Issue no: 1019 • FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... Construction of 5-Star Hilton Hotel Starts in Tbilisi NEWS PAGE 2 Georgian, Russian Envoys Negotiate in Prague

POLITICS PAGE 4 Maladies Aplenty, Remedies Too Scarce POLITICS PAGE 9 Mastercard Introduces FOCUS Digitalization of Life Research ON THE EU PRESIDENCY Bulgarian Ambassador to Findings in Georgia Georgia on the EU Presidency PAGE 8 BUSINESS PAGE 11 Lion Quest School Violence & Bullying Prevention Programs Prospect of NATO, EU Membership SOCIETY PAGE 15 Decades of Positively Received by Most Georgians Success & Public Adoration: BY MÁTÉ FÖLDI Cinema

ccording to a new survey conducted by Legend’s the Caucasus Research Resource Center Anniversary (CRRC) Georgia, both NATO and EU membership are looked at favorably. Of CULTURE PAGE 19 the people interviewed, 41% support Georgia’sA NATO integration, with 26% partially sup- porting it and 20% against. Meanwhile, 45% of respond- ents were in favor of joining the EU, 28% partial in their support, with only 14% against. However, when it comes to joining the Eurasian Union, the numbers aren’t so high. Only 19% supported the idea, 24% partially supported it, and 38% were against it. The survey was conducted between September 23 and October 10, 2017, with a total of 2,379 respondents interviewed. The average margin of error is put at 2%. The Caucasus Barometer survey is conducted by CRRC Georgia as part of the grant of New York Car- negie Corporation. GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Georgia's Foreign Construction of 5-Star Minister Meets Hilton Hotel Starts in Tbilisi NATO Secretary BY THEA MORRISON he new 5-star Hilton Hotel Tbilisi construction has been launched in the center of the capital. The hotel General will be located on Kostava TStreet, in the old building of the Minis- try of Agriculture. Granat Investment, investing around €45 million in the hotel, is to renovate and restore the old Soviet-era building. The hotel, scheduled to open in 2020, will have 200 rooms. The investor invited Ital- ian architect and designer Piero Lissoni, also known for his contemporary furniture design, to work on the hotel project. Hilton Tbilisi’s main contractor is BBC, and the construction process will be investing in the project, noting that, for is especially interesting because it sees handled by British company BHP. several years, the building had been the merging of old and new architecture. At this stage, 150 people are employed unoccupied. “For me, as City Mayor, it is important within the frames of the project and a “I am happy that this investor will give that new jobs are created. Nearly 500 total of 500 will be employed for the a beautiful building to our capital,” the people will be employed in the construc- hotel construction. PM said. tion process, and, once opened, there Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kviri- Mayor Kaladze also delivered a speech will be 300 permanent jobs,” the Mayor kashvili, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze at the ceremony, noting that the project stated. and the investors put a symbolic capsule into the foundation of the upcoming hotel. The Prime Minister underlined the dynamics of the tourism sector and noted that the new hotel will not only host visitors to the capital but will also ben- efi t the entire country. “I want to tell our citizens that the growing economy, the dynamics that we have in the country, will certainly give to be active in the future as well. them the opportunity to improve their BY THEA MORRISON At the meeting, the NATO Secretary economic life,” he added. General was informed about the situa- Kvirikashvili highlighted that, above tion in the occupied regions of Georgia. all, new hotels create new jobs and bring eorgia’s positive implemen- Stoltenberg reaffi rmed his fi rm support profi t to the country. tation of its Annual National to Georgia's sovereignty and territorial He thanked Granat Investment for Program 2017, together with integrity. Georgia-NATO coopera- Also, it was underlined that Georgia tion and regional develop- plays an important role in the region, Gments were the main topics of a meeting adding the country contributes to over- between Georgia’s Foreign Minister, all Euro-Atlantic security. Georgia Crime Statistics 2017: Mikheil Janelidze and NATO Secretary The conversation touched upon the General, Jens Stoltenberg. security of the Black Sea region and Geor- The meeting took place at the NATO gia's participation in the Alliance's prac- 37,944 Crimes Registered headquarters in Brussels on January 31, tical efforts to strengthen the Black Sea. before the NATO-Georgia Commission It was noted that NATO will continue tered crime in the country is related to the following directions: BY THEA MORRISON (NGC) session, which provides the practical and political support of Georgia, health, as well as property and also drug • Crime against public security and framework for close political dialogue in the process of strengthening the coun- offenses. order (19.5% decrease compared to 2016) and cooperation in support of the coun- try's defense capabilities and security. The following crimes increased last • Drug crime (8.3% decrease) try’s reform efforts and its Euro-Atlantic Furthermore, Janelidze attended the eorgia’s Ministry of Inter- year in the country: • Traffi c crime (16.4% decrease) aspirations. NGC meeting, adding “at the session of nal Affairs (MIA) has • Crime involving death (11.9 % increase The Ministry published last year’s sta- The process of Georgia's Euro-Atlantic the Commission, the Alliance's assess- released the crime statistics compared to 2016) tistics after a two-year hiatus. The MIA integration, including Georgia's imple- ment of Georgia's Annual National Pro- from last year, which shows • Crime against health (14.8% increase) says they will also publish monthly sta- mentation of the 2017 National Program gram was positively evaluated by the that 37,944 crimes were • Crime against human rights (23.3% tistics, including March 2018, after which and reforms in the fi elds of democracy reforms in the democratic, economic Gregistered throughout the country, 5.4% increase) quarterly statistics will be published. and defense, were positively assessed at and defense spheres implemented in the more than in 2016. • Crime against property (8.1% increase) “The MIA is open and transparent in the meeting. country.” In comparison to 2016, the crime-report • Environmental crime (127.8% increase) its activities. This is the reality accord- The Georgian Minister thanked the “Georgia is moving forward and using rate decreased in 2017, namely, 53.2% of • Crime against the rule of governance ing to the statistical data. We believe NATO Secretary General for his support all the practical instruments at its dis- the 37,944 crimes registered in 2017 were (17.5% increase) that it is possible to overcome the exist- towards Georgia, and expressed hope posal in order to achieve its ultimate initiated by the police, while the rate was • Crime hindering the enforcement of ing challenges only if we face the real that the current positive dynamics of goal - membership in NATO,” the Min- 57.4% in 2016. court verdicts (20.5%) picture,” the statement of the ministry NATO-Georgia cooperation will continue ister added. According to the MIA, 64.5% of regis- A reduction of crime was observed in reads. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 NEWS 3 Gov’t to Set Up State Inspector’s Service to Investigate Crimes Committed by Law Enforcers Once the new body is set up, it will be avoid confl ict of interest in the inspec- However, the bill presented by the headed by Personal Data Protection tor's apparatus.” government does not include the perse- Inspector Tamar Kaldani, who will deal “The Inspector will supervise covert cution and support of prosecution in with both personal data issues and alleged investigative actions and personal data court. violations by law enforcers. protection on the one hand, but will also The NGOs and opposition believe the “This is a step forward, and civil soci- be granted the right to conduct investi- State Inspector will have limited author- ety representatives have confi rmed it. gative actions. I wonder how the Inspec- ity, as persecution will still be the func- There will be no confl icts of interest, as tor’s Offi ce will monitor the personal tion of the law enforcement agencies. the Personal Data Protraction Service data protection process itself,” Lomjaria Giorgi Tugushi from the parliamentary in not affi liated with the law enforce- said. minority European Georgia, says the bill ment agencies,” Kaldani said. The opposition and the Non-Govern- is faulty. He explained that the issue of Justice Minister Thea Tsulukiani noted mental Organizations (NGOs) had been creating an independent investigative that the project includes international calling on government to create such body was raised because the Prosecu- Source: Reginfo.ge obligations undertaken under the Asso- an independent investigative body; tor’s Offi ce could not comply with the the Justice Ministry, the State Inspector ciation Agreement with the European however, they say the announcement demands of society to carry out trans- BY THEA MORRISON will also have the right to initiate an Union. on setting up State Inspector’s Service parent investigation. investigation into high-ranking offi cials, “If Parliament approves the bill, we was unexpected. “However, the new bill says the Inspec- the only exceptions being the Chief will have an independent investigative Last year, NGOs prepared a draft, tor will have no right of persecution and State Inspector’s Service Prosecutor, Minister of Internal Affairs structure,” she added. according to which the new body would the Prosecutor’s Offi ce will be responsi- will be established in Geor- and Head of State Security Service. Giorgi Gakharia, the Minister of Inter- be impartial from any state agencies and ble for it, which is unacceptable,” he said. gia to investigate alleged The State Inspector's Service will work nal Affairs, said the new body will help headed by a commissioner elected for a Another opposition party, the United violations and offences in three main directions: investigating the Ministry raise its competitiveness. seven-year term and who would be National Movement, says it is impossible committed by law enforc- alleged ill-treatment, including torture, “This body will answer the challenges required to present a report to Parlia- that the new body be free from infl uence Aers. beating and other forms of treatment by our country is facing now,” he noted. ment twice a year. of the ruling party Georgian Dream’s The service will be controlled by Par- law enforcers, protection of personal However, Georgia’s Public Defender, The draft also read that the investiga- (GD) and claim the ruling team made liament, with a Head appointed by it to data and control of the principle of law- Nino Lomjaria, has many questions about tive body should have three main func- the decision unanimously, without con- serve for a duration of fi ve years. fulness in the process of secret investi- the new draft of the Justice Ministry, tions: investigation, persecution and sulting the opposition parties or the civil According to the project initiated by gations. particularly “how the new service will support of the prosecution in court. sector. Varketili Metro Station Resumes Normal Service Municipality and the Ministry of Health, The Tbilisi Mayor stated that there BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze announced are questions to be answered in a timely during a briefi ng. manner as to why the incident hap- “The Vaketili metro station was refur- pened. He added that everyone involved arketili Metro Station bished recently, and what we’re seeing “will take full responsibility for their resumed normal service now is the result of the irresponsibility actions.” on Wednesday following of the company in charge of the resto- “We are examining all the buildings a ceiling collapse on Tues- ration works,” Kaladze said. in Tbilisi, the kindergartens, sports day which injured 14 peo- The restoration works were done by complexes and metro stations in great ple.V The remaining part of the ceiling a company named ‘Kvareli Remmsheni’ detail. Unfortunately, we have seen some has been dismantled in order to avoid to a cost of GEL 347,852. unsatisfactory work done, and we are risk to passenger safety. The restoration works were begun in monitoring the situation. We’ll be pay- Medical expenses for those injured 2016 and fi nalized in August 2017, the ing particular attention to the quality as well as upcoming ones,” Mayor Vaketili Metro incident is ongoing under during the incident at Varketili Metro renovated metro station opening that of refurbishment and construction work, Kaladze said. Article 240, which entails Breaching of station are being covered by Tbilisi September. both with regards to ongoing projects The investigation into the cause of the Safety Norms in construction works. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Georgian, Russian Envoys Negotiate in Prague

