Issue no: 1009 • DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... Foreign Minister Janelidze: US is Georgia’s Top Strategic Partner NEWS PAGE 2 Defi ning Saakashvili POLITICS PAGE 4 Much Ado about… the Memorial POLITICS PAGE 6 The Natakhtari Fund BUSINESS PAGE 9 Irakli Kobakhidze’s Visit Brings New Level to Georgia-Israel Relations BUSINESS PAGE 10 FOCUS Regus Unique ON FRENCH-GEORGIAN Services Provide RELATIONS Exclusive: The French Comfortable Work Ambassador to Georgia on Environment wine, war and language PAGE 8 BUSINESS PAGE 11 Safety First: Mestia, Svaneti European Commission: Georgia Fulfi lls Visa- SOCIETY PAGE 12 90th Anniversary of Lib Benchmarks, Improvement Still Needed Georgian-German

BY THEA MORRISON Writer Givi Margvelashivili

he European Commission has Celebrated in issued a report on visa-liberaliza- tion, saying Georgia continues to Tbilisi fulfi ll the benchmarks, but action CULTURE PAGE 12 is required in a number of specifi c Tareas to preserve their sustainable implemen- tation. The report was released on December 20 and refers to fulfi llment of the visa-liberalization benchmarks by the western Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia) as well as the Eastern Partnership countries (Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine). The report is the fi rst assessment under the new monitoring mechanism for the eight coun- tries that have concluded visa-liberalization dialogues with the EU. Continued on page 2 Photo: The European Commission reports on implementation of benchmarks for Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership countries. Photo source: euobserver.com GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 Georgian President & Prime Foreign Minister Janelidze: US is Minister Host New Year Reception Georgia’s Top Strategic Partner

BY THEA MORRISON

oreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia Mikheil Janelidze stated that the United States is Georgia’s main strategic partner, adding theF government is doing its best to inten- sify relations with the US. Janelidze made the statement at the joint hearing of the Parliament’s Dias- pora, European Integration and Foreign Relations committees on December 20. the other. He went on to talk about the The minister positively assessed the BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI milestones of the country’s development, dynamics of Georgia-US strategic coop- regaining its independence for a short eration, adding Georgia's aim is to ensure period of time in 1918, with 2018 celebrat- bi-party support from the United States eorgian President Giorgi ing the 100-year anniversary of the fi rst towards Georgia’s development, democ- Margvelashvili and Prime Georgian republic. racy consolidation, sovereignty and ter- Minister Giorgi Kvirikash- “Our common goal is our country’s ritorial integrity, and Euro-Atlantic inte- period, much progress had been made Georgia’s breakaway regions, Abkhazia vili hosted representatives development, and ensuring peace in the gration. in mutual relations between Georgia and and South Ossetia, have been occupied of the diplomatic corps, world. There are many challenges on that "Deepening cooperation with the United the US, including the decision to submit by Russia. Ginternational organizations and Georgian path, and the civilized world stands States, our main strategic partner, is a defensive weapons to Georgia; the agree- The legislative act also imposes restric- government offi cials at a New Year recep- together in facing those challenges,” Giorgi highly important issue for the govern- ment on cooperation in secret informa- tions on US funding for any state that tion, along with an exhibition dedicated Kvirikashvili, PM of Georgia said, going ment and Foreign Ministry," Janelidze tion protection; the promotion of Geor- does not recognize Georgia's territorial to 100 years of Georgia’s independence, on to thank the soldiers participating in said. gia's Defense Readiness Program (GDRP); integrity and prohibits US representa- organized at the President’s Administra- international peace missions. The PM The Minister explained that through the deepening of cooperation in terms tives in international fi nancial institu- tion on December 19. then went on to express his gratitude to the active efforts of both parties, unprec- of trade and investment; and the involve- tions from supporting programs that The President noted that 2017 was an the diplomatic corps representatives for edented active steps were quickly made ment of American companies in large violate Georgia's territorial integrity and important year in Georgia’s history. “This their 25-year collaboration with Georgia. with the new US administration and infrastructure projects. sovereignty. year, our country made one more step Summarizing 2017, the PM noted that Congress. He said that the regular visits “The work will continue with regard Janleidze also spoke about the impor- towards major values, European devel- it was an important year for the country, of the Prime Minister, ministers and to the involvement of American compa- tance of Georgia’s joining NATO, saying opment, and towards the strengthening notably on the subject of visa liberaliza- parliamentarians, and meetings with nies in such projects, as well as in raising this will ensure the strengthening of of our democracy,” he said, stressing that tion, which, as he pointed out, was an American colleagues, including his own, the interest of American small and Georgia’s security and the stable devel- 2017 marks 25 years of Georgia being “expression of trust in Georgia from the have taken place within a very short medium businesses towards Georgia. opment of the country. recognized by the UN. “This year, Geor- European Union and an important polit- period. Cooperation with US academic circles, “Joining NATO is a crucial objective gia made one more important step towards ical step with which the European Union Janelidze spoke about the importance NGOs and research organizations and of Georgia's foreign and security policy,” European integration,” he said, empha- welcomed Georgia’s path to European of the visit of US Vice-President Mike media will continue to be active,” Janelidze the Minister said, adding that Georgia sizing that it demonstrates the trust had and Euro-Atlantic integration.” Pence to Georgia this summer, adding announced. will continue its aspirations towards the in the country from its international “The New Year is full of hope, and I it was a “clear demonstration of US The Foreign Minister mentioned the Alliance through implementation of partners on the one hand, and the achieve- would like to wish all of your countries political support towards Georgia.” legislative act signed by US President undertaken obligations and carrying out ment of the Georgian government on peace and stability,” Kvirikashvili said. The Minister said that in the recent Donald Trump in May, which states that of important reforms. European Commission: Georgia Fulfi lls Visa-Lib Benchmarks, Improvement Still Needed

Continued from page 1 Georgia several recommendations, ask- ond half of 2016 and mid-2017 the trends organized criminal groups (OCGs) from various OCGs in the EU and outside the The assessment shows that all eight ing it to continue campaigns on the rules for illegal stays and refusal of entry Georgia are still reported as one of the EU, and has been emerging as a transit countries have demonstrated strong of visa-free travel, fi nalize the migration remained stable. most frequently represented non-EU country for laundered criminal proceeds. commitment to meeting the necessary analytical and risk analysis systems, The assessment also states that the nationalities involved in serious and However, the Commission underlined requirements and have undertaken operationalize the Cooperation Agree- fi gures for asylum applications by Geor- organized crime in the EU. that Georgia ensured continuous fulfi ll- important efforts to implement a num- ment concluded with Europol and con- gian nationals in the EU in the given “Georgian OCGs are highly mobile, are ment and demonstrated serious com- ber of far-reaching reforms set out under clude a cooperation agreement with period do not indicate a further increase, mainly involved in organized property mitment in preventing and fi ghting the visa-liberalization process. Eurojust, to fi nalize the reform on intel- adding that refusals of entry decreased crime (particularly organized burglaries organized crime, adding it has stepped The report, which focuses on the areas ligence-led policing, and to further by 39% and illegal stays by 3%, while and thefts) and are especially active in up cooperation at the international level. of irregular migration and readmission, strengthen cross-border law enforcement asylum applications increased by 7.2%. France, Greece, Germany, Italy and Spain,” “While, overall, Georgia has a good fi ght against corruption and money laun- and judicial cooperation. “The number of Georgian citizens the report reads. track record in implementing anti-cor- dering, as well as public order and secu- The Commission also called on Geor- ordered to leave decreased by 12% from The document also stresses that Georgia ruption reforms, particular attention rity, says that Georgia is fulfi lling its gia to adopt amendments to the anti- 6,415 in 2015 to 5,635 in 2016, while the remains a transit country for various illicit should be paid to the effective imple- benchmarks but further improvement discrimination law to ensure its imple- return rate increased from 45.13% in 2015 commodities traffi cked to the EU, in par- mentation of the verifi cation mechanism of the implementation is expected. mentation is effective. to 55.90% in 2016,” the report reads. ticular drugs, adding it has been also used of asset declarations introduced in Jan- In particular, the Commission gave The report reads that between the sec- The Commission also underlined that to launder illicit proceeds generated by uary 2017,” the report reads. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 POLITICS 3 What the New US National Security Strategy Means for the Caucasus

