Issue no: 1109 • DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... Non-Governmental Sector FOCUS Criticizes Amendments to ON THE INAUGURATION Georgia's 5th and fi rst female Law on Public Service President will take her place in history this weekend PAGE 5

NEWS PAGE 3 Appathurai Speaks of “More NATO in Georgia” Next Year POLITICS PAGE 4 Swiss Ambassador on His Tenure in Georgia POLITICS PAGE 6 Euroins Insurance Group to Launch Georgian Insurance Market BUSINESS PAGE 8 Kakha Kaladze’s Weekly Priorities: TV New Year Offer from MAQRO Construction: Tower, Noise Pollution, New Year’s Love Apartments in GREEN

BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE DIAMOND with Unbelievable Discounts & ach week, the municipal government Free Parking Spaces of Tbilisi holds a meeting at City Hall. Preceding this week’s meetings, Mayor SOCIETY PAGE 10 Kakha Kaladze remarked on several topics of interest. EKaladze opened the meeting by calling on con- Professional School of struction companies to present proposals to develop alternative housing options for people Theatrical Costumes & who were affected by failed housing coopera- tives projects or scammed by other construction Accessories Opens at TAFU companies. CULTURE PAGE 15 “More than 3,000 families have been worried about this issue since the 1990s. My pre-election promise was that we would solve this problem. Concrete steps have already been taken. We will be the government of a city that will solve these problems and ensure accommodation Image source: Tbilisi City Hall [for those in need]. We have already selected specifi c areas where the construction of coop- a small group of people to pool their money to calling on other companies to step in and build erative buildings is possible. We called for hire a construction company to build them an housing for these people who lost their money expressions of interest, but unfortunately, no apartment building or ‘cooperative housing pro- in such situations. The government of Tbilisi company came forward to implement these ject.’ Some of these companies took people’s will give special benefi ts to companies who agree projects,” said Kaladze. money but failed to build anything, either due to this project, such as free land. Mostly during the 1990s, there was a trend for to corruption or bankruptcy. Now, Kaladze is Continued on page 5 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 Conference on Hydro Structure Non-Governmental Sector Criticizes Safety: Renewable Energy Amendments to Law on Public Service Development 2018 BY THEA MORRISON

on-Governmental Organ- izations and the Public Defender of Georgia have said they disapprove of initiated changes to the NLaw on Public Service under which employees of the President's Adminis- tration will no longer be classed as pub- lic servants. The changes were initiated by the rul- ing Georgian Dream (GD) MPs Rati Ionatamishvili and Guram Macharashvili, and they transform the staff of the Pres- idential Administration from public servants into administrative personnel. The NGO Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) described the reg- Image source: Video screenshot ulations initiated in relation to the of the NGO reads. servant guarantees and can be dismissed employees of the Presidential Adminis- Nino Lomjaria, the Public Defender of without any compensation or explana- tration as “unconstitutional.“ Georgia, stressed the legislative initia- tion. “The submitted legislative initiative tive violates the labor rights of the "We are concerned that professionals contradicts the Constitution of Georgia, employees, including the constitutional who have been working in the adminis- the practice of the Constitutional Court right of Georgian citizens to be protected tration for years are at risk. We fi ght for n international conference national practices of dam safety. of Georgia and does not comply with from unjustifi ed dismissal. people who are very high rank employ- ‘Hydro Structures (dam) Renewable and green energy issues will the principles enshrined in the Law of The Public Defender called on the ees and such attitude towards them is Safety. Renewable Energy also be discussed. Renewable energy Georgia on Public Service, thus grossly Parliament of Georgia to consider the unacceptable for us,” President Giorgi Development 2018’ is to be sources (hydro, wind and solar) in Geor- violates the labor rights of persons labor rights of professional public serv- Margvelashili’s advisor, Pikria Chikhradze, held in Expo Georgia on gia will also be debated, while the existing employed in the Presidential Adminis- ants employed in the Presidential Admin- stressed. ADecember 14, 2018. The conference is situation and constraints will be analyzed. tration,” the statement reads. istration, the right of Georgian citizens MP Sergi Kapanadze of the opposition organized by the Georgian National Renowned Georgian and international NGO Institute for Development of to be employed in the public service, as European Georgia party also assessed Committee on Large Dams (GNCOLD) experts will participate, including Dr. Freedom of Information (IDFI) said the well as the values and principles of the the proposal negatively, saying that it within the frames of ELCOM Caucasus David Mirtskhulava, Chairman of the proposal is contrary to the Georgian new system of public service, and not “abuses the principle of civil service,” 2018 (the fi fth exhibition of energy, elec- Georgian National Committee on Large government’s stated policy, damages to adopt the unconstitutional law. while the United National Movement tricity and telecommunications). Dams, Doctor and Technical Sciences, Georgia’s commitments to the European “The draft law changes the status of says the changes are the fi rst step of Georgian and international experts will Professor; Manuel Antunes-Vallerey EDF Union and are possibly also contrary to the employees of the Presidential Admin- “political cleansing” of the Presidential discuss dam safety issues. The recent (France); Dr Alexandre Pachoud Stucky, the Constitutional guarantees of fair istration without any justifi cation, endan- Administration from Margvelashvili’s emergency situations at the Georgian Switzerland; Agostino Avanzi, Beta Stu- employment. gers their unhindered performance of staff. hydro power plants represent the safety dio (Italy); Mauro Picollo – Eurecos, “The initiated amendments infringe duties and creates unconditional grounds Chairperson of the Procedures Com- issues of building hydro power plants, founder (Italy); Archil Motsonelidze, upon the rights of civil servants, pose a for their dismissal,” Lomjaria’s statement mittee Giorgi Kakhiani said Georgia’s infrastructure, water supply and melio- Professor; Gia Arabidze; Paata Tsintsadze; risk to the establishment of an effective, reads. public service reform was approved by ration. In order to prevent further inci- Murman Margvelashvili and others sustainable and politically neutral civil The President’s Administration says the non-governmental sector and inter- dents, it is therefore necessary to take The conference opening is in parallel service in Georgia and generally to the the planned changes are “categorically national organizations, adding there measures. The conference will reveal with an exposition in the 11th Pavilion successful implementation of public unacceptable” as the employees of the would be no changes that might nega- new approaches, technologies and inter- of Expo Georgia. administration reform,” the statement Administration will not enjoy public tively affect the reform.

GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 Appathurai Speaks of “More NATO in Georgia” Next Year PM Bakhtadze assured Appathurai that BY THEA MORRISON the country’s Euro-Atlantic aspiration is a high-level priority of the government, which is eagerly supported by the Geor- ATO Deputy Assistant gian people. It was highlighted that 2018 Secretary General for was particularly successful within the Political Affairs and the scope of NATO-Georgia interaction and NATO Secretary General’s the progress achieved in recent years is Special Representative for particularly noteworthy. Nthe Caucasus and Central Asia James The NATO offi cial also held a meeting Appathurai stated the Alliance is look- with Georgian Foreign Minister David ing forward to even more NATO in Geor- Zalkaliani, stating after the meeting that gia and more Georgia in NATO next year. the aim of his arrival is the preservation Appathurai made the statement at the of the positive political dynamic between meeting with the Georgian Prime Min- Georgia and the EU and to summarize ister Mamuka Bakhtadze, during his the recent NATO ministerial. offi cial visit to Georgia. “I believe that the Georgian people will “Next year, we will see more NATO in see more NATO in Georgia next year. Georgia; we should have a lot of high- Of course, we should work for concrete level visits - more than this year, so that outcomes. For instance, the implemen- we really show the Georgian people that tation of effective reforms and strength- this cooperation is paying off and that ening of democratic processes,” Appa- NATO is committed,” Appathurai said. thurai said after the meeting. He noted that he and Bakhtadze mainly The NATO Secretary General's Special talked about the steady reforms and Representative told the media that the steady progress in Georgia's way towards Alliance thinks Russia has not changed NATO. its aggressive behavior. “We discussed concrete ways in terms “The incident in the Black Sea between of more cooperation on Black Sea secu- Russia and Ukraine is proof of this. Alli- rity, more support for reforms in Geor- ance members recognize that in terms gia, which is happening well, and practi- of Russia, we are facing a real challenge cal cooperation on operations,” he added. and this situation is not improving. That Image source: PM’s Press Offi ce Appathurai congratulated Bakhtadze is why we are strengthening NATO's dent-Elect Salome Zurabishvili and the clear that her intention was to carry out is that elections always divide parties on completion of the presidential elec- collective defense and assisting our part- second presidential candidate in the the will of the Georgian people: Euro- and raise the political temperature. How- tions, but also expressed some concerns ners, including Georgia and Ukraine, in runoff, Grigol Vashadze. Atlantic integration. This is a clear and ever, now it is time for unity and all about the polarization of the political this region,” he said, adding that NATO The offi cial expressed NATO’s contin- strong message,” he said. political parties should show respect to dialogue. wants a good relationship with Russia ued support to Georgia and its territorial In relation to Vashadze, Appathurai one another,” he stated. “What we want in NATO is an inclusive only if it “respects international law and integrity. said all parties should respect each other. During his visit to Georgia on Decem- political process in Georgia,” the NATO its neighbors.” “I saw Salome Zurabishvili's editorial “The political message I want to voice ber 12, Appathurai also met Georgia’s Deputy Assistant Secretary General said. Appathurai also met Georgia’s Presi- several days ago, where she made it very during my meeting with Grigol Vashadze Defense Minister, Levan Izoria. You Can’t Eat Politics, Can You?

