Issue no: 897 • NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

Source: Stephen Crowley/The New York Times In this week’s issue... Stoltenberg to Russia: NATO- Joint Drills Carry No Regional Threats NEWS PAGE 2 Ukraine Fears Termination of US Funding POLITICS PAGE 5 Forced to Be a Hero: Ogden on Re-introducing Conscription POLITICS PAGE 7 Believe Foundation Hosts Third Sector Trainings in Georgia BUSINESS PAGE 8 Public Private Partnership Fund FOCUS Launched by San Diego State University in Georgia ON TRUMP SOCIETY PAGE 10 Fears on-going about Trump's National Interests vs. the foreign policy on which Georgia so much Zoo Presents depends PAGE 4-6 New Zoo Latest Developments Transparency International: Georgia is Leader SOCIETY PAGE 11 Unprecedented Italian in Region in Terms of Low Corruption Rate Glamor in Tbilisi CULTURE PAGE 13 BY THEA MORRISON Japan Comeback Gives Georgia on-Governmental Organization (NGO) Transparency Interna- a Cold Shower tional (TI) Georgia presented the results of the Global Corruption Ahead of Samoa Barometer 2016, which revealed Nthat Georgia is the regional leader for a low rate Clash of corruption. According to TI Georgia Executive Director SPORTS PAGE 15 Eka Gigauri, the reforms implemented in Geor- gia in the past are still effectively working against corruption now, but challenges remain. “While, generally, our citizens do not have to pay bribes anymore, there are some negative TI released the report People and Corruption: Europe and Central Asia. tendencies, particularly the government's anti- Source: Transparency International corruption steps which are assessed negatively. about their daily life experiences with corrup- (56 percent) said their governments had failed We have received recommendations related to tion. The report was presented in Berlin, Ger- to curb corruption. The governments of Ukraine prosecution and judicial independence. Further- many, on November 16. (86 percent), Moldova (84 percent), Bosnia and more, we need to set up an independent anti- The survey was conducted by the head offi ce Herzegovina (82 percent), and Spain (80 per- corruption service,” Gigauri stated. of the TI and its fi ndings show that over half the cent) were judged worst by their citizens. The new Transparency International report people in European Union (EU) countries (53 According to the survey, 12 percent of Georgian ‘People and Corruption: Europe and Central percent), EU accession candidate countries (53 respondents named corruption among the coun- Asia’ says that they spoke to nearly 60,000 citi- percent) and Commonwealth of Independent try's three main problems. zens in 42 countries in Europe and Central Asia States (CIS), and former countries, Continued on page 3 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016

Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO. Source: radioiasi.ro

Stoltenberg to Russia: NATO-Georgia Joint Drills Carry No Regional Threats

on Tuesday, which claimed that the 10-day joint BY THEA MORRISON NATO-Georgia exercise near Tbilisi represents a threat to regional peace and stability. "Georgia’s neighbors Abkhazia and South Ossetia ecretary General of North Atlantic Treaty have also expressed concern. We all remember that Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg, the statements made at the NATO summit in Bucha- has stated that the NATO-Georgia joint rest encouraged Tbilisi’s attack on the Russian military exercise underway from Novem- peacekeepers and civilians in Tskhinvali in August ber 10 to November 20 in Georgia, carries 2008,” the Russian statement said. Sno threats to regional peace and stability. Moreover, the Russian side stresses that the role The statement came in response to concerns that Tbilisi is trying to play prevents improvements expressed by Russia’s Foreign Ministry this week. in Russian-Georgian relations and underlines that “What NATO does is defensive, proportional and NATO “is doing nothing to hide its goal of military in full line with the Alliance’s international com- cooperation with Georgia, regarding it as part of mitments. We will continue cooperation with our its containment policy towards Russia.” close partner - Georgia,” Stoltenberg’s statement The NATO-Georgian drills are being conducted read. according to the cooperation package adopted at Georgia’s Foreign Ministry (MFA) also responded the NATO summit in 2014. The military exercise to Russia, saying the NATO-Georgia cooperation is being held on the territory of the NATO-Georgian is aimed at providing peace, stability and develop- Joint Training and Evaluation Center in Krtsanisi ment throughout the region, serving the interests on the outskirts of the country’s capital of Tbilisi. of all parties. The exercise involves over 250 servicemen from According to the MFA, the NATO-Georgian drills 13 countries and is the fi rst NATO-Georgia joint confi rm the fi rm Euro-Atlantic course of Georgia multinational brigade-level, Computer Assisted, as well as deep cooperation with the Alliance itself. Command Post exercise (CAX/CPX), which is Bollywood Masala “The NATO-Georgian drills allow us to make a included in the NATO exercises list. more important contribution in terms of strength- This is the second NATO-Georgia exercise to ening international security,” the MFA said. take place through the SNGP (Substantial NATO- Indian Restaurant The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement Georgia Package) framework. 2017 Tbilisi Draft Budget Criticized by City Council Opposition

BY THEA MORRISON

inority MPs of Tbilisi City Coun- cil (Sakrebulo) do not approve the 2017 draft budget for the capital city, published by Tbilisi Mayor Davit Narmania on Tuesday. Find your next great lunch or MThe opposition MPs say that the budget does not cover citizens’ interests or problems and is merely a pre-election document, as the local elections are dinner dining experience featuring to be held in 2017. The opposition United National Movement (UNM) members at the Sakrebulo stated they will not sup- time-honored recipes at New port the draft budget because the social sphere funding is being reduced by 29 million GEL (USD 11.62 million). Bollywood Masala Indian Restaurant “While unemployment has increased and the sary,” stated Elisashvili. majority of our citizens are in extremely critical The draft budget implemented by the Mayor’s conditions, the Mayor decided to reduce social Offi ce enlists several priorities. Development of funding. This means that either he does not know Tbilisi public transport is the top priority. In this what truly troubles Tbilisi residents or he just does direction, Tbilisi City Hall plans to allocate over not care,” UNM MP for the Sakrebulo, Irakli 62 million GEL (USD 25 million) while the total Nadiradze, said. budget will be over 800 million GEL (USD 322 mil- An independent MP of the Sakrebulo, Alexander lion). Elisashvili, also criticizes the Mayor’s Offi ce and Moreover, the budget draft also includes infra- says that they also reduced fi nancing for building structural projects and maintaining the historic preservation. Elisashvili is also one of those calling districts of the city as well as building more kin- on the Mayor to suspend the contract with parking dergartens and transforming Tbilisi into a greener regulatory company C.T. Park, whose work has and more ecologically-friendly city. been criticized heavily by Tbilisi residents many The draft budget also envisages reduction of times over and which has the exclusive rights to administrative costs by 16.1 million GEL (USD 6.44 arrange parking in the capital. million) and sharply reducing the bonuses fund by Tel: +995 551 526 000; +995 592 900 002 “Traffi c problems in Tbilisi will never be solved 9.3 million GEL (USD 3.72million). unless the contract with C.T. Park is suspended. I Tbilisi City Council MPs have until December 31 Add: Str. Kostava 44, Tbilisi, Georgia invite Mayor Narmania to a TV debate, where I to approve or reject the Tbilisi Budget for the fol- Email: [email protected] will prove to him that taking such step is neces- lowing year. GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 NEWS 3 IWAG Announces 17th Winter Fair

