Issue no: 949 • MAY 26 - 29, 2017 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... FOCUS Georgia Saddened by ON INDEPENDENCE DAY Manchester Arena Blast Noe Jordania's descendants NEWS PAGE 2 describe Independence Day and all it means for Georgia- past and $34.1m to Be Allocated for present PAGE 7 Georgia from US 2018 Budget POLITICS PAGE 4 Georgia's Political Climate: Election Update POLITICS PAGE 8 Accor Group Opens IBIS Hotel in Tbilisi BUSINESS PAGE 10 26th MEF International Research Projects Contest Commences

Swiss Lessons for Georgia – Neutrality, Diversity and Resource Management SOCIETY PAGE 11 Sine Qua Non of German- BY VAZHA TAVBERIDZE Georgian Relations SOCIETY PAGE 13 oday, Switzerland is considered and perceived as a very successful coun- Bulgaria try politically, economically, and socially. GEORGIA TODAY, along- Celebrates side the Panorama TV Show, met Twith the Ambassador of Switzerland to Georgia, Education and H.E. Lukas Beglinger, to talk Swiss know-how, excluding watches and papal guard that is, and Culture Day at what Georgia can learn from Switzerland. At a meeting that took place at the International Black TSU Sea University, Ambassador Beglinger addressed CULTURE PAGE 15 the crowded audience consisting of students and free listeners alike and was keen to answer each and every question posed to him. “The Swiss worked hard to get where we are today,” the Ambassador tells us. “And that work is ongoing. Actually, Switzerland was quite a poor country until almost the end of 19th cen- tury. What brought us forward was industriali- zation. Switzerland was the fi rst country on the continent after England to become industrial- ized. So, Switzerland, a poor country with prac- tically no resources except water, clean air and a very beautiful nature, had to fi nd a specialty in order to survive. Continued on page 2 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS MAY 26 - 29, 2017 Georgia Saddened by Swiss Lessons for Georgia Manchester Arena Blast – Neutrality, Diversity and Resource Management

Continued from page 1 SOMETHING THAT GEORGIA lesson must be that diversity is some- CANNOT AFFORD, ITS thing that enriches your country and We also invested a lot in our education OWN ARMY… you shouldn’t be afraid of giving powers system, because 200 years ago we were The government and the new defense to the local level. ahead, with famous pedagogues like minister here recently decided that Geor- Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi, who called gia should urgently invest in its own ter- SWITZERLAND IS FAMOUS for education for all - this at the end of ritorial defense capacities rather than just FOR ITS DIRECT DEMOCRACY 18th century! It was rather revolutionary send soldiers to Afghanistan. I think that’s AND REFERENDUMS at the time because education actually a major policy shift and recognition of We have referendums roughly every three achieve peace across the world," the PM was reserved for the more to do of soci- the fact that you should be able to defend months, sometimes even more frequently, BY THEA MORRISON stated. BBC reports that the blast hap- ety. And this is the key. Even today there your country in the fi rst place. I served at all levels – federal, canton, municipal. pened at 22:35 BST on Monday at the is no country in the world that can develop in Poland and saw the same defense All important questions are decided by end of a pop concert by the US singer successfully without investing in educa- policy reform happen there - now, they’ve the people themselves. In Switzerland, eorgian leaders and offi cials Ariana Grande. tion. invested in buying tanks, air defense and people decide even on foreign policy have expressed deep con- The explosion occurred shortly after so on. And this is something Switzerland issues. Membership of the European Eco- cern over the Monday night the singer left the stage at the arena - the LET’S DISCUSS THE BILATERAL has been doing for centuries. We even nomic Area, of the UN, etc.: it has to be terror attack at Manchester city's largest indoor venue with a con- RELATIONS BETWEEN OUR managed to survive WWII while being put to the people. Direct democracy is Arena, that left at least 22 cert capacity of around 21,000. TWO COUNTRIES. WHAT surrounded by the Nazis. really systemic in my country and of Gdead and nearly 60 injured. Greater Manchester Police said the ARE THE CORNERSTONES? course it has many advantages because Georgian Prime Minister, Giorgi Kviri- lone male attacker, who died in the blast, One is development cooperation, which THE FINANCIAL ASPECT people really feel empowered and they kashvili extended his condolences to the was carrying an improvised explosive is a major pillar of our presence here. CERTAINLY HELPED are not frustrated with politics as we see families of the deceased. device which he detonated. For years, we’ve focused on helping agri- SWITZERLAND TO in many other, even western, countries. "On behalf of the Government and the Home Secretary Amber Rudd said it cultural sector development, which is BOOST ITS ARMY AND people of Georgia, I offer my sincere was "a barbaric attack, deliberately tar- really important when you consider that MILITARY CAPABILITIES THERE’S AN ONGOING condolences to the Government of Great geting some of the most vulnerable". 50% of the population is still active in I don’t think that was the only factor. It’s DEBATE IN GEORGIA AS TO Britain and to the English people. We The prime minister is to chair a meet- this sector. Yet, it only produces 9% of not up to me to give any advice to Geor- WHETHER THE GOVERNMENT wholeheartedly share your sorrow in ing of the government's emergency Cobra the GDP which is a huge gap that has to gia and Georgians but Swiss history SHOULD ALLOW LAND TO BE this challenging time. committee. be fi lled. And it’s not appropriate that certainly shows that you have to get SOLD TO FOREIGN CITIZENS. I believe that the civilized world will The blast occurred close to the entrance Georgia imports 70-80% of its food with along with your neighbors, somehow, IS BANNING THE SALE OF launch even more vigorous efforts against to Victoria train and tram station has the conditions that you have here. We’re even if it’s not ideal. I’d say it might not GEORGIAN LAND TO FOREIGN terrorism and as a united force we will been closed and all trains cancelled. also active in decentralization which is, be a very good idea to choose one camp CITIZENS DISCRIMINATION of course, yet another Swiss feature. The over another because if you attach your- AGAINST FOREIGN INVESTORS? other major pillar is our peace policy. self to certain allies then you may alien- Obviously, it would be. Of course, this Switzerland has a humanitarian tradition ate your other neighbors. is a delicate question in most countries, Kazakhstan - Deprivation of and for serving as a mediator thanks to especially in agricultural countries. The its position of neutrality. Here in Geor- YET ANOTHER FAMOUS SWISS important aspect in Georgia is that agri- gia, and since the August 2008 war, the KNOW-HOW IS FEDERALISM. cultural land must be registered in the Citizenship for Grave Crimes Swiss Embassy has been representing HOW DO YOU MANAGE cadaster. There isn’t even a functioning the interests of the Russian Federation TO UNITE AND KEEP FOUR market inside Georgia, which is a huge the deprivation of citizenship is not to as well as the interests of Georgia in DIFFERENT ETHNIC GROUPS problem. You can’t develop a competi- BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE be classed as punishment, but protec- Russia. WITHIN ONE NATION? tive agriculture without the possibility tion of such values and to remove those The Swiss system is quite unique. Swit- of selling or buying land, otherwise peo- who jeopardize the security of the coun- HOW WAS SWITZERLAND zerland is very much decentralized. We ple will sit on their one hectare plot and eprivation of Citizenship try in general. A ‘punishment’ as such, ABLE TO SECURE AND call ourselves a bottom-up country. It not produce anything and it doesn’t help — A new legislation that would be categorized as another matter MAINTAIN NEUTRALITY grew up from small entities, small can- the country. has been initially approved entirely. Denationalization will only AND COULD THE SAME BE tons. And the modern Swiss confedera- by the deputies of the apply in exceptional cases where the FEASIBLE FOR GEORGIA? tion we have now was only created in AND IN REGARDS TO Kazakh Parliament, said public and Kazakh citizens may be put Switzerland is a special case in many 1848 – it took a small civil war to estab- SWITZERLAND? DO Dthe Minister of Justice of Kazakhstan in danger, said Kazakhstan’s Minister of respects, including its permanent neu- lish it. Otherwise, we might have been FOREIGNERS OWN Marat Beketayev on May 24. This sanc- Justice. In saying that, the deprivation trality status which has been practiced in the situation the EU is in now - a con- SWISS LAND? tion will apply from minor to very seri- of citizenship is indeed used as a form for centuries, recognized at the Vienna federation of sorts, but not a federal state. Yes, of course. For quite a few decades ous crimes such as terrorism, separatist of criminal punishment in many coun- Congress in 1815, 200 years ago; it served Notwithstanding, the federal constitution Switzerland has had a political problem activities, genocide, creation of extrem- tries around the world, including more Switzerland well, saving us from several respects the powers of the cantons. Actu- with foreigners buying land and it was ist groups amongst others, explained than 30 countries in Europe alone. major wars. It fi rst saved us from the 30 ally, cantons have their own constitu- restricted from the 1960s onwards, but Marat Beketayev. Year War in the 17th century, and that’s tions, own governments, parliaments, always with the exception of foreign Terrorism, as well as the aforemen- actually when the Swiss understood that justice, etc. As a Swiss citizen, fi rst you business investments because that would tioned crimes, creates a serious concern we should keep out of such confl icts. are a citizen of you own canton and your have been shooting ourselves in the foot. for the state. Fears such as loss of Kazakh Regarding the army – it goes without municipality. We’re very diverse but we What was restricted primarily was hol- territories as in the Ukraine, are part saying that as a neutral country you have don’t consider this a handicap. Actually, iday homes. This is maintained even of the issues trying to be preemp- to be able to defend yourself. Otherwise, it’s a big advantage. Of course, we’ve had today. But there’s no limit on foreign tively avoided, to site one exam- any other country can encroach on you our fair share of internal confl icts and business investments if they are serious. ple. and you are a liability then in terms of civil wars, for instance, because of reli- That’s important. That should also be a Family life and the health and security. So, Switzerland has had always gion. Switzerland could not have survived guideline for Georgia. But it should wellbeing of citizens are concerns its own army and always invested well if we’d decided to have a strong central develop its own capacities in agriculture of the upmost importance here, thus in its defense. state. For countries such as Georgia, the and not depend too much on foreigners. GEORGIA TODAY MAY 26 - 29, 2017 NEWS 3 Security Council Secretary: Why Poroshenko WesternTechnologists are Planning a "color revolution" did not Attend the in Russia BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE

he intention of Western technologists to implement BSEC Summit the "Color Scenario" - A change of power in Russia, was reported by the Secre- BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE Ttary of the Security Council of the Rus- sian Federation Nikolai Patrushev on May 18. According to Nikolai Patrushev, he Black Sea Economic "color revolutions" are a method used Cooperation (BSEC) came for the destruction of the state under the into existence as a unique pretext of "democratization". In saying and promising model of this, the real goal of such an intervention multilateral political and is to build up controversy and transfer Teconomic cooperation, with the signing the country to ‘external management’. of the Istanbul Summit Declaration and Patrushev said that Western technolo- the Bosporus Statement by the Heads gists have plans to organize a "color" of State and Government of the countries coup in Russia. In this case, the reason in the region, on June 25 1992. for heating up the protest is not only real With its Charter being granted on 1 economic diffi culties, but also specula- even begun. The country, according to May 1999, BSEC acquired international tion and false information. Nikolai Patru- her, not only survived, but also strength- legal identity and was transformed into shev expressed confi dence that law ened its infl uence in the international a full-fl edged regional economic organ- enforcement agencies and special ser- arena. "There is growing awareness in ization - the Organization of the Black vices are controlling this situation. the world that no signifi cant issue of Sea Economic Cooperation. According to him, attempts to implement world politics can be solved without The President of Ukraine, Petro bers of this association. Poroshenko was that were announced to participate in the coup in Russia do not stand a chance Russia's participation". In light of this Poroshenko, did not plan to take part in represented in the delegates from the the summit. of success. You may recall that, on April international situation, parliamentary the summit of the Organization of the Ukraine, yet the group of Ukrainian rep- The Black Sea Economic Cooperation 12, President Putin said that the Russian diplomacy has become one of the most Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), resentatives at the summit in Istanbul Organization is an intergovernmental authorities will do their best to prevent important instruments of Russia's for- which takes place in Istanbul, due to the was headed by First Deputy Prime Min- organization uniting 12 states of the Black a "color" coup in Russia and other CSTO eign policy. Speaking about the priorities "low status" of the declared participants. ister Stepan Kubiv. Sea and the Southern Balkans. It was countries. of foreign policy along with activities of Despite this, the BSEC summit in Istan- "Proposals to participate were dis- founded in 1992. The headquarters of On April 27, Federation Council Speaker Russian parliamentarians, the speaker bul went ahead. Russia was represented cussed, but Poroshenko was managed the organization are located in Istanbul. Valentina Matvienko reported that a noted that the fi ght against terrorism by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev. It to be convinced not to attend" - said the Member-States: Albania, Armenia, Azer- large-scale attack on Russia, along with along with the settlement of confl icts in was expected that Poroshenko would source. According to him, this decision baijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Mol- an attempt to inspire a "color revolution" Ukraine and in Syria is of the upmost take part in the meeting of the heads of is connected to the so called "low status" dova, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Turkey, in the country, was stopped before it had importance. state and prime ministers who are mem- of representatives of the BSEC countries Ukraine. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS MAY 26 - 29, 2017 $34.1m to Be Allocated for MEP McAllister: Georgia Is Leading among Georgia from US 2018 Budget Caucasus, Eastern Partnership Countries

BY THEA MORRISON

avid McAllister, the Chair of the European Parlia- ment's Committee on For- eign Affairs (AFET) stated that Georgia is the leading Dcountry not only in the South Caucasus region but also in the Eastern Partner- ship as well at a press-conference in Tbilisi. The AFET Delegation visited Tbilisi on May 24 and included representatives strengthen institutional checks and bal- of various political groups: the European BY THEA MORRISON ances, as well a the rule of law in Geor- People's Party, the Progressive Alliance gia. They will also try to enhance public of Socialists and Democrats, the Euro- trust in state institutions; develop a more pean United Left - Nordic Green Left European Union and Parliament supports cials. Members of the European Parlia- 34.1 million is set to be allocated vibrant civil society and enable its par- and the Group of the Greens/European Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial ment congratulated Georgia on the launch to Georgia, according to the ticipation in Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic Free Alliance. McAllister noted that the integrity within internationally recog- of visa-free travel with the EU/Schengen United States (US) Congres- integration process, both as partners reforms, implemented in Georgia, are nized borders and this position is “unwa- area. They went on to underline the sional Budget Justifi cation for with the government and as advocates very important. However, he stressed vering.” necessity of ensuring tangible results in 2018, which is $45.9 million less for reform. that more intensive reforms in the fi elds He also approved the government's the process of rapprochement with the than$ the funding Georgia received this Moreover, programs will also provide of human rights protection and judiciary actions aimed at establishing a construc- European Union. Special attention was year ($80 million.) In general, the US training, technical assistance, and are necessary. tive and pragmatic relationship with paid to the preparation of the fi fth sum- budget of the next year is 29 percent less resources to build the capacity of jour- "We urge Georgia to further strengthen Russia. Furthermore, within the frame- mit of Eastern Partnership scheduled to compared to the budget of 2017. nalists and improve access to independ- its efforts to carry out reforms in the work of the offi cial visit of the AFET be held in Brussels on November 24. The document was released by the US ent, reliable, and balanced media. “Pro- areas like judiciary, protection of minor- delegation, Georgian Foreign Minister Representatives exchanged views over Department of State on Wednesday. gramming will increase energy security, ities’ and human rights etc. Of course, Mikheil Janelidze held a meeting with Georgia’s expectations with respect to From the total $34.1 million considered aiming at advancing renewable energy these reforms are underway, but more members of the European Parliament. the Summit. Mikheil Janelidze thanked for Georgia, the US will allocate $28 mil- and promoting interregional connectiv- needs to be done," said McAllister. Georgia-EU co-operation issues and the MEPs for the European Union’s fi rm lion towards supporting Georgia’s efforts ity and trade diversifi cation to reduce The MEP noted that for reaching such the democratic reforms implemented support of Georgia’s sovereignty and in democratization, economic develop- reliance on Russian resources,” the a balance, proper functioning of the State by Georgia were the key issues of the territorial integrity within its interna- ment, Euro-Atlantic integration, and document says. Audit Offi ce and The Public Defender’s meeting. It was emphasized that Georgia tionally recognized borders. The Geor- resiliency against Russian pressure. $3 million will be spent on an initiative offi ce are imperative. Furthermore, he responsibly fulfi ls its commitments under gian Foreign Minister says that the meet- “Funds will support targeted efforts to that will assist Georgia in addressing the underlined the importance of freedom the Association Agreement (AA). Also ing with the AFET delegation was very enhance economic opportunities and growing transnational organized crime of the media and mentioned the court noted was that the country has made important for Georgia. increase access to objective sources of problem in the Caucasus region. “Pro- dispute over the opposition-minded considerable progress in the implemen- "It was a very important meeting, information for populations vulnerable grams will help build the capacity of law Rustavi2 TV case. tation of the Deep and Comprehensive because it is a committee that determines to Russian infl uence, including commu- enforcement authorities, including their "In order to create a stronger demo- Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA). so many issues in relation to Georgia. nities bordering the Russian occupied ability to trace and recover assets, respond cratic country, it is essential that the The current situation in Georgia’s We had strong support of the committee territories of South Ossetia and Abkha- to critical incidents, and fi ght human and government provide pluralism and inde- occupied territories and the European in the process of visa liberalization and zia,” the document states. narcotics traffi cking,” the document says. pendence of the media," David McAl- Union’s role in ensuring security on the we have their strong support for our It also added that programs will help Continued on page 6 lister said. The AFET Chair said that the ground were also discussed by the offi - European integration," said the minister.

GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS MAY 26 - 29, 2017 $34.1m to Be Allocated for Political Hatred in Georgia Georgia from US 2018 Budget BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE

Continued from page 4 ove is the basis for human life Assistance will also be provided from – this is one of the recent utter- the US side to help reform criminal jus- ances by the spiritual leader tice sector institutions, including pros- of the Georgian Orthodox ecutors, defence attorneys, judges, and Church – simple and true! Love probation and corrections offi cers to hasL numerous identified definitions bolster the rule of law and strengthen throughout the history of philosophy and Georgia’s ability to prosecute transna- literature, and there will be many more tional organized crime and reduce cor- to come in the future too; but I wish we ruption. had a sharper ear for those sacred pre- Furthermore, funding will support cepts that are heard every so often from Georgia in advancing criminal procedure those whose words sound so ordinary reforms and continue its initiatives to but, paradoxically, are very much worth enhance public understanding of the listening too. criminal justice system and develop The quoted phrase reminds me of the strong community-based relationships judgments I happen to have come across with local law enforcement. in books and articles by contemporary ically and hopelessly, the division based other’s behavior in the most brutal and ior justifi ed? No, it is not because this is $0.9 million will be allocated to assist political authors, mostly, the political on mutual aversion – biological, organic, malicious manner. Their preffered subject all refl ected in our public life so that the Georgia in implementing its new stra- philosophers who are often alluding to unbridled – and the seeds of that aversion of mutual incrimination is either the members of this society are becoming tegic trade control law, including reforms the interrelation between hatred and are relentlessly sowed by politicians. The alleged built-up power or a so-called cynical about everything that takes place of secondary legislation and training and political rivalry. naming of them would be to no avail – amassed fortune, making all kinds of around them, to the extent that the equipment for its offi cers. “Funds will There is probably no nation in the world they are all much of a muchness. Each malevolent attempts to undermine each political culture of intolerance towards be used to help Georgia’s private sector whose political situation does not leave political party is fi rmly convinced that other’s standing in the eyes of the public. any idea that differs from our own understand and comply with export much to be desired. This would be true all the evil is nested on the side of the Their primary focus is not the wellbeing thoughts becomes incurable. There is control laws. Funding will also help about Georgia too, where the overriding opposition, whereas all good things are of their people, but the opponent’s next something atrociously unruly taking Georgia counter transnational threats defi nition of the political style is a sense nursed and administered on their soil; play. place in our political climate. The impres- such as transit or proliferation of WMD of hatred, but it seems we are not alone; opposed parties do not admit the possi- These are the attitudes, motivated not sion is that the universally accepted related commodities and technology,” hatred in politics prevails everywhere, bility that something good might be hap- by the needs of the people, but by nega- ideologies and principles, fall victim to the document says. yet this should not be a consolation for pening in the nemesis’s camp too; they tive, hateful, angry and spiteful political our nonchalance, if not ignorance. If we Georgia will also receive $2.2 for the Georgians. I simply wonder if any active openly accuse each other of corrupt rivalry, which is hugely detrimental to want our political culture to be effective, training of the Georgian armed forces. politician in this country has heard and wrongdoings against our people, using our people’s present and future. in the most international meaning of the The US Congressional Budget Justifi ca- imbibed the Patriarch’s phrase about love. the most vicious vocabulary, which is Incredibly, the reality is that these nasty, word, then we have to admit that “decent tion for 2018 reads that the challenges It is a reality of a technically sophisti- directed to their opposition. This is sim- inhuman attitudes by such selfsame pol- public culture cannot survive and fl our- facing the United States and Europe in cated world that the governors create ply cruel and vindictive; even their humor iticians is cold-bloodedly disputed as if ish without its cultivation in some suit- 2018 are great. Terrorism, increased migra- policy right in front of the eyes of the is full of brutal aggression and violent nothing corrupt is happening to the Geor- able form” – as one outstanding Ameri- tion, Brexit and Russia’s actions are named people, unless something decidedly cov- sarcasm; they ceaselessly defy each oth- gian people. The fact is that this is the can political writer has emphasized in as the top challenges. “Russia’s aggression ert is in the pipeline. So we are always in er’s idealogies, even the best ones, qual- political state of affairs which demands a recent publication. If we cannot use in Ukraine, and its occupation of Crimea, the midst of current political matters. We ifying them as dangerous. They condemn that we all act accordingly, and pick a mutual respect and tolerance in politics, and parts of Georgia, and Moldova, con- have a fair idea of what is happening gen- each other’s projects, even if they are side. Yet the most optimal model of behav- let us at least say no to a mean, heartless tinues to contravene international prin- erally, and what our politicians want to undoubtedly benefi cial for the country. ior in this particular political environment and furious style in the political dialogue ciples of sovereignty and territorial integ- make of ordinary Georgian lives. We see Their beloved style is to invent some hor- is to perhaps stay indifferent. that seems to inevitably be present at all rity,” the document reads. that politics has divided this society rad- rible catchphrase to characterize each Is this model of social-political behav- times. GEORGIA TODAY MAY 26 - 29, 2017 POLITICS 7 99! Transfer of the Domain of Leuville to the Georgian Nation, Sept. 2016