Eurasia: “These competitions require OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI the United States to rethink the policies of the past two decades, policies based on the assumption that engagement with n December 18, the US rivals and their inclusion in international government unveiled the institutions and global commerce would National Security Strategy turn them into benign actors and trust- of the United States. The worthy partners. For the most part, this document enumerates premise turned out to be false.” thoseO major problems and challenges The new strategy states that, “the United facing the US and western institutions. States will respond to the growing polit- But the document also signals a new ical, economic, and military competitions development in the US approach to for- we face around the world. China and eign relations. Russia challenge American power, infl u- The overall tone of the document pur- ence, and interests, attempting to erode ports that Washington has started to American security and prosperity. They realize that the post-Cold War approach are determined to make economies less to Eurasia brought nothing for ensuring free and less fair, to grow their militar- a lasting peace and furthering of Amer- ies, and to control information and data ican state interests. to repress their societies and expand Indeed, the document quite openly their infl uence.” states that “after being dismissed as a The nature of the fundamental threat phenomenon of an earlier century, the emanating from Russia is also refl ected great power competition has returned". in North Korea and Iran, with their It is a striking admission on behalf of nuclear programs featuring only after the White House, and although in Europe China and Russia, as do transnational and elsewhere the dominant nature of Photo source: si.wsj.net terrorist groups of various kinds. the new “strategy document” might The return to geopolitics by the US raise questions, in the South Caucasus offi cially ended with the announcement Vienna in 1815 when the European states- of ethical and moral premises in inter- government has not happened overnight, people would think that it is more of the new strategic document. men thought a lasting peace would ensue national relations and the return of geo- but has rather been a result of constant attuned to the geopolitical situation on “It is a strategy of principled realism the Napoleonic wars. But WWI followed. politics. Georgians could only rejoice in challenges to the US world order by such the ground. that is guided by outcomes, not ideol- Similar thinking was seen after the Treaty that as the geopolitical approach to the powers as Russia. Relations with Russia Russian military resurgence and eco- ogy,” the document reads. Scholars of of Versailles, but, again, a purely geopo- South Caucasus and the wider region have been declining over the past decade nomic moves in the former Soviet Union international relations remember well litical thinking returned in full swing Georgia is located in responds well to and it is fair to say that the National have exacerbated the security situation that realism and its German version with the rise of totalitarian powers. the existing challenges the country is Strategy document simply responds to in the region and potential cooperation realpolitik have been several times scaled The third period of expected prosper- facing. the worsened security situation in Eur- with Russia on a number of issues has back by those notions that are built on ity and peace was the post-Cold War Perhaps this thinking is best summa- asia. What is quite likely to happen is notably failed. The era of post-Cold War ideological and ethical premises. This period, but as said above, the new Trump rized in the following quote which char- that US-Russia relations will now be hopes for a lasting cooperation and peace happened following the Congress of document essentially means the death acterizes increased competitions in more diffi cult to normalize. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 Defi ning Saakashvili

quotes that I have come across; some too boring watchful western eyes – and having seen Georgia and some purely undeserving of our attention, but praised globally as a beacon of democracy; raised I will use all those epithets I have snatched from in a single-parent family, he grew much attached the available research into his character, and I will to his mother; he had diffi culties in establishing not lie, nor will I exaggerate or make any under- relations with other people of his age and was often statements. None of the following epithets are mine treated as outcast or a loner; prone to suspect oth- in any way, aside from a couple of harmless jour- ers of being unfair, insolent and envious, with inten- nalistic embellishments and fl ashes: “An impulsive tions to humiliate, insult and entrap him; has a politician with a scale of mistakes under his belt; a persistent tendency to put himself in opposition genuine cosmopolitan who is unquestionably bril- with the rest of the society and perceive the world liant, speaking half a dozen languages; has handed around him as a hostile environment; has a tendency Russia a victory it could scarcely have dreamed of; to create super ideas; full of vigor, dynamism, rest- Photo source: ft.com a relentless fi ghter for his political durability but lessness, disregard for rest and fatigue; his emotional with no prospect of any meaningful help from his manifestations are expressive, intense and theatri- sonality, his political animalism, his nonstop drive Western allies anymore; loaded with catastrophic cal; harbors internal tension and is defensive, neg- OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE for power and his unbridled desire to infl uence the blunders in the war-game with Russia; the answers ative and jealous towards people who he recognizes modern world. to every question about his political behavior should as surpassing him in something; suffers pathologi- In Georgia, incidentally, it is not the done thing be found in his own character; passionate and per- cal ambition, arrogance, a sense of superiority and an’t they fi nd a real McCoy Ukrainian to speak and write about the émigré third Georgian manently excited; entertaining the patriotic manner high opinion about himself; is irrefutably convinced in the entire country who will set up president, either positively or negatively, depend- of speech, bombastic, impulsive and confrontational, in his own righteousness and personal importance, a political fi ght for them? - Putin won- ing on what part of Georgian society is listening to using his suave exterior to hide a burning national- intolerant towards any form of criticism; intensely dered, seeing instead the Georgian or reading your narrative. Whatever else Saakash- ist pride; having lost his long personal battle with desirous of public attention and admiration; lacks Saakashvili running like crazy up and vili may be, he is a grandmaster of inciting contro- Putin; manifesting the behavior which is utterly empathy, indifferent towards other people’s needs downC the streets of Kyiv. Well, anybody has the versial talk about his personality, the deeds he has narcissistic, paranoid, egocentric and hysterical, and feelings, perceives the rest of humanity as a right to wonder, including the Russian president committed and the wrongs he has perpetrated. To showing psychiatric disturbances; nationalist hot- faceless applauding crowd”. This epithetic fl ow of and I, what Misha wants from Ukraine, from Geor- achieve this unsavory but challenging goal of depict- head, political ingénue, sometimes naïve, advocat- vocabulary, describing Georgia’s erstwhile leader gia, from the world in general, and from his own ing the Georgian ex-president, I delved into both ing open society, democracy and free market eco- could be continued endlessly – as it seems his watch- self in particular. For those who are terribly inter- the domestic and the foreign reading matter, and, nomic; a populist demagogue with a ruthless lust ers are alert and vigil. And if all this is true, then ested in his life and career, Wiki offers a huge, behold, the domestic endeavor of creating his psy- for power whose impetuousness triggered a crisis the question pops up: What makes the throngs of comprehensive article about Saakashvili: read it chological portrait was much scanter than the for- of Cold War proportions; once Europe's youngest his adherents in Ukraine uphold and follow him. and you will know almost everything about him. eign one, although, in general, the world does not president having once moved his country toward Could they really be a ‘faceless applauding crowd’ And yet, I still have an itch to squiggle a couple of seem to be overly curious of his life, thoughts and membership of NATO and having embarked on a or simply desperate to change something about personally felt and fathomed words about his per- psyche. I’m not going to throw in all those boring successful crusade against corruption – at least in their current life? A Different Perspective on Russia supported separatists in Donbass, Kiev became OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI unequivocally pro-western in its foreign policy course. In the same year, Moldova, Ukraine, and Georgia all signed EU association agreements and or the past several months, my argument stepped up military cooperation with NATO mem- on Russia has been that Vladimir Putin’s bers and other western states. Moreover, over the government currently faces major chal- past few years of Putin’s rule, it has become clear lenges both at home and abroad. In terms that Russian infl uence in the strategically impor- of foreign policy, Russia experienced tant Central Asian region is receding. It is true that severalF serious failures. In 2014, when the Euro- Russia remains a predominant military power with maidan took place and Russia grabbed Crimea and military bases in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, but on

Photo source: trbimg.com the economic front, China has cemented its dom- I would like to put here a different view on how inance. China has even made inroads into the secu- the Russian government actually responds to prob- rity realm by holding exercises with the Tajik and lems of people. If in the west sovereign power Kyrgyz militaries. actually emanates from large masses of the popu- Russia is feeling pressure from the US and the lation, in Russia it is different. Russian governments EU. It is unlikely that the sanctions imposed on have been more rigid, relying on more coercive Russia will be lifted anytime soon and Putin’s gam- measures to control the vast country. Thence comes ble to revive far-right parties across Europe has the Kremlin which worries little about large anti- largely failed for the moment. government manifestations. I also argued that it is getting more and more dif- Another big misunderstanding is that when we fi cult for Russians to understand why Putin’s pres- see coordinated demonstrations across the Russian idency should go on for another six years. Next landmass, we often say that something is brewing year, Putin’s rule, which has already lasted 17 years, in the country. In fact, we even think that this is a will become the longest since Stalin’s. There is barometer of discontent. But to tell the truth, even already an entire generation of young Russians Navalny’s country-wide protests are so minuscule who have known only Putin as the country’s leader. that they do not represent even a quarter of the All these arguments sound quite logical, but they population. do represent a decidedly western perspective. In For years, the idea was that western sanctions this piece, I would like to take a slightly different passed against Russia because of its actions in Ukraine perspective, where Russian ‘stuff’ is seen from a would lead to serious problems inside the country, non-conformist perspective as what we lack in our or even disruption in the elite. True that the number analyses is the aspiration to avoid pure western of poor in Russia has risen. In the West, this would assumptions which are simply not eligible in Russia. lead to mass protests, immediate change of govern- How to deal with the Russian aggression and the ments, etc. However, priding themselves on how Kremlin’s general assertiveness in the former Soviet long they suffered under western oppression - under space? What should be done with Russia’s moves Napoleon, Hitler, even during the Cold War - the in Syria and how should Europe counter Russian Russians have the logic that everyone is against Rus- propaganda? A quick look at daily news coverage sia. This actually helps to unite people against exter- and subsequent analytical pieces produced across nal enemies and lay out counter-measures. much of the world reveals that a partial answer to Sacrifi ce for the ordinary Russian is something the above questions is standard thinking or even different from what is considered in the West. a theory that a drop in world oil prices, coupled Throughout history, Russians (and their govern- with Western economic sanctions, will cause enough ments) could have burned their own cities (even economic and social unrest in Russia to become a spiritual capital Moscow in 1812 when Napoleon threat to Putin's government. entered it), leaving the besieged people for months Indeed, the logic is correct and to further support or longer without any actual aid, and taking lesser this thinking there are numerous protests happen- care of those public services and democratic insti- ing across Russia by Aleksey Navalny’s followers tutions which are deemed essential in the West. (particularly youngsters), criticizing the central My point is that even though Putin wants to have government, the unresolved attacks on journalists rating approval among the populace, his power still and life-threatening actions taken against human does not entirely depend on the population’s lik- rights defenders. One could fi nd this as a certain ing. On the contrary, strong state structures (such indicator how unstable Russia has become and that as police, internal affairs troops, or the newly-cre- there will be future negative developments for the ated National Guard), self-gratify the feeling among Russian government. Russians that West is against them.

GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 Much Ado about…the Memorial ical sensitivities in the distant lands of BY VAZHA TAVBERIDZE the South Caucasus, the council contrac- tor removed the memorial to a stone- mason’s yard on a temporary basis for he recently-removed memo- assessment. The bizarre saga served yet rial to victims of the Geor- another reminder of the ever-deepening gia–Abkhazia war in the rift between Abkhazian and Georgian Scottish town of Kilmar- communities, something that the joint nock will be reinstalled statement above was so keen to under- Tunchanged, reports OC Media, a local line. Among its signatories was none news outlet. Kilmarnock authorities have other than Bruno Coppieters, one of the apparently declared that the memorial most well-respected authors and cele- will remain as it is until “universally brated scholars of South Caucasus con- acceptable alternative wording and con- fl icts, who was kind enough to discuss tent” can be agreed by all sides. For those the matter at length with GEORGIA not privy to this business, it is the very TODAY and Panorama TV Show. same memorial, the removal of which “Whilst the legacy of wars is inherently was a couple of weeks ago emphatically political, politicizing war memorials does announced by the Georgian Embassy in nothing to address the causes of violent London as a diplomatic victory, as the confl ict or to further the cause of rec- memorial sported the “national” fl ag of onciliation…” said the statement from Abkhazia. What transpired further would the experts. not look out of place in a script for a new The age-old question, though: who did season of the celebrated British political it fi rst? The fact that it was sitcom The Thick of It rather than real- the Abkhazians who put life political narrative. a fl ag on the memorial, Never to be outdone, the Abkhazians thus sending a political raised quite a ruckus: appalled at the message, seems to have removal of the memorial, they launched somehow escaped the an online petition (with direct involve- attention of the esteemed ment of their so-called government, no community that penned the non-recognition policy should be offer, is not a strategy that will work.” less) to put it back. At the same time, an the statement. When coupled with an active engagement As he so effortlessly steamrolls over the international group of experts and pressed about the matter, policy. And it’s exactly that twin of the policy that the authorities in Tbilisi have researchers of the South Caucasus con- Coppieters says their main two that is doing rather poorly. Engage- been selling their voters for the last 10 demned the removal, issuing a joint gripe was against the ment, regaining the trust of communi- years, Coppieters reveals his own insight statement in which they warned against negative consequences of ties, is the key to long-term unifi cation.” on the solutions that would, in the long- politicizing the matter. “Fragile trust,” removing a war memorial Coppieters was among the third-party term, make re-unifi cation a realistic pros- the statement intoned, “is easily broken.” without prior consultation people who tried to take an initiative to pect. Being a federalist, he thinks that, Moreover, while the war of words was with all those who have lateral acts directed at weakening the bring the fractured communities closer “under the right circumstances,” the fed- being waged, in came a statement from a strong emotional connection to it. other side can have negative conse- together. He says the degree of distrust eral model might be the key. And not the the East Ayrshire council that took things “The memorial was there for 20 years quences. If there is something that needs between sides poses an insurmountable federalism of the Russian ilk, where the to new, dizzying heights of absurdity. It without anyone taking much notice. As to be changed then all parties should obstacle towards any initiative that is regions are subject to central authority, turns out that the removal of the memo- a result of the Georgian attempt to have agree to the changes.” taken. Reminiscing, he talks about his but a “more democratic one, where the rial was never on the cards in the fi rst the Abkhaz fl ag removed, the Abkhaz The consensus, however, has proven own idea of establishing links between federal authorities and the federated states place, and the council had merely had authorities said: ‘We are the victims here. evasive so far. The Georgian side, in its universities in Abkhazia and the EU which are equally subject to the Constitution the memorial assessed by a professional We’re suffering, and the Abkhaz side is quest to confi ne the so-called Abkhazian would on the long-term allow young and the rule of law”. stonemason. Blissfully unaware of polit- not being respected’. It’s clear that uni- state to the lowest depths of the political Abkhazians to meet Georgian students “Nationalist movements in South Osse- world, is unlikely to accept any state- and students from other countries. Instead tia, Abkhazia and Georgia have tradition- hood symbols but that of their own, while of having the only option of going to study ally defended different objectives. How- Abkhazians are equally adamant on the in Russia, Abkhazians would have alter- ever, multinational federations should issue. The solution, for Coppieters, might native options. The Erasmus program, be able to address such confl icting issues. lie in the creation of a new war memo- he says, served as an inspiration. But an In Belgium or Spain, you also have sev- JICA Georgia Offi ce rial that would be acceptable to both inspiration was all it ended up being as eral nations that have very different sides. Such negotiations would be dif- both Georgia and Abkhazia found it dif- identities. And it is all about equality fi cult, of course: “It is something to be fi cult to fi nd enough trust between them among nations in creating plurinational achieved in the longer-term,” he says, to get it going: neither side was willing statehood.” Seeking National “and in the meantime, existing war to make concessions. The Georgian Be that as it may, there is still a gigan- memorials such as the one in Kilmarnock authorities, in particular, seemed to be tic elephant lurking in the dark room of should be left as they are. I think there fearful that there might come too much South Caucasus politics. Or, rather, a is too much fear in Georgia about the closeness with EU universities and their bear, to be more stereotypically correct. Staff (Clerk) idea of creeping recognition. It’s obvious Abkhaz counterparts. Professors from The factor of Russia cannot be under- that a general recognition of Abkhazia the EU were teaching a few courses in estimated and it has frequently popped as an independent state is not going to Abkhazia, but the project didn’t go beyond up when discussing that particular fed- eadline: December 29, ** Excellent communication and happen anyway.” its pilot phase, something Coppieters eral model Coppieters seems so keen 2017 interpersonal skills; Fear, however, was not the only senti- regrets to this day. on. With a hierarchy among nations out ** Well-organized; strong sense of ment in Georgian society after the news “We have leaders around Europe who of the equation, one of the main prob- JICA Georgia offi ce is responsibility; hard working; about the memorial broke. Anger, for one, are the product of Erasmus. Why not lems is the creation of a federal state pleased to announce an ** Willingness to go on fi eld trips. was much more prevalent. True to Cop- make creative moves in order to have structure that is able to make coherent Dopening for the position of National pieters prediction, all things negative Abkhaz university students participat- decisions in the fi eld of foreign policy. Staff (Clerk) Preferable but not mandatory skills: poured from those who commented on ing?” he asks. “This is possible even In such a situation, Russia risks playing ** Familiarity with terms related to the issue; neither reconciliation nor fi nd- without diplomatic recognition. Taiwan the tune through an Abkhazian fl ute. Job description: engineering and fi nance is preferred; ing common ground were on the cards. is not recognized by any EU member This means that effective decision-mak- ** Assisting to make accounting doc- ** Japanese language skill is preferred. Abkhazians weren’t the only ones Geor- state, but they participate in the Erasmus ing structures have to be created which uments and payment; gians were upset with – the British took program. I’m under the impression that minimalize the negative impact of exter- ** Conducting secretarial work for Term: stick too. How would they like it, one when the Georgian authorities talk about nal intervention. A second problem to Resident Representative; From February 1, 2018 until January particularly inquisitive commenter asked, engagement, they remain too fearful of be addressed is the relations between ** Making document registration, 31, 2019, with possible extension if we were to build a war memorial ded- criticism by the domestic opposition. national communities in Abkhazia itself. circulation and fi ling; (Probation period is 1 month. The icated to the victims of the Falkland’s Yet taking risks is necessary. Of course, “The tensions among them were a root ** Arranging business trips - reserv- employer will be able to terminate the confl ict and slap an Argentine fl ag on it? then you will have Abkhaz students in cause of the Georgian-Abkhaz war and ing tickets, accommodation, etc.; contract depending on the performance “I think fear is a terrible guide for cre- European universities defending points have to be taken into account in design- ** Dealing with offi cial letters and during the probation period). ating new solutions,” was Coppieters’ of view which the Georgian authorities ing Abkhaz state institutions,” he says. distributing received letters; sage advice. “And anger’s not much bet- would not agree with, but that’s part of “This is no less important, and compli- ** Procuring offi ce supplies and dis- Salary: ter either, if not worse. The real question freedom of expression. In the long-term, cated, than designing the relationship posal of unnecessary items; US$700-800/month without taxes here is whether the removal of a symbol it brings people together.” between Abkhazia and Georgia within ** Supporting PR activities, including (actual amount will be adjusted based on a memorial brings us closer to rec- The Erasmus program, together with a common federal framework.” arrangements for journalists and pub- on the past work experience and will onciliation. My answer is, not at all. One the riches and possibilities that the AA As we take a light step into the dreaded lishing newsletter; be paid in GEL). side is venting its anger, claiming an and DCFTA agreements have to offer, is realm of geopolitical speculation, by his ** Other tasks given by Resident Rep- imaginary victory; the other side states among the diplomatic leverage that judgment, any kind of agreement between resentative; Working hours: that it is a victim once again. It’s simply Georgia tries to use to make itself more Georgia and Abkhazia would have to Monday – Friday, 9:30 – 18:00 (with not constructive.” attractive for Abkhazians. But such pro- give the Kremlin some degree of control Skills and requirements: lunch break from 13:00 – 14:00). Beyond the offi cial narrative, the main posals should not be made with the main over the security situation. The Abkhaz ** University degree; thesis of Georgia’s staunch non-recog- purpose of making the welfare of the side will need a guarantor, and this can- ** Highly profi cient in spoken and Next step: nition policy rests on not allowing the Abkhaz population dependent on deci- not be NATO. This is one of the conces- written Georgian and English (regard- Only shortlisted persons will be noti- Abkhazian state to get even a glimpse sions in Tbilisi. Coppieters thinks that sions Georgia would have to accept, and ing English profi ciency, certifi cate is fi ed by email and invited to an inter- of international attention. When asked such an attempt would be counterpro- NATO as well, in order to achieve a set- necessary); view. how successful that policy might be, ductive. “That’s not how people come tlement. “This may create strong fears ** Knowledge of Russian is preferable; Interested candidates are required to Coppieters speaks of coins and their together. Equality is needed,” he says, in Georgia, and this is one of the reasons ** Computer literacy (Word, Excel, send a CV (in English) with the contact double sides. “to achieve trust and reconciliation.” I don’t see such negotiations happening Power Point, etc) and troubleshooting; information from teo previous work- “As regards non-recognition, it’s a suc- “The very idea that Georgia will become anytime soon. However, you need a long- ** At least three years’ work experi- places/schools and copies of certifi cates cessful one. Abkhazia is indeed isolated attractive to Abkhazians, that one par- term perspective about solutions on ence in a similar fi eld; to: [email protected] and on the diplomatic level, recognized by ticularly sunny day Abkhazians will switch reunifi cation. Diffi cult negotiations will ** Analytical, open-minded, honest [email protected]; no later than very few governments around the globe. sides because the Georgian population have to take place and Russia will undoubt- character; December 28, 2017. But then again, there’s an agreement that has more welfare and more benefi ts to edly play its part in that context.”

