DIGITAL SHOW OF GUSTAV Start time: 19:30 Cuban dancers’ masterclass Room, resist the laws of gravity KLIMT Ticket: 10-30 GEL February 21, 22 Start time: 20:00 and size, and take selfi es in every Ticket: 5-20 GEL RAMONA Ticket: 10 GEL possible pose. Enjoy the collection SILK FACTORY STUDIO MUSIC Revaz Gabriadze of holograms and discover optical 59 M. Kostava Str. Directed by Revaz Gabriadze SHALIKASHVILI THEATER illusions. English Subtitles 37 Rustaveli Ave. RUSTAVELI THEATER February 21 GALLERY Start time: 20:00 TEL 595 50 02 03 GRAND HALL NIAZ DIASAMIDZE AND 33A Ticket: 20, 30 GEL 17 Rustaveli Ave. Start time: 20:00 February 21, 22 THE NATIONAL GALLERY Ticket: 40-60 GEL February 23 LIKE THIS 11 Rustaveli Ave. February 25 STALINGRAD Comedy genre novels based on TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 A CONCEPTUAL CONCERT OF COLIBRI Revaz Gabriadze Georgian national motives COMPOSER KETI GABISIANI Noe Jirdania Bank Directed by Revaz Gabriadze Language: Non-verbal GRAND MASTERS FROM THE Performers: Nato Metonidze, Liza English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 GEORGIAN Bagrationi, Nino Katamadze, Nukri February 21 Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL NATIONAL MUSEUM Kapanadze, Achiko Nizharadze, THE LEGEND OF HOUSE Ticket: 20, 30 GEL COLLECTION XIX – XX CENTURY Nodiko Tatishvili, Natia Peranidze, MUSIC– MUSEUM Giorgi Mephisashvili, Giorgi FRED P Until February 29 Kelaptrishvili, Liza Kalandadze, MOVEMENT THEATER Start time: 23:00 GEORGIAN NATIONAL Georgian National Museum and the Sopho Gelovani, ‘Shvidkatsa’, 182 Agmashenebeli Ave. Ticket: 40 GEL MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Embassy of Italy in Georgia present ‘Teatraluris Kvarteti’, ‘Quintessence’ MUSEUM the exhibition ROMA AETERNA. Special Performance: Giorgi February 23 TBILISI STATE MAGICAL NIGHTS 3 Rustaveli Ave. MASTERPIECES OF ROMAN Tsagareli, Papuna Sharikadze, Luka CONSERVATOIRE Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 SCULPTURE FROM THE DINO Topuria, Nino Guliashvili, Lasha 8 Griboedovi Str. Composer: Sandro Nikoladze, Davit www.museum.ge AND ERNESTA SANTARELLI Deisadze Kakulia FOUNDATION Musicians: Levan Deisadze, Paata February 26 Choreographer: Lasha Robakidze Exhibitions: National Gallery features 33 Andriadze, Zaza Tsertsvadze, Irakli DISCOVER GEORGIA WITH Starring: Jonathan Rousselle, GEORGIAN COSTUME AND sculptures depicting the stages Menteshashvili, Ucha Metreveli, TRADITIONAL MUSIC Audio album presentation and concert Participants: Folk Ensembles: ‘Adiley’, ‘Anchiskhati’, ‘Didgori’, ‘Conservatory Ensemble’, ‘Patara Kakhi’ and soloists. The concert will feature Georgian traditional music- folk and urban songs of different angles and moving tunes, church and chanting chants. Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 5-15 GEL

MOVEMENT THEATER 182 Agmashenebeli Ave.

JAM SESSION Improv music Every Tuesday Musical director- Sandro Nikoladze Start time: 21:00 Price: 10 GEL