BY THEA MORRISON

eorgian Prime Minister's Special Representative for Relations with Russia, Zurab Abashidze, and Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Grigory Karasin, held an informal meeting in GPrague on January 31. The details of the meeting were revealed by the Georgian Government’s Press Service, which says that in parallel with the issues on the agenda, Abashidze also raised the issue of recent develop- ments in Georgia’s Russian-occupied Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions. The Georgian envoy also condemned the ratifi - cation of the so called military deal between Rus- sia and breakaway South Ossetia, which envisages the incorporation of the unlawful military units of the occupied Tskhinvali region into the military forces of Russia. The opening of so called customs checkpoints in occupied Akhalgori, South Ossetia in late January was also denounced by Abashidze. The sides discussed mutual cooperation issues in the fi elds of tourism, economics and trade. Abashidze also spoke about the implementation of the 2011 agreement on the Cargo Monitoring Movement, which was signed with a neutral Swiss company by Georgia two months ago, but the Rus- sian side has not fi nalized the contract yet. The Georgian envoy stated that the Russian side says they will sign the agreement, but do not indi- cate when. He noted that the 2011 agreement can be realized only envisages the carrying out of monitoring of Since 2013, the meetings have been held in Prague. Abashidze also says the Russian side has given only with the full respect for its principles and cargo movement through the three trade corridors,” The meetings constitute a direct dialogue between an incorrect interpretation to the deal, when it provisions, without any different interpretations Abashidze explained. the two countries’ offi cials following the 2008 mentions so called customs borders between Geor- or politicization. The fi rst Abashidze-Karasin meeting took place Russian-Georgian war, after which Georgia cut gia and its two occupied regions. “The agreement does not include any borders. It in Geneva on December 14, 2012. diplomatic ties with Russia.

GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Big Changes in Uzbekistan

OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI

he post-Soviet space is an interesting territory for the scholars of state-building pro- cesses. Indeed, slightly more than a quarter of a century hasT passed since the break-up of the Soviet Union, and the majority of related countries are still experimenting with internal devel- opment. In that sense, a very interesting process is taking place in Central Asia’s, arguably, most important country: Uzbek- istan, seeing changes in the country that will have a bearing on foreign relations and the overall situation in the region. The country is in the midst of an inter- nal struggle over who will control most resources. On January 31, it was announced that the Uzbek President Shavkat Mir- zyoyev had dismissed powerful longtime National Security Service (MXX) chief Rustam Inoyatov. Inoyatov, 73, has for 23 years been in charge of the MXX and was replaced by Ihtiyor Abdullaev, a relatively inconspicuous fi gure. The replacement is important as, since the death of veteran president Islam removed from Uzbek embassies abroad. the media sector, etc. Tajikistan and Turkmenistan) and venient for Russia, China and others to Karimov in 2016, a power struggle has The departure of Inoyatov ushers in a It is also true that we do not know much Afghanistan, and also sits on a big part tame radical Islamism and its followers, been playing out between Mirzyoyev’s new period in the history of modern of internal processes in Uzbekistan, and of the agriculturally rich Fergana Valley, which are often recruited from Central and Inoyatov’s supporters, and there Uzbekistan. The MXX, the main succes- the changes fi ltered in the media allow with a sizable population as well as oil Asian workers visiting Russia. Moreover, were recent hints that the confrontation sor of the Soviet-era KGB in Uzbekistan, us to make only an initial assessment of and natural gas deposits. This has meant prevention of narco- and human-traffi ck- was coming to a head. has been regarded as perhaps the most the situation. Indeed, removing a long- Tashkent have at times diffi cult relations ing from Afghanistan could also be made For instance, Mirzyoyev's December closed and powerful security agency in time rival does not guarantee that Mir- with Moscow since the break-up of the through Uzbekistan. 22 speech to Parliament was character- the Central Asian region. Mirzyoyev now zyoyev will remain liberal and more open Soviet Union. At the same time this stra- Much remains to be seen in the devel- ized by harsh criticism of the MXX and being able to replace his long-time rival to foreign countries. tegic location, as well as large resources, opment of Uzbekistan, but the country its leadership (i.e. Inoyatov) and called means the President is now in almost The Georgian government should pay have enabled Uzbekistan to successfully will undoubtedly remain a powerful for immediate reforms in the agency. full control of the country. It also means particular attention to Uzbekistan, as resist Russian or other foreign pressure actor in the Central Asian region. As the Moreover, in January this year, the that Mirzyoyev will now be able to be the country arguably has the most stra- to enlist the country into CSTO, EEU or tendency of foreign relations shows over rumors of Inoyatov's imminent replace- more active in his reform agenda, which tegic location in the region. For example, other regional organizations. the past several months, Tashkent’s rela- ment gained more traction when Mirzy- includes scrapping internal visas for Uzbekistan shares borders with all Cen- Uzbekistan is also important because, tions with neighboring countries will oyev demanded that MXX personnel be Uzbeks willing to go abroad, liberalizing tral Asian states (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, through its location, it is much more con- further improve. HOTEL PORTA CAUCASIA KAZBEGI Feel at home in Caucasus

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Address: 2 Tergdaleulebi St., Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Georgia Tel: +995 322 25 77 70 Mail: [email protected] FB: @PortaCaucasiaKazbegi GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 POLITICS 7 Life Finds a Way: No Deal. Again Kremlin Trains Anti- Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, no other regions result of diffi cult diplomatic compro- OP-ED BY ZAZA JGARKAVA of Georgia are mentioned,” Abashidze mises. The following algorithm was said. written down on paper, but not executed Different interpretations of a single in reality: Three trade corridors would Drone Falcons arasin and Abashidze have document seem quite unbelievable, but be created between Russia and Georgia: met for the fi rst time since explaining why Offi cial Moscow is so Sochi-Zugdidi, Vladikavkaz-Gori and day 29th of January. RIA Novosti was BY MÁTÉ FÖLDI the Year of the Dog began. stubborn about signing the document Vladikavkaz-Kazbegi. This last was just briefed of the birds of prey’s capacity to Before fl ying to Prague, is not diffi cult, especially for such an a formality, designed mainly to “keep take take down unmanned aerial vehicles both diplomats airing their experienced diplomat as Abashidze. The the right image” for Russia. Neutral in the vicinity of the Kremlin. Though, Krespective accusations to the media. agreement signed in 2011 wasn’t exactly observers or inventories would be allo- n an age where technology has the source did add that the use of falcons These mainly concerned the issue of to the taste of the Abkhazian and Osse- cated at the start and end of each of the become both wonderfully and instead of hawks is preferable due to the monitoring cargo turnover on the Rus- tian separatists, since there was no men- separatist regions, among them in Gori horrifyingly advanced, it is refresh- former’s greater weight. sian-Georgian border, and made it clear tion of them in the document at all; plus, and Zugdidi, there to physically control ing to see human ingenuity going The falcons will provide an additional what the parties would be discussing in they weren’t involved at all in the pre- the passing cargo on the territory of the back to the basics. Not content source of protection for the Kremlin. the Hotel Diplomat of Prague. paratory works or the actual signing. Iwith its already formidable military arse- Last year, the principal robotics research According to the agreement signed nal, the Kremlin has decided to go eco- center of the Defense Ministry presented in 2011, Russia and friendly with anti-drone falcons. anti-drone defenses system: an anti-drone Georgia took Yes, that’s not a typo: the Kremlin does gun capable of neutralising threats at a responsibility for indeed possess falcons (and hawks) capa- maximum distance of 2km. seeking out a neu- ble of intercepting and hunting down Falcon Trivia: the Peregrine falcon is tral party which drones that threaten its airspace in central fastest bird in the world, with an average would control Moscow. The information was confi rmed horizontal fl ight of 65-95k/h and an aver- cargo turnover at to the state-run RIA Novosti news agency age diving speed of 320km/h. Good luck the borders. Offi cial by a source in the security forces on Mon- drones. Tbilisi has already signed the agree- separatist regions using GPS technolo- ment with a Swiss Notably, specific locations were gies. And it is this last clause that drives company, and now it’s Russia’s turn. But, defi ned solely using geographical coor- the separatists especially crazy. as usual, one and the same documents dinates, latitude and longitude, which Russia is now actively creating ambig- are interpreted differently in Georgia made Moscow face a really tough uous customs alliances with the occupied and Russia, and often become the reason dilemma: Russia recognized the so-called Sokhumi and Tskhinvali, thus trying to for reciprocal accusations and delays. independence of Abkhazia and South somehow turn the active regimes of Moscow argues that the agreement Ossetia, but by signing an agreement of occupied territories into existing “sub- about customs monitoring concerns the such importance, where the interests jects” within the agreement of 2011. An borders between Abkhazia and Tskhin- and even the existence of these two so- example of this is how a customs offi ce vali regions, while Offi cial Tbilisi states called independent republics was com- recently opened in Akhalgori: Ossetian that there is no mention of the borders pletely neglected, it would be interpreted from the outside, but Russian on the at all, especially those of Abkhazia and as a public undermining of this very inside, as well as those control check- Tskhinvali. The agreement speaks only recognition. On the other hand, if Rus- points at Enguri. We can already predict of trading corridors and the neutral party, sia had insisted on specifi cally mention- that the same fate awaits the 2011 agree- in this case the Swiss observers who will ing these “independent states” in the ment as all those numerous documents control the start and end points of the agreement, Georgia would naturally that have been signed between Tbilisi borders. “This agreement is between refuse to sign it. and Russia so far. Or as they like to say Georgia and Russia; and the regions of Thus, the agreement of 2011 was the here, “this deal has no future.” GEORGIA TODAY 8 POLITICS FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Bulgarian Ambassador to Georgia on Bulgaria’s Ascension to the EU Presidency