GEORGIA TODAY 8 POLITICS DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 French Ambassador on Politics, Wine and the Good & Bad of Georgia

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY WHAT IS FRANCE’S TAKE VAZHA TAVBERIDZE ON GEORGIA’S EURO- ATLANTIC ASPIRATIONS? It’s an ongoing process. The closer Georgia gets to the EU and NATO in ranco-Georgian relations, you terms of standards, behavior, and inter- can argue, are centuries old, operability, the easier it will be for Geor- dating all the way back to the gia, if the window of opportunity is open, semi-legendary Franks at the to become a member. In terms of military Didgori battle and Sulkhan- cooperation, we are very happy to have SabaF Orbeliani trying (unsuccessfully) Georgian soldiers with us in the EU to acquire the French Empire’s diplomatic Peace Mission in central Africa. They aid for the Georgian Kingdom, to more are also in Afghanistan. NATO allies modern times, with France sheltering recognize and praise this. Quite recently, the Georgian government in exile in 1921 together with other ambassadors, I and mediating in the 2008 August War. attended a defense conference organized GEORGIA TODAY and the Panorama by Minister of Defense, Levan Izoria. TV Show, together with the International He’s been very successful in reforming Black Sea University, hosted and inter- the ministry, trying to achieve the goals viewed His Excellence Pascal Meunier, of interoperability with NATO, goals of Ambassador of France to Georgia, who preparing and acquainting the popula- was eager to share his insights on the tion with the total defense system con- relations between the two countries. cept. His decision to spend 2% of the who were reluctant, and France was one sons who did not necessarily budget on weapons procurement was a such country because we had large migra- help us. You had Gorbachev who THERE ARE FIVE MAIN AREAS IN good one. tion fl ows and criminals, famous “thieves- did not help the Georgian wine WHICH FRANCE IS PROVIDING in-law.” So, the image of Georgia in France industry and we had Saakashvili ASSISTANCE AND EXPERTISE: LET’S TALK ABOUT THE 2008 was not entirely positive. We decided to who did not help the French EDUCATION, MILITARY, AUGUST WAR. WERE THE tackle the problem by enhancing coop- language, although, quite curi- INFRASTRUCTURE, ECONOMY NEGOTIATIONS SUCCESSFUL? eration with the Georgian MIA, who ously, he is fl uent in French. For AND ENVIRONMENT. TELL US All frozen confl icts in countries from appointed a police attaché in Paris, and some reason, he decided that ABOUT THOSE RELATIONS the GUAM framework – Georgia, Ukraine, we cooperate with him closely. We are everybody should learn English and that no good and fast internet, even on the Looking back at the history, I would Azerbaijan, Moldova – are a kind of monitoring fi gures and do not see any would be suffi cient. My position is that train. And - pollution. I always say it say France has always been by Georgia’s warning and punishment from Russia. worrying fi gures in France as far as he was wrong. If you want to have an loudly: if you want your country to side when it faced diffi culties. Next year, We cannot accept this. What is positive migration from Georgia is concerned. international career, you have to speak become not only a cradle of the wine we’ll celebrate the 100th anniversary of in negotiations either in different Minsk your own language, Georgian, while I but the jewel of the Caucasus, you have the fi rst Georgian Republic. In 1921, when Groups or Geneva talks is that at least NOW TO WINE. GEORGIA would also encourage people here to to care about your country. I read some- the Bolsheviks invaded Georgia, we wel- wars are easing down. It is not completely MIGHT BE THE CRADLE OF speak Russian even if they do not like where that it is worse to live in Tbilisi comed the Georgian government in exile satisfactory, but it’s better than full-out WINE, BUT IT’S OBVIOUS THAT Putin or English. If you don’t speak the than in Beijing. I don’t know how true in Leville, near Paris. President Marg- war. It is important that we remain deter- FRENCH WINE IS THE CURRENT three [Georgian, Russian, English], you that is, but pollution remains very high velashvili visited Leville last year and mined and fi rm on our position. France KING ON THE MARKET. WHAT’S can forget an international career. French here. Recently, I met Mayor Kaladze, the French government and private own- has always had specifi c relations with YOUR TAKE ON THE FUTURE is the 2nd worldwide spoken language who told me that he is going to address ers of the manor agreed to return own- Russia, but at the same time we should OF GEORGIAN WINE? with which you get access to a lot of the problem of quality of cars, petrol and ership to Georgia. This year, we are not abandon or ease down on our values I came here in March 2016. Almost countries. After learning French, you parking. Franceand Japan faced the same celebrating the 25th anniversary since just to have the benefi ts of dialogue. straight away, I was in Telavi, visiting can easily learn Spanish or Italian. So, problems but addressed them in terms the reestablishment of diplomatic rela- During their fi rst press conference in the Georgian Wine Symposium managed it’s a good investment. of introducing rules on pollution. Forbid tions. Starting with the political relation- France as president, Emannuel Macron by the French people. I got to taste Qvevri We decided to reverse the trend in access of cars to the city center, focus ship, France is one of the strongest sup- was quite stern in his statement on Rus- wine. So, I was plunged into the cradle Georgia, and my predecessor, with the on public transport. As regards pluses. porters of Georgia’s territorial integrity sia in front of Putin. At the same time, of wine for three days – it was a ‘baptism’ help of the Chamber of Commerce and I will have to start with the hospitality and sovereignty. As Americans say, we Russia has international responsibilities; of sorts! This country has various ways some French companies, worked to sub- of the people: it must be preserved! Then are walking the talk. Eric Fournier (now it’s a big country and we have to talk to develop its wine, with a focus on the sidize the teaching of French in public comes the beauty of the nature. Georgia Ambassador in Budapest) was French with them. To answer your question - we top end of the market: with quality wine schools. There were 6,000 French lan- is a beautiful country and should not be Ambassador in Georgia in 2008 when are not happy that Russia has not fulfi lled aiming at a high reputation for Georgia. guage teachers in 2011, and now there spoiled by plastic strewn across the the Russians invaded. He went to all the points in the ceasefi re agreement. France is ready to help, even if we are are 16,000. Interest in France has mountains! I think Georgia should do Sachkhere, where we had opened a We think that discussions have to con- competitors. We decided to create a increased. At university level, we have what the Lithuanians did at a certain mountain troops school some time ear- tinue. Franco-Georgian University, which is a more than 37 co-op agreements and we stage: announce a National Cleaning lier, traveling in our diplomatic car with cornerstone of our cultural diplomacy. doubled the number of students going Day, with the President and Prime Min- the French fl ag on. Once there, he raised BACK TO GEORGIA’S EURO- We have two big ambitions. One is agri- to France through Erasmus +. Presently, ister removing litter from certain places the French fl ag and spoke about the shar- ATLANTIC FUTURE. WHAT IS culture, including wine, and the second we have 750 Georgian students learning on TV. The 3rd is the beauty of Georgian ing military expertise. We are also active YOUR ASSESSMENT OF THE is tourism. France has a lot of expertise, in France. I think it’s a promising devel- traditions. Georgia is not only known in air defense within the NATO program FIRST YEAR OF VISA-FREE as we are the number one tourist desti- opment. for wine, it’s well-known for traditions and in the Navy we have committed REGIME WITH THE EU? nation in the world, and tourism is a fi eld like polyphonic songs, national dances, ourselves to be present in the Black Sea Georgia and the Georgian people in which Georgia has a lot of potential. WHAT ARE THE THREE THINGS churches, architecture. So, all of these because, while a challenge, the Sea is deserve this. It’s been a long process of YOU LIKE AND DISLIKE MOST IN have to be preserved. For me, Georgia one of potential prosperity; one that negotiation and it’s fair to say that Geor- WHAT ABOUT THE FRENCH GEORGIA AND GEORGIANS? has a lot of potential. The message we’re should be focused on trade, not confron- gia indirectly had been the victim of the LANGUAGE IN GEORGIA, There are many pluses, but I’ll start trying to deliver to French people is - tation. Recently, a French frigate visited huge migration movement to Europe. I NAMELY ITS DIMINISHING with minuses. The fi rst is the lack of Come and see Georgia, the country that’s Batumi port from Toulon; it took them don’t think that Georgia is a threat in USE IN GEORGIA’S infrastructure. Georgia wants to be a #1 set to become a real bridge between East 10 days without having to set foot on the terms of migration to Europe, the threat EDUCATION SYSTEM? tourist destination in the world but does and West. Georgia has to develop its ground, just to show our determination comes from elsewhere. Visa liberaliza- If we look back on our mutual history not possess good infrastructure. Not touristic capacity and France is helping and support to Georgia. tion has been accepted by some countries over the last 30 years, we have two per- enough and not good enough highways, in that.