who did not understand that only a revolution in Colonel Tsereteli was a retired Georgian offi cer his life. A doctor came, and since I happened to be BY NICOLE AND NOE JORDANIA art would save the world, not banal artillery, not whose occupation consisted entirely of serving as there, I served as interpreter. The colonel was 82 vulgar sabers, and not those supremely indecent Tamada — toast-master — during the numerous years old at that time, and although he had been in mass killers with machine guns. keipis (banquets) that took place, lasting often from France for thirty years, he could not speak one inety-nine years today! Yes, almost Small theaters and bohemian cafes opened all afternoon until the following dawn. Enormous word of French. a century since my father Noe Jor- over the place. The Futurist poet Vasily Kamensky quantities of red wine were consumed, Colonel The doctor: Ask him if he drinks a lot. dania proclaimed Georgian inde- read his epic Stenka Razin from a white horse gal- Tsereteli breaking all records, as was only proper Me: Colonel, the doctor wants to know if you pendence on May 26, 1918. Hardly loping around a circus ring. Sergei Gorodetsky for a successful Tamada. And with that, he never drink a lot. anyone remains who was alive at lightheartedly made fun of the Provisional Govern- got drunk. The Colonel: Drink? Alcohol? No, I don’t drink. Nthat time, and defi nitely no-one who would remem- ment in his Symbolist journal. Noe Jordania was How many Keipi were held there over the years! I only drink red wine. ber anything. My sister Nathela, who was born in depicted on the cover of one issue as a loathsome, The great table or tables around which thirty or The doctor: Well, how much does he drink? Tbilisi in November 1918, passed away last year – distrusting goat. In reply to this mockery, the Pre- more guests could be seated always looked immac- The Colonel: Oh, I drink a bit here and there, she was 98 years old. Claude de Kemoularia and mier smiled and said, "They’re poets!" ulate since tablecloths were disposed of. Despite normally. Zeinab Zourabichvili-Kedia the last of my contem- Titzian Tabidze, a member of a group of poets less than ideal conditions, these Keipis gave birth The doctor: But what does he mean, normally? poraries, also sadly passed last year. At the age 95, called the Blue Horns, ran into to the mayor of to enormous quantities of lobio, satsivi, kharcho, One bottle per day? Three? fi ve? I am the only one remaining of the immediate Tifl is one day on Golovin Prospekt. ’ “Listen, Titz- romi and other traditional Georgian dishes. The Colonel: (indignant) What? Five bottles? descendents of the great men and women who ian, why do you walk around my city with your Guests came from Paris, some twenty kilometers What does he take me for, a child? created our fi rst republic, born in Paris the same young wife looking so down?” asked the mayor. away, and they brought the food and drink, since After some more back and forth, the Colonel year our country was invaded by the Soviet Red "We have nowhere to live, Mr. Mayor," complained the colonel didn’t have a penny. What he had, and admitted that now that he was getting on in years, Army, at which time the Georgian Government Titzian. "We have no money to pay for a fl at." what no amount of money could buy, was hospital- he only drank about eight bottles daily. Hiding his went into exile to continue the struggle for free- The mayor took a key from his pocket. “Titzian, ity, camaraderie and such a big and generous heart surprise, the doctor prescribed him to limit himself dom, as directed by the Georgian parliament. I’ve just requisitioned the mansion of the Business- that to be near him, even without speaking to him, to four bottles. “If I restrict him to any less than It has been some 26 years since Georgia shook men’s Club. Go and live there with your young one would feel enveloped by his warmth. It was that, he will die, his metabolism is so accustomed off the soviet yoke, and once again gained its inde- wife, work there. Only don’t deprive Georgia of undoubtedly for that reason that the banquets were to wine!” pendent, and restored May 26 as our national day your verse." held at his place. Often they would last from Friday of independence. But for me and all older Geor- Everything was so wonderful in Tifl is during that to Monday! The guests would come and go, but Excerpted from Redjeb's book of memoirs ALL MY GEOR- gians in exile during the 70 years of soviet occupa- three-year springtime. Noah’s ark Jordania fl oated the colonel remained there, in his role as Tamada, GIAS. Can be downloaded FREE in most formats from: tion, it has been almost a century. like a prospering block of ice in a sea of blood and a role that he fi lled with brilliance and dignity. https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/125916. When I was growing up in Paris in the 1930’s, May muck, in the sea of the typhus epidemic of the Civil One day the colonel got sick, for the fi rst time in Also available as a paperback from Amazon.com 26 was the most important day of the year, for me War, and looked as though it might sink or split at and my young Georgian friends. That was the day any minute; maybe it was wonderful precisely when all exiled Georgians, regardless of party, reli- because it was so fragile; all that were present felt gion, sex or opinion would come together in cel- as though their heads were spinning… ebration, sorrow, and remembrance. Even at such By the end of 1920, all such liberty that had been a tender age, I remember it as a solemn occasion, so greatly received in the South had vanished, per- with our revered fl ag – the three-colored one – in haps fl own back to its sources, to the Greek islands. a prominent position together with our elegant The Georgian Republic was in its death throes. In coat of arms, unencumbered by gratuitous ele- 1921 the Red Army burst in and freedom came to ments. Of course, we all sang with fervor our an end. (From: Generations of Winter by Vassyil national anthem, Dideba, with its Georgian sound- Aksyonov) ing harmonies. Yes, freedom came to an end; our republic was That tradition went on during seemingly never forcibly incorporated in the Soviet empire, but it ending years of Soviet occupation. Then, in 1990, continued to be internationally recognized for sev- the fi rst year I could come to Georgia, I had the joy eral years, never ceased to exist in the minds of all of seeing our three-colored fl ag, symbol, and national of us living abroad, and materialized in the Domain anthem ‘Dideba’ revived, with our fl ag hoisted on of Leuville near Paris, dubbed Little Georgia, which all public buildings, displacing the hated Soviet was acquired in 1925 by the government in exile one. Eventually, Georgian politicians decided to on behalf of all Georgians. replace our fl ag with the Bagration medieval ban- Last year, some 90 years later, the wish of my ner, with its connotations excluding anyone who father and his associates that some day the prop- is not a practicing orthodox, the old anthem with erty would be incorporated in a free and independ- Paliashvili's music and its Italianate melodies and ent Georgia fi nally came to pass: on September 23, harmonies, and burdening our clean-cut coat of 2016, the custodians of the Domain of Leuville, who arms depicting St George riding the skies over had jealously preserved it for almost a century, Mount Elbrous with pretentious symbolism. At solemnly transmitted full possession and respon- least our national independence day remained the sibility to our country. As specifi ed and legally same, affi rming continuation of present day Geor- binding in the transfer document, work will soon gia with the 1918-21 republic. be underway for the rehabilitation and moderniza- After almost a century there are no living persons tion of the property and its perpetuation as a with direct memories of those times. However, museum of our First Republic and a Franco-Geor- there is no lack of documents, texts, photographs, gian cultural center. and movie newsreels. There is a renewal of inter- All Georgians, whatever their political inclina- est and research on the period, particularly amongst tion, should be proud that Georgia was the fi rst the new generation of young historians untainted social-democratic country in the world. Now that by negative Soviet propaganda. Yet, to convey the it is an integral part of our nation, the domain of direct interpretation of actually having lived in that Leuville will always remain in our hearts an essen- given time there is nothing better than a novelist's tial phase of our national evolution. interpretation. GAUMARDJOS SAKARTVELOS TBILISI IN THE TIMES OF NOE JORDANIA (CHEERS TO GEORGIA) The Civil War, a confl agration extending over thou- Redjeb Jordania, New York, May 18 2017 sands of miles, had cut Tifl is off from Moscow completely. An independent republic had sprung Life in Leuville before the second world war: up in Georgia, led by the Liberal Menshevik Noe The Colonel Jordania. Iniquity raged everywhere, famine and pestilence reigned, but on the other side of the peaks of the Caucasus free Georgians, together with Armenians, Persians, Russians, Greeks, and Jews, sat beneath chestnut trees, drinking wine and Lagidze mint and eating fresh lavash bread, rad- ishes, herbs, shashlik that wasn’t bad for the times, and, as always, the exceptional satsivi chicken with nuts, lobio beans and tskhinvali fi sh. Tifl is had witnessed an amazing fl owering of artistic life. Even as war was raging on the Western front, poets and artists were racing south in order to avoid the call-up, and later they became fl eeing the Reds, the Whites, the Greens... in short, anyone GEORGIA TODAY 8 POLITICS MAY 26 - 29, 2017 Georgia's Political Climate: Election Update