BY KATIE RUTH DAVIES

his January saw the com- mencement of the first Bulgarian Presidency of the Our aim is to European Union, the offi cial opening ceremony for improve the Twhich took place on January 11 in the Bulgarian capital of Sofi a. security of EU “On January 1, we took over the Pres- idency of the Council of the European citizens Union,” said President Rumen Radev at the offi cial opening ceremony in Sofi a. “The focus of our work in the area of “For 11 years, we have been a member security will be reform of the Common of the Union, but for 13 centuries, Bul- European Asylum System based on the garia has been the South-Eastern gate of principals of responsibility and true the continent. This is an historical expe- solidarity.” rience we have paid a high price for. We Within this, she said, comes strength- in the Balkans know very well that divi- ening border control “for more effi cient sion breeds tragedy. Europe is too big to management of the migration processes, be monolithic and too small to be divided, for interoperability of the information and this is why the slogan of our Presi- systems, and for practical application of dency is ‘United, We Stand Strong.’ the Permanent Structured Cooperation Clear in his message was the belief that ‘PESCO’.” realism and solidarity are key to solving “Our aim is to improve the security of universal problems. “Europe is not just EU citizens,” she told us. an economic space, but a space of free- Of the digital economy, she noted the dom, deeply rooted in history, culture need to adapt to the new realities. and humanism, and we should not turn “Research data show that in certain our backs on this,” the Bulgarian Presi- aspects, Europe is still lagging behind dent concluded. sador of Bulgaria to Georgia, Dessislava and united Europe, Member States about to leave the EU, its competitors. This is why we must, “We have to be an impartial moderator Ivanova, to fi nd out more about Bulgar- o The digital economy and skills of the and global challenges of increasing fre- without further delay, complete the work in negotiations, but, at the same time, ia’s aspirations and expectations in the future, quency and scope, our only chance of on the Digital Single Market as a source do our best so that each Bulgarian feels months ahead. o Economic growth, social cohesion moving forward depends on our playing for growth and competitiveness in the EU is there for him,” said the Prime “The Presidency is a chance for us to and youth. together as a team. We know this team Europe,” the Ambassador said. Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria, show a different side of Bulgaria,” she “For Bulgaria, as a Balkan country, the also has a few ‘reserve members.’ Why “We also want to make sure that our Boyko Borissov. said, after affi rming that the top job on future of the Western Balkans is natu- not start training with them now, so that educational systems are good enough to The President of the Council of the the agenda is just what Juncker high- rally very important, but this should be they can be an effective part of the A-team provide young people with the skills that European Union, Donald Tusk, expressed lighted (above). “We hope that over the important not only for us. Over the past once they join the game? To that end, the labor market of tomorrow demands. his high appreciation for Bulgaria’s focus next six months, all our European and decade, Europe has been hit by consec- we are organizing a summit between the For this, we will look into the future of on the future of the Western Balkans, and non-European partners and friends will utive crises. This has meant that we have EU leaders and the leaders of the West- the Erasmus+ program, discuss how to added that stability, security and prosper- get to know more of the multiple faces been focused on solving our own prob- ern Balkan countries in Sofi a on 17 May modernize European education, and ity are what the people of the region of Bulgaria: the ‘good student,’ the ‘strong lems rather than reaching out to those 2018. make sure that we are providing an envi- deserve. According to him, the EU's pur- economic performer,’ the ‘model for around us. As a result, many of our part- “Bulgaria joined the EU only a decade ronment conducive to lifelong learning.” pose is to help make this dream a reality. ethnic tolerance,’ and will have the chance ners, and especially those in the Western ago and we have very recent memories To boost economic growth, the Bulgar- Bulgaria, according to its President, is to develop a fuller understanding of Balkans, have lost hope that their Euro- of what being a candidate country feels ian Presidency plans to work towards a country in which cohesion funds are Bulgaria, and even come to love it.” pean perspective is realistic. Some have like. We therefore believe that we can strengthening the Economic and Mon- bringing about visible change and con- The three pillars of the Bulgarian Pres- even started looking for growth and be a bridge between the Western Bal- etary Union. “We will prepare the debate tributing to a year-on-year economic idency Program are stability, security development opportunities elsewhere,” kans, and of course, the Black Sea region on the next multi-annual Financial growth of 3.8%. It is a country which is and solidarity. The Ambassador told us the Ambassador told us. “Now the Euro- and the EU; a bridge that goes both ways: Framework, gather ideas about the future protecting the EU's external border as that they plan to achieve these goals by pean economy is back on track, this is a bringing the EU’s messages to the West- Cohesion Policy post-2020, and steer the responsibly as any Schengen Area mem- implementing three key principles: con- chance for us to look to our partners in ern Balkans and the Black Sea region debate on how to modernize and sim- ber, without, in fact, being part of Schen- sensus, competitiveness, and cohesion, the Western Balkans and to reassure and vice-versa.” plify the Common Agricultural Policy / gen. It is a country whose currency, the working on four main strands: them that their European perspective is She went on to discuss Bulgaria’s other CAP/ after 2020,” she said. Lev, has been governed by the same rules o The European perspective of the realistic.” priorities: security and stability, digital “Globally, even the biggest EU Member as the Euro for decades, and whose mac- Western Balkans, She then emphasized the need for economy and skills of the future, and eco- States are too small to stand up to the roeconomic indicators are impeccable, o Security and stability for a stronger Europe to be united. “With one of our nomic growth, social cohesion and youth. competition of major economies. How- even though it is not part of the Euro- ever, when taken together, the EU's 28 zone. Finally, it is a country where dif- Member States form the biggest economy ferent religions and ethnicities live in the world. This is clear proof that only together in peace. united can we do more and do it better.” “The Bulgarian voice will be heard We asked her of the burdens of the loudly and prominently in Europe,” said Presidency and how Bulgaria sees itself President of the European Commission, in this role. Jean-Claude Juncker, going on to high- “As rotating President of the Council light that the Bulgarian Presidency is of the European Union, we are aware of taking place at a crucial moment when the big responsibility and expectations the European Union must deliver on a towards us. We will be a fair moderator number of initiatives for its citizens and and work on fi nding common solutions shape the Union's future. in response to the expectations of Europe GEORGIA TODAY met with Ambas- and its citizens for more security, stabil- ity and solidarity. Our aim will be to create a strong, digital and united Europe through consensus, competitiveness and cohesion. We will seek to strike a bal- ance between the specifi c priorities of the member states and the strategic pri- orities of the EU with the aim to achieve We can be a real, visible results in active dialogue with the citizens and in response to their bridge between expectations. The slogan of the Bulgar- ian Presidency, ‘United, We Stand Strong,’ the Western is not only connected with our country’s history and statehood, but also, as a Balkans, the Black follow-up to the Rome Declaration, it highlights the idea of a Europe based on Sea region and unity and solidarity. Because only united the EU can we stand strong.” GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 BUSINESS 9 Maladies Aplenty, Remedies Too Scarce

enough. What are the second- or third- polluted air, cars and vehicles ubiqui- at least those that could be handled with OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE rate subjects of care in Georgia? I don’t tously sitting on our heads, deafening more or less ease if we could mobilize think we have the habit or ability to inner-city noise, streets full of animal our human efforts without much expend- categorize the subjects of care by prior- droppings, unbridled infatuation with iture of fi nancial resources. For ho am I to judge the ity, and render them with due heed and the catering and entertainment sectors, instance, why can’t we business of the skill. dilapidated urban infrastructure, mori- stop the crimi- Republic? Yet, I still Let us for now forget about the blue- bund business environment, depressing low citizens. Why have enough temerity print for the country’s long-term future adversarial propaganda, deconstructive can’t we follow in the to remind the public and concentrate on what we are up to relations between the current footstep of our ancestors and bring Wof the wrongs that persist in the way this right now. Dwindling demographic government and its back our family values, thus avoiding the nation is being ruled, and of the bottle- potential, pointless education, rampant political costly and tiring divorces that intensively necks in which our development is stuck. unemployment, a massive propensity to work to the detriment of the nation. This The fi rst and utmost question mark falls leave the country, increasing foreign nal constructions and might be done without spending even a on where we see ourselves fi fty years investment in real estate, scary drug ugly architectural attempts in dime. Why can’t the government and the from now. In other words, do we have a usage(and its feeble prevention), urban spots like our capital city? This opposition fi nd ways to cooperate so that general plan of development for the next faltering family values, would take no fi nancial sweat. Just stop the fi nal winner is the motherland? No half century? If somebody wants to ineffectual econ- opposition, it and be done with it! Why can’t we cost there! How about the city noise? Let respond positively, then I’m defi nitely liberal attacks on desist from singing, dancing and party- us just keep quiet: that’s all it takes, and from Missouri. Can we at least imagine national values, constitu- ing away the time and start working for it could be done without a nickel in the what we might be like when our kids tional imperfection, violence fl ourishing, real? This will not cost us anything either. pocket. The fairness of judiciary, the become middle-aged? Of course not! omy, growing legislative fl aws, executive weakness, Why can’t we get equipped with regular handiness of the executive branch and The nation is sprawling in the illusion prices, unaffordable judicial faults, youth at a loss and the plastic bags and hygienic gloves to cope the wisdom of legislators could also come that things will be OK, even if our efforts healthcare, crime up, lands senescent in deprivation – these are with our excremental deluge? This is without much to spend. The only cur- for survival are petty and misdirected. occupied, geopolitical orientation some of the drawbacks and vices that cheap, too. Why can’t the Georgian males rency we’ll need to spend here human What is the main subject of care in unclear, national currency bouncing any nation in the world would own up and females of the world unite in mat- will. Do we lack that, too? We may be a Georgia? I doubt the answer could be back and forth (augmenting extremes to, but this is no excuse for us: Georgia rimonial bliss and take up demographic little sick as a society and our maladies solid and consensual to this query, for between rich and poor), irrelevant fuel is sailing in the exact same boat! correctness as a model of behavior for might be numerous, but remedies will the simple reason that we are not delib- prices, dictatorship of banks, deplorable Some of those problems can wait, but a change? This can’t be so expensive, have to be invented and produced as you erating this paramount issue effi ciently architecture and construction, perilously some need to be addressed immediately, following the example of their Azeri fel- can’t fi nd them in nature. The Ongoing David-Gareji Confl ict

we should seek compromises. Both sides INTERVIEW BY VAZHA TAVBERIDZE should concede something.