he International Women’s Transparency International: Georgia is Leader Association Georgia (IWAG) has announced in Region in Terms of Low Corruption Rate that the annual Winter Fair 2016 will be held at the Continued from page 1 policy decisions can be better scruti- RadissonT Blu Iveria Hotel on Saturday, nized; December 3, from 10 am to 6 pm. “Corruption is a signifi cant problem • Ensure the independence of the judi- The aim is to raise funds with a view all across the Europe and Central Asia ciary, particularly in EU accession and to supporting projects in Georgia with region,” said José Ugaz, Chair of Trans- CIS countries, by reducing the infl uence a focus on women, children and elderly parency International. “In EU countries, of the executive over the judiciary and people who are at risk due to poverty, many citizens see how the wealthy and prosecutorial services and including poor health and disabilities. those in government distort the system transparent and objective systems for Most projects deal with social, educa- to their advantage.” the appointment, transferal and dismissal tional or medical issues all over Georgia. Transparency International makes four of judges and prosecutors; All the work accomplished for this key recommendations to reduce politi- • Adopt and enforce comprehensive purpose by IWAG and its partners is cal corruption and help people speak up legislation to protect whistleblowers, volunteer work. without fear of retaliation. and; Traditionally held in the pre-Christmas Governments across Europe and Cen- • Support whistleblowers and report- period, this is the 17th Winter Fair in tral Asia should: ers of corruption and ensure appropriate IWAG history. This year, 24 countries • Have transparent rules on lobbying follow-up to their disclosures. and two international organizations will and a public lobbying register, so that The report revealed that households participate: Azerbaijan, Brazil, Bulgaria, in a number of CIS countries are at high China, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, risk of having to pay bribes to access France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, basic public services. In Azerbaijan, Italy, Iran, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Kyrgyz Republic, Ukraine and Moldova Poland, Qatar, Slovakia, Sweden, Swit- around two in fi ve households who had zerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United States accessed public services paid a bribe of America as well as NATO and the (from 38 to 42 percent) and this rises to UNDP, all actively preparing their stands, Georgia has a 50 percent in Tajikistan. offering visitors the opportunity to pur- “Georgia, however, is a positive excep- chase souvenirs, decorations, crafts, Claus for the traditional photo taking! prises several social groups such as bribery rate of just tion to this trend with a bribery rate of and food items from their home coun- The International Women's Associa- community services and fundraising. just 7 percent, which is at least on a par tries. tion Georgia is a non-profi t, non-gov- As much as 50% of funds raised at the with EU member states,” the survey The Winter Fair 2016 is for the whole ernmental organization and part of the Winter Fair may be allocated to the 7 percent, which reads. family! This year it will have a kid’s International Women's Association focus project- the Anti-Violence Net- Transparency International is a global corner with professional carers. worldwide network. The organization work of Georgia (AVNG). The remain- is at least on a movement with one vision: a world in Come and shop from the numerous strives to enhance its members’ under- ing funds are allocated to other projects which government, business, civil soci- Georgian artisans’ tables, sample dishes standing of Georgia, which enables life carefully selected by the Community par with EU ety and the daily lives of people are free from around the world and visit Santa to be easier for expatriates. IWAG com- Projects Committee (CPC). member states of corruption. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 A US Ally Deals with Uncertainty

in uncertain. As Lincoln Mitchell men- BY JOSEPH LARSEN tioned in his recent Georgia Analysis, a lot will depend on the incoming cabinet. Vice president-elect Mike Pence is a n two months, Donald Trump will national security hawk, and the candidates be president of the United States. for Secretary of State don’t share Trump’s There are plenty of reasons to be desire for retrenchment. Former history concerned. His comments have professor, House Speaker and Republican raised fears about jingoism, the use presidential candidate Newt Gingrich ofI torture, unchecked aggression, the tops the list of candidates to lead the State fl outing of international law, and Amer- Department. He and Trump are strange ica’s obligations abroad. All of those things bedfellows: Gingrich is a Cold Warrior could potentially happen. Or, none of who previously supported US interven- them. Allies and adversaries alike have tions in Bosnia, Kosovo, and Haiti as well no idea what to expect from the political as George W. Bush’s War on Terror. He novice. has been a fi erce critic of Vladimir Putin Trump deals in uncertainty, and he and a supporter of democratization pro- seems to take pride in that. Earlier this grams in post-Soviet countries. year he was asked by the New York Times Tbilisi needs to be prepared for a US administration that offers little support. But as with all things Trump, the future in uncertain. Formerly a staunch interventionist, about his proposed policy toward Russia. Source: Stephen Crowley/The New York Times Gingrich now seems ambivalent about His response was beyond equivocal: “I viewed as iron clad. Trump has refused of Georgia, or to the US security establish- primary foreign policy priority for the foreign policy, earlier this year respond- don’t want to tell you what I’d do because to affi rm that commitment. If an ally under ment … Rather, the new US administration past decade. If American support for ing “I’m not sure I would risk a nuclear I don’t want Putin to know what I’d do.” threat hasn’t contributed enough to will likely continue to proclaim its support NATO wavers, the hard work it has put war over some place which is in the sub- That came after a March interview with NATO’s defense budget, he warns, help for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations in could come to nothing. America’s for- urbs of ” when asked ABC where he remarked that “NATO is won’t be forthcoming. and territorial integrity, while doing little eign aid budget—an important source of about NATO support for Estonia. Also obsolete.” Georgia isn’t a member, so Article 5 to advance these goals in practice.” investment for Georgia—also looks likely under consideration is Tennessee Sena- Uncertainty is a double-edged sword. doesn’t directly apply. Still, the deterrent There’s a fl ip side, though: The Kremlin to be slashed. Even US Ambassador to tor Bob Corker, chairman of the Senate The element of surprise can be benefi cial provided by Washington is important. could potentially soften its stance toward Georgia Ian Kelly sounded iffy about the Foreign Relations Committee. Corker to a country on the attack. But it goes Georgia is a small country that can’t Georgia if Trump succeeds in soothing support that Trump’s America will pro- visited Georgia shortly after the Russian directly against the logic of deterrence, defend its own borders. Trump’s trans- Putin’s fears about NATO expansion. This vide to Georgia, recently commenting, “I invasion in 2008 to express support for the principle that keeps NATO and other actional approach—to say nothing of his seems unlikely, but crazier things have do hope the US will continue supporting the US ally. He also backed a Senate res- Western-led institutions glued together. admiration for Vladimir Putin—obviously happened. A man with few coherent views Georgia in the future as well.” olution earlier this year in support of Would-be challengers know that NATO doesn’t jive with Tbilisi’s interests. Geor- and no political experience was just On a more basic level, the uncertainty Georgia’s territorial integrity. won’t bend or break if threatened, so they gia was always going to be a liability in elected President of the United States, created by Trump’s electoral victory have no incentive to threaten it. terms of front line defense against Russia, after all. means countries like Georgia need to Everyone knows that Russian ground just as the Baltic States are. There are real Georgia’s government has been guarded anticipate his foreign policy preferences, forces could surround Tallinn (or Tbilisi) doubts about whether the US would stick about Trump’s victory. Both the prime something that will require intense study. in a few hours. Russia doesn’t dare because its neck out. minister and president congratulated the This view was expressed by Henry Kiss- of NATO Article 5, the principle that an According to an op-ed by Alexandra president-elect and expressed optimism inger in a recent interview with The attack on one NATO member is an attack Hall Hall, the former British Ambassador about the new administration. However, Atlantic. More time and resources spent The Georgian Institute of Politics was founded on all of them. If invading Latvia means to Georgia, the real concern isn’t that their statements did little to reassure doubt- studying the Trump phenomenon mean in 2011 to strengthen institutions and promote starting a war with the United States, the Georgia will be abandoned. It’s something ers. The president even seemed to make less left over for practical initiatives, like good governance and development in Geor- costs clearly outweigh the benefi ts. subtler: a backhanded criticism of Trump, remind- bolstering domestic defenses and work- gia through policy research and advocacy. Article 5 works by credible commitment: “Any shift in US policy toward Georgia ing him he has “the highest responsibility ing to fi nd common ground with Russia. It publishes its blog with Georgia Today twice the US won’t be punished if it refuses to is unlikely to become overt. It would be a to us to protect and maintain universal Tbilisi needs to be prepared for a US per month. Check out our website in English come to the aid of its allies, but the deter- hard sell to the US Congress, which still values like freedom, democracy and peace.” administration that offers little support. and Georgian at gip.ge for more blogs, data, rent holds because the commitment is contains many Russia hawks and friends Georgia has made NATO accession its But as with all things Trump, the future and analyses. GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 POLITICS 5 Donald Trump at Crossroads: Ukraine Fears Good Cowboy or Magic Termination of Enigma? BY DR. VAKHTANG MAISAIA, US Funding of so-called “Neocons” (Neo-conserva- least 2% of GDP on their defense budget, SPECIAL FOR GEORGIA TODAY tive trend supporters) like Newt Ging- but some don't meet that threshold. support from American partners. FROM WARSAW, POLAND BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE rich, ex-Republican leader; former As such, Trump’s precarious stance on The President of Ukraine, Petro Defense Department Inspector General, NATO’s future perspectives really sound Poroshenko, expressed hopes for US Joe Schmitz; Alabama Sen., Jeff Sessions; in tune with the Neo-Isolationist approach support for reforms and the restoration he USA, after historical (for energy consultant George Papadopoulos; mentioned above. In addition to that, it he Ukrainian authorities of the territorial integrity of the country, all the wrong reasons) elec- choosing as Vice-President Mike Pence, had perhaps more than a just symbolic were not prepared for the and invited Donald Trump to Ukraine. tions, has elected its 45th Indiana Governor; and Michael Flynn, importance to whom (of the world lead- fact that the election of the The head of the parliamentary opposi- President, Donald Trump, ex-Director of the Defense Intelligence ers) the President-elect Donald Trump US President would lead tion, Yuriy Boyko, called Trump’s victory whose real future political Agency, retired Lt. General (which means called fi rst to discuss the subtleties of to the victory of Republi- a total failure of the political line. Tinclinations have yet to be clarifi ed. It that the USA military intelligence ser- modern day geopolitics and the US role Tcan Donald Trump, said a source in the Meanwhile, Ukrainian politicians began was an uncertain race, as it recently vice would be more infl uential and in them – his chosen duo were the Prime- Ukrainian Presidential Administration, to delete records with insults to Trump. turned out that one more million people dominant than the CIA) to make key minister of Great Britain, Theresa May, adding that Kiev’s "communication with Trump will take Offi ce as the 45th US voted for his main rival, Hillary Clinton, national security and foreign policy plan- and President of the Russian Federation, the headquarters of the new president President after his inauguration on Jan- nationwide, despite Trump ultimately ning and decisions, it’s the fi rst clue Vladimir Putin. It’s a gesture that speaks is very weak." uary 20, 2017. securing a victory thanks to the intricate where Trump might be heading. Despite volumes, indicating that Donald Trump Only a few Ukrainian businessmen are President Vladimir Putin in his con- nature of the electoral procedures in the Steve Bannon, a right-wing politician, is perhaps seeking to sell to the interna- familiar with the team of Donald Trump, gratulatory telegram to the victorious US. already being selected as Trump’s key tional community that respecting Rus- and the 45th US president has never election Republican Donald Trump While Trump doesn’t exactly come out Advisor on Strategic Issues, Mr. Trump’s sia’s ambitions of geopolitical hegemony visited Ukraine. expressed confi dence that the dialogue as one having tender feelings for minor- foreign and national security policy in its neighborhood is a given, thus opt- After Trump’s victory, Ukrainian politi- between and Washington will ities (when we look at the standpoints moves are less likely to be as radical and ing for a new world order based on Mul- cians fear the possible lifting of sanctions continue in the interests of both Russia of his economical policy he can even be hawkish as some imagine. tilateralism modality. with Russia and the cessation of fi nancial and the United States. labeled a neo-nazi liberal in that regard), Yet with the campaign over, Trump’s It wouldn’t be entirely surprising to he’s all for liberalizing hard taxation, election promises will be ironed into some see him one morning introduce a new especially for small and medium scale sort of modern Neo-Isolationism trend version of the Monroe Doctrine updated businesses, better insurance and social that doesn’t bode too well for the country’s to globalized world politics. He will also protection policies, increasing the rich foreign policy. In his pre-election cam- most likely be trying to promote the tax rate and so on. These are mixed with paign, Trump told Blitzer "there has to be concept of “cooperative security” with his more outspoken objectives of pro- at least a change in philosophy and there equal participation of the other Great tectionism measures for national indus- has to be a change in the cut up" of NATO's Powers, however confl icting the interests try and curbing the volume of migration budget. He added that he didn't want the of the involved parties might be. It should into the country, not to say hard handling US to "decrease its role, but certainly not be conceived as a sign that US rela- the US minorities (presented in an, at decrease its spending" in NATO, which tions with so-called “pivotal nations” that time, unrealistic promise to expel marks its 67th anniversary in April. like Georgia (backed on the strategic more than 3 million illegal immigrants The US is NATO's main contributor, partnership charter signed by Georgian in the fi rst month of his taking Offi ce). providing about 22% of the organiza- and American high-level diplomats in At this time, it’s equally unclear just what tion's budget. Germany is second, con- January 2009 in Tbilisi) are set to fl oun- kind of foreign policy and national secu- tributing 14.5%, followed by France, which der, especially with Trump being Israeli- rity agendas he intends to pursue. gives 11% of the budget, and then the UK friendly. Let’s wait and see to what tunes Having encircled himself with a team at 10.5%. All members agree to spend at his new hit- Multilateralism is played to. GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 Georgia, Russia and Trump

OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE

he Tuesday before last, the world’s curiosity was so piqued to know what would happen at the end that it made the clearest impres- sionT that the world’s president – not just America’s – was going to be elected. The planet was glued to television screens, and Facebook was bursting with com- mentary on the subject. After all, why should it make such a difference which nominee turned out lucky enough to serve as America’s chief executive for the next four years? The world has not known a political show of that caliber in a long time. There should probably be some outstanding signifi cance to the whole American event, turned international, and not only because America is the world’s biggest economy and money maker, or the greatest military power in the universe: it should also be the US’ overall image, including spiritual and cultural, which has such a huge infl u- ence on Mankind. Wise philosophy apart, suffi ce to say that America is the culture that has clad the entire world in jeans and T-shirts and has made us all listen to jazz, saying noth- ing about the fast-food habit imposed on Georgia was truly part of that excited feeder and policeman rather that into our ing and going every once in a while, a step with those new Trumpesque ideas every mouth and stomach around the world, with citizens reacting to every own state’s treasury. And there are many, process usually defi ned as the distribu- and principles. And who would guess world. Part of that world is angry with piece of news on the US presidential elec- many Georgian families living and trying tion of power and authority among the what it might have to the benefi t of Geor- America and irritated by the way it han- tions in such a way any local presidential to survive over there- their kids having political actors on the global stage. The gia? dles the global processes, but we still want candidate here in Georgia might die of no idea what Georgia is all about and how so called New World Order we are enjoy- Just imagine: The new American pres- to watch American movies, relocate to envy at the attention given to the fate of much their former motherland needs ing right now has been in place since ident and Russia’s big boys fall in love the States, squeeze into American citi- the American presidency. You can qual- their economic and demographic assis- President Woodrow Wilson’s reign in the and pal up. This is followed by Trump’s zenship and become part of the American ify it as a natural inclusion in the process tance. The mix of cultures, minds and White House some 100 years ago. attempt to lend his powerful hand to our dream, which, by the way, is still very – nothing like that meager popular turn- souls has become nowadays unusually The latest American president-elect’s frail Georgia, and asking Putin to get off much alive and kicking. The world simply out during our local elections a couple commonplace, and have no campaign rhetoric purported so many our case… for a price of course: Maybe believes that the kind of person the next of weeks ago. The interest towards Amer- way to avoid the trend for this is just part radical alterations within the US that the Trump will promise Vova something that American president is can change their ica is so keen here that one might think of the current world order. connected presumable change of the Russia badly needs in return. lifestyle and standard of living. we are all ready to pay dues to the world’s And world orders have a habit of com- world order should almost be at the door- I said imagine! GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 POLITICS 7 Forced to Be a Hero: Ogden on Re-introducing Conscription

hum- OP-ED BY TIM OGDEN bling. One trooper I spoke with or those not in the know, had lost his leg Remembrance Day is a memo- in Iraq...and then gone rial day dedicated to members to war again in Afghan- of the Armed Forces of the istan with a prosthetic a Commonwealth and Empire few years later. whoF gave their lives in service since the Much is made of the Geor- First World War. Though it is customar- gian warrior spirit, but rarely Source: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA ily observed on the 11th hour of the 11th does one see it manifest itself in human capable of standing with them. The in uniform, has decreed that Georgia, as soldiers will be more modern and resem- day of the 11th month, the Sunday fol- form. Little do the Georgian fi gures of men I met this last weekend are excep- a small country, does indeed need mili- ble that used by Georgian regulars. lowing Remembrance Day – Remem- lore, Vakhtang Gorgasali, Davit Soslani tions, with the kind of bravery and tary conscription. Despite what Minister Izoria believes, brance Sunday – is typically the day and Aghmashenebeli, resemble the mid- character that most Georgians males Military history has shown that con- none of this will help improve the per- devoted to organized memorium. dle-aged man patting his gut and boasting would like to think they possess despite scripts perform poorly compared to formance of the conscript in the fi eld. I was fortunate enough to be invited that he can eat fi fty khinkali in a sitting, the fact that most of them have actively regular, professional troops, but at least Unless a man has signed his name in to the Remembrance Day service at the or the boy squatting on a street corner avoided mandatory military service and Western conscripts during the World anticipation of doing his duty and facing British Embassy last week, and as well quaffi ng cheap beer and picking at sun- would balk at the idea of enlisting. Wars believed in the battle they fought; the fear, the blood, the noise and the as touching base with a number of the fl ower seeds. I mention all this due to the govern- military acquaintances (including some horror of combat, those forced into it British service personnel working in That these same people are fi ercely ment's about-turn on abolishing con- who were conscripted) have told me that will be far more of a hindrance than a Georgia (I was only mildly disappointed proud of their culture and history is scription. A friend of mine, who serves the last real test of Georgia's conscript- help. Friends who were dragged to the that none were from my old regiment), well-known to anyone familiar with this in the United States' Army Special Forces based military in 2008 ended in disaster. front line in 2008 told me they saw men I also managed to speak with a number country, but what I’ve noticed amongst and works training his Georgian coun- Men who were understandably concerned fl inging away rifl es and running for their of Georgian veterans from the Wounded Georgians is that they have a tendency terparts, told me that Tinatin Khidasheli, for their families and friends and who lives, with one apparently saying, “Geor- Warriors program. to speak of their country's past as though the previous Defence Minister, admitted had never regarded their brief (frighten- gia has survived the Russians twice Meeting military amputees is always they were capable of the same feats. That that she knew little and less of military ingly brief) service as anything but a before, we can do it again. Fighting will a poignant experience. That these men the medieval Georgian warriors who affairs, and would listen to the Georgian frustrating, depressing waste of time, solve nothing.” There is simply no way have been gravely injured in wars that stopped the Turks dead in their tracks General Staff and her foreign advisors. simply could not stand in the face of a to know, or even guess, as to how many have been invariably described as point- at Didgori were brave beyond belief and Her abolition of conscription was a wel- Russian onslaught and fi ght a war they of those forced into a uniform would less (and in Georgia's case, arguably even deserve a slot in history alongside the come step in the country, especially knew they were sure to lose. agree with him. Not every man – no mat- more so) is tragic beyond description, Spartans at Thermopylae is undoubtedly hailed by a populace unwilling to serve Izoria has claimed that conscript train- ter the country – has it in him to be like but the fact that they are all universally true, but I don't imagine that the major- in the Army. Her replacement, Levan ing will be improved and updated, and the heroes of the legends, or like the liv- cheerful, optimistic and upbeat is truly ity of Georgian men today would be Izoria, who has also never served a day the equipment issued to these citizen ing, breathing heroes I met last weekend. GEORGIA TODAY 8 BUSINESS NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016