ourselves a quality life. This is exactly One might ask, fairly enough, why am OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE what our western partners, certainly I using so many words to introduce the worthy of emulation, are concerned topic? Because I am cautiously tiptoeing about rather than wasting time and towards an interpretation of the problem ho wouldn’t agree political energy on issues that have no that might be very painful for all of us with the Republic of way of keeping their people, a.k.a. elec- here in Georgia, where time is not appre- Georgia staying away torate, full and sated. Every other con- ciated and is wasted instead on a livid from politics for at cern comes after this steadfast priority desire to talk and talk and talk, and to least a little while and that we are used to qualifying as a good do this talking, as empty and senseless Wdoing something more attractive? I sug- life: such is the nature of a life-quality as it is, anywhere in the god-given space: gest we get busy with a simple theme of evaluation scale. a crowd-full street or an offi ce building, ‘good living’ instead. Just for a change! The notion of a good life differs from a facility of media or an entertainment Good living as such has been the ulti- place to place, from community to com- joint, a wedding or funeral, a lovers’ mate goal of Man since the Australo- munity, from nation to nation, and from shack or a sweetheart’s birthday party, Image source: georgiantable.com pithecus became extinct on earth and person to person, but there must be an a mama’s yard or a papa’s orchard, or we can’t hide ourselves from. Talking pensable for letting a good life conquer Homo Habilis came around in its place. average standard that works globally. I just an old neighbor’s cozy kitchen. We would have been OK if it did not have a this soil. Moreover, we need to keep So I am not trying to suggest anything would be more than happy to transplant are crazy about talking and politicizing shocking propensity to translate into mum for a brief while in contemplation, terribly strange and new to deliberate that average into this country, but a good every move of ours, and this has been tiring gibberish on any possible issue, and let our thoughts and inclinations on. life is such a stubborn little thing that it happening in the last thirty years with mostly politics – I apologize for the word! take a different shape and direction, What, in reality, is a good life? It prob- never visits us just like that, out of the no visible end in sight. Well, politics is not that bad a thing after aimed at eliminating the excessive talk ably means living well, and I am neither blue. It takes a lot to grab it by the ear So, the entire time meant for creating all, but it is not edible, is it? and giving the nation the energy for the fi rst nor the last man to know and and drag it in. In the fi rst place, good the prerequisites of a good life is used What I am trying to drive home is so productive work and the consequential say this. I even went through pages of living happens in time and space, and on talking, and what is most fascinating, awfully simplistic, but I can’t help it. I birth of good living. In the well-informed specifi c reading matter on the topic needs a lot of work to materialize. What we have the proclivity to wonder all the just see and take to heart the effect of Georgian society, everyone knows what before I embarked on turning my thoughts I mean is that a good life will not happen while why a good life is so late arriving the oversized and overdone political or good living looks and tastes like. Who into words, whereupon I concluded that to us unless we spend time on it and in this land. We are not prepared to other type of talking in Georgia, which would not go for it? Especially when the we have nothing more important on our make well-targeted moves in the space understand that if we only talk, that good might very well curb our creativity and secret of bringing it in is already clear: hands right now than seeking to give that is given to us for those moves. life will walk: this is the rule of thumb productivity which are absolutely indis- shut up and start sweating!

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 POLITICS 5 Kakha Kaladze’s Weekly Priorities: TV Tower, Noise Pollution, New Year’s Love

Continued from page 1 visitors’ center and a proposed restau- city events including Tbilisoba and 26 rant would be able to accommodate of May celebrations. "I understand the construction com- 300,000 visitors per year. He went on to talk about the New Year panies- everyone has their own business Kaladze continued, "The tower has not events planned in the capital. With model, but now we have changed our been repaired for a long time and there- regards the traditional Rustaveli Christ- approach. Many construction companies fore needs full rehabilitation. The project mas tree, whether the protestors outside are interested in these projects now, and is quite important...for tourism develop- Old Parliament would prevent it being are coming together to support the vic- ment. Additionally, ...40 people will be put up or not, news is to “follow shortly.” tims [of failed housing cooperatives] and employed permanently [by the renovated “From December 28 to January 7, Tbi- offering City Hall various proposals. We tower]. The panorama restaurant will lisi will host a New Year's Village where are ready for cooperation. I would like be located on the fi rst level of the tower, visitors will be able to fi nd new instal- to call on construction companies to and on the second level, an open-air lations, great children's spaces, fairy tales Georgia to Inaugurate First Female present their proposals on the above- panoramic viewing platform.” come to life, children's concerts, day mentioned land. We want to put their He also touched on the issue of stricter bands and evening thematic concerts, a President on December 16 proposals on the website of the City Hall enforcement of noise violations, particu- Christmas market and the chance to taste where all the stakeholders will be able larly in tourist areas. “Unfortunately, we different dishes. Numerous performers “I saw Salome Zurabishvili's editorial BY TEAM GT to see them. The winner will be the one have serious problems in this area,” will participate in the New Year's con- several days ago, where she made it very that offers City Hall the most space to Kaladze explained. “Tourist areas are certs and no citizen will be left out of clear that her intention was to carry out provide as many people with housing as critical. The population of Kalaubani the opportunity to join in the celebra- the will of the Georgian people, i.e. Euro- possible,” said the Mayor. [Old Tbilisi] is particularly concerned, tions,” he said. he inauguration ceremony of Atlantic integration,” he said after their The second issue to which Kaladze and hotels in these districts are being The Gala concert is to be divided into Georgia’s fi rst female presi- meeting. “This is a clear and strong mes- drew attention at yesterday’s meeting affected. I want to address the municipal three parts and spread over three spaces. dent, Salome Zurabishvili, will sage,” he said. was the Tbilisi Modernization Project, inspection - my categorical demand is “Renowned Conductor, Nikoloz Rach- be held in Telavi, the admin- She also held an offi cial meeting with which will be presented to the business that it should be regulated and enforced. veli, together with the national Orches- istrative center of Georgia's Ambassador of the EU to Georgia Carl sector in the near future. Within the Of course, we can have cafés, bars, even tra, will present 40 famous film easternT province of Kakheti, known as the Hartzell. framework of the project, 10 million EUR clubs, but the approach taken by these soundtracks and many Christmas and winemaking region of the country. Tradi- “It was the fi rst opportunity after the ($11.37 mln) will be invested and, most particular locales is unacceptable. Speak- New Year hits. 170 musicians will per- tionally, the ceremony is held in the capital second round of the elections for me to importantly, the full rehabilitation of the ers are used outside, trying to beat each form and there will be space for people of Georgia, Tbilisi, but as the President- meet and personally congratulate the TV Tower on Mtsatsminda will be con- other [in attracting customers], causing of all generations to come and enjoy the Elect stated, this time Telavi will play host President on her victory,” said Hartzell. ducted. complete chaos. No developed city has spirit of the season,” the Mayor said. to this important event. “We discussed a number of issues, such “The Tbilisi TV Tower Modernization such.” Telavi is the town where Zurabishvili as the inauguration and our future objec- Project was also one of my pre-election He noted that on Google maps, some Finally, Kaladze praised his staff and was unable to get the majority of votes tives.” promises. We ran a campaign ad on how areas of the city are already marked red, the projects they have implemented in in the November 28 runoff. She explained Hartzell noted Zurabishvili’s pledges to implement the modernization project recommending travelers not stay there, the past year, saying “the main driving this is why it was decided to hold the will be supported by the EU. of the tower. This project, in addition which, he said, “is a serious problem for force and motivator in doing all good inauguration there. The President-Elect also spoke to to complete modernization, envisages people who have invested in hotels. I and great things is love. More love for “There were several scenarios, but United States Secretary of State Michael arranging a visitors’ center. The concept repeat once again, we do not oppose it, each other, our districts, our city, elderly, Telavi was my proposal because the R. Pompeo in a phone conversation on was developed by Estonian company but the situation must be regulated and youth, people in need, street animals; whole election campaign was focused December 10. The US Department of Koko Architectures, after which we brought into line with the law.” we have more respect for our great her- on our need to develop the regions, and State reports that the sides discussed discussed several versions with the Kaladze then responded to news on itage and uniqueness. I want love to be I think that Telavi is the right choice.” US-Georgian cooperation on common Cultural Council. Two versions have Tuesday criticizing City Hall for spend- the basis for every new initiative. No The President-Elect has already begun global security priorities, the US’ unwa- been developed and we want to con- ing 2 million GEL ($750,000 mln) on more swearing at each other, cursing to meet with important foreign persons, vering support for Georgia’s sovereignty, tinue working on what will be imple- New Year events and decorations. He each other, but we love for ourselves and this week welcoming NATO Secretary independence and territorial integrity, mented,” said Kaladze. City Hall prom- disputed the story, saying City Hall will for serving our city, population and General's Special Representative for the and the importance of electoral and ised to put selected sample designs spend this year closer to 1.6 mln GEL homeland. That's why our New Year's Caucasus and Central Asia, James Appa- judicial reforms for Georgia’s democratic online to get public feedback. The ($600,000), and that fi gure includes other Slogan will be ‘City of Love.’” thurai. development and Western integration. GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 Swiss Ambassador on His Tenure in Georgia