PERHAPS IT IS EQUALLY AS he Azerbaijani edition ‘Echo’ IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER THE published an article entitled RESPONSES OF GEORGIAN “State Border: Azerbaijan AND AZERI CITIZENS TO came to an agreement with POTENTIAL COMPROMISES Russia, but as for Georgia...” AND CONCESSIONS TThe article was read with great interest To fi nd out what people think about, per- both in Azerbaijan and Georgia, espe- haps we should conduct a social survey. cially when one journalist, Azerbaijani However, I understand that people tend to political scientist and analyst Fikret support those who make a decision accept- Sadikov, stated: “If the Georgian side able to them. I don’t think this is a question wants to continue close relations with to be resolved through a universal referen- Azerbaijan (in terms of ensuring the dum. This is an issue needing resolution energy security of the Georgian people), by experts- scholars, historians, and so on. Georgia should think about compromis- They should sit and discuss the problem. ing on the David-Gareji issue.” To fi nd out just how much the Azerbai- DO YOU THINK PEOPLE IN OUR jani side will try to use the energy issue REPUBLICS WILL BE SATISFIED when negotiating the delimitation of the WITH A CONSENSUS ACHIEVED border, we spoke to Fikret Sadikov himself. BY HISTORIANS, WHICH MIGHT CONTRADICT THEIR BELIEFS? WHAT ARE YOUR ARGUMENTS? We should not succumb to emotions. WHAT KIND OF COMPROMISE People, if they believe and trust their own DOES AZERBAIJAN DEMAND? scientists, must also accept their views. I don’t represent the offi cial side of Azer- DAVIT GAREJI'S ISSUE IS A If the scientists come to a specifi c com- baijan, I’m an independent political scien- VERY IMPORTANT ONE FOR promise following negotiations, I think tist, and what I said is my personal opinion. GEORGIA, EVEN WITHOUT people should trust them. Is it not better Moreover, I’m not an expert on the delim- EXTERNAL INTERVENTION. than having fruitless negotiations for 20, itation of borders, but for years I’ve been I have no doubt this is the case. I know 30, 40 years, and accusing each other? following the negotiations between Azer- this issue is of great importance for We must trust our scientists and do all baijan and Georgia as an analyst. It's no Georgian society. I am only saying that that is necessary for our specialists to secret that there are bilateral relations those who know all this can use it for come to a reasonable compromise and between Azerbaijan and Georgia which their own purposes and further aggra- agree on something. They should not are benefi cial for both sides; we are stra- vate this issue. argue in vain. Both sides should cite facts, tegic partners and we have the same posi- historical data and arguments to prove tion on many issues. I’ll say more: stability DOESN’T WHAT YOU WROTE their opinions. We can also involve inter- and security in the South Caucasus largely “AGGRAVATE” RELATIONS? national specialists who are trusted by depend on the close relationship between YOUR COMMENTS IN both parties. Both sides should remember Azerbaijan and Georgia. Therefore, when GEORGIA WERE VIEWED that we cannot let ourselves deteriorate such a diffi cult, arguable issue as the AS POLITICAL BLACKMAIL - in relations for just a few kilometers of delimitation of the border between Azer- COMPROMISE CONCERNING land on which there are important his- baijan and Georgia is put on the agenda, DAVID-GAREJI ISSUE OR torical monuments. If these scholars fail it seems to me that some experts exagger- YOU’LL LOSE YOUR GAS... to come to an agreement, then other ate the problem and attribute great impor- I meant a bilateral compromise. I did COMPLEX IS CONSIDERED I will repeat what I said in the interview: scholars should take their place. tance to it. I do not exclude that there are not say the Georgian side should make BY AZERBAIJANI SCHOLARS “The good neighborly relations between some forces who gain from tense relations concessions. I said in a clear and open AS THE CULTURAL AND our states give us the luxury not to have AND IF THIS DECISION, between the two countries. I think this is context that we could have a bilateral RELIGIOUS HERITAGE OF THE to worry about such issues. Let the his- ON THE CONTRARY, ONLY not such an urgent, immediate issue that compromise, taking into account our ALBANIAN STATE. WHAT torians continue arguing and maybe they EXACERBATES THE SITUATION? should worry Georgians and Azeris at this good neighborly relations, because we HISTORICAL SOURCES AND will manage to reach a fi nal conclusion. That’s today’s reality. The fact is, we’ve ARGUMENTS ARE THERE THAT moment. are connected by these large energy Let them share their thoughts; let it hap- been trying for a few years now and we CONFIRM THIS ASSERTION? projects. As for what this compromise pen over long periods of time. And when cannot progress or solve this problem. WHO DO YOU MEAN should be, I will once again state that I prefer to rely on the opinion of scien- both sides bring their last argument, then All other issues are practically resolved, WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT I’m not a border demarcation expert, so tists when it comes to such issues. I may let’s think about who might make a com- but we fail to negotiate on this 30% of EXTERNAL FORCES? I cannot say ‘give us this and we will think to regard this monument to be promise.” the border. But that does not mean we I mean those present neither in Georgia give you that.’ The experts should decide Albanian, Georgian, and even French, should leave this issue or not talk about nor in Azerbaijan. I can tell you it frankly on this. And I'm just saying that taking but I cannot say to be an expert in this THE AZERI-GEORGIAN it. On the contrary, we must bring his- - perhaps in Armenia they would be into account close and friendly relations fi eld. I trust the historians and research- COMMISSION HAS BEEN torical facts, documents, etc. We can talk interested in a similar scenario, namely, between our two states; we could make ers from both the Georgian and Azer- DOING THIS FOR MORE about it all in a civilized manner; good the worsening of relations between a bilateral compromise. baijani sides. THAN 20 YEARS, BUT NO neighborly relations of our countries Azerbaijan and Georgia. They’re not PROGRESS IS VISIBLE and people prove it. This issue should happy about the development of our YOUR ARTICLE ALSO FOCUSES HOW SO, WHEN So, they should take a closer approach. be resolved through negotiations - there bilateral cooperation, that we are stra- ON THE FACT THAT THE THEY HAVE MUTUALLY There is no other way. Georgia says one is no other way. Whether it takes 25 years tegic partners. DAVID-GAREJI MONASTERY EXCLUSIVE OPINIONS? thing, we say another, but the fact is that or 30, the negotiations are the only way. GEORGIA TODAY 10 BUSINESS FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Brussels to Discuss Benefi ts for Azerbaijan for Export of Goods to EU Regus Business World Membership Cards Offers Access to 3,000 Branches

During the March meetings, it is also planned to BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE discuss the attraction of European investments to the economy of Azerbaijan, expansion of coopera- tion in the fi eld of transport and cargo transporta- he issue of Azerbaijan receiving ben- tion, the promotion of international transport pro- efi ts when delivering products to the jects, and other issues. countries of the European Union is Director General Henrik Hololei noted the rapid to be discussed within the framework development of Azerbaijan, and the successful of meetings planned for March in cooperation of the country with the EU in the TBrussels with representatives of the European energy and transport sectors. According to Hololei, Commission. reforms carried out in the country fully meet the According to the Ministry of Economy of Azer- global challenges. According to the State Customs baijan, this issue was already discussed during the Committee of Azerbaijan, the trade turnover with meeting of the Minister of Economy Shahin Musta- the countries of the European Union in 2017 fayev with Henrik Hololei, Director General of the amounted to 9.4 billion dollars, which is 52.35% European Commission for Transport and Mobility more than in 2016. Last year, Azerbaijan exported in Baku. goods worth $7.45 billion to the EU countries. Change in the Management nternational Offi ce Provider REGUS has tion on news, and to have a chance to book meet- already been established in Georgia, serving ing rooms or offi ces in the desired city. Board of PASHA Bank Georgia customers in Tbilisi's most prestigious, active For Gold Card holders, you will have access to and dynamic part of town (2 Leonidze Street, business lounges around the world in 3,000 loca- Azergold in 2017. business center ‘Tabidze 1’, 4th fl oor,) and tions. 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RENTMASTER OFFERS: VIP Car Services (pick-up and drop/transfer) Daily Car Rentals Tours in Georgia GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 BUSINESS 11 Mastercard Introduces Digitalization of Life Research Findings in Georgia