Believe Foundation Hosts Third Sector Trainings in Georgia

elieve Foundation hosted two “I was lucky enough to be invited by and hope to be linking many of these Charity and Social Enterprise Mari Nadaraia from the Believe Founda- Georgian pioneers to our students from Training events in November, tion to run two training workshops,” Brady across the UK third sector very soon,” bringing together founders, said. “We covered leadership, social enter- Brady said. directors, and senior manag- prise, fundraising and collaboration, so The Anglia Ruskin University was Bers of non-profi ts, social enterprises and it was a bit of a packed day, but the energy recently named among the top 350 uni- other impact driven initiatives. The ses- and enthusiasm of all involved is a posi- versities in the world by the Times sions, one in Radisson Blu Iveria hotel, tive indicator for the future of the sector Higher Education Supplement, and Tbilisi, the other in Hilton Batumi, were in Georgia,” he added. identifi ed as a ‘rising star’, poised to delivered by Andrew Brady, an expert in Due to the generous sponsorship of break into the elite level of global higher non-profi t management and course leader CRYSTAL Micro Finance Organization, education institutions, by an independ- for the BA in Charity and Social Enter- Gold Sponsor of the event, delegates of ent education consultancy. With over prise Management at the Anglia Ruskin Georgian Social Enterprises and Chari- 35,000 students from 177 countries, on University, Cambridge, UK. ties were granted free attendance at the its four campuses in the UK, and at The primary aim of the session was to training. In total, more than 70 delegates partner institutions across the world, support Georgian charities and social attended the events. One delegate spoke ARU is well-placed to continue this enterprises by enhancing their leadership of how the day had made a huge differ- upward trajectory. skills and promoting new ways of think- ence to her life, and how she would recon- Partner of the event was Anglia Ruskin ing. At the same time, the event was a sider her approach to her job work in University, UK, The Center for Strategic great socializing and networking oppor- future. Research and Development of Georgia, tunity for the attendees, helping to “We had a great deal of interest from International Chamber of Commerce in strengthen the sector’s collective voice workshop attendees in our Charity and Georgia, Radisson Blu Hotel Tbilisi and and identity. Social Enterprise Management Course, Hilton Batumi Hotel.

GEORGIA TODAY 10 SOCIETY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 Public Private Partnership Fund Launched by San Diego State University in Georgia

dents will earn American degrees upon participate in special exchange study BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI graduation. The project is implemented visits to the main campus in San Diego within the framework and with the fi nan- California. cial assistance of the Millennium Chal- In return, SDSU will offer trainings to an Diego State University in lenge Corporation’s second compact. the staff of the PPP Fund’s partnering Georgia (SDSU) announced The Science, Technology, Engineering organizations and companies, who will the launch of the Public - Pri- and Math (STEM) fi elds are considered be able to offer work placements and vate Partnership fund (PPF) to have a great lack of professionals in internships to successful students in at an event held in Marriott modern Georgia, largely the reason why their respective organizations, thus mak- STbilisi Hotel on Wednesday. the students at SDSU are expected to be ing the process mutually benefi cial for The fi rst of its kind US University among the future leaders and innovators the students and for those organizations degree program in Georgia has been in STEM. The newly established Public interested in cooperation with the developed with a USD 30 million invest- Private Partnership (PPP) Fund has as recently established venture. ment from the US Government, making its major goal to generate fi nancial In addition being a supporter of the it possible to form the San Diego State resources to make these American degree PPP Fund brings the companies numer- University - Georgia (SDSU- G) with programs affordable for talented, suc- ous possibilities, brand exposure and more than 200 students from all over cessful, socially deprived young people publicity, or getting connected with the country, 15 international students through scholarships. The aim of the American business representatives from six different countries and nine fund is also to use the fi nancial resources through visits and exchanges. It also American exchange students from the gained from the public private partner- allows access to cutting-edge industry California Campus. The university offers ships for the development of students’ research. internationally accredited Bachelor of innovative projects and studies. Georgian The PPP Fund launch is primarily aimed Science Degree programs. SDSU stu- students will also have the chance to at assisting and fostering STEM educa- tion in Georgia, thus forging its economic growth and creating a high-qualifi ed workforce which will be in high demand in Georgia, throughout the region, and globally. As Ian Kelly, US Ambassador to Georgia, said in his speech, “With the SDSU Georgia Public Private Partner- ship Fund, even more bright students will benefi t from the opportunity to get a US education right here, at home, in critical fi elds like biochemistry, and computer engineering. I would like to assure you that the US government strongly supports this program, that this is a critical part of our investment in Georgia’s success and I encourage you to think creatively about how you can support this joint US- Georgian initia- tive.” Ketevan Natriashvili, Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Georgia, also underlined the importance of the emerging public-private sector coop- eration, specifi cally in the educational RENT YOUR DREAM fi eld, noting that although it is widely practiced internationally, it is still rela- APARTMENT IN TSKNETI tively new to Georgia and that fostering such cooperation assists in the sustain- able development of the country. “Edu- cated professionals are those who can create a better future for the country, those who create intellectual resources and empower the economy. It is vital for the private sector to support these resources. And education needs to be accessible for the socially vulnerable and minority students in order to fully communicate their potential,” Natriash- vili said. The educational reform is an essential part of the government’s four stage reform plan that seeks to adjust the educational system in Georgia to meet modern requirements, needs and challenges. “It is crucial to develop human capital, university comes from philanthropy,” he as in San Diego. This year we’re also which may be a long-term goal to achieve, added. embarking on a new effort to add civil but is still very important for the devel- From investments from private com- and construction engineering, so we’ll opment of our country,” said Ketevan panies or individuals, last year SDSU be able to address technology, informa- Bochorishvili, Deputy Minister of Econ- saw USD 107 mln. tion technology, bio-technology and omy and Sustainable Development. “Ours is a knowledged-based economy, infrastructure- three critical need areas “Today we see the private and public and universities are repositories of for Georgia.” sectors standing together and it’s a step knowledge,” Weber said. “American uni- He went on to point out that many of towards integration which will help us versities are major economic drivers in the students at SDSU are from socially to create a competitive environment their communities and these programs deprived families, and although the goal based on education and skills, ensuring are about giving Georgians a chance to of the project was to give Georgian stu- Very cosy one bedroom 75 sq.m apartment in Tbilisi area with spec- that there are high professionals in the develop the skills the country needs. It dents a US education locally at a low country that the business sector can is a wise investment in the future of cost, and that objective is fulfi lled, it is tacular view over the mountains. benefi t from.” Georgia and in the future of young man still expensive to obtain an American Located in Tskneti, a prestigious, quiet, green and safe neighborhood Dr. Stephen L. Weber, President Emer- and woman.” Dr.Weber said, generously degree in Georgia, which is where the 15 minutes drive from the city center. The bright and sunny apartment itus of San Diego State University, a donating USD 1000 himself to the fund help of the public private partnership is is newly furnished and comes with a fully equipped kitchen and bath- special guest at the event, made a pres- at the end of his presentation. needed. room. entation on Public Private Partnership Dr. Ken Walsh, Dean, SDSU Georgia, “Support of such students is critical Comfortable and stylish living-room, cozy bedroom with closet and practices, explaining why they are so talked about the PPP Fund goals and and that’s why the PPP Fund was cre- king-sized bed. 20 sq.m terrace overlooking the mountains. Relax while mutually benefi cial in the case of uni- concepts. ated. It is the vehicle that will enable enjoying the view and unwind with a glass of wine on the balcony as versities. “The objective of the project is to build public and private sector leaders to sup- you watch the sun set. “The secret of success of San Diego a STEM workforce in Georgia with inter- port the program and, most importantly, State University, as well as other State nationally recognized degrees that can the students of the program.” Parking & WiFi available. Universities in the US, lays in a success- be used to build investment in Georgia, The Public Private Partnership Fund If you are looking for the perfect place to live, this is the apartment ful public-private partnership tradition,” to improve the capacity for higher edu- launch ended with the announcing of for you! he said. “Only 19 percent of university cation and, through that, attract more students who received scholarships from Only long-term residents should apply. funding comes from the state of Califor- investment and fuel economic growth. the public and private companies who Ideally suited for a couple or single. nia, whereas USD 130 mln was gained For these degree programs we’re build- already decided to partner with SDSU from private corporations last year. ing a wide range of infrastructure to G PPPF: TBC Bank, LTD Adjara Water, For more information contact: + 995 595279997 Another major portion of income for the support laboratories at the same level SAGA and Dr. Ken Walsh’s family. GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 SOCIETY 11

CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE’S 'TINY STORY' Tbilisi Zoo Presents New Zoo Latest

I want every child to go to sleep well- Developments fed And not worry about the next meal Or the next. I want every child to have primary healthcare. I want every child to be protected by adults And to take for granted the kindness Universal Children’s of adults And never to be treated like adults.

Day: 200 World Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie grew up in Nigeria. She is the author of the novels In this open-air cage, wolves and bears Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, and BY NATIA LIPARTELIANI Renowned Writers Unite the story collection The Thing around Your will live together,” said Gurielidze. Neck, all of which received numerous “This is a method that involves cohab- accolades. Her latest novel, Americanah, itation and creates an environment that won the National Book Critics Circle Award n 2015, the swollen Vere River is very close to the one present in the for Children’s Rights for Fiction and The Chicago Tribune Heart- fl ooded Tbilisi Zoo. Half the ani- wild. The shrubbery is very comfort- ver 200 prominent writers, Nakhutsrishvili, Dato Kardava, Nino land Prize for Fiction; and was named one mal inhabitants died, while many able for bears; and good for the wolves including novelists, play- Sadgobelashvili, Lela Samniashvili, Lela of The New York Times Ten Best Books of surviving animals, such as a hip- to hide in. Every animal needs to hide wrights and poets, have Tsutskiridze, Mariam Tsiklauri, and the Year. A recipient of a MacArthur Foun- popotamus, lions, tigers, bears, at times, and this is refl ected in the joined a global literary Toreza Mosi. dation Fellowship, she divides her time Iand wolves, escaped into the streets of world standards for zoo zonation that campaign this week, pen- “As writers, we are able to advocate between the United States and Nigeria. Tbilisi. Some animals were recaptured we are applying here. As bears are ningO ‘tiny stories’ of around seven lines through the simplicity of storytelling. but several were shot by emergency swimmers, diggers and climbers, there each to highlight Universal Children’s With this worthy and necessary cam- forces. While the old zoo has been reha- will be double fencing: electro and Day and the injustice so many of the paign, we advocate for the protection of under fi ve died from mostly preventable bilitated and re-stocked, it has on-going regular fence, with a net in between world’s poorest and most disadvantaged the rights of precious children all over diseases. plans to relocate and expand its collec- for visitor safety.” children still face. The short story series the world,” said celebrated Nigerian “It is shocking to see that the lives of tion. Gurielidze also talked about the ani- kicks off UNICEF’s commemoration of author, Chimamanda Adichie. many children are still so heavily impacted On November 13, journalists were invited mals and the importance of ensuring its 70th year working to bring help and The group of writers, whose genres by the horror of confl ict, inequality, pov- to visit the territory of the new zoo near their reproduction. hope to every child. range from fairy tale to fi ction, include erty and discrimination. I hope these Tbilisi Sea, guided around it on horse- “Wild goats and deer have become The short stories will be shared by one the world’s youngest published Tiny Stories can remind the world that back by Zoo Director Zurab Gurielidze, extinct in Georgia, with the Wild goat some of the world’s most celebrated authors, seven-year-old South African, we must sustain our commitment to all who explained the construction process now only found in Tusheti. We plan to writers with their own social media audi- Michelle Nkamankeng. Written in over of these children whose lives and futures of the new open-air animal enclosures, buy them, breed them and eventually ences. The First Lady of Finland, Jenni 10 languages and varying in style, all are at stake,” said Paloma Escudero, the zonation of the new territory and release them back into the wild Cauca- Haukio, introduced the concept, which stories illustrate that the rights of many UNICEF Spokesperson. future plans for the New Tbilisi Zoo. sus. We have already developed a man- gained global momentum with writers children are still neglected. Chimamanda Adichie used her ‘Tiny The new zoo area has already been agement plan for this process. Goats and joining from Asia, Africa, South America, The campaign comes at a time when Story’ to launch the series today, which fenced with the help of international deer are our priority at this stage, how- Europe, the Middle East and Australia. there are increasing threats to children’s will run until November 20 - the anni- funds, in particular from the German ever we also want to work with aurochs, The writers participating in the cam- rights. Over 50 million children have versary of the adoption of the UN Con- International Cooperation: Society also extinct in the Georgian wild. They paign from Georgia are: Paata Shamugia, been uprooted from their homes due to vention on the Rights of the Child. Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale are very hard to come by but we found Irakli Kakabadze, David Gabunia, Shota confl ict, poverty and climate change and A full list of authors and their Tiny Zusammenarbe (GIZ). some in Tallinn Zoo- they’ll be brought Iatashvili, Nestan Kvinikadze, George millions more are facing unspeakable Stories are available throughout the week “For the open-air cages we plan to to Tbilisi soon.” Lobzhanidze, Vasil Guleuri, Diana Anfi m- violence in their communities. Around here (they will also be shared on the use the natural landscape of the terri- The design of the open-air and cliff- iadi, George Kekelidze, Rati Amaglobeli, 263 million children are out of school author’s social media pages): www.unicef. tory, keeping it as close to the natural side enclosures for the deer and wild Lia Likokeli, Lela Samniashvili, Gaga and last year nearly six million children org/tinystories environment of the animal as possible. goats will also be funded by GIZ. GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016