BUSINESS PASHA Bank Sponsors Third CEO Lunch Tbilisi and Business Forum

Hasanov noted that the third CEO Lunch on business support. ADVERTORIAL Tbilisi is a fruitful ground to discuss First Deputy Chairman of the Caspian important problems and issues, as well European Club and Caspian American as toestablish contacts between entre- Club, Telman Aliyev, thanked the Gov- n December 15, Caspian preneurs of Azerbaijan and Georgia. ernment of Georgia, Ambassador Dursun European Club and Cas- State Governor Nemsadze thanked Cas- Hasanov and PASHA Bank for their pian Energy Georgia held pian Energy Georgia for the invitation strong support for the activity of Caspian the Azerbaijan-Georgia and noted that the format of the Georgian- Energy Georgia. Business Forum, and the Azerbaijani business forum plays an Chairman of the Board of Directors thirdO CEO Lunch Tbilisi, with the sup- important role in business development and CEO of PASHA Bank, Shahin Mam- port of PASHA Bank and the Embassy and strengthening of economic relations madov, welcomed the guests and held a of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Georgia. between our countries. He told the guests presentation in which he spoke about Ambassador Extraordinary and Pleni- about the Kvemo-Kartli region and high- PASHA Holding and about the fi nancial potentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan lighted such important areas for investing dynamics of PASHA Bank from its estab- to Georgia, Dursun Hasanov; State Gov- as agriculture, tourism and energy carri- lishment in Georgia to date. ernor of the Kvemo-Kartli region, Grigol ers. CEO Lunch Tbilisi is one of the key tools Nemsadze; and Governor of the Imereti Governor Chichinadze welcomed the Energy Georgia. This was followed by region and spoke about the economic to establish a dialogue between the public region, Givi Chichinadze, attended the members of the Caspian European Club the presentation of prospects of devel- and investment opportunities, as well and private sectors of Georgia and Azer- CEO Lunch Tbilisi as honorary guests. and all participating guests and wished opment of Imereti. The Governor pro- as the tax system, free economic zone, baijan. About 80 businessmen from Azer- Addressing the forum, Ambassador further success to the activity of Caspian vided detailed information about the international cooperation and programs baijan and Georgia took part in the event. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 BUSINESS 9 Horse & Donkey Meat Found in Food Products

The Natakhtari Fund The Natakhtari Fund 6th wave, for we’ve been doing a legal campaign to ADVERTORIAL Project ‘Take Care of the Future’, kicked support these children, trying to make off on November 8 and ended on Decem- a synergy between the private and busi- ber 8. During this time, each bottle of ness sector, engaging local self-govern- s the Natakhtari Fund 6th Natakhtari lemonade sold counted ance. With this, we can make the care wave of fundraising came towards the fi nal GEL 43,972 raised. system stronger.” to an end, a fantastic GEL “We will continue to help teenagers in A system of support programs and he National Food Agency cases of violation. Namely, we found 43,972 was raised for teen- small families in 2018,” said Omarashvili. presentations for youngsters ran in eight has reported fi nding horse horse and donkey meat in products agers lacking care. “There will be 120-150 benefi ciaries. We regions of Georgia from November 9 to and donkey meat inside a labeled as pork or beef,” says the National ANatakhari company Director, Nikoloz will also work with 30 small family November 18. Gori, Akhaltsikhe, Telavi, number of food products Food Agency. Khundzakishvili, and Our Home Asso- houses, 15 elder teenagers and homes, Rustavi, Kutaisi, Ozurgeti, Batumi and throughout Georgia. Sam- According to the agency, the meat had ciation – Georgia psychological work/ and with those teenagers who have left Zugdidi held meetings “Coalition for Tples were taken from public food facili- not only been labelled falsely, but such help leader Manana Omarashvili the state care system.” kids and teenagers” and Natakhtari Fund ties and stores and the meat was found meat is only allowed to be sold after announced the future pans of the fund, “The amount raised will be used to prepared and presented a mutual project to be being sold illegally. certain regulations carried out. Most their care systems from the previous help children with a lack of care and to with local people, self-governing organ- The NFA said the guilty companies importantly, vaccinations must be admin- years, the results of the campaign and prepare for an independent and worthy izations, NGOs, media and business have all been fi ned. istered and proper labelling of meats be ongoing processes and future plans. future,” Khundzikashvili added. “For this, representatives. “We checked 90 samples and found 12 done. GEORGIA TODAY 10 BUSINESS DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 Irakli Kobakhidze’s Visit Brings New Level to Georgia-Israel Relations