83% of survey respondents are supportive of banking service digitalization “There’s also a clear demand for bank discounts and use of other bank’s ATMs” he said, noting that 32% of cardholders in Georgia, according to the research, use cards for payments only once a week, cash withdrawal from ATMs being one of the most frequent operations. “The Mastercard study confi rms once again how much Georgia is open to innovation,” Stepanov said. “The con- tactless card has already become a sym- bol of speed and comfort of payments in the country. Today, we are seeing the emergence of a new trend: smartphone payments. We at Mastercard do a lot, together with our partner banks, to develop the ‘digital’ lifestyle. For exam- ple, Georgian cardholders got new opportunities for digital payments with the launch of the fi rst NFC-wallets for smartphone payments in the country.” “Today, we are actively working to introduce biometric payment solutions to allow safe payments with fi ngerprint or face recognition during online shop- Results of the study also show that is a global trend. Georgia has the high- mobile commerce. ping, and payments using a phone or a BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI Georgia’s residents “support global est rate in contactless payment in the “By the end of 2018, the majority of tablet,” he underlined. digital trends and outstrip European region,” Stepanov noted during the e-commerce agents will likely have “In terms of a cashless economy, Geor- preferences for innovations in some presentation. mobile interfaces,” he said, going on to gia has made considerable steps; its astercard introduced areas,” with 74% of survey participants “The fact that smartphones are used emphasize that Mastercard is continu- market is very progressive, and with its Digitalization of Life indicating that mobile phones tend to as the most preferred devices for pay- osly investing in providing maximum regards to Mastercard’s plans for 2018 Research outcomes in be the preffered devices for payments, ments is quite logical, as mobile phones security in payments to its customers. in Georgia, we’re looking towards imple- Georgia, at a presenta- and 44% of the respondents consider- are increasingly becoming an integral “The research fi ndings in Georgia menting more innovative solutions tion held at their new ing fi ngerprint recognition the most part of our everyday lives,” he said, indicated that a growing number of together with the Georgian banks, ofMfi ce in Regus Georgia on February 1. favored method for identifi cation, as also underlining the growing trend of cardholders would like to see cashless improving the services we already have, The findings presented by Igor opposed to 38% of Europeans who con- so-called chat bots used in banking payment possibilities in taxis, on public and increasing customer involvement Stepanov, Regional Director of Master- sider it as the most preferred method. services and the signifi cance of e- and transport and in stores,” Stepanov noted. in innovative banking services.” card in Georgia and Cental Asia, indi- It was noted that 83% of the survey cate that 83% of Georgia’s residents respondents are supportive of banking support the digitalization of banking service digitalization, while 76% noted services, and three out of four consider they already have positive experience smartphones the most preffered gadget using digital services. However, accord- for payments. The ‘Digitalization of Life ing to the research results, time-saving Research’ study was carried out by IPM and speed remains the key challenge Research for Mastercard in autumn 2017, with regards to usage of such innova- surveying 1000 card holders and users tive technologies for the residents of of banking services, both men and Georgia, a fact highlighted by 69% of women aged between 20 -75, in the cit- the survey participants. Bill payments, ies of Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, Rustavi, online shopping and money transfers Zugdidi, Poti and Gori. CATI, computer- are said to be the most frequently used assisted telephone interviewing, was digital fi nancial services in Georgia. used as a survey methodology. The study also highlighted that 48% of the survey participants use contact- less cards for payments, most frequently in grocery retail. The study fi ndings suggest there is a growing demand for card payment possibilities in taxis, on public transport and in online trading. Special offers from banks were noted Georgia’s among the key benefi ts Georgian card holders would like to have from the residents support banks (64%). 48% of the research par- ticipants stressed they would like the global digital possibility of using another bank’s ATMs and 48% said they would like discounted trends and outstrip banking products. The research also indicated that residents of Georgia European would like to see more digital innova- tions in the healthcare, education and preferences for public transport spheres. “All the solutions we provide are innovations based on contactless payments, which GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Climbing Mentality Mountains: The Social Divide style that I did at their age (T-shirts OP-ED BY TIM OGDEN depicting awful bands, ridiculous hair- styles, and unnecessary accessories about the hand and wrist- when I think of the omething I hear quite a lot money that went to wristbands and the these days is that the young like I could weep; they were no fools, generation of Georgia is chang- the retail sector of the mid-2000s). This ing, evolving and moving with is also true for many university-educated the times, away from the Soviet Georgians under 35: the skin tone, eyes Snostalgia or slavish adherence to Ortho- and hair might be darker, but in their dox ‘traditions’ of previous generations. dress there is often little to distinguish And it’s true, partially. them from people of similar ages else- It’s been eight years since I took up where. residence in Tbilisi on a full-time basis. I am no great appreciator of fashion I initially installed myself in Saburtalo, beyond the importance of good suits, but due to personal circumstances at but I mention it here because in Georgia the time, would take a monthly trip to it has increasingly become an indicator Temqa, an outlying district more, to put of one’s mentality and beliefs; before it charitably, behind the times. The dif- anyone accuses me of over-simplifying ferences between these two places, or generalizing, consider two Georgian while clear, were far less striking than men: one with an earring, tight jeans and they are now: the city center’s chic blue hair, the other with a fake leather European-style restaurants, wannabe jacket, black trousers and national beer German brauhauses, hipster bars and gut, and ask which is more likely to be American fast-food joints were all in pro-LGBT rights. the future back then. The people, too, It is deeply frustrating when foreign- also seemed far more similar than they ers and liberal Georgians voice the not the European Union or America. (inhabited by what my liberal Georgian overwhelming majority than many realize. do today; in Saburtalo, I saw the slouched, belief that groups such as the March Not two weeks ago did I fi nd myself friends derogatorily refer to as ‘village Having a divided society doesn’t make plodding walk of Georgian men dressed of Georgians or parties like the Alli- talking to another young woman barely people,’ even if they were born and raised Georgia much different from most of in black, the words falling out of their ance of Patriots are supported only by out of her teens who told me “The Rus- in Tbilisi), Western values have clearly the West, of course: I highly doubt I’d mouths as though they were too lazy khinkali-gobbling men who flock sians are not our enemies;” I’d be will- not made much of a dent yet. have much in common with the people to formulate them properly, and wit- together at restaurants and bark down ing to bet that the friends and family I predict that the following years will see of Muslim-majority areas of Bradford or nessed the exact same thing in Temqa. the phone to their wives that they’ll be of those who died in 2008 (and during this gap between liberal and conservative Birmingham, and I don’t think my Amer- They squatted on the roadside less in home when they’re home. My own wife the Soviet era) might disagree. widen; it is happening already, of course, ican friends would enjoy living in the Saburtalo, but still, the overall sight fl atly refused to believe that an ex- This all my sound rather obvious, but but I believe it will become more pro- Amish societies in their own country. (chain-smoking, drinking, and staring girlfriend of mine had been hit by her it does stagger me when people assume nounced as time goes by. Perhaps the The real difference is that the political pop-eyed at any female between fi fteen former husband: it was inconceivable, that the traditional and/or Russophile conservative majority will eventually ramifi cations for Georgia would be far and fi fty who happened past) was the she said, that people in their early-to- mentality will die when the hordes of become the minority. Perhaps not. My greater; despite the progress that has same. mid twenties could behave that way, boulder-belly Georgian men have kicked point is that not all young people are been made in the modernization of the Today, though, many teenagers in the or (in the former husband’s case) believe the bucket. From what I’ve seen of Temqa onboard with the EU, NATO and Western Georgian mentality, there is still quite a city center dress in the same rubbish that Georgia’s future lay with Russia, and other comparable parts of the city values, and may constitute more of an mountain to climb. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 SOCIETY 13 ADA University Offers International Scholarships for Students around the Globe study, nevertheless, answering the ever- Among the requirements, in order to BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI growing demand, the university has an be eligible to receive the Scholarship, impressive portfolio. ADA is always applicants will preferably have previous looking for new talent,” she said, adding; work experience in the public sphere, DA University, located in however, that the study process is quite and their language profi ciency should Baku, Azerbaijan, is cur- demanding and student counseling is be in accordance with the international rently offering Interna- available. language scores required for university tional Scholarships named Our discussion then moves to the sub- education. after Alimardan Topchu- ject of the Alimardan Topchubashov “By applying for the Alimardan Top- Abashov, to bring fi rst-class international International Scholarship offered by chubashov International Scholarship education and leadership training to ADA University, one of its objectives program, students get the chance to students around the globe. With the being the preparation of innovative lead- receive an education corresponding to application deadline being April 5, 2018, ers in both vision and global perspective, the highest international standards. Sec- the Topchubashov Scholarship is look- encouraging commitment to public ser- ondly, they will be meeting fellow stu- ing for candidates who have a strong vice and contributing to its development. dents from all over the world, and they commitment to public causes. The Schol- The Fellowship covers tuition fees and will be exposed to a new, different envi- arship is open to all international under- rent during the period of study. The ronment and experiences”, Aghayeva graduate and graduate applicants who Scholarship does not cover expenses told us. have been admitted to one of the ADA related to student fees, books and utili- “Education at ADA is not just theory- University’s degree-granting schools. ties. It is open to all undegraduate or based: it also has a strong emphasis on ADA University positions itself as a graduate students who are accepted to practice, and it ensures that ADA grad- “world-class institution dedicated to one of the degree programs at ADA uates are totally career ready when they preparing innovative global leaders.” Its schools. fi nish their studies. Within the Univer- offers executive education, undergradu- “ADA always attempts to promote an sity, there is a Career Management Center, ate and graduate degree programs in international environment; living and and throughout the year, they advise and various fi elds, a School of Public and studying in an international setting opens help students. ADA regularly organizes International Affairs, School of Business, doors to lots of new experiences. They’re career weeks and career fairs, where School of Information Technologies and coming to a different country, and will students meet their potential future Engineering and School of Education, experience a mixture of cultures and employers,” she said, going on to stress where you can earn Bachelor and Mas- learn a lot,” Aghayeva told us, sharing that apart from high level education, ter degrees in International Studies, why she thinks the Scholarship is worth ADA provides a vibrant and intersting Public Affairs, Business and Economics, applying for. “Our students do many student life fi lled with extra-curricular Education or Information Technologies international projects while studying at activities. and Engineering. the university and they travel a lot. Within “It’s all very dynamic, something’s The ADA University vision and strat- one of our programs, the requirements always happening. There are cultural egy is built on four pillars of global lead- are that they visit the NATO Head Offi ce festivals, food festivals, chess clubs, lan- ership, innovate learning, social respon- in Brussels, Belgium; so there are count- guage clubs, singing classes, literature sibility and a “thriving location.” less opportunities provided by ADA nights, and many, many more. There also Based on the initiative of the President University, and as the competitivness is are ADA talks, and Global Perspective of the Republic of Azerbaijan, ADA growing, it makes other universities in Series, when high profi le guests visit the University was established in 2006 the country shake up a little. ADA has a university and give lectures. Whatever’s under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs different approach towards learning, happening in the world around us is of the country. Initially founded as the towards experience and practice,” she there at ADA,” Samira Aghayeva con- Diplomatic Academy, it was launched points out. cluded. as a pilot project with a mission to pre- Aghayeva, now the Third Secretary of the preparatory year in English. pare highly qualifi ed diplomats around the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbai- “ADA is different from other universi- the world; and as its graduates quickly jan to Georgia, who was involved with ties, as it has the fi rst, eco-smart green gained success, the educational institu- ADA from the beginning, told GEORGIA campus in Azerbaijan, and I would say tion started to grow too, steadily becom- TODAY. in the Caucasus as a whole,” Aghayeva ing one of the top universities in Azer- “We added degree programs in Public said. baijan. Diplomacy, Business and Economy, and “The university admission system is “Initially, it started out by offering ADA also has dual-degree programs, based on the Amercian model, with pro- short-term training for diplomats, and together with the Maastricht University spective students having to submit their as the program gained became more in The Netherlands, which offers one of applications as a part of the admission successful, ADA started receiving the top business management programs, process, and have interviews followed requests from other governmental insti- so the program graduates receive both by a fi nal evaluation process,” she said. tutions in Azerbaijan, who wanted train- ADA and Maastricht University diplo- “Due to the increasing demand in the ing for their staff, and that’s how, in 2009, mas. ADA has numerous international country, apart from programs and degrees it was decided to offer long-term Master’s exchange programs, and is partner to offered in the international diplomacy Degree programs. The fi rst to launch over 50 universities globally,” she told and public policy fi elds, ADA has been was called MADIA (Masters of Arts in us. constantly adding new ones to its cur- Diplomacy and International Affairs). To date, ADA University has faculty ricula; for example, an IT program was In 2009, we admitted about 20 young, alumni covering 46 nations. All univer- launched in partnership with the Korean talented students to our very fi rst Mas- sity programs are taught in the English University, and, although it may take ter’s Degree program at ADA,” Samira language, and the university also offers several years to add a new program of