generally forward-looking government decades, Switzerland has systematically gia and Russia and as a mediator. The education system is necessary to ensure EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY policies and an increasingly market and contributed to Georgia's democratic, results of our discreet efforts in this fi eld adequate skills and the employability of KATIE RUTH DAVIES business-oriented attitude of the people. economic and social development, and may not always be obvious and well the workforce. Another big impediment, In some key areas such as education, far- I am glad to say that our support has known, but they are real and serve the the unresolved separatist confl icts within reaching reforms were announced, but produced tangible results. In the agri- interests of all parties concerned. Georgia, merits to be addressed rather t the end of November, the need yet to be implemented. Serious sys- cultural sector, which accounts for almost than just kept in status quo, based on an Ambassador of Switzerland temic weaknesses inherited from the past half of Georgia's total employment, our WHERE DO YOU SEE attitude of constructive dialogue. in Georgia, Lukas Beglinger, persist and remain to be adequately longstanding assistance in the milk, GEORGIA IN FUTURE, SAY completed both his ambas- addressed. The experience of other coun- cheese, meat and other product lines FIVE YEARS FROM NOW? WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST sadorial assignment to tries in transition shows that such pro- helped farmers, suppliers and process- I do not expect miraculous developments, TAKE-AWAYS OF YOUR TIME AGeorgia and his 32-year diplomatic career. cesses take time, hence it is all the more ing companies to produce successfully but I am confi dent that Georgia will HERE? WHAT WILL BE YOUR Although he and his wife Barbara have important that Georgia stays on its path for the market, in some cases even for maintain an adequate degree of political, FONDEST MEMORIES? plans to make Georgia their second home, of reform. overseas markets. Switzerland and Swiss economic and social stability which will Georgia is highly rewarding for its rich GEORGIA TODAY decided to catch him companies have a lot to offer in the fi eld enable the country to make further pro- cultural heritage, its amazing landscapes, before the Christmas holidays and ask WHAT OF THE EXTENSIVE of practice-oriented vocational and pro- gress towards a functional democracy its nature, cuisine, wine tradition and for a summary of his time as Ambassa- WORK OF THE SWISS EMBASSY fessional education and training, which and a thriving, competitive economy. many other special features. But I and dor here. WOULD YOU HIGHLIGHT AS needs to be developed in Georgia by all my wife are most impressed and attracted HAVING HAD THE GREATEST means and is rightly considered a prior- WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU by the Georgian people: they are very COMPARE THE GEORGIA YOU IMPACT ON GEORGIA? ity by the Georgian government. Another GIVE GEORGIA MOVING open-minded, accessible, hospitable and SEE TODAY WITH THE GEORGIA Our bilateral relations were strength- important focus of our cooperation con- FORWARD, BASED ON THE truly cordial, which makes it really worth YOU SAW WHEN YOU ARRIVED. ened, in particular economic and trade cerns political and fi nancial decentrali- PROJECTS YOU HAVE BEEN working and living in this country. Although three years is a very short period relations, which now benefi t from a free zation and the concomitant requirement INVOLVED IN WHILE HERE? in a country’s history, there is ample evi- trade agreement that was concluded in of appropriate public services at the I hope that Georgia will persist in pursu- WHAT ARE YOUR dence of Georgia’s continuing quest for 2016 between Georgia and EFTA coun- regional and local level. In this area, ing its path towards reform, moderniza- FUTURE PLANS? reforms, modernization and increased tries. This year, Switzerland and Georgia which is critical for containing the ongo- tion and European standards in all areas. As I retire from the diplomatic service, prosperity. New transport and touristic signed an agreement on the protection ing rural depopulation, Georgia can This is a key necessity in order to over- we plan to stay in Georgia and continue infrastructure, buildings, power genera- of geographical indications for wines, benefi t from Switzerland's century-old, come the current economic and social to promote Georgia’s development as tion plants and manufacturing facilities spirits, cheese and other special products successful experience and expertise as challenges. As witnessed in many projects, well as Swiss-Georgian relations in our are the most visible signs of that process. which will underpin our efforts to expand a "bottom-up" country. the widespread lack of professional know- private capacity, notably by exporting But I also witnessed political reforms as mutual trade. Last but not least, Switzerland has con- how and practice-oriented training is a high-quality Georgian products such as well as progress in many economic and We promote trade with Georgia, but tinued to offer its good offi ces as a pro- major impediment to Georgia's develop- wine and tea to Switzerland and by fos- social fi elds, which was underpinned by we also aid Georgia. Over the past two tecting power acting on behalf of Geor- ment. Hence, a thorough reform of the tering wine and mountain tourism. BUSINESS The Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards Holds Press Conference Khachidze; and Head of Retail Business BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA Banking Department of Bank of Georgia, Zurab Masurashvili. Zurab Masurashvili focused on the n December 13, the Head- developing trend of tourism in Georgia quarters of the Bank of and expansion of varieties of tourist Georgia hosted a press services in the country. He also under- conference regarding the lined the signifi cance of improvement Welcome to Georgia! seen in the quality of services. NationalO Tourism Awards. Marina Chayka spoke about the Award The press conference was attended by Ceremony and announced that this year the Co-Founder/Managing Partner of the format will be modifi ed, with a num- Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism ber of categories added to the list. She Awards, Marina Chayka; Deputy Head also mentioned that the guests of the of the Georgian National Tourism Admin- event will be delivered information about istration, Medea Janiashvili; Head of the the present statistics of the tourism Municipal Department of Economic industry and the perspectives of its Development of Tbilisi City Hall, Andria development. Chayka intrigued the audi- Basilaia; Partner of BDO Georgia, Maia ence by announcing a surprise which The long-term delivery service of 25 to 50 kilograms sacks from China. With the organic responsibility of will be revealed on December 17, the day This is the 4th year the transparency Tourism Industry’ and ‘The Fastest Grow- of the Awards, to be held in Rustaveli and impartiality of the assessing process ing Company of the Year in SME Seg- the Trading Company "HanLin" Theater. The winners of 20 nominations for all the nominees has been guaranteed ment’. The winners of these categories among more 350 participants will also by the independent audit of BDO Geor- will be awarded special prizes by Bank be revealed at the event. gia. BDO Georgia is also to reveal the of Georgia. from Alashankou. The Award ceremony is a closed event winners of each nomination. The ceremony is to be held for the to be attended by more than 800 guests: For the past two years, Bank of Georgia fourth time with the co-organization of the project nominees and partners, repre- has been the offi cial sponsor of the pro- the Ministry of Economy and Sustain- sentatives of the government and business ject and this year carries the status of able Development of Georgia and the sectors, and international and local media. the co-organizer of the project. Within Georgian National Tourism Administra- Each nominee has been assessed using the scope of the partnership, Bank of tion. Offi cial supporters of the event are E-mail: [email protected] an internationally recognized method Georgia has outlined three special cat- Tbilisi City Hall and the Partnership by the Awards’ independent jury, com- egories: ‘The Best Woman Entrepreneur Fund. The co-organizer of the project is Tel/Fax: 86-0909-699-5859 prised of international and domestic in the Tourism Industry,’ ‘ICREATE – the Bank of Georgia. The Independent audit tourism and hospitality professionals. Most Successful Georgian Brand in the – BDO Georgia. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 BUSINESS 7 Euroins Insurance Group to Launch Georgian Insurance Market