CULTURE Community Spirit: Cullum, Payton, Dulfer Etseri, Svaneti and Porter Make a Hit the months of spring and summer care: of the 2016 Jazz Fest, plowing, sowing, hoeing. In this case, relatives brought over their steers and plowed them up, by far the faster way. Then many more of us appeared, for Joint-Organized by TBC suddenly it was a case of "many hands, light work." Size and quality grading is important. These ones will go to market in Zugdidi, where Svan potatoes are sought after. These are for next spring's seed. These, softened by frost or spade-damaged, or mole-bitten, the pigs will relish. And the rest are for the long winter's consump- tion. Separate sacks for each kind, sepa- rate locations in the barn, where the cattle's warmth will keep them from name, the Hebrew word for "help," being freezing. We drew them from the earth, BY TONY HANMER acted out a few days ago in relation to piled them up all over the fi eld in a few said potatoes. The widow had recently locations, and began the sorting. Scyth- died suddenly, leaving behind a wake of ing and plowing continued here and his article has a really weird grief; her funeral feast was over, and it there, too. feel in the writing. This is was time to get on with life, somehow, The plowmen took the fi lled sacks, because I'm putting it for the elder lady. A fi eld of tubers needed loaded them onto a Svan sled pulled by together in Montreal's attention before frost could ruin them the hefty steers, and hauled them off to Pierre Eliot Trudeau Air- in the ground. Vital winter food. the barn for storage. And I marveled at Tport, on my way back to Edmonton, Our own potato crop was rather mea- the way the whole neighborhood, from Canada, to deal with a death in the fam- ger this year, needing perhaps for the seven to seventy, had rallied around ily (more on that elsewhere), while its land to lie fallow; but it was bolstered bereft Zoya to get her harvest taken care events concern a similar theme "at home" by my businesswoman wife's clever idea of in record time. Her future plans remain necticut Forum (with Beverly Sills, Bobby BY MAKA LOMADZE in Etseri. to get back some of our former shop's uncertain, but she seems to be in good Weir and Trey Anastasio), and Cornell Our unmarried close neighbor and outstanding debts, not in cash but in the hands. University. Founder of the Black Amer- friend in Etseri recently lost her sister- form of the debtors' own potatoes. So ican Music Movement, Payton says his in-law, long widowed, with whom she our barn coffers were relatively full. Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since bilisi Jazz Festival 2016, fea- mission is to go back in history to extract had lived for many years. The two of Zoya's potatoes were many more, and 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a turing Jamie Cullum, the the richness and lost knowledge of the them had a barn full of cattle and some much larger, than our own. I went over weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He Nicholas Payton Trio, past in order to elevate today’s conscious- pigs and poultry, too, plus land with hay, as early in the day as I could to help with runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook Candy Dulfer and Gregory ness. corn and potatoes on it. Far too much the gathering, in which her nieces and group, now with over 1350 members, at Porter, sold-out, proving Candy Dulfer&Band on November 12 for two ladies aged 64 and 70 to deal nephews were already active. From there, www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- Tthat Georgians, without any exaggera- presented the most joyful and light per- with, when you add DIY water and fi re- it only got better. sance/ tion, are among the most musical nations. formance with the female soloist show- wood splitting and all the other things First, the old dry plants must be scythed He and his wife also run their own guest house Four memorable jazz days on November ing off her great class in saxophone and necessary to village life in Upper Svaneti. out of the way and raked up. Their job in Etseri: 10-13 fi lled Tbilisi Concert Hall and Event her cheerful character. The Dutch musi- And for just one? was done. Next, you either pitchfork or www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti- Hall with a multitude of precious melo- cian presented “Lily was Here,” her most So it was wonderful to see the village's plow the land to reveal the prize after long trek dies, voices and sounds! famous hit, and got the audience moving Opening the Festival was Jamie Cul- with a number of unknown songs and lum, a 36-year-old British composer, covers. singer and pianist, and the youngest On November 13, Gregory Porter, one Rally for Pedestrian Rights Planned in Tbilisi performer at the Tbilisi jazz event, who of the best jazz vocalists in the world, said, “I like to use the moment to invent capped Tbilisi Jazz Festival 2016 with when I am on stage.” He went on to his magic voice, virtuously blending BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI reveal he was inspired to come to Geor- Funk, Blues, Soul and R&B. gia by close friend Katie Melua, well- GEORGIA TODAY heard from Tamara known Georgian-born British female Kirvalidze, TBC Bank Communications on-Governmental Organ- singer, who reportedly told Jamie that Head: "The partnership of TBC Status ization ‘Walk’ (Iare Pexhit) he would love the country. and Eastern Promotion counts six years. plans to hold a rally to Jamie appeared on stage with extraor- In addition to offering our clients ben- defend pedestrian rights dinary energy, shifting from one instru- efi cial terms for attending the concerts, of citizens on Sunday, ment to the other, even climbing up on we are glad to promote jazz culture in NNovember 20 in the capital of Georgia, the grand-piano, dancing non-stop, to the country. Year on year the number Tbilisi. The rally will start in front of the the delight of the audience. Jamie has all of people who attend jazz concerts is Old Parliament building at 14:00. the features of a pop star and more – he increasing. This, fi rst of all, is a result The organization claims it is advocat- Rally for pedestrians event is a genius in terms of voice, playing, and of Eastern Promotion’s well designed ing and improving the rights of pedes- the rise of the injured pedestrians reach- As such, the rally organizers are address- improvisation. high-quality concert programs. We fully trians in the cities through education, ing unprecedented numbers on the other. ing the Tbilisi Municipality, Ministry of On November 11, Nicholas Payton, a rely on them in planning Festivals and rising of awareness and lobbying, while The NGO states that the number of peo- Internal Affairs of Georgia and Parliament multi-instrumentalist and Trumpet Mas- Jazz Series- they are the number one using different tools to “return public ple injured during car accidents have to take necessary measures and prohibit ter, one of the greatest masters of our company with highly profi cient staff. spaces to their rightful owners.” increased by 11 percent from the previous car parking on side-walks, in accordance time, stepped on stage with his trio-mates, The latter was an essential factor for According to the organizers of the rally, year with every third person injured a with the legislation, to maximize the pen- Vicente Archer on Bass and Joe Dyson TBC Bank when we decided to partner their goal is to address a continuous, mas- pedestrian. During two incidents that alty for unauthorized parking, and prioritize on Drums. Nicholas served as Distin- with them. Throughout these years we sive disappearance of public spaces in happened recently, on October 22 and the safety of pedestrians. The NGO urges guished Artist at Tulane University and have grown into one team and this is the city and unregulated constructions November 2, three persons were hit by Parliament to discuss and implement issues has taught master classes, clinics and most positively refl ected in the quality taking place all over, resulting in a high a car in Tbilisi, one on a so called zebra related to contactless patrol and points workshops at over 40 institutions, includ- of Jazz Series and Jazz Festivals organ- level of air pollution on the one hand, and crossing, and another on a side-walk. system alongside the law on road safety. ing Berklee College of Music, The Con- ized."

ROUTING FLIGHT NUMBER WEEK DAYS DEPARTURE ARRIVAL TK 387 05.50 07.25 TBILISI - TK 385 11.45 13.25 ISTANBUL ATATURK AIRPORT TK 383 18.10 20.00 EVERYDAY TK 386 01.40 04.55 ISTANBUL ATATURK AIRPORT - TK 384 07.30 10.50 TBILISI TK 382 13.55 17.15 TBILISI - TK 381 07.40 09.00 ISTANBUL SABIHA GOKCEN AIRPORT EVERYDAY ISTANBUL SABIHA GOKCEN AIRPORT - TK 380 20.45 00.10+1 TBILISI BATUMI - ISTANBUL TK 393 17.50 19.10 EVERYDAY ISTANBUL - BATUMI TK 392 13.55 16.55 Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected]

TIFLIS KIS TARIFESI 7.5x6cm ING.indd 1 02/11/16 15:23 GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 CULTURE 13 World-Acclaimed Georgian Tenor Returns to Restore Tbilisi Opera Glory

He became the soloist of Tbilisi Opera Theater in 1989. In 1994, he was the solo- ist of Moscow Bolshoi Theater. In 2002, he became professor of the Opera Center of Galina Vishnevskaya. He regularly holds master-classes in Germany, Italy, France, Canada and Australia. GEORGIA TODAY spoke with Sulkhan Gvelesiani, one of the leading singers of Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater: “We were unanimously against the former leader, as he made many mistakes. If one is unprofessional, one must leave one’s post. We feel very optimistic now, as this man knows the theater very well, is a magnifi cent singer himself and has been Badri Maisuradze, was born in Tbilisi breathing the air of the theater all his BY MAKA LOMADZE in 1966. He graduated the Shota Rustaveli life. Our mission is to support him and Theater, Cinema State University and prepare all future performances to the Tbilisi State Conservatoire. Later, he utmost quality.” fter 30 years away from his continued his studies in Milan and Mos- homeland, spreading the cow. Maisuradze’s debut at the Tbilisi reputation of Georgian Opera and Ballet Theater happened in opera music and the coun- Otar Taktakishvili’s opera ‘Mindia.’ He try itself on numerous won the Francisco Vinas International Aworld stages as an indelible tenor, Badri Singing Competition (Spain) and Bjor- Maisuradze is back to take the reins of ling Vocalists Contest (Sweden). the Tbilisi Opera Theater as its new His international career began in 1993 Artistic Director. at the Liege Opera Theater where he On November 13, Maisuradze met media performed the part of Dmitri liar in the representatives at the premises of beau- performance by Mussorgsky ‘Boris Godu- tiful opera building, introduced by Min- nov.’ Since then, he has collaborated with ister of Culture Mikheil Giorgadze who multiple leading theaters around the FOR SALE: BMW – 321 model welcomed Maisuradze to the post and world, including: Berlin Deutsche Opera Date of issue 1936 promised much in store for the Tbilisi Vienna Staatsoper, Milan La Scala, Flor- PRICE 10.000 USD Opera House- to “become one of the ence Teatro Comunale, Teatro leading creative institutions and honor- Real, Naples Teatro di San Carlo, and able member of World Theater.” Palermo Teatro Massimo. “We will work as our theater’s history During his lengthy career, Maisuradze and future deserves. Our aim is to make has collaborated with well-known con- achievements of which we will be proud. ductors, among which are: Seiji Ozawa, This is my one and only ambition. I will Zubin Mehta, Daniel Oren, Antonio try to justify your expectations,” Guadagno, Marcello Viotti , Maurizio Maisuradze said. Barbacini, and Carlo Rizzi.