Public comments made by the ruling two days ago, which showed not the capital, or even the head of one of the BY ZAZA JGARKAVA party make it apparent that the Geor- personal ratings of these politicians, but regional self-governing units. Of course, gian Dream is in the active process of the satisfaction or dissatisfaction of our the main candidate in this regards is choosing a candidate for the future society by means of their results. The still the member of the former govern- he President has not yet mayor of Tbilisi. Until recently, it seemed catastrophically low number of just 8% mental team, that is, the United National announced the date of the that the Dream were suggesting the evaluated the work of the current Tbilisi Movement, allegedly the ex-Minister local self-governing elec- candidacy of the current Mayor Mr Major positively, 33% think of it as aver- of Foreign Affairs Grigol Vashadze. Yet, tions, but the country is Narmania, but soon after the chief audi- age and 52% believe it is bad. As for the it shouldn’t be excluded that the UNM already preoccupied by the tor of the country, Lasha Tordia, con- Ministry of Energy, 29% assess their is partial to changing its tactics and Tupcoming elections this autumn. Simi- fronted the government, Narmania work as positive, 40% as average and putting the stakes on a completely dif- larly to the Latin saying, all roads in announced that he might become the 23% as negative. The data shown in the ferent candidate. It is, essentially, con- Georgian politics lead to elections. The next State Audit Offi cer of Georgia. NDI survey shows opinion about the fi rmed that the Republicans and Free current political fuss on the constitu- Notably, the serving term of the rebel- respective bodies, nevertheless, it indi- Democrats will pair up for the coming tional reforms, the decrease of the Pres- lious chief auditor of the country fi n- rectly implies the personal ratings of the autumn elections and many have pub- ident’s power, abolition of self-governing ishes at the end of December, very soon heads of these institutions,” – said Big- licly mocked this alleged political part- units and occasional fi st fi ghts between after the elections. vava in his interview with Newspaper nership a cross social media. One favored offi cials, are all there for a reason, which The fact that Mr. Narmania is no longer Rezonansi. candidate is Aleko Elisashvili, who has is winning the local elections. set be the candidate anymore is also Overall, the election strategy of Geor- not yet made the decision to run, but if When discussing the elections, the obvious since the government’s support- gian Dream is more or less apparent, he does – the Republicans and Free impetus falls on a number of regions, ers openly state that Kakha Kaladze interesting still will be how the opposi- Democrats plan to support him. Another however, in this case the Mayoral elec- would make a good head of Tbilisi via tion will strategize their campaign. discussion is the candidate from the tions are the most discussed. Who will social media. Although the main soci- Generally speaking, the opposition is a third parliamentary party, the Patriotic become the Head of the country’s main ologist of the ruling party Zurab Bigvava wide notion, especially in light of there Alliance. As a member of the party, MP city? Who will be the one that should denies the fact that the current mayor being more than 200 registered politi- Gocha Tevdoradze stated to the News- control the budget of almost a billion? won’t be running for a second term, he cal parties in the country. However, all paper Rezonansi, their leaders won’t be Obviously, it does matter who will be also says that Mr. Kaladze is way ahead in all, only about three or four out of running for the City Mayor’s post, and controlling this money both for the Narmania according to the polls. “NDI these would have the ambition and that the chosen representative will be government and for the opposition. have published the social poll results means to become the mayor of the announced in early June. The Role and Place of Georgia in the Russian Military Calculus kind of regional strategic hub. In addi- ing to join NATO poses a threat to the Georgia and Azerbaijan, into its orbit ritual, a cheque that cannot and will not BY EUGENE KOGAN tion, they see in Georgia a potential Rus- Russian friendly countries (Abkhazia through combined economic, ethnic, be cashed. The result of Georgia not sian pressure point on Turkey, a NATO and South Ossetia). This is an important military and political pressures, it is becoming a NATO member state but member state. factor in Russia strengthening its posi- also ensuring that these countries will rather remaining a NATO partner turns here is a saying that appe- Putin and his administration view Tur- tions in the region". Netkachev's claim be placed behind an air-defense umbrella. Georgia into easy prey for belligerent tite comes with eating. In key with mild suspicion, despite Presi- that Georgia’s aim to join NATO poses This could allow the Russian Army and/ Russia, a point reiterated below. other words, Georgia is dent Erdogan’s repeated reassurances a threat to Abkhazia and South Ossetia, or Navy to advance into them if neces- Despite NATO's presence in Georgia, indeed a “sweet cake” that that Russia is a friendly country and an the breakaway regions of Georgia, is sary and to do so with impunity, since which Russia tends to exaggerate inten- Putin and his administra- important economic partner of Turkey. indeed ridiculous. However, at the same Western forces would be deterred by tionally, Russia does not consider this Ttion are interested to take care of. As a They say that: “For too long Turkey was time, it shows that Georgia is viewed the likely high rate of casualties they presence as a threat that would jeopard- result, they pay the upmost attention to and still remains a NATO member state by the Russian military as an important would incur. Indeed, when this network ize its plans to keep Georgia in its sphere Georgia and are not ready to let others and, as a result, cannot be fully trusted, link to what is happening in the South is completed, Moscow need not invade of infl uence. Putin and his administra- take care of the country. How Georgian assurances or not.” Furthermore, the Caucasus and justifi cation for Russian but only threaten to undermine the tion know full well that NATO is not in political and military elites see the Rus- Russian military bases in and has joint strengthening its presence in the region. sovereignty or integrity of these coun- a position to assist NATO partner Geor- sian encirclement of Georgia is of no task forces with Abkhazia and South Keeping Georgian political and military tries, or their pro-Western affi liations gia if Russia decides one day in the future importance to the Russian military, since Ossetia, the breakaway regions of Geor- elites guessing what may happen in the and economic-political ties. to bring recalcitrant Georgia back into the latter know full well that Georgian gia, as well as the Russian military bases future remains the Russian mid-to long- A variety of soft security tools avail- its fold. Let us remember that Putin's politicians can only complain about the in Armenia and the soon-to-be-estab- term policy for the South Caucasus able to Russia, such as propaganda and/ plans to invade Georgia in August 2008 Russian encirclement, yet will do noth- lished Russian-Armenian Military Joint region in general and for Georgia in or disinformation campaigns combined were prepared in 2006 and put into ing to hinder it. Furthermore, the Rus- Task Force (MJTF) set to encircle Geor- particular. Furthermore, the Russian with cyber security attacks plus imposed motion two years later. Even if Putin and sian military see the encirclement of gia. Finally, since Georgia lacks serious guessing game versus Georgia also tar- economic sanctions, would be ruthlessly his administration will dismiss the Georgia as a one-way street, in that air and naval capabilities, Russia main- gets Georgia's partners, such as the EU, used by Moscow to bring Georgia under author’s assertion outright, such plans steadily encroaching upon Georgian ter- tains its air and naval dominance over NATO and the US who are currently Russia’s heel, even before Moscow decides exist and are likely to be carried out if ritory will reduce the country's inde- Georgia in the Black Sea and thus puts distracted from the region by their to move in and fi nish the business called and when Putin and his administration pendence and sovereignty and will slowly Georgia in a tight spot. domestic challenges. That the rhetoric independent Georgia. The Russian mil- see the right moment to execute them. move it back into Russia’s fold. In order It is currently hard to say whether or of Georgia's partners has only partly itary option towards Georgia cannot and Let us remember the famous quote to understand the role and place of Geor- not Russia is interested in revitalizing manifested in deeds encourages Russia should not be ruled out. Such a warmon- “expect the unexpected” or be prepared gia within the Russian military calculus the defunct Transcaucasian Military in its pursuit of keeping Georgia in its gering scenario may sound too cold- for any [Russian] eventuality that Rus- we need to look at the bigger picture. District (TMD) that existed during the sphere of infl uence. To reinforce the blooded and sober minded to the liberal- sian offi cials would deny strenuously, For instance, the Russian military con- Soviet era by including Azerbaijan in author’s point of view about the Rus- minded political elites in the West, but since they live in their own created world: tinues to view Georgia as a pivotal tran- it. However, such a possibility cannot sian medium-term policy and Russian that is how Russia's political elites and the world of denial. sit country for oil and gas pipelines and be dismissed entirely, although the pursuit of Georgia, Stephen Blank writes military think and operate in the 21st In conclusion, Georgia continues to a newly-built rail link from Azerbaijan author has no evidence to support his that, coupled with the integrated air- century, author’s comment. The author’s play an important role in overall Russian to Turkey (Baku-Tbilisi-Kars). Further- assumption. If such evidence exists, it defense system (IADS) and anti-access/ assertion will be dismissed outright by strategic goals in and around the South more, Georgia is primarily responsible would remain highly classifi ed by the area-denial (A2/AD) networks that Rus- the Russian offi cials, but this should be Caucasus and the Black Sea region. Geor- for the missing rail link between Abk- Russian military and is unlikely to be sia is building in and around Syria and expected. Furthermore, Blank states that gia is a link to Armenia and Azerbaijan hazia, the breakaway region of Georgia, disclosed. Nevertheless, the aforemen- the Black Sea, Russia is constructing an the consequences of this Russian stra- as well as a pressure point on Turkey, and Armenia, still the staunch ally of tioned Russian actions highlight the elaborate network of air and naval tegic operation are quite clear. If NATO whom Russia is interested in keeping at Russia. Georgia is also a major transport very important place and role of Geor- defenses. As a result, the constructed cannot effectively defend the Caucasus bay, decoupling from the NATO Alliance route and an energy transit country from gia in the Russian military calculus. The network places the entire Caucasus or connect to it, Georgia’s NATO option and exerting a degree of control over. Russia to Armenia. As a result, the Rus- author’s point is further reinforced by beyond the easy reach of NATO and becomes meaningless. Since NATO Georgia is also a rail link between Abk- sian military views Georgia as part of the Nezavisimaya Gazeta military expert Western air or military power. As Blank remains unwilling to accept Georgia as hazia, the breakaway region of Georgia, the Russian sphere of infl uence where Lieutenant-General Yuri Netkachev. continues, in other words, as Moscow a member, the [Georgian] application and Armenia, that Russia is very much all the necessary links come together, a According to Netkachev, "Georgia striv- moves to maneuver Turkey, as well as [for membership] will become an empty interested in re-establishing.

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected]

GEORGIA TODAY 10 BUSINESS MAY 26 - 29, 2017

The Delegation of the European Union to Georgia is searching Accor Group Opens for a property to be leased or purchased, to be used for IBIS Hotel in Tbilisi offi ce purposes

BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI

3-star Hotel ‘Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center’ from the 10 months from start to fi nish, which is “It’s a great pleasure for me to be here Accor Group, the world’s somewhat of a miracle. Now we have at this opening. It fi lls me with a great leading hotel operator and two hotels and we can also confi rm there deal of pride to witness another Turkish a market leader in Europe are set to be more, as we have projects investment- of Maqro Construction. I’m This property should meet the European Union's requirements, Aopened on Galaktion Tabidze Street, in planned in Ortachala, Chavchavadze and very impressed by their professionalism concerning quality of construction, space, security and location. It the center of Tbilisi this Wednesday. Agmashenebli. Hopefully within the in and fast work, I wish them all the best should comprise a lot with a stand-alone building located at a min- Featuring 119 rooms, with 101 standard the next couple of years we will be one and I thank them for their commitment imum distance of 15m. (ideally 20m.) from the perimeter of the lot, rooms including 71 standard double and of the main hotel providers in Tbilisi. to Georgia’s future. Georgia has had an in particular from neighboring streets and surrounded by a bound- 30 standard twin rooms, 7 superior rooms We’re also looking into Bakuriani, Kutaisi, incredible increase in its tourism poten- ary wall. The building's surface area should be between 1 700 and and 11 suite rooms, the ibis styles Tbilisi and Kakheti, so as to expand and help tial, and of course it needs high quality 1 900 m² and should consist of a maximum of 4 fl oors. is said to offer a homey atmosphere, all the Georgian hospitality industry,” Alexis hotels in Tbilisi in particular, and I’m The property should be situated within the city limits of Tbilisi. rooms having a large bed, comfortable Delaroff, Chief Operating Offi cer for sure this hotel will defi nitely contribute Its location should be easily accessible and consistent with the bedding with tea and coffee making Accor Hotels, Russia and CIS said at the to Georgia’s tourism potential,” Levent needs of representation and visibility of an important diplomatic facilities. opening, after he expressed his gratitude Gumrukcu, Ambassador of Turkey to mission. The hotel has a terrace bar ‘City Roof’ to the Maqro Construction Company, in Georgia noted, adding that as Georgia The required offi ce space should be suitable for hosting around on the fi fth fl oor with panoramic views charge of construction for the Ibis style and Turkey are celebrating their 25th 60 members of staff either in individual offi ces or in shared offi ces of the city and offering Asian cuisine to Tbilisi center hotel. year of diplomatic relations this week, and in open space in different combinations. It should also provide its guests. All the hotel’s rooms are Maqro Construction is considered to seeing this new building as a manifesta- an adequate number of meeting rooms, one multi-purpose confer- equipped with free Wi-Fi. As the world’s be one of the largest investors in Geor- tion of Turkish Georgian friendship, as ence room of approximately 140 square meters, as well as archive leading hotel operator, the Accor Hotels gia, from 2013, with projects like Green well as the Turkish private sector’s and spaces, storage rooms, server room, kitchenette and lavatories. Suf- Group claims to be united “by a shared Budapest, Green Diamond, and the inter- government’s commitment to Georgia’s fi cient natural light is a pre-requisite for the offi ces; rooms without passion for hospitality and driven by a national 4 Star Mercure Tbilisi Hotel development is a great pleasure and fi lls windows can only be foreseen for archiving, photocopying, etc. shared promise to make everyone feel among the projects they’ve launched in us with pride. welcome” with all their brands either Georgia. “We’re opening a very impor- Energy-effi cient, "green buildings" will be considered with prefer- luxury or economy combining excellent tant hotel today, at the heart of the city ence. service and a multicultural, respectful of Tbilisi. It creates additional job oppor- The total 1 700 – 1 900 square meters as indicated above should approach in 95 countries around the tunities and given its success, it will serve include corridors, entrance hall, reception area, and internal stair- world. as an example for other investors and cases but not parking spaces and areas entirely dedicated to tech- Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center shares the companies on how to realize a new top nical equipment. same concept as other Ibis style hotels, quality project in a limited period of A minimum 30 parking slots should be available within the perim- offering an all-inclusive package, with time,” Davit Narmania, Tbilisi Mayor eter boundary of the compound. breakfast and Internet access included pointed out in his speech, attending the The offi ce space must be compliant with all local building stand- in its room rates. Situated in the center opening event alongside Giorgi Kviri- ards and regulations, in particular in terms of occupational health of the cities in close proximity to historic kashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia, & safety, fi re prevention and anti-seismic construction codes. Com- sites, business districts, entertainment Giorgi Chogovadze, Head of Georgian pliance with EU standards or other international standards is a and shopping centers; each Ibis Styles National Tourism Administration, Lev- valuable asset. The overall quality of fi nishing as well as the tech- hotel however, tends to have its unique ent Gumrukcu, Ambassador of Turkey nical and mechanical equipment facilities should be in line with character refl ecting a colorful and ener- to Georgia. EU or international standards. getic branded spirit. “There’s no question this project will The offi ce space should be available for occupation, after con- “This unique product, the fi rst 3star be successful in Georgia. The Georgian struction or fi tting-out works completion, on 1 August 2019. international hotel in Tbilisi, I’ve no government has a very clear vision on Offers may include either: doubt will help Georgia and Tbilisi to its tourism development and according - Proposals from private constructors to develop, sell or lease a become even stronger on the interna- to the latest fi gures from the fi rst four bespoke offi ce facility to shelter the European Delegation tional tourism market. This is our second months of 2017, this year the number of - Proposals to rent or sell existing suitable buildings, including if project in Tbilisi after the Mercure Hotel. tourists is expected to be higher than in in need of refurbishment. This one has been opened in less than 2016,” Giorgi Chogovadze stated. In case of rental, the building will stay the property of the owner, while the European Union will enter into a long-term agreement assumed to be for 10 to 20 years minimum, with an option to extend and/or even purchase at a further stage. Submitted proposals should provide: Call For Land Transport

• A full description of the lot and/or the existing building • Spreadsheets of surfaces in square meters Management Service • Detailed information on the construction proposal • In case of a construction proposal, information on building com- pany Provider Companies • Information on rental and sale conditions, including rental price per square meter. • Provision rent services of vehicles inventory, car wash, parking, traffi c fi nes for in city, long distance, off road trans- etc Proposals must be submitted: portation • All vehicles which are owned, leased a. either by post or by courier not later than 16:00 on 20 June 2017 • Provision of planning, scheduling, or contracted by BP shall be installed to the address indicated hereunder. coordination and execution of mainte- with an In Vehicle Monitoring System b. or delivered by hand not later than 16.00 on 20 June 2017 to the nance and repair of vehicles in accord- (IVMS) address indicated hereunder ance with manufacturers’ recommenda- tions with up-to-date records held. Interested companies should provide For further information please liaise with the Delegation of the P Exploration (Caspian Sea) • Provision and Management of pro- their Contact Details; company name, European Union to Georgia at DELEGATION-GEORGIA-HOA@ LTD Georgia invites eligible fessional Transport Call Centre/ Journey address, telephone, e-mail and contact eeas.europa.eu companies to express their Management for fl eet coordination and name to the following e-mail address: Address of the Delegation of the European Union to Georgia: interest in providing Land on time vehicles dispatch [email protected] or to the company 38 Nino Chkheidze Street Transport Management ser- • Provide and administer vehicle assets: offi ce in Tbilisi at 24 Sulkhan Tsintsadze Bvices for BP Georgia operations: e g. comprehensive insurance coverage; street for the attention of Maka Arve- 0102 Tbilisi - Georgia Tel.: 995 294 37 63 • Provision of professional drivers, registration, state technical inspection, ladze, PSCM Country Lead Georgia. trainings and competency assurance fuel provision and card management, Submission deadline 5th of June 2017. GEORGIA TODAY MAY 26 - 29, 2017 SOCIETY 11 Enhancing Civic Education in Georgia with the Future Generation Program

expanding andinstitutionalizing second- projects carried out in schools. Almost BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI ary school civics education curricula 1500 teachers were trained across Geor- and practical applications”. gia within the USAID-funded civic edu- Our fi rst meeting occurred at the cation projects. “And over 500 solution- two day media seminar Napareuli Public School, where we met shave already been implemented by organized by PH Interna- the students and their extremely moti- different bodies as a result of issues tional’s Georgia offi ce at vated and enthusiastic teacher Natalia identifi ed by students through the pro- the beautiful Lopota lake Beriashvili, was just the right illustration ject,” Ushveridze stated. in the Kakheti region was for the Future Generation program, “Civic Education is a priority for us,” Anot only a perfect weekend getaway for implemented in a total of forty schools Chikobava said in her presentation of exhausted minds, but also turned out to across the Kakheti region. Students of the country’s national plan for educa- be anything but ordinary. As all of us the Napareuli Public School debriefed tion. “Civic Education is the belief that had our own views and understandings us on theirnumerous activities, uniting a person can be in charge of change in of what the Civic Education concept is 21 students from grades 9 to 12 in the a society,” she added. She went on to talk about, a more in-depth look was clearly civic club ‘Anabechdi’ with projects like about the challenges Civic Education necessary, as was meeting those people ‘Civic Awareness for Active Citizenship’, that although the subject is now taught Chikobava, from the National Curricu- teachers encountered when the subject who are actually behind putting it into which covers defending women and in schools, often the material is rather lum Programs Department at the Min- was fi rst introduced in schools as a sub- practice and trying to move it forward. children’s rights, helping socially “dry” and that’s where additional istry of Education and Science of Geor- ject some ten years ago. Civic Education PH International was founded in 1985 deprived children by collecting and resources like books and manuals pub- gia; and Nino Beselia, Civic Education is now taught in the 9th and 10th grades, for educational and cultural exchanges bringing them clothes, organizing an lished within the Momavlis Taoba pro- Expert, made detailed presentations on it is also added to the curriculum of 3rd between the countries of former Soviet event against tobacco smoking, prepar- gram come in. “These books helped the civic education trends in Georgia. and 4th grades and “Citizenship” will be Union and USA. Today, the organization ing information leafl ets on AIDS, organ- students come up with their own initia- “Civic Education has been taught as a taught in grades 6, 7 and 8 as an inde- sees its mission in building strong com- izing an Earth Day Week and a global tives, identify problems and plan activ- mandatory subject in Georgian schools pendent subject. munities by fostering civic engagement. warming awareness campaign, and cre- ities to raise public awareness on the for 10 years already,” Ushveridze said. “The key concept of Civic Education The media seminar was held within ating a resource room for fellow students topics they chose, deciding who to adress “If a country wants to develop democ- is the development of political culture,” the framework of PH International Geor- with special needs. The group has also with the issue,” Beriashvili said. “The racy, it needs Civic Education, as indi- said Nino Beselia, going on to discuss gia’s ‘Future Generation’ (Momavlis petitioned the local government author- local authorities are always trying to viduals should learn how to engage and the broader understanding of the notion Taoba) program, which runs with the ities to equip the school with ramps and assist students to put their initiatives be a part of a decision-making process: and its elements- political and legislative fi nancial assistance of USAID and is new toilets. And the government has forward as it’s hard to refuse children!” that is the model and concept on which literacy, social and cultural literacy, eco- implemented in collaboration with the responded, with promises to fulfi l the “Through civic education, not only stu- Civic Education is built on”. nomic, global and European literacy. She Center for Training and Consultancy, request by September. Meanwhile, dents but teachers are also learning, In order to teach Civic Education prop- also explained the methods of Civic Civics Teachers’ Forum and 10 regional Napareuli School has no central heating, discovering, and getting to know that erly, there are three essential components Education teaching and its ground prin- partner NGOs, and which is run in 480 a problem that still needs to be solved. this country is ours- we share the respon- needed: a qualifi ed teacher, a good text- ciples such as discussions and debates. schools nationwide in all the regions of As the teachers told us, the children sibility and doing what needs to be done book and practical exercises, Ushveridze The last part of the seminar was focused the country. The Future Generation pro- are very motivated to study civic educa- is entirely on us,” she concluded. told us. Every topic is taught with theo- on the issues of the important role media gram goal is to strengthen and achieve tion, which is a relatively new subject Back at the Lopota Lake resort, Berdia retical and practical parts, with cases can play in advocating Civic Education in greater civic engagement among Geor- for Georgian schools, and are now eagerly Natsvlishvili, PH International Georgia offered in relation to a certain topic, and Georgia, and further recommendations gian youth, while at the same time willing to advocate what they’ve learned Director; Marina Ushveridze, Chief of problems that are identifi ed are then were discussed and exchanged among the enhancing the role of civic society “by and accomplished. However, it was noted Party, Momavlis Taoba program; Mariam addressed through the various students’ participants and organizers of the event. 26th MEF International Peace Meet: Mestia, Svaneti Research Projects BY TONY HANMER