vices, including cyber security, vital for BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA decreasing vulnerability towards cyber- crime. It is also planned to offer cus- tomers more comfortable ways of using nsurance company ‘IC Group’ a wide range of EIG services, such as has become a member of a major by mobile application, which will give Eastern European insurance com- them an opportunity to purchase an pany – Euroins Insurance Group insurance policy online and manage (EIG). claim handling online. Security and IThe press conference and the agree- innovative programs were announced ment-signing ceremony were hosted by as the major priorities for the Euroins the Rooms Hotel on December 11. To Insurance Group. complete the fi rst phase of the merging Aside from attracting foreign invest- process, Georgia was visited by the ment, Euroins Insurance Group will Deputy CEO of EIG, Georgi Markov, also import western expertise and and the member of board of Directors, knowledge to Georgia. It is planned to Cagatay Uludag, who will also join the rotate company employees in the insur- Board of Directors of Euroins Georgia ance companies and training centres of in the position of Chief Strategic Offi cer. different European countries. Foreign ‘IC Group’ will continue to operate specialists will come to Georgia, ena- on the market under the name of ‘Euroins bling the company to share knowledge Georgia’ and will fully implement the and experience. practices of the European insurance company, international experience and INSURANCE COMPANY modern insurance system already ‘EUROINS’ approved in Europe, which are eligible Euroins Insurance Group represents for the local consumer market. one of the major insurance companies At the conference, the representatives operating in the Central and Eastern of EIG stated this investment in Georgia European markets. The company is is a strategic step forward for their com- oriented on the full spectrum of insur- pany. “We see Georgia as a country with ance services. The company, founded great opportunities, potential for devel- in Bulgaria functions in 8 European oping insurance practices and other countries. The company has subsidiar- spheres,” stated Markov. ies in four of these countries: Bulgaria, Image source: IC Group The main reason for their decision to Romania, Macedonia, and Ukraine. In enter Georgia is the healthy business 2014 Euroins started operating in Greece. INSURANCE COMPANY implementation process of legislative highly qualifi ed employees in the com- environment, economic growth and the EIG has approximately 1600 employees, ‘IC GROUP’ regulations, as the member of the Cham- pany, some of them having the experi- dynamic development forecasts of the while the number of customers reaches ‘IC Group’ was founded on November ber of Commerce and Industry (France, ence of more than 20 years of working insurance sector, he noted. more than 2.5 million. The annual rev- 10, 2005 and since then has offered a Georgia), Business Association of Geor- in insurance fi eld. ‘IC Group’ is socially It was also said that Euroins Georgia enue of the company is half a billion full specter of services to its customers. gia and Georgian Insurance Association. responsible company, respecting tradi- will implement diverse insurance ser- Euro. The company is actively involved in the Currently, there are more than 100 tions and aspects of business ethics. GEORGIA TODAY 8 BUSINESS DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 TBC Bank Group to Develop Electronic Commerce on the Georgian Market

from the strategy of TBC Bank Group E-commerce in Georgia and supply cli- BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA to make the life of its customers easier, ents with high-quality products. take into account their demands and The given initiative will be interesting meet them with high-quality services. for small and medium entrepreneurs, BC Bank Group is planning The brand new ‘Vendoo’ app, which as they will be able to distribute their to develop E-commerce in Sherozia noted will not be a typical products to Georgian customers online. Georgia. Soon, the Geor- retail, but more of a market sale, will The digital trade platform will support gian market will host a new be based on the already existing com- entrepreneurs to enlarge their busi- digital trade platform pany ‘Swoop’, recently purchased by nesses, ameliorate the rate of sales, whichT will give customers the oppor- TBC Bank Group. obtain trade funding and produce online tunity to shop online in comfort. ‘Vendoo’ will offer a wide variety of marketing. Placing the products will be Within the scope of the project, TBC products within different price ranges, open to every entrepreneur, as they will Bank Group is initiating a new online personalized offers, deferred payment have a ready online platform and stock, shopping mobile application ‘Vendoo’, method, rapid delivery of purchased and well-organized logistics for elec- which is planned to be launched in Febru- items and a fl exible return policy. The tronic trade. The only expense for them ary 2019. The presentation was delivered delivery service will cover the entire will be the costs of their products and technology conditions, it is a highly in- Aside from ‘Vendoo’, TBC Bank Group by the CEO of TBC Bank Group Vakhtang country, meaning even customers in distributing them to the main warehouse demand service. The new digital plat- is planning to launch other major and Butskhrikidze and TBC Bank Group CIO rural areas will be able to use ‘Vendoo’. of the company. form will facilitate the shopping process ambitious projects, go beyond the bor- Amiran Sherozia on December 11. The primary goal of this large-scale E-commerce is one of the fastest grow- for customers on one side and boost ders of Georgia and reach up to 10 mil- The idea of creating this app came and innovative project is to boost ing areas in Georgia. Within the modern business development on the other. lion customers by 2022. TBC Capital Presents Results of FMCG Sector Investment Analysis of the project is to present to the com- Organized retail has a high potential BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA panies and potential investors the cur- for progress in Georgia. In 2017, the value rent condition of the market and the of the given sector was approximately potential for further development in 7.8 billion GEL. n December 12, the rep- the area. “Organized retail is a fi eld with a very resentatives of TBC Bank The CEO of TBC Bank, Vakhtang But- high perspective of development in gave a presentation on skhrikidze, focused on the importance Georgia,” said the Head of Research and the results of a Fast- of the investigation of the FMCG fi eld, Brokerage of TBC Capital, Nino Tskha- Moving Consumer Goods stating: “The majority of companies daia. “According to our observations, O(FMCG) Sector Investment Analysis. operating on the Georgian market are this sector is forecast to grow by 6% The given investigation, carried out by the core partners of TBC Bank. For our within the next six years, which will be TBC Capital with the support of world- Bank, long-term partnership is vital, and approximately 11 billion GEL.” She added wide management consulting firm this is why it was important for us to that the organized retail sector is mostly McKinsey & Company, is the fi rst present valuable and interesting infor- concentrated in the capital city and needs investment analysis of this sector in mation to the companies about the pre- expansion into the rural areas. Georgia. The idea to explore the FMCG sent situation on the market, tendencies TBC Capital is an advisory arm of TBC fi eld was inspired by companies oper- and changes taking place on it, and Bank offering Corporate Advisory, ating on the Georgian market and the observations about its further growth.” Research and Brokerage solutions in growing trend of investors who need Butskhrikirdze also emphasized the Georgia. In 2017, TBC Capital became relevant, trustworthy and competent intentions of TBC Bank to have 10 mil- part of the Corporate and Investment information about the sector. The aim lion customers by 2022. Banking Business.