Unprecedented Italian CONTACT PERSON 557 12 38 90 Glamor in Tbilisi by world-famous personalities in the dress, by Sorelle Fontana, fi rst worn by fi eld of art and culture, infl uential inter- Ava Gardner (1956) in Fellini’s fi lm ‘La national politicians, fi lm stars, and pow- Dolce Vita’ (1960). The famous trend- erful business magnates. setting “Palazzo Pyjamas” created by BY MAKA LOMADZE The tradition of fi rst-rate tailoring, Irene Galitzine (a princess of Georgian which had existed in Italy since the late origin and fashion designer in Italy) and 19th century, was carried on by recog- worn by Claudia Cardinale in ‘The Pink his is not a PR article but nized dressmakers, many of whom, such Panther’ (1963) and precious corset-dress there are events that should as Biki (the favourite fashion designer designed by Luciano Soprani for Jacque- not be missed for any rea- of soprano Maria Callas) or Simonetta line Bisset in ‘The Wild Orchid.’ son. ‘Sixty Years of Italian Visconti, a personal friend of Giorgini, The exhibition also features stunning Fashion History/60 years were members of Milan and high- “red-carpet” gowns worn at special pre- Tof Made in Italy,’ represented at the society. The Marquis accompanied to mieres or for Oscar night, like the tulle, Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) from the tailor shops rich foreign ladies who sequin and gold-embroidered Prada dress November 14, is one of them. were unable to resist the temptation of worn by actress Cate Blanchett (2000) The Italian Ambassador Antonio Enrico buying something Italian. To help, he and the chiffon Prada dress designed for Bartoli opened the event, highlighting recruited the most prestigious names in Milla Jovovich for the Los Angeles prem- the genius of Italy, expressed in the pre- Italian haute couture, aiming to promote ière of her fi lm, ‘Joan of Arc’ (1999). And cious fabrics created by various great them on the international market. one cannot forget the unique Valentino fashion names for top models and movie On February 12, 1951, he gathered in his “red” creations, like the dress worn by stars throughout the past 60 years. wonderful Villa the fi rst group of “brands” actress Elizabeth Hurley at the Estee “‘60 years of Made in Italy’ pays tribute soon to become famous in the world: Lauder charity ball (1998). to the genius of those who were able, Carosa (Princess Giovanna Caracciolo), Tailoring is represented by Marcello over time, to impose their aesthetics and Fabiani, Simonetta Visconti, Emilio Schu- Mastroianni’s dark suit designed by to determine the success of the unmis- berth, Sorelle Fontana, and more. Litrico (1961) and dinner jacket designed takable ‘Italian Style’ worldwide,” the Today, Italian fashion is everywhere by Brioni for Pierce Brosnan, alias “007- Ambassador said. synonymous with good taste, elegance James Bond” in the movie ‘Die another “We hope this splendid show will and quality. Despite the huge growth of Day’ (2002). become an inspiration for Georgian this industry, creativity and craftsman- Visitors can admire a spectacular Fendi fashion designers,” added Mikheil Gior- ship, the main ingredients of “Made in leopard coat (1970), one of ’s gadze, Georgian Minister of Culture. Italy” remain. favorites, and Gianni Versace’s passion for luxury and pomposity, well repre- THE BEGINNINGS PROTAGONISTS OF THE sented by a Swarovski fabric dress In 1951, the Marquis Giovani Battista ITALIAN STYLE IN TBILISI enhanced by top model Naomi Campbell Giorgini, a “resident buyer” for large At MOMA, each item comes from the at the Leopolda Station in (1998). American department stores, was living fashion houses’ archives as well as from There is more…so much more. But with his family in Florence: Florence, private collections, like the heavy satin you’d do better to go and see for yourself with its famous and beautiful works of evening dress by Schuberth, photographed rather than read about it here- it will art, its society pages brimming with par- in the 1950 Fashion Encyclopaedia. prove to be a once-in-a-lifetime experi- ties thrown by Florentine nobility, beau- Some creations represent a time when ence, I promise! tiful villas and magnifi cent gardens host- Italian fashion fi rst became a hit with The fascinating fashion adventure is ing cultural and social events attended Hollywood movie stars, like the “Priest” on at MOMA until January. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER November 18 PERFORMANCE FANTASTIC BEASTS AND ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION OF KRIMANCHULI INI & IANI WHERE TO FIND THEM GOGI ALEXI-MESKHISHVILI TBILISI ZAKARIA Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili Modern Theater Art Coalition (Info Above) PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 Start time: 11:45, 13:40, 16:40, 19:30, 22:30 FABRIKA BALLET THEATRE Ticket: 10 GEL Ticket: 10 GEL Ticket: 8-14 GEL Address: 8 E. Ninoshvili Str. Address: 25 Rustaveli Ave. CIRCUS Telephone: 2 99 04 56 November 19 DOCTOR STRANGE TERENTI GRANELI Address: 1 The Heroes Sq. Directed by Scott Derrickson November 18 Telephone: 2 98 58 61 BRIAN GRIFFIN EXHIBITION November 21 Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili Cast: Rachel McAdams, Benedict Start time: 19:00 www.krakatuk.eu 'MOTHER GEORGIA' FOR NIKOLOZ RACHVELI AND Cumberbatch, Mads Mikkelsen Ticket: 10 GEL GEORGIAN PHILARMONYC Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy COMME DES GARCONS November 19, 20 ORCHESTRA Language: Russian The story was shot for “Six” November 23 TRIUMPHANTS OF THE ARENA Conductor: Kakhi Solomnishvili Start time: 14:40 magazine consisting of striking SAINT GEORGE Start time: November 19 - 17:00, Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 9-10 GEL images to bring Comme des Directed by Amiran Shalikashvili November 20 – 13:00, 17:00 Ticket: 10, 15, 20, 25 GEL Garcons founder Rei Kawakubo’s Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 10 GEL OUIJA: ORIGIN OF EVIL Ticket: 10 GEL vision to life. The photoshoot was GEORGIAN Directed by Mike Flanagan CINEMA featured in Dazed magazine almost INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Cast: Elizabeth Reaser, Lulu GRIBOEDOVI THEATRE Wilson, Annalise Basso 25 years later. OF ARTS GIFT IN TBILISI Address: 2 Rustaveli Ave. October 15 – November 25 AMIRANI CINEMA Genre: Horror Telephone: 2 93 43 36 Address: 36 Kostava St. Language: Russian EXPO GEORGIA Telephone: 2 99 99 55 Start time: 17:00, 22:30 Address: 118 Tsereteli Ave., 11th November 20, 21 November 19 www.kinoafi sha.ge Ticket: 10-14 GEL pavilion DEMON. VIEW FROM ABOVE THE PLAYERS A collective composition N. Gogol Every Wednesday ticket price: 5 Lari THE ACCOUNTANT based on the poem by M.Y. November 17-20 Directed by Giorgi Margvelashvili November 18-24 Directed by Gavin O'Connor LermontovMoscow, Russia TBILISI BOOK DAYS 2016 & Language: Russian Cast: Ben Affl eck, Anna Kendrick, Start time: 21:00 Comedy BOOK FAIR Address: Tbilisi Caravanserais FANTASTIC BEASTS AND J.K. Simmons Start time: 18:00 WHERE TO FIND THEM Genre: Action, Crime, Drama The Book Fair being held within (Tbilisi History Museum) Ticket: 5 GEL 8 Sioni Str. Directed by David Yates Language: Russian the Tbilisi Book Days event is Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Ezra Miller, Start time: 11:30 GABRIADZE THEATRE appealing for everyone interested Ron Perlman November 23 Ticket: 8-9 GEL in books. Along with a wide Address: 13 Shavtelis St. Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy TANGO DE ROSAS diversity of cultural events, Telephone: 2 98 65 93 Language: English Irma de Flore THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN Start time: 19:00 each visitor will be greeted with Tbilisi, Georgia (Info Above) November 18, 24 Language: Russian signifi cant discounts on most of Start time: 21:00 Start time: 22:40 RAMONA Start time: 11:30, 13:00, 16:00, 20:00 the books that can be found on the Address: Tumanishvili Film Actors Ticket: 13-14 GEL Rezo Gabriadze Ticket: 8-14 GEL Georgian market. Theater,164 Agmashenebeli Ave. Directed by Rezo Gabriadze MUSEUM English Subtitles ARRIVAL MUSIC TBILISI VASO ABASHIDZE Start time: 20:00 Directed by Denis Villeneuve MUSIC AND DRAMA STATE Ticket: 10, 15, 20 GEL GEORGIAN NATIONAL Cast: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, MUSEUM SIMON THEATRE Forest Whitaker JANASHIA MUSEUM TBILISI EVENT HALL Address: 182 D.Agmashenebeli Ave. November 19 Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. Address: 1 Melikishvili St. Telephone: 2 34 80 90 STALINGRAD Language: English Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 Telephone: 2 99 00 99 www.musictheatre.ge Rezo Gabriadze Start time: 22:20 www.museum.ge Directed by Rezo Gabriadze Language: Russian November 19 November 24 English Subtitles Start time: 16:45 PERMANENT EXHIBITION: DIVORCE Start time: 20:00 ONYX Ticket: 10-14 GEL GEORGIAN ARCHAEOLOGY Giorgi Eristavi Ticket: 10, 15, 20 GEL W / SNAK THE RIPPER & FROM 8TH MILLENNIUM B.C. Directed by Davit Doiashvili JUNK, DJ ILLEGAL THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN TO 4TH CENTURY A.D Musical November 20 Directed by Tate Taylor Start time: 21:00 EXHIBITION OF GEORGIAN Start time: 19:00 AUTUMN OF MY SPRING Cast: Emily Blunt, Haley Bennett, WEAPONRY Ticket: 30 GEL Ticket: From 8 GEL Rezo Gabriadze Rebecca Ferguson Directed by Rezo Gabriadze Genre: Mystery, Thriller NUMISMATIC TREASURY MOVEMENT THEATER TBILISI NODAR DUMBADZE English Subtitles Language: Russian June 11 – March 11 (2017) Address: 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave., STATE CENTRAL CHILDREN'S Start time: 20:00 Start time: 14:15, 19:00 EXHIBITION "MEDIEVAL Mushthaid park THEATRE Ticket: 10, 15, 20 GEL Ticket: 9-14 GEL TREASURY" Telephone: 599 555 260 Address: 99/1 Agmashenebeli Ave. Telephone: 2 95 39 27 MOVEMENT THEATER RUSTAVELI CINEMA June 16 – December 16 November 20 Address: 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave., Address: 5 Rustaveli Ave. November 22, 24 THE EXHIBITION KOLOBOK Mushthaid park Telephone: 2 55 50 00 JAM SESSION “NEW DISCOVERIES - Directed by Anatoli Lobov Telephone: 599 555 260 www.kinoafi sha.ge Leaders: GEORGIAN ARCHAEOLOGY” Main Stage Reso Kiknadze (sax), Start time: 12:00 November 19, 20 Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL September 27 – September 22 (2017) Nika Gabadze (guitar), Ticket: From 6 GEL PERFORMANCE November 18-24 CONCRETE ZONE EXHIBITION Misha Japaridze (bass), GEORGIAN STATE Start time: 20:00 ARRIVAL "STONE AGE GEORGIA" Irakli Choladze / Gio Kapanadze PANTOMIME THEATRE Ticket: 15 GEL (Info Above) (drums) IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Address: 37 Rustaveli Ave. Start time: 20:00 Start time: 21:00 TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM Telephone: 2 99 63 14 November 23, 24 Ticket: 13-14 GEL - KARVASLA Address: 8 Sioni St. November 23 Telephone: 2 98 22 81 TANGO EVENING Milonga La Kumparsita November 15-22 Start time: 21:00 THE EXHIBITION OF GIOVANNI Ticket: 5 GEL VEPKHVADZE'S ARTWORKS