Contest Commences e were summoned, all Svaneti regional English teachers and our school directors, to a midweek meet- Wing at School No. 1 in Mestia, organized by the “Peaceful Corpus” as the Georgian description went, whatever that was. It was some time before I realized that it actually meant the Peace Corps, Amer- ica’s great program of service in over 60 countries around the world. The organization has been in existence since President John F. Kennedy initi- ated it in 1961, expressly “To promote world peace and friendship through a Peace Corps, which shall make available to interested countries and areas men TLG volunteer in all Svaneti for a few I was delighted to be introduced after- and women of the United States quali- years now, there is plenty of room for wards to the current English teacher in fi ed for service abroad and willing to PC to fi ll the huge available gaps remain- Ushguli, of which there have been an serve, under conditions of hardship if ing all over the region, in both schools unbroken stream for several years now, necessary, to help the peoples of such and communities. as per my long season of urgent requests nternational Research Projects Assoc. Prof. Bilge Demirköz was joined countries and areas in meeting their The presenters gave a detailed overview to the Georgian Ministry of Science and Contest, implemented in 1991 by by; Azmi Ozkardes, MEF International needs for trained manpower.” of how Peace Corps works, the applica- Education not to let my own hard work the MEF Educational Institutions Schools General Manager; and Prof. Fevzi Georgia’s statistics include a start in tion process for potential volunteers, host there go to waste. From the sound of with the intent of encouraging Unal, MEF University Vice President as 2001, with over 735 volunteers having families and communities; and let us know things, the level of English in the village high school students from all over she visited each stand to learn about served since then and about 110 being that this process would re-start for Svaneti is indeed still climbing, as it must for Ithe world eager to propose scientifi c each student’s projects in detail. current, on the standard 2-year program this September, meaning infl ows of suc- this hugely popular destination, end of solutions to current problems, marks its This year’s contest, having provided after 3 months of through training. An cessful applicants a year after that, so, the road in the country and supposedly 26th year this May. Assoc. Prof. Bilge many winning projects with the oppor- extension may be granted upon request. September 2018 or so. There were a num- highest village in Europe. Demirköz from Middle East Technical tunity to be implemented in the Turkish The main features here are English teach- ber of quite pertinent questions, about Peace Corps, although it is purely an University’s (METU) Faculty of Arts industry in the past years, features a ing of at least 18 hours per week, in con- why neither school directors nor English American institution, is doing good and Sciences, awarded the “Women in wide variety of projects, including but cert with a co-teacher, and other com- co-teachers could host (confl ict of inter- things in this country and deserves the Science” award by UNESCO-L’ORÉAL not limited to natural hybrid power banks, munity development projects too. The est) and about “orientation” (referring chance to prove itself further up in these for her work at the METU, gave a moti- production of prosthetics, technologies American volunteers (all must be such) coyly to gender issues; vetting and train- mountains. We shall see how the thing vating and eloquent speech to contest- for the visually impaired and cancer stay in carefully chosen and vetted host ing of all parties would be thorough, we develops over the coming year and a ants as a part of the opening ceremony treatments. families, pay them a stipend, and receive were assured, although Peace Corps is half, now that the ball is in our court. that took place on May 23, 2017 at UNIQ The award ceremony of the 26th Inter- a small salary. Much like TLG (Teach thoroughly equal-opportunity…). They Istanbul. national Research Projects Contest will and Learn with Georgia), the organiza- asked us to consider at least three good Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since The contest received a total of 508 be held on May 26, 2017, at MEF Schools’ tion I’m in; indeed, ours was permitted possible host families for each potential 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a project submissions from 13 countries, Ulus Campus. The student and advising to borrow much from PC training and host community, none of whose homes weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He including Georgia as well, from which teacher of the project given the encour- infrastructural materials in its inception. shall be more than 45 minutes’ walk from runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook 142 high school students’ projects were agement award as well as those coming I once met a couple of young ladies the host school as a rule. Information group, now with over 1350 members, at chosen to compete in the fi nals. After in fi rst, second and third will be given who had been Peace Corps volunteers packets circulated and were also prom- www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- the opening ceremony, these students monetary award; whereas all participat- in Svaneti, but this was some years ago ised online; a few more questions and sance/ took their places next to their exhibition ing students, advising teachers and prin- and I’ve not been aware of any since, words of thanks; then it was over and we He and his wife also run their own guest house stands, where they will be presenting ciples will be awarded with certifi cates though they may have come and gone. were dismissed to greet one another and in Etseri: their projects for the next three days. of achievement and plaques. But, as I seem to have been the sole disperse. www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY MAY 26 - 29, 2017 “Magic Drawing” – A new Campaign of Natakhtari Lemonade

Dear friends, magic drawing of o 16 Nikea Street, Kutaisi; Natakhtari Lemonade took start on May o 7 Orbeliani street, Batumi; 20. The list of prizes, rules for their Prizes will be awarded every Tuesday awarding and the other details are listed and Thursday at these locations from below: 11:00 to 18:00. • Only 0.33, 0.5, 1, 2 and 2.5 L yellow Other Important Details -cap plastic bottles of Natakhtari Lem- • When receiving the prize (except onade will take part in the drawing; for 0.33 L free lemonade), you should • The following prizes will be awarded: have an ID or passport, the copy of 300,000 plastic 0.33 L bottles of which can be submitted by the drawing Natakhtari Lemonade; organizer to a respective government • 100 tablets, 50 mobile phones, 50 lap agency in case of legal liability; tops, 1 tour to Paris Disneyland for 4 • Winner minor in order to receive persons and one apartment in Bakuri- the prize (except for 0.33 L free lemon- ani; ade) shall be accompanied by a legal • A winner will be identifi ed instantly representative to the respective address. by opening a bottle and detecting an Minor shall present a birth certifi cate, inscription under the cap; while a legal representative his/her ID. • Winning of 0.33 L Lemonade can be • Drawing will be held in Georgia dur- received at any supermarket; ing the period from May 20 to August • In order to receive the other prizes 20, 2017. - tablets, mobile phones, lap tops, tour • Any person can take part in the draw- to Paris Disneyland for 4 persons and ing; an apartment you have to visit special • An individual automatically becomes centers for awarding the prizes at the a drawing participant if he/she buys following addresses: respective product (0.33, 0.5, 1, 2 and o 87 a Akaki Tsereteli Avenue, Tbilisi 2.5 L Natakhtari Lemonade); o #5, 18th m/d Rustavi and Aghmashen- • For additional information related ebeli Avenue; to drawing please call 2 369 193 on work- o 22 Alazani Avenue, Telavi; ing days from 9:00 to 18:00. GEORGIA TODAY MAY 26 - 29, 2017 SOCIETY 13 Sine Qua Non of German- Georgian Relations

Mixture of Cafe and Theatre under a single space in the very heart of the old city.

Warm environment, Georgian & European Food, Art and Music

Open everyday from 12:00 pm to 01:00 am

the question, what makes him connected to Geor- BY MAKA LOMADZE gia, he answered: “My best half [wife]. I came here as a student in Perestroika years. Then, I returned and since 2003, I live and work here. “He is a Geor- n May 23, the Goethe Institute hosted gian language specialist, fl uent in Georgian, ruining a discussion dedicated to the Geor- the myth that Germans cannot learn our language. gian-German relations. The main ”There are so many more opportunities now, as sub-topic of the great event with the there are Georgian language courses for foreign- motto “Future Heritage”, and a pres- ers, as well as books on the language,” Reisner Oentation relating to the 200 years of bilateral rela- noted. tions between both nations, when the fi rst colonists Ortwin Hennig, former ambassador to Georgia, arrived in Georgia from Germany. However, the was extremely eloquent: “You have a wonderful occasion proved to be far more interesting, show- nature and culture, but fi rst and foremost, Geor- ing that our links date back to a much earlier time. gia has wonderful people. The youth here are The event was opened by Heike Peitsch, Ambas- very intellectual, which will enable the country sador of Germany to Georgia. The panelists were: to fi nd its place on the world map of tomorrow Maia Panjikidze, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and to contribute to solving global problems. In Samghebro St. 9/11 of Georgia and former ambassador of Georgia to numerous fi elds, Germans and Georgians col- +995514001122 )%ϤϛϯϟϢϟϛϭϫϣ‡&DIH7KHDWUH Germany, Ortwin Hennig, former ambassador of laborate very tightly, trustfully and respectfully. Germany to Georgia, Alexander Kartozia, Frankfurt So, my fi ve years of serving here are defi nitely (Oder) Viadrina University Professor and Oliver amongst my best.” He also added that the Ger- Reisner, Tbilisi Ilia University Professor. At the man embassy has always been interested in head of the discussion was German journalist Sil- spreading the German language. “We share very via Stober, who often works on themes related to similar cultural identity: we, both nations, are Georgia. They mentioned different aspects from fond of music, philosophy, science and poetry. history as well as prospects for the future. Notably, These are the reasons why the interest towards one of the main goals of the 'Georgian-German the German language is so special. I am happy year' is to give a new impetus to projects focusing that after English and Russian, German occupies on future cooperation. the third place, linguistically, in Georgia.” Hereby, In 1817, the fi rst German immigrants arrived in Alexander Kartozia, former Minister of Educa- Tbilisi, who gave a birth to diverse and intense tion, translator and German linguist who is a relations with Georgians. They founded two set- professor in Germany mentioned that unlike tlements: Katarinenfeld (Bolnissi) and Alexander- Armenia, which was more linked with France, dorf (Assureti). They took over agriculture, includ- Georgia was always closer to Germany, which is ing wine-making. In the 19th century, a new wave shown by the translations too. Among renowned of Germans came to the Caucasian region with translators, he mentioned Nodar Kakabadze and artistic and scientifi c intentions. These included Dali Panjikidze, as well as the linguistic researcher architects, painters and scientists who mainly Guram Ramishvili. The panelists also remem- resided in Tbilisi. These years certainly left their bered that even Kant and Hegel made reference mark: Kirche (Church) near present Marjanishvili to the Caucasus. Square, built in 1897, was demolished in 1940. How- In his comprehensive speech, former ambassador ever, this name is still alive, as well as Zemel, the Hennig also remembered his meetings with She- district adjacent to Rustaveli's Metro. It was named vardnadze and noted that the late President took after the pharmacist Evgeny Zemel, whose drug- part in the collapse of the Soviet Union and expressed store was located here. hopes that one day, Georgia will recognize him as In 1918, Germany was the fi rst country that rec- somewhat of a patriot. As news for a lot of attend- ognized the independence of Georgia. In 1989, ees, Mr. Hennig noted that German knights also Eduard Shevardnadze contributed to uniting Ger- participated in the most glorious Didgori battle many as a Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Soviet back in 1121, during David the Builder’s rule, which Union. In 1992, Germany restored its diplomatic became the Sine Qua Non for the Golden Era in relations with Georgia, opening the fi rst embassy Georgia. This fact is much more than suffi cient to in Tbilisi, making our relations truly unique. Related prove the German-Georgian connections date back to this, Alexander Kartozia, who was Shevardnadze’s many centuries, not just the widely known 200 private interpreter, remembered a humorous story: years. “It was in 1993, during Shevardnadze’s offi cial visit To the pitiful remark that Germans know more to Berlin. Burgominister said: a Georgian man took about Georgia much less than vice versa, Maia apart Germany and another Georgian restored it. Panjikidze replied: “I can tell you that for such a Eduard was good humorous man. Without hesita- tiny country as Georgia, German knowledge about tion, he answered: so, you see, there is no world it is quite high.” politics without Georgians." Later on, Zurab Jhva- “It was very interesting to listen to our panelists nia, [his pupil and former PM], said: "we promise because they [discussed] the issue [from] different Germany that we will not interfere in their inner angles. They pointed out that German-Georgian politics again,” Kartozia noted, provoking cheer, history does not consist of the last 200 years, but also by adding that “we [Georgians], have kept out dates back to medieval ages. [These links] have word until today.” refl ected in German literature too,” Ms. Heike Pei- A fair amount of Georgians speak German and tsch, current Ambassador of Germany to Georgia are familiar with German culture. As Oliver Reis- spoke to GEORGIA TODAY following the discus- ner, Professor at Ilia State University, noted: “The sion, adding that there is great potential for even German language has lost its popularity and is more of a deepening of our special relationship. overshadowed by English. However, judging from To culminate this wonderful story of bilateral the university I work at, the interest is increasing. friendship, Georgia, with a status of an honorary We should encourage not only becoming German guest, will take part in the Frankfurt Book Fair in linguists but also learning German in general.” To 2018. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE MAY 26 - 29, 2017