SOCIETY Wheelchairs for Georgian Kids: MAC Fundraiser Calls for Donors, with EBRD to Match Funds Raised postural problems leaned forward, hung ability to swallow and to breathe dete- needed to brace their bodies in an upright Kokhreidze. BY KATIE RUTH DAVIES to the side or even slipped out of their riorates and her overall ability to actively position.” “I am very pleased to have the oppor- seat. Left without alternatives, mothers engage with the world becomes greatly Improved posture means greater com- tunity to support MAC Georgia in buy- or caregivers often tied their kids into the reduced. Worst of all, this is preventable.” fort, wellbeing, and preserved functional ing supportive wheelchairs for children EORGIA TODAY asked chair with a scarf or rope. Other children MAC Georgia is committed to ensuring independence. Fitting a child into a wheel- in Georgia,” she told us. “I was amazed MAC Director Jeremy couldn’t use the chair at all and so remained that persons with more complex postural chair with correct postural support pre- to learn how much MAC does in Geor- Gaskill to talk about his new in bed.” support needs get the chairs they need. serves the child’s physical health and gia for people with disabilities and it fundraiser- supplying He noted that a common misconception They have spent more than two years signifi cantly improves their overall qual- didn’t take much time for the idea of wheelchairs to Georgia’s he often runs into is the idea that a wheel- fi eld-testing wheelchairs across various ity of life. fundraising to be born. Jeremy Gaskill disadvantagedG children. chair is only important as a means of mov- Georgian rural and urban areas, observ- “We want to change the way that wheel- and I decided to knock on every door to “I started with MAC Georgia in 2014 ing a person from point A to point B. ing how each model stands up to the chairs are distributed in Georgia. Rather raise at least EUR 5,000 to buy support- and quickly realized, as I visited kids “While this is of course part of its pur- rigors of use, listening to user and parent than a ‘one model fi ts all’ approach, we ive wheelchairs for kids mostly in rural across the regions, that while wheelchairs pose, a chair is also a crucial tool for feedback, and assessing each chair’s abil- want to show that chairs can and should parts of Georgia. Then I had the idea to were available to most, they often weren’t reducing physical deformities and pre- ity to support the wide range of physical be fi tted to the needs of each user,” Gaskill approach my employer, EBRD, and get appropriate for the individuals using serving a person’s posture. Imagine a needs. This work has helped MAC to summarized. “Our Occupational Thera- the initiative connected to its wonderful them. Some chairs were too big and thus child that perpetually leans to one side identify wheelchair models that they pists will assess, prescribe and fi t each Community Initiative Program.” prevented the child from reaching the of her chair. Gravity pulls at her body and believe are well suited for the Georgian child into the chair that best suits their Established in 2016, EBRD’s Commu- wheels or enjoying independent mobil- over time this initially slight lean grows context. specifi c needs. Importantly, 100% of each nity Initiative supports staff engagement ity; most chairs didn’t lean back or adjust; into a more extreme deformity. Her spine “We intentionally avoided looking at donation will go to the purchase and ship- in philanthropic and charitable activities nor did they have any head or side sup- twists and her muscles shorten, thus lock- high-end, expensive chairs, instead focus- ping of wheelchairs. All administrative related to EBRD’s country of operations port,” he told us. “As a result, kids with ing her into a contracted position. Her ing our attention on wheelchairs that are costs will be covered by MAC Georgia.” (including Georgia). If a project is well designed but priced for lower-income Earlier this year, Thea Kokhreidze, a approved, EBRD doubles the funds raised. countries,” Gaskill said. “It’s imperative Georgian citizen who’s with the EBRD “We are excited that ERBD’s Commu- to us that these chairs be something that in London, met Jeremy Gaskill to talk nity Initiative Program approved our the Georgian government can realistically about MAC Georgia and the work they proposal,” Kokhreidze said. “This means afford. In the end, each of the chairs we are doing to improve the lives of persons that if we reach our goal of EUR 5,000, identifi ed runs somewhere between $300 with disabilities. that this amount will be doubled by the and $500. It’s more than the approximately “The topic of wheelchairs came up and EBRD, enabling us to buy at least 25 $200 that the government currently pays I described our efforts to match kids wheelchairs for children with disabilities per wheelchair, but we believe, given the with the wheelchairs they need,” Gaskill across Georgia. Please consider giving. overall benefi ts, it’s well worth the addi- told GEORGIAT TODAY. “Time passed And please share our justgiving page tional cost.” and then I got a call from Thea saying with your friends and contacts.” The right wheelchair, if fi tted correctly, that she’d like to recommend us to the can transform a child’s life. In many cases EBRD Community Initiative’s Matching https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ it means the difference between health Program, suggesting this would be an givingindependence and chronic illness, inclusion and isola- excellent opportunity to raise the money You can learn more about the EBRD and its tion, independence and dependence, even needed to impact more lives. She sub- Community Initiative Program here: https:// – in extreme cases – life and death. mitted the application and the EBRD www.ebrd.com/who-we-are-ebrd-community- “There’s a high number of kids with Community Initiative Program approved initiative.html Cerebral Palsy in Georgia,” Gaskill reports. it. As a result, the EBRD Community You can watch a video on why it is important “The vast majority of these children can’t Initiative Program agreed in principle for disabled kids to have supportive wheel- sit upright on their own. In cases like this, to match the funds we raise subject to chairs. Please be warned that it includes a standard chair isn’t enough. A properly the certain conditions.” images of severely disabled children. fi tted, postural supportive wheelchair is GEORGIA TODAY spoke to Thea https://youtu.be/9mB77guCPj0 GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 SOCIETY 9

Gaioz Kubaneishvili, Caritas Georgia’s Healthcare Program Manager Caritas Georgia – Homecare Services for All poorest and most vulnerable populations able to serve only about 1% of the popu- BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE – the elderly, those living below the pov- lation who need such services. Based on erty line, the homeless, children without 2014 census data, they estimate that parental care, the sick and disabled, and upwards of 185,000 Georgians nationwide aritas Georgia is a charita- the generally socially unprotected – all are in need of long-term care and treat- ble organization associated without regard to nationality or religion. ment in their homes. with the Catholic Church. The organization promotes a vision of According to Gaioz Kubaneishvili, They are part of a world- Georgian society where the dignity and Caritas Georgia’s Healthcare Program wide network of Caritas basic rights of every person are protected, Manager, currently only 5% of benefi - organizationsC that implement charitable peace, justice, mercy and solidarity are ciaries have access to homecare services missions in more than 160 countries. dominant, and the public good prevail provided by private charitable organiza- Caritas has been operating in Georgia over individual interests. Caritas Geor- tions, while the vast majority of people since 1993, fi rst as a volunteer effort, and gia’s mission is “promoting human devel- in need are beyond the reach of profes- then, by the end of 1994, as an offi cial opment and social justice, bringing relief sional quality services. These people are branch of the global network. to vulnerable and disadvantaged people cared for by family members or other Caritas Georgia operates a variety of and encouraging their self-responsibility informal caretakers, “characterized by,” social programs in the fi elds of Children and dignity.” says Kubaneishvili, “improper and poor- and Youth Protection and Development, One of Caritas Georgia’s fl agship pro- quality services.” Health Care, Social Care, Development grams is a homecare service for the The Georgian government funds sev- of Communities and Individuals, and elderly and bedridden. As a Caritas eral different healthcare and social assis- Emergency Response and Preparedness. spokesperson told GEORGIA TODAY, tance programs, but homecare is not Projects and programs focus on Georgia’s with their limited resources they are included in any state-funded program, says Caritas. The non-governmental organization (NGO) network in Georgia provides nearly all homecare services. The majority of programs are supported by donors and aimed at socially vulner- able populations. Caritas’ program is different, however, offering a paid home- care service. This model increases the program’s sustainability while also pro- viding an affordable service for those in need who do not qualify for other NGO programs. Caritas Georgia also offers a profes- sional qualifi cation enhancement pro- gram for medical personnel to train them on modern methodologies, focused on German medical standards and practices. This training ensures high quality ser- vices are available to a wide section of the population in need. Caritas Georgia nurses specialize in the treatment of chronicle injuries, kinesthetics, and rehabilitation. The organization also conducts a nursing education support program for students, aimed at supple- menting and improving the nursing education in the country. The program trains 400 students per year in collabo- Image source: Caritas Georgia ration with vocational institutions. GEORGIA TODAY 10 SOCIETY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 New Year Offer from MAQRO Construction: Apartments in GREEN DIAMOND with Unbelievable Discounts & Free Parking Spaces