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY 14 SOCIETY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Parliament Unveils Review of Gender Equality Legislation supporting gender equality. Ending gender-based BY MÁTÉ FÖLDI violence and sexual harassment, effectively fi ght- ing discrimination, and economically empowering women are priorities of the US government, and he key fi ndings of a comprehensive we are proud to support the Government of Geor- study, ‘Gender Equality in Georgia: gia's efforts to reduce gender inequalities in Geor- Barriers and Recommen dations,’ car- gia through legislative reform and a modifi ed State ried out by the Gender Equality Coun- Concept,” said Elizabeth Rood, Deputy Chief of cil (GEC) of the Parliament of Geor- Mission at the US Embassy in Georgia. Tgia, were released on January 30 at a conference The Gender Equality Council also presented its attended by representatives of the Georgian gov- 2018-2020 Action Plan, revealing the key priorities ernment, Parliament, civil society and international of the gender equality agenda of the Parliament of organizations. Georgia. Their main objectives are the effective The research analyzed nine fi elds of Georgia’s formation and management of the gender policy legislation for their compliance with principles of agenda; ensuring the merging of the efforts of va- gender equality. rious interested parties or engaged parties; imple- “This is the fi rst attempt in Georgia to draw a menting women’s role-support initiatives. Their comprehensive picture of gender equality chal- tasks include defi ning the main directions of state lenges and offer specifi c recommendations to policy; improving the state mechanisms of gender policymakers,” said Tamar Chugoshvili, First Vice equality; the creation and development of a legis- Speaker and Chairperson of the Gender Equality lative base in the fi eld of gender equality; monito- Council of the Parliament of Georgia. “The study ring of activities implemented for ensuring gender provides a roadmap for decision-makers and human equality and developing recommendations; insti- rights defenders to identify further specifi c steps Labor Code and Law on the Public Defender. Pol- of life as well as to prevent systemic discrimination tutional strengthening of the Gender Equality needed to close gender inequalities in Georgia.” icy recommendations are of particular importance against women,” said Niels Scott, Head of the United Council; and raising awareness. The study is based on interviews and data pro- to the closing of the gender gap in education, Nations in Georgia. “We hope that the fi ndings and In the legislative sphere, there is a need for refl ec- vided by the authorities, along with previous stud- women’s economic advancement, protection of recommendations of this research will lay the tion on the identifi ed shortcomings and review of ies and reports undertaken in Georgia by national sexual and reproductive rights of women and girls, ground for effective measures against sexual har- the gender equality law; advocacy for the introduc- and international organizations. A team of research- and advancing gender equality in sports and cul- assment, domestic violence and violence against tion of special measures for women's political ers examined the nation’s international human ture. women, as well as for increasing the political par- participation; preparation of a legislative package rights obligations and top international practices Key national agencies bearing responsibility for ticipation of women through temporary mandatory on women's economic strengthening; and work on to identify the gaps in legislation and policy, and gender equality in Georgia are the targets of these gender quotas.” legislative amendments to parental maternity leave. to be able to offer concrete advice for the advance- recommendations and include the Gender Equal- Following the presentation of the study, there was The GEC’s efforts were supported by United Nations ment of the gender equality agenda in a number ity Council of the Parliament and the Inter-Agency a discussion on the new Gender Equality Concept Development Program (UNDP), the Govern-ment of areas, including political participation, economic Commission on Gender Equality, Violence against of Georgia. Based on the fi ndings of the research, of Sweden, under the UN Joint Program for Gender empowerment, violence against women, labor rela- Women and Domestic Violence, which operates the new Concept (a revised version of the one Equality, the United States Agency for International tion, health, education, sports, cultures, and peace under the government. adopted in 2006), was reviewed by experts from Development (USAID) and East-West Management and security. “Legislation and policies alone are not enough to USAID/PROLoG. The Georgian Parliament is Institute, under the USAID-funded initiative Promot- Among the recommendations of the study are close gender gaps. However, their revision is a expected to adopt a new Concept for Gender Equal- ing Rule of Law in Georgia (PROLoG). amendments to the Gender Equality Law, Anti- constructive step forward to achieving meaningful ity during the Spring 2018 session. The detailed study in its entirety is available on Discrimination Law, Criminal Code, Election Code, equality between women and men in all spheres “The United States government is committed to the UNDP Georgia Website. We Can, I Can! “In July, we conducted a working meeting with BY SOFO JAVAKHISHVILI stakeholders where we discussed nine problems,” said Ana Mazanashvili, President of the Coalition ‘Europe Donna Georgia.’ Some important steps n February 1, Coalition "Europe Donna were taken during this period, but one of the major Georgia" held a press conference on problems is that the drugs are not fi nanced for the International Cancer Day at Radisson treatment of metastatic breast cancer in the regions. Blu Iveria Hotel. The meeting was Timely treatment for these patients is very impor- organized within the framework of the tant, as are the drugs, affecting the lifespan of informationalO campaign "Target Life" where the goal patients and improving their quality of life. Give is to support patients with metastatic breast cancer. them a chance to live, this is "we can" and the state According to the statistics, breast cancer is the should take care of them.” most common disease in Georgia. Both patients Maia Turashvili, a patient from Gori, said, “I went and supporters turned out to recognize the inter- to a screening and was told that I have fourth stage national day. breast cancer. And I am not the only person facing Invited patients, doctors and supporters once this problem. It is very important for people living again summarized the existing problems and effec- with malignant cancer to get help fast. Every door tive steps taken in its treatment. The Ministry of was closed for me when I asked for help; funding Health was reminded about the need to treat met- is allocated for patients living in Tbilisi at this stage. astatic cancer patients with drugs and implement There are preparations that are not available for the program timely throughout Georgia. me. Once again, I call on the government to sup- port us. I want to be alive for my chil- dren.” Hepatitis C Elimination Program Well-known Georgian singer Nato Metonidze, who is also fi ghting breast cancer and actively supporting other Cures 98% of Patients in Georgia patients, also attended the conference. She spoke about her experience and serious tests, because not all cases of the disease BY THEA MORRISON major problems that people with this are active or need treatment,” he explained. problem go through. Gamkrelidze added the government wants to “10% of citizens in Georgia use free check the rest of the population of Georgia through- screening services. We need to actively inety-eight percent of the total out the next years. conduct campaigns associated with 45,000 Hepatitis C cases in Georgia “This is a unique chance, because Hepatitis C breast cancer and increase awareness. have been cured, following the treatment is one of the biggest breakthroughs in The government must be more sup- State-initiated Hepatitis C Elimina- recent years. It has become a curable disease. The portive towards its citizens.” tion Program launched in 2015 with population of Georgia should benefi t from this The International Union against Can- theN help of the United States. breakthrough,” he added. cer (UICC) founded a world community The statement was made by the Head of Geor- The health initiative ‘Georgia without Hepatitis to focus on this global problem. Every gia’s National Center for Disease Control and C’ was launched nationwide in April 2015, when year the International Day of Fight Public Health (NCDC), Amiran Gamkrelidze, who the Government of Georgia and American bio- against Cancer has a theme. The World called on people to undergo Hepatitis C free test- technology company, Gilead, signed a Memoran- Day of Fight against Cancer in 2018 car- ing and, if positive, receive complimentary treat- dum of Understanding. ried the motto ‘We Can - I Can,’ which ment from the State. The project helps to reduce and prevent cases is designed to help others understand According to Gamkrelidze, 1,400,000 people of Hepatitis C in Georgia. The main goal of the what one can do to combat this disease underwent screening, some of them twice. project is to stop the disease from spreading. and what contribution can contribute “Around 10-11% of people tested for Hepatitis C Treatment is free of charge for all citizens of Geor- to the cancer campaign.” were positive. We send these patients for more gia. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 SOCIETY 15 Lion Quest School Violence & Bullying Prevention Programs

pation has become an essential part of the program. OP-ED BY NINO BESELIA, The program conforms with the standards of EDUCATION SPECIALIST Ministry of Education of Georgia for preschool and high school curricula. The Lion Quest program includes six major iolence and Bullying is a major high themes: positive learning environment, personal school issue in Georgia, as well as development, health and prevention, leadership worldwide. Violence is everywhere: and social-service studies, evaluation and conclu- in families and on the streets, in dis- sion. Quest activities and lesson scenarios improve tricts and establishments. Violence children and teenagers in 5 directions: self-refl ec- inV the news comes as no surprise, as, on a daily tion, self-control, social awareness, communica- basis, local and international TV channels report tions skills, responsibility of self-behavior and savage acts of violence. development connected knowledge, skills, attitude In this article, we would like to share a special and values. program by Lion Quest, which includes social and Lion Quest programs create a positive school emotional learning issues. The aim is to prevent atmosphere, uniting students, school personnel, violence in schools. and families in order to educate children in 21st A Red Cross Child Violence Neglect study, led century skills. The program aims to help students by UNICEF, revealed that 60.8% of interviewed to be self-confi dent, aware of their rights and to children have experienced some kind of verbal respect others’ rights, too. They also learn to be abuse, and 39.2% are victims of physical and ver- responsible for their actions in order to make the bal violence. (4385) right choices and decisions, preventing them from A UNICEF survey in Georgia 2013 showed that becoming a victim of violence or being a violator. child violence is widespread. The major circum- On 11, 12, 13 January 2018, Tbilisi Courtyard Mar- stance for violence is family, with 45% of families riott hotel hosted the European Lion Quest annual think that being strict is an essential part of rais- conference, seeing participants from 22 countries ing a child. Every second Georgian thinks that as well as 50 education experts. strict methods are more effective than non-violent. The Lion Quest program believes that empow- Experts, law enforcers, different GOs and soci- ering youth can make the world a better place. ety often question the reasons for violence and with violent ways is not effi cient. The best way to Gabisonia. In 2014, Lion Quest Georgia was founded wonder how to prevent it and solve the issues prevent it is to educate and bring up children cor- to actively promote the implementation in other surrounding the topic. rectly. In an educational system, there are methods regions of Georgia such as Gori, Akhaltsikhe, According to psychologists, violence is a method of teaching against bullying and violence through Rustavi, Tskaltubo, Batumi and Zugdidi. of control and suppression, which includes emo- the subject Social and Emotional Sciences. Through the program, over 1,900 Georgian teach- tional, social, economic, physical, and sexual These are the principles the Lion Quest pro- ers and tutors were prepared. enforcement, alongside suppression and damage. grams are based on. Lion Quest is about the fun- Many teachers adapted the Lion Quest program It can be direct (eg. physical), and indirect (threat, damental skills for life. The International Lion for their classes, also using the material for extra- persecution, lie). Violence is considered an act or Club Fund, a large charitable and humanitarian curricular activities. Most importantly, there has word which can insult, damage or mistreat the organization, implements prevention of an also been interest from parents, and their partici- rights of a human. There are many forms of vio- unhealthy lifestyle. LIONS stands for Liberty- lence, and it is spread across every level of society, Intelligence, for Our Nation’s Security, while specifi cally in families and schools. Violators can ‘Quest’ is short for ‘question.’ Lion Quest pro- be parents, close relatives, teachers or peers. grams have branches in over 50 countries. The Adults sometimes do not realize their abusive program has three categories: preschool for kids, actions towards their children or students. This secondary for high school, and university stu- is why children who have experience of abuse dents. The key focus is on social and emotional become violators themselves. Raising a human is development of youth; fundamental skills such a delicate balancing act, and most parents con- as responsibility, effective communication, set- centrate more on the process than the results. ting aims, making the right choices, taking con- They do not consider the expected risks. Child- trol in a situation of confl ict, and prevention of hood experience determines human development. alcohol and drug usage. A separate direction of Previous experience show that victims of violence the program is violence and bullying. become violators. What is the reason for child The Lion Quest program created manuals based violence? It is hard to give a specifi c answer to on the specifi cs of age-group and the implemen- that question. Child violence can be caused by tation of the program includes family and society personal, cultural or social factors. participation. The program starts by preparing Children with an abusive experience have dif- teachers. Around 420,000 teachers have been fi culties adapting to the environment and end up trained worldwide and the manuals were trans- with physical and psychic problems. During lated into more than 30 languages, including Geor- puberty, these issues are even more vivid and, as gian. result, society, parents and teachers get back the The program start functioning in Kutaisi, Geor- results of their actions. Children start drinking gia, in 2011, with the program ‘Skills for Teenag- alcohol, get addicted to drugs and some become ers’. Since 2013, the program has also been running part of criminal circles. In short, they express in Tbilisi. The Lions Quest Country Director in their protest by making the wrong choices. Georgia is Tamara Gegenava, and the Lions Quest International studies clarify that fi ghting violence regional trainers are Nino Beselia and Tamta GEORGIA TODAY 16 SOCIETY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 Musings Following a Feast: Etseri, Svaneti