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER exhibitions RUSTAVELI CINEMA SPACE OF DIFFUSION June 1 THE HISTORY OF MUSHTAIDI Address: 5 Rustaveli Ave. DAVID ALADASHVILI & PARK AND OLD TBILISI CRAFT Telephone: 2 55 50 00 May 17-June 12 FOUNDATION IAVNANA TBILISI ZAKARIA WORKSHOPS www.kinoafi sha.ge EXHIBITION OF ZIGA PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Charity concert dedicated to the 21:00- Performance of Movement WALISZEWSKI'S ARTWORKS BALLET THEATER International Day of Children Theater Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL Address: 25 Rustaveli Ave. In program: Pieces by Bach, MEETING OF PIROSMANI WITH May 29 – June 1 MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Telephone: 2 99 04 56 Schumann, Liszt and Chopin. MARGARITA– LIVE STORIES Address: 1 Gudiashvili Str. Start time: 19:00 22:00- Closing event organized PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: May 28 Ticket: 10-35 GEL by The Folklore State Center of DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES L'ELISIR D'AMORE March 6 – August 30 Georgia. (Info Above) Gaetano Donizetti EXHIBITION DJANSUG KAKHIDZE Start time: 13:30, 16:45, 19:40, 22:35 Starring: Mariola Cantarero MASTERPIECES FROM THE TBILISI CENTER FOR MUSIC GEORGIAN STATE Ticket: 9-14 GEL (Adina), Pablo Karaman MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS AND CULTURE PANTOMIME THEATER (Nemorino), Mario Cassi (Belcore), COLLECTION Address: 125 Aghmashenebeli ave. Address: 37 Rustaveli Ave. ALIEN COVENANT Michele Pertusi (Dulcamara), Telephone: 2 96 12 43 Telephone: 2 99 63 14 (Info Above) GALLERY Tamta Kordzaia (Giannetta) Start time: 19:15, 22:30 Tbilisi State Opera and Ballet May 31 June 1 Ticket: 13-14 GEL Theater choir, orchestra THE NATIONAL GALLERY CONCERT OF CHAMBER MUSIC KRIMANCHULI Conductor- Walter Attanasi Address: 11 Rustaveli Ave. The string quartet of young Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE Director, Set and Costume www.museum.ge Georgian musicians will perform Comedy genre novels SWORD Designer- Fernando Botero the works of Josef Haydn and based on Georgian motives (Info Above) Assistant Director- Victor Garcia Sierra GEORGIAN PAINTERS Robert Schuman Start time: 20:00 Start time: 19:45 Start time: 19:00 PERMANENT EXHIBITION Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 8 GEL Ticket: 10-14 GEL Ticket: 20-180 GEL Ticket: 10 GEL CINEMA MUSEUM May 4 – June 2 GABRIADZE THEATER EXHIBITION DEDICATED TO TBILISI CONCERT HALL Address: 13 Shavtelis Str. 100th ANNIVERSARY OF ROBERT Address: 1 Melikishvili St. AMIRANI CINEMA GEORGIAN NATIONAL Telephone: 2 98 65 93 STURUA. Telephone: 2 99 00 99 Address: 36 Kostava Str. MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Telephone: 2 99 99 55 MUSEUM May 27, 28 May 5 – June 7 www.kinoafi sha.ge Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. June 1 MARSHAL DE FANTIE’S DIAMOND EXHIBITION Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 BASTI BUBU IS 25 YEARS OLD Rezo Gabriadze BACH EXERCISES Every Wednesday ticket price: 5 Lari www.museum.ge Bastibubu kids and pop stars, Directed by Rezo Gabriadze BY LEVAN LAGIDZE May 26 – June 1 25 stars- 25 hit songs English Subtitles PERMANENT EXHIBITION: MUSIC Start time: 22:00 Start time: 20:00 PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: GEORGIAN ARCHAEOLOGY Ticket: 10-35 GEL Ticket: 10, 15, 20 GEL DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES FROM 8TH MILLENNIUM B.C. TBILISI STATE Directed by Joachim Rønning, TO THE 4TH CENTURY A.D SOU FESTIVAL 2017 May 26 CONSERVATOIRE Espen Sandberg Address: 8 Griboedov St. STALINGRAD May 26 Cast: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, EXHIBITION OF GEORGIAN Telephone: 2 93 46 24 Rezo Gabriadze Javier Bardem WEAPONRY NATALIA BERIDZE, Directed by Rezo Gabriadze MONDRIAN ENSEMBLE Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy May 28 English Subtitles NUMISMATIC TREASURY Start time: 22:00 Language: English TENGIZ AMIREJIBI STUDIO Start time: 20:00 Start time: 19:20 CONCERT Ticket: 20 GEL Ticket: 10, 15, 20 GEL Language: Russian THE TESTAMENT OF DAVID Participants: Alexandre Julakidze, Venue: Akhmeteli Theater Start time: 16:15, 19:15, 22:15 THE BUILDER AND NEW MOVEMENT THEATER Irma Gigani, Tamar Licheli, Ticket: 13-14 GEL EXHIBITS OF THE MEDIEVAL May 28 Address: 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave., Vakhtang Jordania, Marina TREASURY NIKA MACHAIDZE - NIKAKOI Mushthaid park Nadiradze, Manana Doijashvili, ALIEN COVENANT Start time: 22:00 Telephone: 599 555 260 Directed by Ridley Scott September 27 (2016) – Alexandre Korsantia Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 15 GEL Cast: Michael Fassbender, September 22 (2017) Venue: Royal District Theater May 26 Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup EXHIBITION STONE AGE GEORGIA Ticket: 5-8 GEL RECITATIVE IN THE CITY Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller Kakha Bakuradze, Sandro May 31 May 29 Language: Russian May 18- November 18 LAWRENCE ENGLISH Nikoladze, Start time: 19:15 EXHIBITION GALA CONCERT OF VOCAL MUSIC Start time: 22:00 Irakli Menagarishvili Ticket: 13-14 GEL GEORGIAN COSTUME AND Participants: Iano Alibegashvili, Ticket: 30-35 GEL Special guest- Zura Sturua WEAPONRY OF 18TH-20TH Giorgi Gagnidze, Tamar Iveri, Anna Start time: 21:00 KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE CENTURIES Kasian, Nikoloz Lagvilava, Mzia Venue: Royal District Theater Ticket: 10 GEL SWORD Nioradzeand others. Directed by Guy Ritchie May 16-27 Zakaria Paliashvili Tbilisi Opera & May 30 May 27 Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, EXHIBITION Ballet Professional State Theater SHOBALEADER ONE MUSEUM NIGHT FESTIVAL Annabelle Wallis GEORGIAN ALPHABET Orchestra Start time: 22:00 19:00- Public lecture Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama BY NIAZ DIASAMIDZE Conductors- Zaza Azmaiparashvili, Ticket: 30-35 GEL MUSHTADI– LEGENDS AND Language: Russian Gogi Tchichinadze Venue: Event Hall REALITY Start time: 22:15 May 17-June 15 Start time: 19:00 20:00- Offi cial Opening of photo Ticket: 10-14 GEL EXHIBITION Ticket: 5-15 GEL May 31 FRANCK VIGROUX, ANTOINE SCHMITT Start time: 22:00 Ticket: 30-35 GEL Venue: Rustaveli Theater

June 1 JACOB KIRKEGAARD Start time: 22:00 Ticket: 20 GEL Venue: Akhmeteli Theater

FABRIKA Address: 8 Ninoshvili Str.