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GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 Winter is Coming: Etseri, Svaneti planet-wise, in respect to the sun such Yesterday I decanted our fi rst ever crop BLOG BY TONY HANMER that what does reach us of its rays is of plums since we moved here (now much less than the direct, nearer protected by fences) from their four- 90-degree angles of midsummer, with a month soaking in moonshine. I strained t’s been such a mild November- correspondingly weaker warming effect. the liquid and added sugar syrup: liqueur! December here that one is even That’s why we’re moving into winter in Then, not to waste the fruit, I pitted it reluctant to call it winter, unlike the fi rst place, the rain becoming snow. all and boiled it with more sugar and what the folks over in Game of It will change back again in the spring. warm winter spices, cloves, cinnamon, Thrones have to deal with, their Does our current season, the mildest ginger, nutmeg. Most of the alcohol boiled Ifi nal season’s brutally spectacular wars winter my wife and I have experienced off, leaving its taste behind, in what we to be fought in 2019. But it is slowly, in our six years here, mean that global refer to here as “drunk jam”. Just right steadily advancing, albeit late. warming has fi nally arrived in Svaneti? for the Christmas holidays! I do this with While I’m using words which start with Maybe. As long as we get enough snow all the fruit liqueurs I make, of which “albe”, here’s another one: albedo, the to replenish the huge Enguri dam in there is quite a seasonal variety, and the amount of radiation-refl ectivity of a sur- spring, currently draining as usual for results are worth sampling, if I say so face. It can be anything from 0 (scien- now with extra electrical usage (our myself. POW, as my late father would tifi cally called a black body, absorbing heaters) and less refi ll (snow falling and have exclaimed. You’ll have to come up 100% radiation to 1 (refl ecting 100%). The not melting for some months), we’ll be to Hanmer House and try them, on crepes ground in the village has been moving fi ne. We’d really like to remain mosquito- or toast or ice cream. While Mestia will from a much darker color, absorbing much free, though, please, too dry for them to give you the skiing infrastructure, true, more light and heat from the sun and thus live up here in summer! Their entrench- we’ll give you these jams along with aged staying warmer, to a much lighter tone, ment up here would not be a blessing, sulguni cheese and other delights unique closer to an albedo of 1, as snow comes. not by any means. Ask the people in Poti. to us. Dig in and enjoy. As yet, the snow has been losing the bat- As long as the trees don’t get fooled tle and melting: there hasn’t been enough into thinking that spring has come much Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since to stay, cool the ground underneath itself, too early, and start budding and blos- 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a refl ect most of the sun’s heat, and thus soming, only to have all that new growth weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He become permanent for the season. Ground killed off by the real winter still gather- runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook has been winning. ing strength. Then our temperate fruit group, now with over 1900 members, at The next few days’ forecasts could be crops would fail for 2019: plums sweet www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- the tipping point, as more snow is pre- and sour, apples, cherries white and dark, sance/ dicted. It might just be enough to last sweet and sour, pears; not to mention He and his wife also run their own guest house until more can come and be added to it, walnuts. All of these fl ourish up here in Etseri: building up. We’re also currently tilted, when the weather is normal. www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti

CULTURE Rustavi Ensemble Exec. Director on Past Successes & Future Developments

Director Anzor Erkomaishvili, Chief “With the opening of the schools of Choreographer Fridon Sulaberidze, the Folklore State Center in the regions, Tamaz Andghuladze, Head of the Jan- we have achieved quite signifi cant suc- sugh Kakhidze Music Center Vakhtang cess, with hundreds of young people Kakhidze, Georgian Chakua Foundation having already mastered the Georgian Director Nana Gotua and The Georgian traditional art and an unprecedented Folklore State Center. That's the council increase seen amongst youth interest in that leads the priorities of this big organ- Tbilisi,” Gabunia noted. “In the end, this ization and the one which makes the will defi nitely cause a great intellectual important decisions. The Studio teaches explosion. I am happy to see how many Georgian folk song and traditional chant, talented children come along. The Stu- Georgian folk instruments, choreogra- dio is also preparing for a solo concert, phy, theatrical art, reading and speech,” a matter of pride for all our young tal- he emphasized. ent.” Over 40 years, the popularity of Geor- They also have a new program in the gian traditional song and folklore has choreographic direction with boys and grown. Georgian traditional chanting girls working together. has been made a separate direction in “We expect that further interest will tour. The tour, which began in the city Board is composed of well-known musi- studies at the Studio, a complex change increase in this direction,” the Rustavi BY ANNA ZHVANIA of Ichikawa (Chiba), ended on Novem- cians, including the Ensemble’s Artistic expected to bring great results in future. Executive Director stated. ber 21 in the city of Osaka. It was an unprecedented event in the history of he 40-year-old Rustavi Georgian culture. Such large-scale con- Ensemble and Martve Stu- certs have never been held beyond Geor- dio have for decades, under gian territory or in the history of Japan. the guidance of Anzor Erko- The concerts were a great success accord- maishvili, trained thousands ing to the Japanese press. Tof children in the art of folk songs and Giorgi Gabunia, Executive Director of chanting. With its concert work, televi- ‘Rustavi’ and ‘Martve,’ talked about what’s sion shows, radio recordings and other next. promotional activities, the renowned “Signifi cant structural changes have group has for years generated great inter- been made. In the spring of 2018, Martve est in singing among the youth of Geor- Studio joined the State Academic Ensem- gia. Folklore ensembles composed of ble Rustavi as a structural unit of Geor- children are on the rise in Georgia today, gian folk song and dance. Based on this, with children singing songs passed down we began a major reorganization in the to them from previous generations of studio. The project ‘Manage New Life,’ folk singers. And so the tradition goes the organizational formation of the on. Ensemble, implementation of new goals The Rustavi Ensemble has held more and tasks, and improvements to the than 1500 concerts during its existence teaching quality have enhanced and and participated in many TV and radio renewed the energy of the Studio’s work,” programs. It was even watched by over Gabunia noted. “Giorgi Donadze, Artis- 100,000 spectators in a series of concerts tic Director of the Basiani Ensemble, was in Japan recently. Here's what 8-year-old invited to join us as Artistic Director. Hiromasa Tabagi, who lives in Hiroshima, This is very important for us because he said of the Georgian folk group: “Thank is the most outstanding and successful you very much for showing us such great lobby in our generation. I’m convinced songs and dances. I'm excited. Come to that the creative processes here will only Nagasaki again! We will give you wine get better. The curriculum was renewed and Crane Origami!” and new academic disciplines were The Ensemble was in Japan for a month added, which aim at raising the quality and a half, on their 50th year anniversary of education and professionalism. The GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 CULTURE 13 Light Movement Transformed into a Symphony by the HUAWEI Mate20 Pro