February 22 RECITATIVE IN THE CITY BY KAKHA BAKURADZE ALBUM PRESENTATION Musical evening with a recital- Ticket: 5 GEL Album price: 30 GEL Start time: 20:00 GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 21 - 24, 2020 CULTURE 15 Georgian Traditional Supra to Be Put Forward for UNESCO List he Georgian Supra/tradi- which were recognized by UNESCO as borders in its values, and it deserves tional feast is being pre- elements of universal importance. The proper safeguarding and recognition. pared for presentation for nomination ‘Georgian Wheat Culture The Georgian Supra is a method of per- placement on the Repre- (endemic species),’ initiated by the Min- sonal development and conveying knowl- sentative List of Intangible istry of Agriculture of Georgia, has edge, the democratic foundation of which TCultural Heritage. The Intergovernmen- already been submitted to UNESCO for lies in Supra members enjoying equal tal Committee of Intangible Cultural the ‘List of Urgent Protection’. This dos- rights, and the Tamada, the person, Heritage Protection of UNESCO consid- sier was submitted to prevent the loss directing the Supra, being elected. It is ers applications submitted by the mem- of valuable experience related to the an important nomination, related to the ber states on an annual basis. If accepted, endemic species of Georgian wheat. oldest valuable Georgian tradition, which the Georgian Supra will enjoy guarantees UNESCO also created a third list, the will be sent to UNESCO from Georgia,” of future protection, which implies pres- ‘List of Best Practices,’ which provides Antidze said. ervation, protection and development countries with the opportunity to share The recommendation for the Georgian of the tradition. The National Agency their experience with others. We are Supra to be defi ned in the category of for Cultural Heritage Preservation of planning to prepare the nomination for national importance has already been Georgia has been working on a short this List next year,” says Head of UNE- elaborated in the Section of Intangible documentary, which will fully refl ect the SCO and International Relations Service, Cultural Heritage of the Council of Cul- Georgian Supra as valuable heritage of Manana Vardzelashvil. tural Heritage Preservation, which is the the Georgian culture. The person responsible for preparation deliberative body of the General Director Four elements of Georgian intangible of the nomination, Marina Taktakishvili, of the Agency. According to the recom- cultural heritage are already on the Rep- agreed with her, saying, “The Supra mendation, the industry experts, members resentative List of UNESCO: Georgian nomination to UNESCO will probably of the Section, positively assess its inclu- polyphony, the ancient Georgian tradi- be sent in March this year and, in the sion in the category of national impor- tional method of Qvevri wine fermenta- case of absence of remarks, the Inter- tance, as well as its intangibility, seeing tion, the living culture of three types of governmental Committee will consider it as bearing nationwide value, and in tradition, because its roots go back cen- – Will,’ and ‘Kalmasoba,’ and the records Georgian alphabet, and Georgian wres- it and make the relevant decision”. need of preservation- the protection and turies. This is confi rmed by a bronze of travelers of the 15th to 19th cc: Ambro- tling. However, before nomination to UNE- promotion of which is important. “The statue (dating back to the 7th century gio Contarini, Dionigi Carli, Jean Char- Georgia has been a UNESCO member SCO, fi rst it is necessary to recognize majority of the population of Georgia BC ) discovered in 2006 in Vani, western din and others. country since 1992, and a signatory of the object as a cultural heritage monu- recognizes the culture of the Georgian Georgia, during archeological excava- From ancient times to nowadays, the the Convention on Preservation of Intan- ment and as such an element of national Supra as an integral part of its own cul- tions. The now renowned statue is a Georgian Supra is the gathering of peo- gible Cultural Heritage since 2008. This importance in Georgia. The Georgian tural identity and cultural heritage,” says fi gure of a man with a horn in his hands, ple, unifying the intangible elements of year, two nominations will be submitted Supra was already granted the Status of Salome Khmiadashvili, member of the called “Tamada.” A larger copy of the Georgian polyphony, recognized as a by Georgia to UNESCO for two lists: Monument on March 13, 2017, based on Cultural Heritage Preservation Council. artifact sits in the old district of Tbilisi heritage of universal importance, and one the ‘Representative List of Intangi- the Order of the General Director of the With consideration of the existing rec- (Bambis Rigi Street) and tourists love wine, made in traditional Georgian ble Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ and National Agency of Cultural Heritage ommendation, according to Law Of him. Qvevri. By entering the culture of the for the ‘List of Intangible Cultural Her- Preservation of Georgia, Nikoloz Antidze. Georgia on Cultural Heritage, the Geor- Written sources of early, middle and Georgian Supra on the UNESCO List, it itage in Need of Urgent Protection’. “The Supra, in an open or hidden way, gian Government defi ned the category later periods provide important infor- will be recognized as intangible cultural “We are completing work on the dos- can be seen in almost all stages of our of national importance to The Georgian mation about the Georgian Supra: ‘Mar- heritage of humanity. This way, the pro- sier of Georgian Supra, which will be lives, from the joy of birth, to the ritual Supra/Traditional Feast (Georgian Supra) tyrdom of Shushanik,’ ‘The Knight in the motion of the traditions of the Georgian submitted to UNESCO in the near future of death. Study of this showed that not on February 18. Panther’s Skin,’ ‘The Life of Kartli,’ Supra and relevant protection at national and which will, in our opinion, be as only is it intangible heritage of national It is diffi cult to date the origin of the ‘Regulations of the Georgian Royal Court,’ and international levels, envisaged by successful as the other four objects, importance, but that it goes beyond the Georgian Supra as a cultural, creative ‘Dasturlamal,’ Iese Baratashvili’s life, ‘Life the Convention, will be ensured.

Exhibition ‘Georgia - Azerbaijan's Friendship from Generation to Generation’ Held in Azerbaijan tion’ was held in Baku. The event featured up to 150 works by 120 artists, including works of applied and fi ne arts. The exhibition refl ected the centuries- old friendship between Georgia and Azerbaijan from generation to genera- tion; the culture, nature and traditions of both countries. Speaking at the exhibition, Georgian Ambassador Zurab Pataradze spoke Source: Ministry of Foreign about relations between the two neigh- Affairs of Georgia boring countries. The Ambassador noted that culture and the arts play an impor- BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI tant role in bringing people together and that the goal of the Embassy of Georgia is to contribute to further deep- ith the participation ening friendship. of the Embassy of He thanked the Azerbaijani artists, Georgia to Azerbai- who sincerely expressed their emotions jan, the Heydar Ali- and impressions on Georgia in the paint- yev Center and the ings. UnionW of Artists of Azerbaijan, an exhi- At the end of the event, Ambassador bition titled ‘Georgia – Azerbaijan’s Pataradze presented certifi cates to the friendship from generation to genera- artists for their dedicative works.

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