May 26 SHANTI PARTY A special day when healthy life, entertainment, therapy and leisure unite Program includes: a lecture dedicated to the Ayurveda feeding system, Ecstatic Dance, live music played with Asian instruments, special delicious healthy food for free etc. Start time: 09:00 Ticket: 60 GEL

MTATSMINDA PARK

May 27 EZO FESTIVAL Organised by Mzesumzira Community Season Opening D’JULZ, JAY SHEPHEARD, SEBO K, RATI, GABUNIA, VASKA, AKO VON UNTEN Season Ticket: 100 GEL, Ticket on May 27: 20-30 GEL GEORGIA TODAY MAY 26 - 29, 2017 CULTURE 15 Tbilisi 10th International Student Film Festival

with English sub-titles. Entrance will be free. BY MAKA LOMADZE Address: Aghmashenebeli Avenue 40. This year, the special guest will be Jerzy Rudjin- ski, a Polish cameraman and professor at Lodz rom May 31 to June 4, with the support Film School. He has worked with such famous of the Georgian Ministry of Culture and directors as Krzysztof Kieslowski and Anrzej Wajda. Monuments’ Protection, Shota Rustaveli The polish cameraman will hold a three-day work- Theatre and Film Georgian State Uni- shop with Georgian students about the methodol- versity will organize the Tbilisi Interna- ogy of working with color and camera, among other tionalF Student Film Festival. This will be the 10th topics. This year, the festival will be attended by year that is has taken place. The event is supported writers and camera crew from almost 10 countries, by the Georgian National Film Center and Tbilisi which will boost relations between Georgian and City Hall. On May 31, the offi cial opening will take foreign students, as well as meeting their potential place. The news of the festival will be represented future colleagues. The program of the festival also on the background of the set of soundtracks, cre- consists of other cultural events such as: Vladimer ated especially by a DJ for the occasion. Also on Sulakvelidze’s exhibition “Chairs” on June 1 and this day, work by the famous Georgian director the screening of the fi lm “Kite”; on the occasion of Giorgi Ovashvili, entitled “Vagoneti” will be screened. the Children’s Protection Day. On June 4, at 8 pm, the festival’s award ceremony The International Student Festival “Amirani” was will include a live concert of Tbilisi City Hall’s founded in the 1980s. The festival founded a num- Big-Band. The award categories will be as follows: ber of renowned directors during their student best feature, documentary and animation fi lms. years. The festival was restored in 2007. It has Special prizes and certifi cates will also be presented already ensured its position among the top inter- to specialties taught at world fi lm schools. These national fi lm festivals. include: directing, work of direc- tor of photography, editing and sound. As a result of the selec- tion, 38 fi lms from 19 countries have entered the program. They are: the USA, Germany, Argen- tina, Italy, China, France, Fin- land, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Brazil, Great Britain, Bulgaria Celebrates Education Israel, Romania, South Africa, Slovakia, Belgium and Georgia. The judges of 2017 are as fol- and Culture Day at TSU lows: Ashwini Malik, Indian fi lm director, script writer and Renaissance, which laid ground for the establish- teacher; producer Eitan Evan, BY MAKA LOMADZE ment of the modern Bulgarian nation and the res- an active member of the Israeli toration of the statehood in the 19th century. Last Film Industry; Lithuanian pro- but not least, in the ambassador’s words, following ducer Ramunas Pavilanskas; n May 24, in the inner courtyard of its accession to the EU, the Bulgarian alphabet Iranian moviemaker and the Tbilisi State University (TSU), contributed to the language and cultural diversity founder of Karname Institute the Bulgarian Embassy to Georgia of Europe. “We are proud of our script, language of Art and Culture Alireza Sol- celebrated the Day of Bulgarian Edu- and faith.” tani, board member Nino Kas- cation and Culture. The main event The next speaker was the Deputy Minister of radze, Georgian actress of Owas the exposition of umbrellas on which all the Education and Science, Tamaz Marsagashvili: “Your theatre and fi lm. The schedule 32 letters of the Bulgarian alphabet were painted. Excellency Mrs. Ambassador, Ladies and Gentle- of the festival also includes This is an important holiday, marked in different man, I am honored. We are attending the celebra- master-classes of the judges on countries. It is celebrated in all schools, universi- tory event for Bulgaria, which is an important ally. various topics: “RASA”- ties and cultural institutions of Bulgaria. The main thing for us is that Bulgaria is an EU approach to cinematic story- Mrs. Dessislava Ivanova, Ambassador extraordi- member state. Our fi rm will is to become a mem- telling; how to develop success nary and plenipotentiary of Bulgaria to Georgia, ber too as soon as possible. Bulgaria greatly sup- stories; how to create remakes opened the event by thanking Tbilisi State Univer- ports us on this diffi cult journey. I have visited Sofi a of fi lms; actors working on sity for its partnership in celebrating Bulgarian cul- and Varna several times at scientifi c conferences. camera and with directors; tural events. “It is my honor to welcome you to the I state with pride that the scientifi c school of Bul- interactions between producers opening of the exhibition of Glagolitic and Cyrillic garia is one of the best in Europe, which is con- and novice directors. Besides alphabets at the premises of the Tbilisi State Uni- stantly developing. I believe that the alphabet is a master-classes, the fi lm club of versity. Let me start by saying that the exhibits that tool for uniting mankind, as multiculturalism is the University of Film and I have the pleasure to present have been made by one of the most crucial points for us. We should Theatre will screen all movies the children from the Bulgarian Association “Spir- be respecftul of foreign cultures, and mutually entered into the competition, itual Mirror”, dedicated to the Holiday of Bulgarian unnderstand that culture is something that is inte- Education and Culture. On this day, we Bulgarians gral to both our countries. I am happy that Tbilisi celebrate the creation of our scripture. May 24 is State University named after Ivane Javakhishvili not just another national day for us. We are proud hosts this event, which is the hearth of our culture. to belong to the small number of countries who have I have no doubt that our cooperation will continue.” their own alphabets like Georgians. We are also The vice-director of TSU, Mr. Mikhail Chkhen- proud that in the 9th century, Bulgarians created, keli, also addressed the audience, “This is indeed developed and spread this alphabet. Thanks to this, a very special day. It started as a celebration in the today, over 300 million people write in Cyrillic. The 19th century in Plovdiv. Now, it has spread world- script is used by 50 cultures of the world and is an wide. Enjoy this beautiful day!” offi cial script in more than 10 countries. This day is Tatiana Kostadinova, Director of the Association celebrated in many countries.” “Spiritual Mirror” commented: “This is a non-profi t The glagolitic alphabet is the oldest known Slavic association. We support childrens development in alphabet. It is no longer used. As a sign of respect all regions of Bulgaria.” to the past, umbrellas, represented at Courtyard of Christina, 12, from the “Spiritual Mirror” asso- Tbilisi State University, bore one letter of both the ciation, talked to GEORGIA TODAY: “We, a lot of Cyrillic and Glagolitic alphabets. The ambassador girls and boys, wrote letters on umbrellas using noted that the alphabet has not only become a basis paint. I learned in design class. I studied how to for Bulgarian literature, culture and national iden- combine the colors. It was very interesting. My tity, but it was sign of the cultural prosperity of teacher showed me the alphabet and I chose one Bulgaria in the middles ages and cultural and letter. It took me fi ve hours. I am in Tbilisi for a political emancipation in the period of Bulgarian week. I am very happy.”

PUBLISHER & GM Journalists: Website Manager: ADDRESS Reproducing material, photos George Sharashidze Tony Hanmer, Zaza Jgarkava, Tamzin Whitewood 1 Melikishvili Str. and advertisements without Maka Bibilashvili, Website Copy-Editor: Tbilisi, 0179, Georgia prior editorial permission is COMMERCIAL Dimitri Dolaberidze, Gabrielle Guerrier strictly forbidden. DEPARTMENT Maka Lomadze, Tel.: +995 32 229 59 19 The author is responsible for Layout: Commercial Director: Tim Ogden, Joseph Larsen, E: [email protected] all material. Rights of authors Misha Mchedlishvili Iva Merabishvili Vazha Tavberidze, F: GeorgiaToday are preserved. The newspaper Marketing Manager: Nugzar B. Ruhadze, Webmaster: is registered in Mtatsminda Mariam Giorgadze Nino Gugunishvili, Sergey Gevenov ADVERTISING & district court. Thea Morrison SUBSCRIPTION EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT: Circulation Managers: +995 579 25 22 25 GEORGIA TODAY Editor-In-Chief: Photographer: David Kerdikashvili, E-mail: marketing@ Reg. # 06/4-309 Katie Ruth Davies Irakli Dolidze David Djandjgava georgiatoday.ge GEORGIA TODAY 16 SPORTS MAY 26 - 29, 2017 Georgia to Host U20 World Rugby Championship

into Rugby festival to be held in Mart- BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI kopi on June 1, the marking of World Children Day, a meeting with child refugees from Abkhazia, Samachablo, 20 World Rugby Cham- Ukraine and Syria, organized in part- pionships are set to start nership with UNHCR and Georgian May 31 through June 18, Rugby Union, a visit to the fi rst child- with a massive agenda of rens hospice “Firefl ies World” as well social and educational as joint events planned together with Uactivities planned, as announced at the Georgian center for Para-Olympic press conference at the TBC gallery Development and Para-Olympic com- yesterday in Tbilisi. The Georgian Rugby mittee on June 14, dedicated to the Union has been actively involved in International Day of Rights for Persons various CSR projects, which in the rugby with Disabilities. Elene Aladashvili, world is an integral part of world cham- Communications and Development pionships, enabling rugby players and Director at San Diego State University team management to become engaged in Georgia, introduced the Hackathon in numerous social and educational Rugby event, planned within the U20 actions. The U20 Legacy program, pre- Legacy program, which is organized in sented at the press conference by Nodar partnership with Georgian Rugby Union, Andguladze, the SCR projects manager San Diego State University and with of The Georgian Rugby Union, consists fi nancial support from Beeline, set to of several components with educational be held on June 9. Within 48 hours and social activities incorporated. As almost 100 students from different uni- Andguladze noted, there will be fi ve versities throughout Georgia will have seminars organized overall, covering to come up with innovative ideas and will also form a part of the U20 legacy Organizations are all involved in the sporting success in the future. Having topics from nutrition in sports to med- create a program to be potentially used project, an event taking place on the social events organized during the U20 a U20 World Rugby Championship in icine, training in coaching and new in contemporary rugby and sports at stadium territory during match days, World Rugby Championship in Georgia. Georgia is extremely important, espe- technologies. large. As Elene Aladashvili noted, a while the championship teams will also “For us, supporting Rugby is not a spon- cially when all the teams participating Apart from the seminars and media fi nancial prize will be awarded to the be participating in the actions planned sorship project, we will always do our will be engaged in numerous CSR pro- tournaments planned, it’s been said that winner of the Hackathon to further for the Environment Safety Day, as well best to assist the Georgian Rugby Union jects throughout the tournament. The each of the teams participating in U20 develop the innovative project and as a culinary show based gender issues in promoting rugby in our country; as legacy project presented today clearly World Rugby Championship, represent- ensure it gets put it into practice. The under the UN Women He For She pro- for TBC, it forms a part of its CSR activ- highlights that CSR direction is becom- ing teams from England, Ireland, Argen- Hackathon is set to run until June 11, ject framework amongst others. TBC ity. It is not a marketing project. Rugby ing intensively involved in the public tina, Australia, New Zealand and Wales, and according to Elene Aladashvili and Bank, Beeline, UN Women, San Diego is one of the strongest examples of the and private sectors and in the fi eld of Scotland, Italy, France and Samoa are Nodar Andguladze, promises to be one State University, UNICEF, Para - Olym- country’s success for the last 20 years sports today” - Nika Kurdiani, Deputy planning different social activities, of the most integral events of the U20 pic Training Center, The Childrens if not more, and it’s crucial to stimulate CEO TBC Bank said, in his speech at including the participation of the Get legacy program. A ‘safe road’ campaign Hospice, Impact Hub, State and Private the country to ensure even greater the end of the press conference.