convert them into a melody. The main Seifrides noted that the involvement BY MARIAM DIASAMIDZE challenge of the creative team was to of AI in music presented a new range of create an audio-visual product that would creative opportunities: “The artifi cial once again confi rm the possibilities of intelligence system can absorb the North- hat is the sound of higher AI through the language of the ern Lights and analyse it according to light? It was a thrill- unknown North. color, size, shape and speed. Then it ing question that the And so it began. In the open air, under generates music variations based on Huawei representa- the Tromso night sky in Norway, Keitel what it sees. When AI perceives strong tive asked his creative Scogli and award-winning composer light, it can modulate the sound to refl ect Wteam and experts of Artifi cial Intelligence Mark Seifrides sought to capture the the intensity of the composition. After (AI), inspiring them to create an ambi- Northern Lights. Seifrides worked with that, I can use the created elements in tious project that transformed the North- the AI of the HUAWEI Mate20 Pro to the symphony.” ern Lights into a symphony through the create a symphony from the collected The light voice was a one-month project study and observation of light movements material. When the composition was that confi rmed that AI can read photos and which was recently presented to the created, James Sherman, one of the best and create new sounds. What kind of public in the music hall of Brahms, in composers in the world, played it with sound do the Northern Lights have? The Vienna, Austria. an Orchestra at the Brahms Music Hall, answer to this question has already been The company's HUAWEI employees in Vienna. He said, “My goal is to create, provided by the HUAWEI Mate20 Pro were tasked to capture the Northern inspire and guide the symphony perfor- through the most advanced AI. Lights in Norway and work on it with mance and with the help of artifi cial More than 300 people, including media, the AI used in the HUAWEI Mate20 Pro intelligence bring it to life. I want to cre- attended the event presenting the sym- in order to discover the main elements ate feelings like the Northern Lights are phony of light in Vienna, led by James HUAWEI products and services are on 20 years’ experience in the telecom- of light portrayed in the photo and then speaking through the music.” Sherman. available in more than 170 countries and munications business and serves to pro- are used by a third of the world's popu- vide innovative technologies to custom- lation. There are 16 research and devel- ers around the world. opment centers operating worldwide in Links to watch. the USA, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India https://drive.google.com/ and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is open?id=1tV8Z-AM7YPKXfvkbeVJ9k- one of HUAWEI's three business units, gGU359m6ZsU mainly focusing on smartphones, per- http://bit.ly/2zuTrxV sonal computers, tablets and cloud ser- https://www.youtube.com/ vices. HUAWEI Global Network is based watch?v=TQ3KNXQwO1o GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER December 15 Ucha Japharidze, Aleksandre TBILISI EVENT HALL Ticket: 10-50 GEL THE STORY OF A MURDERER Bajbeuk-Melikov, Korneli Sanadze 1 Melikishvili St. December 15 Directed by Kakha Bakuradze and more. The exposition also TEL (+995 32) 2 99 00 99 PIANO MUSIC EVENING SHALIKASHVILI THEATER Start time: 20:00 showcases documentary footage 27 Rustaveli Ave. Vadym Kholodenko Ticket: 10-15 GEL depicting the 1920-30s repressions. December 15 In program: Famous Azerbaijani pop singer December 14 M. Ravel - Sonatine; December 16 GALLERY DALMA LULLABY Miroirs INTRO Start time: 17:00 Start time: 20:00 S. Prokofi ev Piano Sonata No. 6 in Directed by Kakha Bakuradze THE NATIONAL GALLERY Ticket: 30-60 GEL Ticket: 15 GEL A Major, Op. 82 Start time: 20:00 11 Rustaveli Ave. Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 10-15 GEL TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 December 15 TBILISI CONCERT HALL Ticket: 10-40 GEL HOST AND GUEST 1 Melikishvili St. MUSEUM October 9 – January 17 (2019) Based on a Vazha-Pshavela poem TEL (+995 32) 2 99 00 99 December 17 NIKO PIROSMANI’S RENEWED Start time: 20:00 CLASSICAL MUSIC COGNITIVE GEORGIAN NATIONAL EXHIBITION Ticket: 15 GEL December 19 PROGRAM MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA NEW YEAR CHARITY CONCERT Participants: Tea Demurishvili, MUSEUM October 10 – October 5 (2019) GABRIADZE THEATER Charity Fund ‘Life Is Beautiful’ Mezzo-Soprano, Nato Metonidze, 3 Rustaveli Ave. EXHIBITION 14 Shavteli Str. Concert for Luka Alibegashvili, 23, Vocals, Giorgi Tsagareli, Alt TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 MASTERS OF GEORGIAN ART TEL (+995 32) 298 65 93 who has been diagnosed with acute Nicholas Rachveli- conductor, www.museum.ge Paintings of Kirill Zdanevich, myeloid leukemia. Kakhi Solomnishvili- conductor Shalva Kikodze, Ketevan December 16 Start time: 20:00 Svimon Jangulashvili- conductor, Exhibitions: Magalashvili and Elene Akhvlediani RAMONA Ticket: 10-40 GEL Patriarchate of Trinity Cathedral GEORGIAN COSTUME AND together with Lado Gudiashvili's Revaz Gabriadze WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH and David Kakabadze, giving E. Mikeladze National Symphony Directed by Revaz Gabriadze IN THE DENSE FOREST CENTURIES a comprehensive picture of Orchestra of Georgia English Subtitles Tskneti, The last stop the diversity and aesthetics of Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 NUMISMATIC TREASURY Georgian Art. Ticket: 5-20 GEL Ticket: 20, 30 GEL December 16 STONE AGE GEORGIA BARBAROBA AT DENSE FOREST ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE Until January 20 December 19 December 15 BAND MUKHAMBAZI NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL The anniversary exhibition of BRAVO MAESTRO! STALINGRAD Start time: 20:00 COLLECTIONS Georgian artist dedicated to the 90th anniversary Revaz Gabriadze Ticket: 20 GEL USHANGI KHUMARASHVILI of Bidzina Kvernadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze December 6 – February 28 His artistic traditions are classic Participants: English Subtitles ART HOUSE In the framework of the avant-garde. A severe Soviet legacy George Khaindrava, violin, Start time: 20:00 18 Gudiashvili Str. celebrations of the European Year and socialism brought his creativity Gogi Tchitchinadze, conductor, Ticket: 20, 30 GEL of Cultural Heritage in Georgia, into a space of non-conformism. December 20 Evgeny Mikeladze Georgian the Georgian National Museum The main and initial stage of his Philharmonic Orchestra December 14, 20 GIGI WONDER, presents the exhibition art began in the 1970s, when he In program: Orchestral works by Animated documentary fi lm CONTEMPORARY ART BY WISDOM TRANSFORMED INTO defi ned himself as an expressive Bidzina Kvernadze REZO OLEG TIMCHENKO AND GOLD abstractionist. Start time: 19:00 Directed by Leo Gabriadze KHATUNA KHABULIANI Ticket: 5-20 GEL Start time: 20:00 Start time: 21:00 IOSEB GRISHASHVILI KHIDI Ticket: 15 GEL Ticket: 30-50 GEL TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM V.Bagrationi Bridge, Right IOTA HOTEL TBILISI - KARVASLA Embankment MUSIC AND DRAMA GEORGIAN NATIONAL 10 Lermontov Str. 8 Sioni St. STATE THEATER MUSEUM TEL (+995 32) 298 22 81 December 7-20 182 Agmashenebeli Ave. 3 Rustaveli Ave. December 17 Multidisciplinary exhibition project TEL (+995 32) 234 80 90 POWERPOINT KARAOKE Until January 20 IN-BETWEEN CONDITIONS December 18 TBILISI VOL. 8 Georgian National Museum in ‘In-Between Conditions’ displays 18 December 18 Classical Music in an Alternative Entertainment, training, contest the framework of the Project works expressing cultural impulses WELCOME TO GEORGIA Environment and networking in a friendly, “Contemporary Art Gallery” affected by political or social A musical, theatrical play and OPENING CONCERT informal environment. presents forces. romantic comedy telling a story Soloist Tiffany Abban, soprano Start time: 20:00 THE SOLO EXHIBITION OF LIA about Georgia and its people by Tbilisi Women’s Choir, choirmaster Ticket: 15 GEL BAGRATIONI MUSIC combining song, dance, culture, Omar Burduli A MAD TEA-PARTY traditions, history, national Program: DJANSUG KAKHIDZE SOUNDS OF GEORGIA costumes and local cuisine. Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane- TBILISI CENTER FOR MUSIC MUSEUM OF SOVIET Musical Have yourself a Merry Little & CULTURE OCCUPATION December 14, 19, 20 Language: English, some Georgian Christmas 123 a Agmashenebeli Ave. 4 Rustaveli Ave. Mini concerts in Old Tbilisi, a mix of With English subtitles John Rutter– Birthday madrigal #1 TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 traditional Georgian music featuring Start time: 20:00 Franz Schubert– Ave Maria December 14 www.museum.ge folklore, A-Capella, guitar, and new Ticket: 50-80 GEL Charles Gounod– O, Divine CONCERT OF PIANO MUSIC Georgian pop and city songs. Redeemer December 11 – March 1 Start time: 17:00 Dedicated to the 90th anniversary MOVEMENT THEATER Mykola Leontovich- Hark how the Exhibition Tickets: 23 GEL of famous Georgian pianist, 182 Aghmashenebeli Ave. Bells RED TERROR AND GEORGIAN Venue, December 7: merit professor of Tbilisi State TEL (+995) 598 19 29 36 Catholicos-patriarch of Georgia- ARTISTS New Tifl is, 14 Agmashenebeli Ave., Conservatory Alexander Vasadze. Kyrie Eleison The Exhibition showcases artworks Wine bar ‘Wine Station’; Scarlatti, Beethoven Chopin, December 14 Start time: 20:00 by Dimitri Shevardnadze, Petre Venue, December 19: Liszt and Prokofi ev will be PARADISO Ticket: 50 GEL Otskheli, Henryk Hryniewski, 16 G. Kikodze Str., Café ‘Ezo’; performed by his grandson, pianist Directed by Irakli Khoshtaria Richard Sommer, Kiril Zdanevich, Venue, December 20: and organist – Alexander Vasadze. Start time: 20:00 December 20 Vasily Shukhaev, Elene Akhvlediani, Europe Sq., 2 D. Megreli Str., Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 10-15 GEL CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT Lado Gudiashvili, David Kakabadze, Hotel "Nata", Terrace Ticket: 10 GEL S TRIO GAON Tae-Hyung kim, Piano December 19 Jehye Lee, Violin THE MICHIGAN STATE Samuel Lutzker, Cello UNIVERSITY Program: STRING QUARTET “IBERIS” J. Brahms, 3 Duets Start time: 19:30 J. Brahms, Trio No. 2, in C major, Ticket: 10 GEL Op. 87 F. Mendelssohn, Trio No.2 in C SPACEHALL minor, Op.66 Start time: 20:00 2 Tsereteli Ave. Ticket: 50 GEL December 15 TUMANISHVILI FILM TREEBAL: ACE VENTURA at ACTORS THEATER SPACEHALL 164 Agmashenebeli Ave. Ace Ventura by Yoni Oshrat Acidwave December 15 Obri & Zen VOCAL ACADEMY’S Oogway CHRISTMAS CONCERT Start time: 23:00 Start time: 16:00 Ticket: 20-50 GEL Ticket: 10 GEL JINSEBIS TAOBA TBILISI STATE LOUNGE BAR CONSERVATOIRE 22 Metekhi Str. 8 Griboedov St. TEL (+995 32) 2 93 46 24 December 15 LEQSENI, BIG TIKO, MINDOZA, December 14 QETI GOMARTELI LIVE CLASSICAL MUSIC COGNITIVE CONCERT PROGRAM Start time: 22:00 Start time: 16:00 Ticket: 20 GEL GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 14 - 17, 2018 CULTURE 15 Professional School of Theatrical Costumes & Accessories Opens at TAFU