akhidze's visit to Israel saw the decision being made that both countries will develop a general agreement on coop- eration in the economic sphere, serving as a form of action plan. The agreement reached during Kob- akhidze's visit did not end with his leav- ing as Israeli House (organized by mem- ber of the delegation of the delegation, Akram Hasson), was invited by the Min- ister of Economic Development of Israel. Akram Khason Knesset's ruling coalition member and his party is a government Economic bloc holding the portfolio. The Minister of Economy, at a meeting of the Israeli MP, reiterated Israel's will- ingness to reach a qualitatively new stage of cooperation between two countries in this fi eld. Irakli Kobakhidze, Chairman of the Parliament The visit of the Chairperson of the Nir Barkat, Mayor of Jerusalem Parliament of Georgia to Israel also saw Hilik Bar, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset a call for cooperation in the fi eld of edu- cation. On the second day of the visit, Georgia does not need additional moti- Knesset members, analysts and media vation in relations with Israel. On Decem- representatives in the delegation held a ber 15-17, supervisors from the Israel meeting with heads and students of delegation in Tbilisi, brought messages higher education institutions of Georgia. that refl ect the offi cial position of Israel. The delegation welcomed Holocaust A member of the Friendship Group of Studies in two universities of Georgia. Knesset Georgia, Itzik Shmuli, said that It was noted that the Israeli side is there are no hidden agendas in the rela- With the active ready to share with Georgia experience tions between the two countries and in education. One example is that of welcomes the Georgian side's wish that work of Israeli Karmel, an academic college which next year be busier and more produc- envisages implementation of joint pro- tive. According to the Israeli parliamen- House, we now grams with Georgian universities, and tarian, he saw this potential during Kob- exchanges of students and joint studies. akhidze’s visit to Israel. It is noteworthy have fewer Work in education will continue in that the Israeli delegation was received 2018 and includes well-developed areas by the Chairman of the Parliament. The intermediaries in such as Haitian, medical fi elds and more. meeting lasted longer than planned and The Georgian side's statement was an saw the sides analyzing the results of the Israeli- important message for the Israelis that the delegation's visit to Tbilisi. It is said that in January, another group of the Georgian Israeli Knesset is scheduled to come to MK Hasson Akram Georgia. The head of the delegation, and relationship. We Dimitry Kumsishvili, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development head of Israeli House, Isik Moshe, says Georgia-Israeli economic ties mark that frequent communication between believe that this BY LIZA NADIBAIDZE almost three decades. The infl ow of the parties is almost set until the end of investments from Israel has never 2018. trend should be stopped, with the 1990s seeing the launch The visit of the The Israeli House initiative, in conjunc- he Georgia-Israel relation- of the Georgia-Israeli Chamber of Com- tion with the traditional directions, is to the main line of ship is set to grow in 2018. merce in Georgia, and more than $500 Chairperson of have in the forefront the topic of mutual Despite the fact that the million invested in the country. This at approaches to youth. "Communications future plans relationship between these a time when investments from Israel the Parliament of between Georgian Universities and Israeli of the year, have a representative delega- two countries was stable were reduced to other sub-regions, for Institutes are focused on a new genera- tion visit Tbilisi which will take part in Tfor the past 25 years, this year, in Octo- example in Eastern Europe. The Georgia- Georgia to Israel tion that will have independent relations a summit and ceremonial events. “With ber, Georgian Parliament Chairman Irakli Israeli Chamber of Commerce works on between the two countries," said Moshe. the active work of Israeli House, we now Kobakhidze’s offi cial to Israel visit bought deepening economic relations and pro- also saw a call One of the novelties in the latest offi - have fewer intermediaries in the Israeli- new light to both sides. During this visit, tecting business, and making it faster cial visits was a trip to Jerusalem. During Georgian relationship: the Ministry is work strategies for the upcoming year and more fl exible. for cooperation in his stay, Kobakhidze also invited the in contact with the Ministry, business were planned. In the relations of two The Georgian side believes that it is Mayor of the capital of Israel to Tbilisi. gets along with business, and the inter- countries, special attention is to be paid important to deepen economic relations the fi eld of This visit will be the fi rst seeing a Mayor ests of the state is at the fi rst place. The to education, economic contacts and with Israel, because of the fact that the of Jerusalem visiting Georgia. Tbilisi protocol visits are loaded with more connections of the capitals. potential is great. For this purpose, Kob- education Mayor Kakha Kaladze, who was accom- content, and the Israeli press is even panied by the Israeli delegation and head more interested in Georgia. We believe of tourism administration of Georgia, that this trend should be the main line Giorgi Chogovadze, attended the launch of future plans,” Moshe added. of construction of a luxury hotel in Tbi- Israeli House projects not only com- lisi on December 17. Kaladze welcomed plement the offi cial diplomatic missions Israeli investment and promised support, and the general work of the embassies, while, according to Chogovadze, the but also the work on the Hasbara, which growing trend of tourism in the country makes it even better to show true Israel. contributes to the infl ow of new invest- Israeli House, together with Knesset ments. members, sees Hasbara products not 2018 is a jubilee year for Georgia and only in Georgia but also in Eastern Europe. Israel, seeing both countries marking Even here, the relationship with Georgia the date of independence. According to acquires the format of a model of what Moshe, both sides will be able to act kind of links Israel should have with a according to the set plan, and by the end friend country.

Kakha Kaladze, Mayor of Tbilisi MK Hasson Akram MK Itzhak Shmuli Ia Chantladze Itsik Moshe, Chairman of Israeli House Hasbara and Future Links 2017 GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 BUSINESS 11 Regus Unique Services Provide Comfortable Work Environment

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ervice Offi ces Provider, Inter- national Company ‘Regus’ is in Georgia, offering customers a perfect work environment in Tbilisi’s most prestigious, Sactive and dynamic part of Freedom Square. Poland Sees Regus was founded in 1989 in Brussels, Belgium. The company comprises more than 3,000 business centers located in over 1000 cities of 120 countries. Pre- to business lounges everywhere, access Nord Stream-2 as sented on the London Stock Exchange, to business lounges and internet access Regus offers fl exible and easy-to-use at the airport, free coffee, tea and other A-class offi ces, fl exible and simple con- services. Wherever they go, they have ditions of payment, modern and protected a place to work, which is not only con- “Suicidal” for Ukraine IT infrastructure, meeting rooms, com- venient but also prestigious. mon work space, administration services, holding to the capacity of this gas pipe- BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE and access to 3,000 branches around the WHAT ABOUT YOUR line, as such would compete with the world: important services needed for PLATINUM CARD? Polish Swinoujscie LNG terminal and the success of small, medium and large Platinum Card holders in all countries the future supply of “blue fuel” from businesses. enjoy personal offi ces unlimited, allow- oland's Minister of Finance, Norway and the US, which Poland intends Check out CBW’s interview with Rusu- ing the owner to have their own offi ce Mateusz Moravetsky, became to supply to southern Europe. dan Chakvetadze, Representative of in the world’s most prestigious busi- Prime Minister this month Poland also fears it will cease to play Regus in Georgia. ness centers, such as Trump Tower following the resignation of a key role in transporting Russian gas to New York and Dubai Downtown. The former government head European countries after the European REGUS HAS OPERATED ON owner of this card receives an indi- BeataP Szydlo. The new head of the Pol- Commission (EC) allowed Gazprom to THE WORLD MARKET FOR 30 vidual offi ce everywhere and always. ish government has since stated he use up to 90% of the capacity of the YEARS. WHAT EXPERIENCE The card is personal, but the owner believes that the implementation of the OPAL gas pipeline in Germany. HAS THIS TIME BROUGHT? has the opportunity to invite a visitor. Nord Stream-2 project is a harmful ini- “In addition, thanks to OPAL and Nord Our global network is expanding annu- The advantage of platinum is the addi- tiative that threatens the energy security Stream-1, Russians will create a path over ally. 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Businessman business center, safe, high-quality inter- excluded from the gas transit process, fore, we will try to block the transfer of than 30 years, we have been trusted by and Regus Founder, Mark Dixon, was net, and an easily-accessible location nothing will prevent its further destabi- OPAL to the hands of the Russians,” he multi-million companies, small and traveling around the world for business. which should meet the expected stand- lization,” Moravetsky said, adding that said, noting Poland's plans to challenge medium businesses, independent con- In Brussels, he needed an offi ce and ards. We have just a one-page agreement Nord Stream-2 “simultaneously strength- the decision of the EC on OPAL in a sultants and more than two million loyal couldn’t fi nd one with full service that in exchange for a space in the Regus ens Germany's ties with Russia” and judicial procedure. customers around the world. Among could be rented temporarily. That’s how offi ce for as long as you need. “Poland again faces the diktat of price On October 28, the EC approved the our customers are: Google, Microsoft, the idea of the Service Offi ce was born. from Gazprom and Russia.” expansion of Gazprom's access to the Lincoln, Facebook, Samsung, Uber, and A company or a person has the oppor- WHAT IS YOUR Moravetsky believes that Poland needs OPAL gas pipeline, which is a continu- Amazon. The years have brought trust, tunity to take on an offi ce for 1 hour, day, ‘VIRTUAL OFFICE’? to support its liquefi ed natural gas (LNG) ation of the already-operating Nord experience and high-quality service. month, year, etc. in any country. It all This is a virtual representation in the terminal in Swinoujscie, where Warsaw Stream-1 gas pipeline which was built When big companies plan to acquire started with offi ces, and now Regus has country. However, this commandment expects to receive LNG from the US as with the help of Gazprom. 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In this regard, the Ukrainian For- PROVIDE SPECIFICALLY? AND ment: they just fi nd a Regus branch in of 2020, there will be at least fi ve loca- Gazprom could go with the OPAL option, eign Ministry even said that the EU HOW DID IT ALL START? any of 120 countries, that’s 3,000 com- tions at different levels and prices in the Poland declared that it would take "all leadership, before making such a deci- The service offi ce implies a hotel-type fortable and open work spaces. capital, and 12 overall in the country, sorts of legal steps" in connection with sion, should have fi rst consulted with service: fully equipped offi ces, a busi- Our Gold Card gives members access including in Kutaisi, Rustavi and Batumi. the increased access of the Russian gas Kyiv.