MUSEUM OF SOVIET BACKSTAGE 76 OCCUPATION Address: Vake Park Address: 3 Sh. Rustaveli Ave. Telephone: 597 58 75 09

PERMANENT EXHIBITION November 18 GALLERY GEORGE ERGEMLIDZE LIVE Start time: 20:00 THE NATIONAL GALLERY Address: 11 Rustaveli Ave. TBILISI BAROQUE www.museum.ge FESTIVAL 2015 PERMANENT EXHIBITION www.tbf.ge

June 24, 2016 – June 24, 2017 November 22 PIROSMANI’S "YARD CLEANER" KRISTOP MEIER AND AND "EAGLE SEIZING A HARE" GEORGIA BROWN GEORGIAN ON DISPLAY SINFONIETTA September 28 - September 28 (2017) Start time: 19:30 PIROSMANI’S ROE AT A STREAM Ticket: From 10 GEL Venue: Rustaveli Theater, Small November 3-23 Scene GEORGIA TODAY NOVEMBER 18 - 21, 2016 SPORTS 15

Japan Comeback Gives Georgia a Cold Shower Ahead of Samoa Clash meaning that Georgia trailed by only ward dominance was turned into points BY ALASTAIR WATT fi ve points. as Beka Bitsadze threw himself over the Tamura would make amends soon after, line, spotting a gap in the Japanese scoring from 40 meters with a 16th min- defence, to put Georgia back in front. n a sun-soaked autumnal ute penalty to increase the Georgian Kvirikashvili’s subsequent conversion afternoon on November arrears to eight. and a further three points from a 57th 12, Georgia let slip a nine- It had been a sluggish fi rst quarter of minute penalty put Georgia to within point advantage in the fi nal the game for the hosts but they sprang sight of victory, armed with a 22-13 advan- twenty minutes to suffer to life in the 26th minute as Giorgi Nem- tage. aO sobering 28-22 reverse at the hands of sadze leapt to grasp a lineout near the The Japanese had other ideas though, Japan. Japanese line, and the Georgian pack and within three minutes they had cut A thrilling encounter played out in bulldozed its way to visitors’ line with their defi cit to two points. A perfectly front of a capacity crowd at the Mikheil fl anker notching their measured kick through from center Meskhi Stadium, advertised both the fi rst try of the game. Harumichi Tatekawa was grabbed by quality of rugby among the game’s sec- spurned the result- the rapid Lemeki who burst clear to score ond tier nations today as well as some ing conversion but Georgia were now Japan’s third try of the game, duly con- defi ciencies. in the ascendancy and would take a verted by Tamura. The Japanese struggled to cope with deserved lead before half-time. If that made the home crowd uneasy, Georgia’s forward power but the home A sloppy Japanese lineout saw the ball what happened next made them queasy. side’s inability to make pressure count break loose to Lobjanidze and the young- A fl owing move into the Georgian half at key moments and, worse still, to con- ster raced home to score, after a few culminated with Tamura setting up cede tries from seemingly harmless minutes of deliberation from the offi cials. replacement Kenki Fukuoka to touch situations, made this a frustrating after- Kvirikashvili made no mistake this time down in the corner in the 64th minute, noon in which defeat was snatched from with the boot and his conversion handed putting Japan into the lead for a third the jaws of victory. In the words of one Georgia a 12-8 lead at the break. time. GRU offi cial, this was a “cold shower”. The hosts began the second period like Tamura once again failed with the con- Japan, who leapfrogged Georgia in the they fi nished the fi rst, in a tenacious version but did add another penalty in world rankings in the wake of their vic- mood and seeking to increase their the closing stages to secure a six-point tory, began brightly and opened the scor- advantage. However, just as it seemed winning margin that looked highly ing in the 9th minute, taking advantage Georgia would score their third try of unlikely until the hour mark. of the Georgian backs’ failure to clutch the afternoon, Japanese wing Lomano After the match, Georgian head coach a high, bouncing ball. Lemeki intercepted brilliantly inside his refused to be overly critical Full-back Kotaro Matsushima pounced own 22 and galloped the length of the of his team and expressed hope that his amid the panic to power over the Geor- fi eld to restore Japan’s lead. men would learn and become stronger gian line for the fi rst try of the game, The home crowd, who seconds earlier from such a frustrating experience. despite the best efforts of Georgian had been bracing themselves to celebrate He also thanked the noisy home sup- scrum-half Valeri Lobjanidze. a try of their own, looked on in disbelief. port and pleaded with the Georgian fans Japanese stand-off Yu Tamura, perhaps Tamura again missed with the conver- to again turn up in good numbers for the toiling against the howls of the home sion but Japan led 13-12 in any case. match with Samoa on Saturday Novem- crowd, missed an elementary conversion In the 50th minute, the Georgians’ for- ber19. CULTURE CineClub to Show “The President” n October 21, Tbilisi Cine- the director says. Club, in cooperation with After the screening the producer will the Georgian National Film participate in an open discussion and Center, will screen "The Q&A session with the audience. President" directed by Tickets can be purchased online at MohsenO Makhmalbaf and produced by www.kinoafi sha.ge approximately 1 week Vladimer Katcharava. before the show or at the cinema box A revolution is happening in a country offi ce. ruled by a dictatorial president. The president sends his family abroad but and hunger as they head to the coast, WHERE: Amirani Cinema, Kostava Str. his grandson wishes to stay with his disguised as gypsies. WHEN: Monday October 21, 19:00 grandfather. Eventually, they must both “I was inspired for this fi lm when I TICKET: 3 GEL (ticket) plus 2 GEL (donation run for their lives, experiencing hardship visited the Darul Aman Palace in Kabul,” for organization costs)

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