such. Perhaps I simply don’t stay long to drink to the bottom, not understand- BLOG BY TONY HANMER enough: I generally leave before it’s ing enough of what was going on, stand- actually over, because I’ve had enough ing at one side of the cultural gap and binging, chores beckon, and compre- not being able to bridge it. Then I his could have been any hension is diminishing as wine (if you’re learned how to stand up for my own supra, but as it turned out, lucky) is consumed anyway. Not my limits with humor instead of anger, to it was the one in late Jan- comprehension, because I stay away pace myself for the long haul instead uary where, you know, from inebriation and its effects. But of for a sprint, to expect the appear- they sacrifi ce a calf to… why waste one’s efforts on hours of ance of new dishes well into proceed- Tprevent the deaths of calves. Paradox fl owery speeches and profound philo- ings, and to accept it all. I’m unlikely much, Svans? sophical thoughts as these become less to be able to bring about much if any Although my Georgian is far from and less understood or appreciated by change, anyway. And maybe, if poetic perfect, and my Svan still in its very others? profundities will be forgotten in the infancy, I have realized for a while now Anyway, I also came to the conclu- fog of others’ slide down the alcoholic that the perception of a combination sion that I was helpless with love for scale, the memory of one’s having been of verbal and body language can lead these people, my local friends and there and that it went well remains, one to judge the mood of a Georgian neighbors. I declared to them that, in bolstering the community’s good spir- feast. This, plus relaxing into each the absence of my own blood family its in general. They certainly notice event more as time goes on, has led in Georgia, they have taken its place. when you fail to turn up, and will remark me to a conclusion which I voiced at And also that, near or far, in the next on it next time, for sure! Can’t beat this particular feast: house or village or half a world away, ’em? Join ’em, if you can fi nd a comfort- “You know, if our village meetings family ties remain, stretched thin but able point at which to do so, is my had this same spirit, we’d get a lot more not broken. Together, we marvel that advice. accomplished!” Hearty agreement. The I have found this home here, so far infamous town halls usually break up from my own homelands where, in any Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since into useless, shouting acrimony as old case, I own no property and don’t have 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been grievances are dug up and loudly the strong attachment that Georgians a weekly writer for GT since early 2011. paraded instead of being allowed to have to their ancestral places. Just… He runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Face- stay buried and perhaps even die. We people, those I do have, with the miss- book group, now with over 1800 mem- actually have money to spend; can’t ing and longing that distance brings, bers, at www.facebook.com/groups/ we just agree on a direction for it, and the joyful reunions when my wife SvanetiRenaissance/ please? Apparently not. and I return to the UK or Canada. He and his wife also run their own guest The supra, on the other hand, rarely My early feasts many years ago were house in Etseri: (in my experience) disintegrates into so stressful, feeling too much pressure www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti Heavy Snowfall Hits Mountainous Adjara

33 out of the 50 schools in Khulo were open soon. Namonastrevi, Silibauri and BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI closed due to worsening weather con- Shevaburi villages were also without ditions and all of the kindergartens. electricity. The transportation on inter- The snowfall also caused power cuts national road routes has not been ue to the heavy snowfall in the mountainous region of Adjara, affected however, as the information that hit mountainous vil- although, according to the information on the Adjara government’s website lages in the Adjara region, from Energo Pro Georgia, electricity says. vehicle transportation is was restored by the end of the day. Smaller landslides occurred in dif- currently limited, and three Landslides are being reported at sev- ferent areas of the Batumi-Akhaltsikhe Dkindergartens and 17 public schools have eral locations in the Keda Municipality, central road, and special technical been closed in the Shuakhevi Muncipal- with roads inaccessible across numer- equipment is being mobilized in order ity, with road clearing works continuing ous areas in Zvare, although the roads to clear the road, alongside fi ve munic- in the villages of Shuakhevi and Khulo. are being cleared and are expected to ipalities of the Adjara region.

The Appeal of Organique

rganique is a Polish cos- lar beauty blogs ‘Beauty of the Day,’ and metic company which has Organique products are laureates of In been creating face and Style Best Beauty Buys contests. The body care cosmetics for fi rst Organique store in Georgia opened over 15 years. The company in 2017 and in a short time became one isO focused on making the compositions of the most popular cosmetics in the of their cosmetics safe, gentle and effec- country. Visit our store and enjoy our tive. Most Organique products are hand- natural Organique products. made and, as well as being of a high quality and effectiveness, they have For more information, contact us at (+995) exceptional aromas. The natural prod- 595 730 063 ucts of Organique have received numer- Or visit our store in Batumi at 63 Gorgiladze ous awards from one of the most popu- Street. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 CULTURE 17

A Trip Down Memory Lane: Georgia’s Latest Addition to the Culture Scene my loved ones back in the UK the expe- added to the whole experience were BLOG BY TAMZIN WHITEWOOD riences that I had, well... experienced. magnifi cently portrayed. The male char- Georgia is one of those places where acters explaining how women should be words are not enough to describe cul- seated during the toasts, the etiquette ome weeks ago, we at GT were tural experiences here. Whilst one can to drinking (gulping, right until the end) alerted to a new production in do one’s best to create a mental image wine, and the general overwhelming the works within Tbilisi’s for others of a supra, the Sukhishvilebi nature of one’s fi rst, real Supra in Geor- famous cultural scene. Whilst dancing, kansi’s and the like, you always gia. The 90-minute performance seemed one who knows Tbilisi well feel as if you’ve never quite depicted it to perfectly capture my own experiences Smay know the numerous ballets, operas, the way you wanted to. Of course, I would upon arriving here, a time that now seems plays and traditional dance concerts that record small videos and take a lot of like a lifetime ago. correctly depict Georgia and its rich photos, but that provided mere snippets; Life for me here now is, unfortunately, culture; we were somewhat pleasantly the heart and soul of each occasion was no longer like this. You can only main- surprised when we learned of a new only apparent if you were actually there, tain the ‘tourist in Georgia’ status for musical ‘Welcome to Georgia!’ planned experiencing it. This, I think, contributed so-long before you’re accepted, at least for release later this month. greatly to why I felt I had alienated those almost, as a local. The magic I experi- The idea behind this great production around me in the UK (see my previous enced back then had almost been forgot- was to portray ‘Georgia in a nutshell,’ blog), because I would describe these ten in my mind, and watching this show perhaps for those who are visiting Tbi- experiences the best I could, but of brought it all back to life. The nostalgia lisi but who might not get the chance to course, never quite capture the true I experienced from recalling those mem- see the many different and varied regions essence of what I was talking about. ories was, actually, extremely emotional. of Georgia, or the differing traditions ‘Welcome to Georgia!- The Musical’ My parents are arriving in Tbilisi soon, that come with them. Whilst my fellow was almost autobiographical for me. The and I cannot wait for them to see ‘Wel- Editor and I were open-minded and story is about a French-girl who comes come to Georgia!- The Musical’ because looking forward to watching a closed- to Georgia for the fi rst time, having met it offers me the opportunity to show premiere of the show, we did not have her Kakhetian boyfriend in France. He them what it was like for me all those any real expectations of it, let alone that invites her back to his homeland, and years ago, without the need of any words it would have such an emotional impact. introduces her to his family in Kakheti, at all. When I fi rst arrived in this beautiful where they sing, dance, and serenade Welcome to Georgia! is expected to country fi ve years ago, I found it truly the foreign visitor in typical and unique open later this month. Further details to hard, near-on impossible, to explain to Georgian style. The little things that follow. GEORGIA TODAY 18 CULTURE FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER Director and Choreographer: THE SHAPE OF WATER Language: English February 5-15 George Ghongadze Directed by Guillermo del Toro Start time: 19:15 EXHIBITION OF ASHOT Start time: 20:00 Cast: Sally Hawkins, Octavia Language: Russian TER-KHALIFYAN'S ARTWORKS TBILISI ZAKARIA Ticket: 10, 15 GEL Spencer, Michael Shannon Start time: 16:00, 22:30 20 YEARS LATER PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy Ticket: 13-19 GEL BALLET THEATER February 4 Language: Russian MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Address: 25 Rustaveli Ave. The Story of a Murderer Start time: 19:15 DARKEST HOUR Address: 1 Gudiashvili Str. Telephone: 2 99 04 56 Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze Ticket: 17 GEL (Info Above) Telephone: 2 99 99 09 Start time: 20:00 Language: Russian February 4 December 14 – March 14 Ticket: 15 GEL RUSTAVELI CINEMA Start time: 17:00 OPENING OF THE STAR OF Ticket: 13-16 GEL ANNIVERSARY-RETROSPECTIVE TEIMURAZ GUGUSHVILI Address: 5 Rustaveli Ave. EXHIBITION February 8 Telephone: 2 55 50 00 Program: Giacomo Puccini TOSCA, THE SHAPE OF WATER GIGO GABASHVILI 155 Act 1, Ruggero Leoncavallo INTRO www.kinoafi sha.ge (Info Above) GALLERY PAGLIACCI, Act 2 Directed by Kakha Bakuradze Start time: 20:00 Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL Language: English Starring: Tamar Iveri, Sulkhan Start time: 16:30 Ticket: 15 GEL February 2-8 Gvelesiani, Tamaz Saginadze, Vano Language: Russian DIMITRI SHEVARDNADZE Galuashvili, Vakhtang Jashiashvili, Start time: 22:15 NATIONAL GALLERY CINEMA MAZE RUNNER: THE DEATH CURE George Chelidze Ticket: 16-19 GEL Address: 11 Shota Rustaveli Ave. Start time: 20:00 (Info Above) Telephone: 215 73 00 Ticket: 10-70 GEL AMIRANI CINEMA Start time: 22:20 THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Address: 36 Kostava Str. Ticket: 13-14 GEL (Info Above) 26 January – February 25 Georgian National Museum and GABRIADZE THEATER Telephone: 2 99 99 55 Language: Russian Stedley Art Foundation present Address: 13 Shavtelis St. www.kinoafi sha.ge THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Start time: 19:50 Solo exhibition Telephone: 2 98 65 93 Directed by Michael Gracey Ticket: 16-19 GEL Every Wednesday ticket price: 5 GEL Cast: Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, CARDBOARD. WOOD. STONE February 2-8 Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, BY CONTEMPORARY February 2, 3 JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE UKRAINIAN DIAMOND OF MARSHAL DE FANT’E Michelle Williams JUNGLE THE DEATH OF STALIN Genre: Biography, Drama, Musical ARTIST ALEXANDER Rezo Gabriadze Directed by Jake Kasdan ZHYVOTKOV Directed by Rezo Gabriadze Directed by Armando Iannucci Language: Russian Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Karen English Subtitles Cast: Andrea Riseborough, Jason Start time: 17:15 Gillan, Kevin Hart February 2 – March 3 Start time: 20:00 Isaacs, Olga Kurylenko Ticket: 11-12 GEL Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy "Michelangelo and the Sistine Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama Language: Russian Chapel"- Georgian National Language: English DEN OF THIEVES Start time: 14:30 Museum and the Embassy of Italy February 8 Start time: 21:55 Directed by Christian Gudegast Ticket: 11-15 GEL to Georgia present Language: Russian Cast: Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, THE AUTUMN OF MY SPRINGTIME MUSEUM THE EXHIBITION OF Rezo Gabriadze Start time: 13:45, 19:45 Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, PREPARATORY DRAWINGS BY Directed by Rezo Gabriadze Ticket: 11-17 GEL Michelle Williams MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI. Genre: Bio Action, Crime, Drama GEORGIAN NATIONAL English Subtitles MUSIC Start time: 20:00 THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE Language: Russian MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Ticket: 20, 30 GEL EBBING MISSOURI Start time: 19:15, 22:20 MUSEUM Directed by Martin McDonagh Ticket: 13-14 GEL Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. SPACEHALL Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 SHALIKASHVILI THEATER Cast: Frances McDormand, Woody Address: 2 Tsereteli Ave. www.museum.ge Address: 37 Rustaveli Ave. Harrelson, Sam Rockwell CAVEA GALLERY Telephone: 595 50 02 03 Genre: Crime, Drama Address: 2/4 Rustaveli Ave. February 3 Language: Russian Telephone: 200 70 07 Exhibition TREEBAL: E-CLIP@SPACEHALL GEORGIAN COSTUME AND E-Clip- Marko Radovanovic, from February 2 Start time: 21:45, 22:05 Ticket: 13, 14 GEL January 26-February 1 WEAPONRY OF 18TH-20TH Belgrade, Serbia KRIMANCHULI CENTURIES Acidwave - Psychedelic Trance Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili Project of Georgian artists MAZE RUNNER: THE DEATH CURE THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE Start time: 20:00 Exhibition MARCUSS & ADDITIVV Directed by Wes Ball EBBING MISSOURI Ticket: 15 GEL NUMISMATIC TREASURY Ellarge - Collaboration of Georgian Cast: Rosa Salazar, Thomas Brodie- (Info Above) producers Irakli Menagarishvili & February 3 Sangster, Dylan O'Brien Language: English February 9 - March 9 Nika Tsereteli HOST AND GUEST Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller Start time: 19:15 ZURAB KALANDADZE'S 65th Oogway – by Gigi Gabadze Vazha Pshavela Language: Russian Language: Russian ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION Start time: 23:00 Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili Start time: 16:30 Start time: 22:30 Ticket: 40 GEL Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-11 GEL Ticket: 16-19 GEL IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Ticket: 20 GEL TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM TBILISI STATE DARKEST HOUR DEN OF THIEVES - KARVASLA CONSERVATOIRE MOVEMENT THEATER Directed by Joe Wright (Info Above) Address: 8 Sioni St. Address: 8 Griboedov St. Address: 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave. Cast: Gary Oldman, Lily James, Start time: 13:00, 19:30, 22:00 Telephone: 2 98 22 81 Telephone: 2 93 46 24 Telephone: 598 19 29 36 Kristin Scott Thomas Ticket: 13-14 GEL Genre: Biography, Drama, History February 2-11 February 8 February 3 Language: Russian MAZE RUNNER: THE DEATH RITA KHACHATURIAN'S TRISTAN SIKHARULIDZE 80 SIMBIOSIS Start time: 16:15 CURE EXHIBITION Grand Master of Gurulian Singing One-act choreographic sketch Ticket: 12 GEL (Info Above) FEAR Participants: Shvidkatsa (Ozurgeti), Rustavi, Erisioni, Basiani, The Sikharulidzes, Shilda Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 5-20 GEL Book presentation "Guri and Tristan Sikharulidze" (2nd edition) in the foyer