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 Safety First: Mestia, Svaneti

BLOG BY TONY HANMER

everal weeks after my recent jaunt to Gudauri and a weekend of synergy around Sustainable Tourism sponsored by the German Society for International Coop- eration, they invited me to another out- Sing, this time involving aspects of guest house training and set in Mestia. I jumped at the chance. Our two days of seminars, all in Georgian, dealt with fi re safety, food safety and risk management. All very useful subjects, especially when combined with a number of tests and fi nal certifi cation. Three men, specialists in their fi elds, were our trainers. All this on the second fl oor of the wonderful Tet- nuldi Hotel, with its massive windows overlooking most of Mestia with its glazed towers, lit by the low winter sun as we started and by glorious up- lights after the sun set. As one might notice, the view threatened to distract, but I only allowed it to do so at break times. Participation in more than sixteen hours of Geor- gian lecturing, stimulating as the topics were, was no mean feat for me. My Georgian learning has been partly by formal lessons many years ago and partly by “osmosis” while immersed in the target language and culture (acquiring a Svan accent along the way, this latter decade in this region; something I don’t mind at all, provincial as it may make me seem). I retain more from reading than from hear- ing, so the tests, all written and multiple choice, were easier for me than an oral one would have been. My Russian is still superior, but I try to keep best to take full advantage, I feel. (mine was stray dogs) from the angle of risk anal- Check: buy several fi re extinguishers AND fi nd it shelved and non-interfering. We all had unique guest house situations and ysis, threat minimization and response. These we out where they can be refi lled closer to us than I made copious notes, asked many questions for needs, of course, but our trainers were able to presented to the group for critique. Tbilisi! Train myself and the wife in their use and clarifi cation or elaboration, considered things to cope with these vast differences and accommo- I applaud and thank my sponsors for inviting me in all aspects of fi re safety! And more. do or buy or change at home to improve our situ- date us all into their work. They had us simulate to such a useful weekend, my fi rst such all in Geor- ation safety-wise. There were only fi ve of us stud- a set of roles during a possible fi re, and then eval- gian. I surprised myself by managing an average Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since 1999, in Svaneti ying this time, a disappointingly low number given uate our performance to reiterate and improve mark of 90% across the tests, and came away most since 2007, and been a weekly writer for GT since early those who had promised to come more than a week for next time. And we examined our host building grateful for the new relationships, information, 2011. He runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook in advance and then cancelled “on the day,” but, inside and out for safety issues and made recom- practical help and support. I am also encouraged group, now with nearly 1800 members, at www.face- their loss! I’ll take the knowledge and its applica- mendations for what was good or what might be that new organizations in Georgia exist to help book.com/groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ tion and certifi cation and make what use of them improved. with all aspects of occupational health and safety. He and his wife also run their own guest house in Etseri: I can. When such are offered all expenses paid, We also each considered a potential safety issue This kind of bureaucracy we actually need! www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti

CULTURE 90th Anniversary of Georgian- German Writer Givi Margvelashivili Celebrated in Tbilisi “When Givi arrived in Tbilisi, his homeland, he BY LIKA CHIGLADZE did not know even a word of Georgian, so the stranger in his country found shelter in his novels,” Naira Gelashvili, distinguished Georgian writer, ecember 14 marked the 90th anniver- said. “All his writings are in German and of various sary of renowned writer and phi- genre; he is the author of a number of novels, tales, losopher Givi Margvelashivili. In plays, and rhymes, as well as philosophical works. relation to this date, while leading Margvelashvili is simultaneously a writer, poet, German publications and newspapers philosopher and a linguist, who does not have an Ddedicated lengthy articles congratulating this giant analogue in today’s world, being equally successful mind on his birthday, only a very small circle of in all these fi elds. Yet, since no one country stood Georgians had even heard of him. fi rmly behind him, he has been somehow put in The story of Givi Margvelashivi is a rarity, since the shadow. He is the type of writer who should the author experienced both Fascist and Commu- have received the Nobel Prize a long time ago.” nist regimes and managed to survive. He was born And the philosopher was nominated for the Nobel to a Georgian emigrant family in Berlin and then Prize twice. His works are not simply realistic, but expelled to Georgia by the KGB, where he spent rather philosophical, conveying deep meanings most of his years. Because of his vague past, in and offering new dimensions. His prose is not Germany he is perceived as a Georgian, and in purely German in style; it represents a combina- Georgia as a German author. tion of rationalism, with Georgian temperament On December 18, Goethe Institute in Tbilisi hosted and passion that eventually makes up an incredible the celebration of the distinguished writer’s anni- phenomenon. Givi’s works are becoming ever more versary, gathering his close friends, professors, popular among the modern generation with con- colleagues and, most importantly, the hero of the temporary taste, which shows how progressive his evening himself. writings were for the time, that they are as relevant The jubilee event was led by Professor Aleksan- to people today. dre Kartozia, who spoke about the author’s writings Several of his books have been translated and and life. Among the special guests were literature published in Georgian, such as Mutsal, inspired by expert and translator Sergo Okropiridze, publicist the poem of Vazha-Pshavela (a great Georgian Eke Maas and distinguished Georgian writer and writer), ‘Captain Vakush,’ ‘I Am Hero of the Book,’ German language expert Naira Gelashvili. Impor- as well as a number of rhymes and plays. Margve- tant excerpts from the writer’s works were read lashvili has also been hailed as an acclaimed spe- aloud and brought to life by the celebrated Geor- cialist of German existentialism. gian actress Nino Burduli. “His books should be translated and promoted In 1945, the writer and his father Tite, who had in the proper way, so that wider society can get to fl ed to Germany after the Red Army occupied know him,” Gelashvili told GEORGIA TODAY. “His Georgia in 1921, were captured by Soviet KGB agents works are refl ectional prose mixed with fantasy and taken to East Berlin by force. In 1946, his father that require imagination and considerable knowl- was shot, while the son was fi rst sent to a concen- edge of European literature to be understood and tration camp by the Soviets and later deported to perceived as they should.” Georgia at the age of 19. Continued on page 13 GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 CULTURE 13 Rusiko Chikvaidze on Art, Inspiration & Creativity