Kalatozishvili notes that establishing BY ANA DUMBADZE such an institute is essentially important nowadays when the number of profes- sionals who can create beautiful costumes n December 12, the offi cial and accessories for theatrical perfor- opening of the Professional mances is decreasing at an alarming rate. School of Theatrical Cos- “I came up with the idea of establish- tumes and Accessories was ing such a school a long time ago,” she held at the Shota Rustaveli told GEORGIDA TODAY. “It is a big UniversityO of Theater and Film (TAFU). problem nowadays that we do not have The Artistic Director of the School is many professionals working in this direc- renowned Georgian costume designer tion, and their number is decreasing not Anna Kalatozishvili. only in Georgia but throughout the world. The opening ceremony and presenta- Such a school was opened in London tin of the School was attended by famous several years ago to address this exact Georgian artists and art lovers. Nino problem, a fact which gave me the moti- Ananiashvili, Georgian Prima-Ballerina vation to implement my goal and estab- and Artistic Director of the State Ballet lish the same in my country. We are of Georgia, is one of the founders of the seriously lacking a young generation of School. professionals working in this direction. Kalatozishvili has designed costumes I would like to express my deep gratitude for theater performances and movies; towards everyone who helped me in among other works, she created the cos- implementing my goal,” she added. tumes for the ballets Gorda and Tsuna Due to the importance of the project, and Tsrutsuna. many people and organizations were The School is aimed at saving the pro- involved in the process of establishing fession of Master of Theatrical Costumes the School. The founders, alongside and Accessories, which is becoming an Kalatozishvili and Nino Ananiashvili, interesting plans and from January we als working in the sphere in Georgia. them. If we hadn’t taken action, soon this ever rarer profession nowadays not only are the Shota Rustaveli University of will work more actively to implement Modernity is good, but we should not profession would have been lost and we in Georgia but globally, and assisting Theater and Film, Nodar Dumbadze them,” she told us. forget about our culture and traditions. would have been forced to import theat- individuals interested in this profession Theater, Tumanishvili Film Actors Nino Ananiashvili noted that establish- Costumes sewn by hand are much more rical costumes and accessories from to learn the basics of sewing theatrical Theater, Liberty Theater, and Film Stu- ing such school is an important and beautiful than ones created by machines. abroad, which would be a sad fact. For- costumes. It was established with the dio Georgian Film. timely move, as there are only a few This is a valuable and necessary profes- tunately, now we have a new school and fi nancial support of the Ministry of Edu- The School started operating in Octo- professionals left in the country who can sion worldwide and I am happy that the I am sure that with the right development, cation, Science, Culture and Sport of ber with a “pilot project.” create theatrical costumes by hand. younger generation in Georgia will now we will overcome this problem.” Georgia, the President’s Reserve Fund, “Teaching at the School actually started “Establishing such a studio school have an opportunity to learn it.” The School will continue operating at Open Society – Georgia, and the David in October. We warned all the students aimed at preserving the profession of Ananiashvili added that she is happy the Shota Rustaveli University of Theater Sarajishvili Charitable Foundation. that only those with a true interest in the Master of Theatrical Costumes and to be one of the supporters of the idea, and Film on Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi. The course is to include both an edu- learning this profession would be cho- Accessories is vitally important. I would as without such actions the profession Of note is the fact that there is no age cational and manufacturing element in sen, as theater and fi lm are two direc- like to thank everyone who helped Anna itself will be lost. limit for students, so that even adults order to boost the number of profession- tions where you can’t achieve anything Kalatozishvili in implementing her goal. “At times we were unable to make large who have left school can get involved in als working in this direction in Tbilisi without a love of your profession. It Creating theatrical costumes is an issue orders of theatrical costumes because we revitalizing the profession of Master of and in the regions of Georgia. should be part of your life. We have many nowadays as there are so few profession- did not have enough professionals to sew Theatrical Costumes and Accessories. Exhibition ‘Passions & Rights’ Held in Tbilisi within 16-Day Campaign against Gender-Based Violence

the 16 Days of Activism. The works by GEORGIA TODAY. “This is a theme BY LIKA CHIGLADZE contemporary Georgian artists were that I have thought about many times. made in different forms of visual media Almost all my works over the past three (photo, painting, collage, etc.) and inter- years have evolved from this issue. I ver the years, the number preted sexual rights from different dedicated two personal exhibitions to of crimes and cases of vio- aspects: reproduction, repressed sexual- women’s rights. I wish we could bring lence against women as ity, early marriage, sexual education, real changes in this direction through well as discrimination and identity and self-determination. different forms of art. I came up with oppression on grounds of Each artwork was accompanied by an two artworks at the exhibition. The fi rst sexualO orientation and gender identity article from the Declaration in order to one, called ‘Identifi cation/ Eldorado’ is have been seen worldwide. Georgia is better transfer the message to the public. about Muslim women who are wearing one of those countries that still faces “We wanted to discover new faces and colorful dresses under black clothes. I many problems and forms of violence artists to collaborate with them in the once saw a video where the Muslim both in families and in society. For the future,” Natia Guliashvili, Media Offi cer women demonstratively took off their majority of the population, it is still dif- at WISG told GEORGIA TODAY. “This black clothing and showed their colorful fi cult to understand that sexual rights time the competition comprised only dresses. This show was impressive and are a component of human rights and Georgian artists. We join the interna- simultaneously shocking to me, since observed, I was shocked. I know one too ashamed to talk about the topics and contribute to the freedom, equality and tional campaign annually in different this action could put their lives in dan- painting is not enough to highlight this subsequently making them taboo sub- dignity of all people. Every year from 25 ways. In the past we held an online cam- ger. Still, these women were brave enough problem to society and I’m planning to jects,” she said. “Most of the works here November, the International Day for the paign on social media that aimed at to express their identities. I perceived it create more works addressing this issue,” express oppression and the struggle for Elimination of Violence against Women, revealing those stigmas and forms of as the highest form of protest and expres- the artist told us. one’s rights. Rights are not priviledges to 10 December, Human Rights Day, the violence that are most common in our sion of oneself. I thought about that for “The exhibition gave the artists the to be earned but part of what is means ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender- society.” a long time and painted Muslim women opportunity to think about rights and to be human.” Based Violence Campaign’ aims at end- At the end of the evening, three win- in Voltaire’s world. It is a utopian world, express them through visual art,” said The Women's Initiatives Supporting ing the violence against women and girls ners were revealed and awarded, yet all like a paradise on earth. I intended to Eka Tsereteli, WISG Director. “Within Group was founded in 2000 by eight around the world. the participants received symbolic prizes show the contrast between the two the contest out of 50 works, 16 partici- women of different professions, their To mark the occasion, on December from the organization. Georgian artists worlds, our reality and a nonexistent pants were selected that symbolically main goal being to support the forma- 8-9, the exhibition Passions and Rights Maka Zedelashvili, Anuk Beluga, and world,” she said. coincide with 16 days of campaigning tion of a harmonious society based on was held by Georgia’s Women's Initia- Mariam Gabrichidze came in the fi rst Her second painting at the exhibition and the articles of the Declaration. We principles of social justice by empower- tives Supporting Group (WISG) at Fab- three places. was about female genital mutilation, a had an installation of torn school books, ing women, which ensures the full rika, Tbilisi. 16 works by local artists “The competition was about women’s centuries-old tradition that is still actively demonstrating that often teachers at involvement and equal participation in were selected based on 16 principles of rights, something that is crucial to me,” exercised in three villages of Georgia. Georgian public schools skip the themes social, political, cultural and economic the Declaration of Sexual Rights within fi rst place winner Maka Zedelashvili told “When I discovered this ritual is still related to anatomy and sexual studies, life for all women.

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