DJANSUG KAKHIDZE TBILISI CENTER FOR MUSIC AND CULTURE Address: 125 Aghmashenebeli ave. Telephone: 2 96 12 43

February 3 185TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT OF COMPOSER JOHANNES BRAHMS Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra and Georgian State Choir will perform “A German Requiem” Conductor- Shavleg Shilakadze Solo vocal parts will be sung by Soprano Nino Chachua and Baritone Zaal (Zaza) Khelaia Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 1o-28 GEL

MZIURI Address: Mziuri Cafe

February 4 SAKVIRAO Entertainment program for children Start time: 12:00

FABRIKA Addresss: 8 Ninoshvili Str.

January 28 CHARITY CONCERT FOR TUTA Start time: 20:00 Tickets: 20 GEL GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018 CULTURE 19 Decades of Success & Ana Urushadze’s Scary Public Adoration: Cinema Mother Named among Legend’s Anniversary Films of 2018 to Watch

BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI

oung Georgian fi lmmaker Ana Uru- shadze’s fi lm ‘Scary Mother’ has been included on the list of recommended fi lms to watch in 2018 by Calvert jour- nal. YIn the article by Carmen Gray, ‘Films of 2018: The ‘New East’ Cinema You Need to See this Year’ fea- tured Urushadze’s Scary Mother, alongside other fi lms such as Malgorzata Szumovska (Mug); Esto- nian fi lm director Lauri Lagle’s ‘Portugal,’ Russian Alexey German Jr’s fi lm ‘Dovlatov,’ and Jan Svank- plays the leading role in the fi lm, won an Asia Pacifi c majer’s ‘Insect’ (Czech Republic). Screen Award for best performance. “The current buzz surrounding Georgia’s national “It challenges traditional gender roles with dark, cinema is set to continue in 2018, with Director playful humor; focusing on writer Manana (Nato Ana Urushadze’s widely imaginative and surreal- Murvanidze), who has penned an erotic vampire istic debut feature Scary Mother among the delights novel, and is determined to get it published-despite to watch for,” the article reads, noting the many opposition from her husband, who regards her awards the fi lm has received, from Locarno’s Golden imaginings as a personal affront,” the article reads. lived through all the blows of the past. Besides Leopard in the category of the Best First Feature, “Just being in the moment and giving 100% atten- BY MAKA LOMADZE being a professional, I see great personal power to winning the Sarajevo Film Festival Award for tion to each scene is the only rule for me when and humanity in him that can really make our lives Best Feature fi lm, and Best Director award at Gijon, fi lming. The best days of my life are when I'm endurable. As Brodsky wrote, ‘we have passed the Spain. Georgian actress Nata Murvanidze, who shooting,” - Ana Urushadze is quoted in the article. n January 26, the legendary Georgian main path of life together’. We sincerely wanted to fi lm Director Eldar Shengelaia turned do something for our country. In that totalitarian 85. To mark the occasion, the Geor- system, we had to endure a lot of cursing and swear- gian Ministry of Culture and Monu- ing, but we were true to our conscience. In spite ment Protection, Georgian National of all these diffi culties that life served up, Eldar has FilmO Center and Georgian Film Academy organized managed to subdue destiny,” Lana Ghoghoberidze, a reception on the premises of the Ministry of Cul- Georgian Director, his colleague and the repre- ture and Monument Protection. sentative of the same generation, noted. “I won’t name the numerous awards that Mr. Eldar “I want to congratulate him on this anniversary. Shengelaia has won. I am sure that if one asks any- We talk a lot about the creative works of Eldar body in the street, of any age, they will be able to Shengelaia. However, now, I would like to focus on quote a phrase from an Eldar Shengelaia fi lm. I his personal traits. We have known each other since want to thank him for his movies and for his love childhood. During our student’s years, an interna- of Georgia,” Mikheil Giorgadze, Minister of Culture tional commune led by Georgians was formed. We and Monument Protection, said in his opening elected Eldar as the President of this commune. speech. Years passed. We arrived in Georgia and everyone Eldar Shengelaia has always focused on the topic suddenly wanted to be a Director. Soon, the Geor- of freedom. His protagonists were dissidents who gian Cinematographers’ Union was established. were either imprisoned or put into an asylum under We expressed our trust once more in Eldar, and Soviet rule. However, they eventually gained free- elected him as Chairman again. From 1976-1977, the dom. This striving for freedom is a leitmotif of the Soviet Union Cinematograph Committee decided great maestro’s creativity. In spite of the huge to suppress Georgian cinema, claiming that it was popularity of his fi lms – mainly ‘Extraordinary not responding to the demands of the Soviet Union. Exhibition’ (1968), ‘The Eccentrics’ (1973), ‘Saman- There was and still is the magazine ‘Art and Cin- ishvili’s Stepmother’ (1977) and ‘Blue Mountains ema’, where articles were published against Geor- or Unbelievable Story’ (1983), none of these mas- gian cinema. Then, our central authorities, and terpieces were screened internationally during the Eduard Shevardnadze in person, did their best to Soviet Regime. Shengelaia, who studied in Moscow, save Georgian cinema. Thanks to the aid of the had the opportunity to stay there with great pros- Cinema Union and central authorities, our cinema pects waiting for him. However, the Director was survived. Our old cinematographic traditions con- madly in love with Georgia and therefore, came tinued. In the 1980s, Georgian Directors shot such back to his motherland. fi lms that the whole world acknowledged. Eldar ‘Mr. Eldar, I congratulate you on this day. I am Shengelaia was a member of the commission that sure that there is a lot creativity left in store for ratifi ed the fi ve-cross fl ag that Georgia has and you. I want to thank you for what you have done takes pride in, among other achievements,” Merab for young Georgian cinematographers. Over the Kokochashvili, his friend and colleague, stated. past 30-40 years, you have given a lot of joy and “I want to thank everybody for this day. I would optimism to each of our families. Hopefully, Geor- like to say that during the Soviet Union, a very gian cinema will again regain its past glory,” Zurab interesting Georgian cinema phenomenon was Maghalashvili, Director of the National Movie created. Not a single other Soviet country had such Center commented, as he presented a Kabalakhi a situation – 100 Georgian fi lms were screened in – national hood- to the Director. Pompidou, Paris. It was a great achievement. I can “I am happy to see you looking so well. I would tell you that there are a lot of talented young Geor- like to wish you even more fantastic movies in the gian fi lm Directors. And I believe they will achieve future,” Zaza Urushadze, President of the Georgian a lot internationally. We are continuing the old Movie Academy, noted. He presented a tapestry tradition of our cinema, and we will the predeces- work by Anka Kalatozishvili to the legendary movie sors for the young generation who will create new Director. splendid Georgian cinema,” Eldar Shengelaia noted “Life is really full of perils and diffi culties. Eldar at the end. as a person and by means of his movies leaves us All the fi lm Directors attending the event then with an impression that his life was been nothing took a group photo. Eldar Shengelaia still continues but smooth, or as the Georgian saying goes, full of his work. In 2017, he shot one more full-length fi lm violets and roses. He looks so free! But his life has called ‘Armchair,’ that premiered at the Moscow not really been that smooth and sweet! Eldar has International Movie Festival.

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