and I also like to paint winter. When I travel, which is a huge part of my life, I try to be active, to see as many things as I can, and collect those impres- sions and transform them into my works afterwards, and although I love to go out with my friends, who also are another very important part of my life, when working, I prefer to be alone. Art is something so vast, and when you create something anew on a white canvas, it brings so many diverse emotions; when, as a viewer, you’re experiencing it: love, dreams, and that’s a mission of art and artist. It certainly needs a great amount of talent, and it’s a very hard work. I can’t tell you everything about the inspiration, not because I’m hiding something, but because these are tiny bits of my world, my realm, my universe. What I can tell you is that I could work more, and the only thing stopping me is myself; I some- times need to stop and relax for several days. Of course, that’s a very individual thing, but I think it’s very important to have some time off. I work well when I’m in a good mood, that’s when it goes fl aw- lessly. I’m happy to be surrounded with people, my family and friends who greatly support me in what I do, and I also think while working on those series I tried to that life itself, all those different stages BY NINO GUGUNISHVILI catch “the moment” because everything of my life, the possibility to live and travel in our universe changes so fast, I wanted to so many countries, all of that formed to somehow catch and bring in the new me as an artist to a certain extent, and usiko Chikvaidze, one of the nuances, new palettes and overtones brought me to where I am now and I most acclaimed artists of while drawing, because no subject or really consider myself lucky. the contemporary Georgian object is exactly the same; each has art scene, holding a Silver unique features and characteristics and, HOW WOULD YOU and Gold Medal from UNE- as an artist, you have to see that. In art, DESCRIBE THE CURRENT RSCO for promoting culture (2005, 2007), you have to look at everything more STAGE OF YOUR CAREER? and with works kept in many museums, globally, philosophically even. As indi- It’s a very interesting one, with lots of galleries and private collections world- viduals, we all need art, because it makes plans ahead. With the upcoming exhibi- wide, is now preparing for an upcoming our lives more fi lled in and much more tion in Washington DC this January, I’ll exhibition to be hosted by the Georgian interesting. As an artist, you’re introduc- be staying in US for a month, meeting Embassy in the US. ing and displaying so many different with gallerists there, so I’ll be pretty busy. The exhibition will open in January in realms and universes to the viewers; it Being an artist can be very demanding Washington DC. GEORGIA TODAY doesn’t matter if they’re just seeing it at both physically and emotionally, and at couldn’t miss a chance to meet with the the exhibitions, or through books and the same time, it’s so rewarding when a artist prior to her trip. posters - as people are exposed to art, viewer understands or sees what you’ve they tend to dream more, to think more, put into your work as a painter. TELL US ABOUT THE EXHIBITION and to explore their inner selves in a It opens in January and there will be 19 way… Imagine no art existing; no music, WHAT DOES TRAVEL BRING of my works on display, ones created literature, theatre or opera, how boring YOU AND YOUR ART? this year. I fi nd them interesting for their our lives would be…. Every place gives me an impulse and I plot, ideas, and tonal palette, and I’m WHAT INSPIRES YOU? collect those colors and tones; it hap- sure it will be interesting for the view- A friend of mine told me that I love pens naturally, be it New York, Vienna, ers. Every year, I fi nd something new painting celebrations. I would say I love Paris, or Jurmala, which I visited not so while working and I’ll be presenting painting strong, deep impressions. I love long ago, and which is absolutely stun- these new “fi ndings” at the exhibition. opera, with its decorations and monu- ning in terms of the ecological concept mental sights; it always brings me such of the city. I think that Tbilisi too can IS THERE A VISIBLE CHANGE joy to see the synthesis of high art and transform into an ecological, green city, IN YOUR NEW WORKS music that opera has. I was once offered where all the cultural sites preserved COMPARED TO OLD? work at a theatre, but I refused, thinking will form a harmony with the green areas. I certainly feel a change. In my new it would take all my time. I’m sure my There are a great many things I like about works, there’s much more air, new tones decision was right, but it would defi nitely our city right now, and as the world and philosophical ideas to be seen. This be a very interesting experience, pos- develops at an extremely high speed, it’s year, I made a new series of “Colourful sibly infl uencing my work. I love paint- important to choose the right directions Vitamins” and “Colourful Calories”, and ing the nuances of human relationships, in which to move and to develop. 90th Anniversary of Georgian-German Writer Givi Margvelashivili Celebrated in Tbilisi Prize as well as being the owner of the able guests, Givi Margvelashvili will be Continued from page 12 Federal Cross of Merit of Germany and one of the central fi gures of discussion.” Margvelashvili was chosen as an hon- Italo-Svevo-Preis, a literary prize of Ger- At the end of the celebratory event, the orable Doctor of Tbilisi State University many. Besides being a great writer, he is hero of the hour, Givi Margvelashvili and was awarded the Goethe Medal. one of the leading fi gures in modern phi- himself, gave a small speech. Goethe Institute and DVV International losophy, who has made an immense con- “I have been an emigrant from inside established a prestigious award in his tribution to the science of language. Now my entire life, but with the support of name for special contribution to Geor- the time has come for his works to be my friends both in Georgia and Germany, gian-German cultural relations. spotlighted, revived and studied thoroughly I overcame many obstacles. I have devoted “His works were fi rst published in the again. If his novels had been published at my life to literature and my scientifi c 1990s in Germany,” Professor Aleksandre the time when they were written in the works. Once an emigrant, always an Kartozia told us. “The playwright is the 1960s, then today he would be one of the emigrant,” he said. winner of many prestigious awards, includ- chief representatives of world’s post-mod- Despite his age, the author still actively ing the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy ern literature. At Frankfurt Book Fair 2018, writes and is planning to complete his Award, Berlin Art Prize, Gustav Regler where Georgia will be one of the honor- scientifi c work in language studies. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER ARENA 2 JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE IOSEB GRISHASHVILI MAKA BATIASHVILI’S SOLO Address: 2 University Str. JUNGLE TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM EXHIBITION (Info Above) - KARVASLA Of artworks made in different TBILISI OPERA AND December 23 Start time: 12:00, 21:55 Address: 8 Sioni St. techniques in 2015-17. BALLET THEATER GREAT NEW YEAR PARTY Ticket: 8-14 GEL Telephone: 2 98 22 81 Black and white sketches and canvases Address: 25 Rustaveli Ave. A great new year party with sports games Telephone: 200 44 66 Start time: 13:00, 18:00 STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI November 28 – January 10, 2018 TBC GALLERY Ticket price: 30 GEL (Info Above) GNM Tbilisi History Museum Address: 5 Marjanishvili Str. December 23 Start time: 16:00, 22:15 Contemporary Art Gallery will host Telephone: 227 27 27 * Premiere CINEMA Ticket: 10-14 GEL the exhibition Pietro Mascagni STATE OF PLAY: ART IN November 30 - December 17 CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA AMIRANI CINEMA CAVEA GALLERY GEORGIA IN 1985-1999 PETRE OTSKHELI'S 110TH Starring: Tea Demurishvili Address: 36 Kostava Str. Address: 2/4 Rustaveli Ave. ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION (Santuzza), Anzor Khidasheli Telephone: 2 99 99 55 Telephone: 200 70 07 MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS MUSIC (Turiddu), Elene Janjalia (Lucia), www.kinoafi sha.ge Address: 1 Gudiashvili Str. Telephone: 2 99 99 09 Sulkhan Gvelesiani (Alfi o), Tamar December 22-28 TBILISI STATE Lebanidze - Intern (Lola). Tbilisi Every Wednesday ticket price: 5 GEL FERDINAND March 6 – December 31 CONSERVATOIRE State Opera and Ballet Theater December 22-28 (Info Above) Address: 8 Griboedov St. choir and orchestra. Language: English EXHIBITION MASTERPIECES FROM THE Telephone: 2 93 46 24 Conductor - Zaza Azmaiparashvili STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI Start time: 14:30 Directed by Rian Johnson Ticket: 15 GEL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Director - Victor Garsia Sierra (Italy) COLLECTION December 23 Scenographer - Italo Grassi (Italy) Cast: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, PIANO RECITAL EVGENY KISSIN Tom Hardy, Mark Hamill, Carrie JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 December 14 – March 14 Ticket price: 10-80 GEL Fisher, Adam Driver JUNGLE Ticket: 5-25 GEL Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy (Info Above) THE ANNIVERSARY- Language: Russian Start time: 17:00, 19:45, 22:30 RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBITION December 28 December 25 Start time: 16:00, 18:30 Ticket: 13-17 GEL GIGO GABASHVILI 155 BRAVO MAESTRO The State Ballet of Georgia presents Ticket: 12-14 GEL Dedicated to the 90th birthday THE NUTCRACKER STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI LITERATURE MUSEUM anniversary of Sulkhan Nasidze Ballet in Two Acts December 26 (Info Above) Address: 8 Chanturia Str. Start time: 19:00 By Pyotr Tchaikovsky Event Cinema Language: Russian Ticket: 5-20 GEL November 17 – January 25 (2018) Start time: 19:00 FOLLIES Start time: 19:10 200TH ANNIVERSARY Ticket: 10-50 GEL Directed by Dominic Cooke Ticket: 16-17 GEL MZIURI EXHIBITION Cast: Tracie Bennett, Julie Address: Mziuri Cafe OF FAMOUS GEORGIAN POET SHALIKASHVILI THEATER Armstrong, Norma Atallah, HAPPY DEATH DAY NIKOLOZ BARATASHVILI Address: 37 Rustaveli Ave. Josephine Barstow, Jeremy Batt Directed by Christopher Landon December 25 Telephone: 595 50 02 03 Language: English Cast: Jessica Rothe, Israel GALLERY SAKVIRAO Start time: 19:30 Broussard, Ruby Modine Entertainment program for children December 22 Start time: 12:00 Ticket: 17 GEL Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller DIMITRI SHEVARDNADZE HOST AND GUEST Language: Russian NATIONAL GALLERY TBILISI EVENT HALL Start time: 20:00 JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE Start time: 17:45 Address: 11 Shota Rustaveli Ave. Address: 1 Melikishvili Ave. JUNGLE Ticket: 14-15 GEL Ticket price: 20 GEL Telephone: 215 73 00 Telephone: 595 79 79 35 Directed by Jake Kasdan MUSEUM December 23 Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Karen December 15-January 16 December 25 KRIMANCHULI Gillan, Kevin Hart GIVI TOIDE’S ANNIVERSARY BAND ARA Start time: 20:00 Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy GEORGIAN NATIONAL RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBITION Wylti live + DJ Set Ticket price: 20 GEL Language: Russian MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Start time: 20:30 Start time: 15:45, 22:00 MUSEUM December 20-January 20 Ticket: 15 GEL MOVEMENT THEATER Ticket: 11-14 GEL Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. EXHIBITION Address: 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave. Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 KARLO KACHARAVA TODAY TBILISI OPERA AND Telephone: 598 19 29 36 FERDINAND www.museum.ge BALLET THEATER Directed by Carlos Saldanha ERTI GALLERY Address: 25 Rustaveli Ave. Cast: Kate McKinnon, Bobby Exhibition December 22 Address: 19 Ingorokva Str./5 9 April Str. Telephone: 200 44 66 Cannavale, David Tennant GEORGIAN COSTUME AND LABYRINTH Building B. Space 1 Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy WEAPONRY OF 18TH-20TH December 27 Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze Language: Russian CENTURIES December 2 – January 15 ANITA RACHVELISHVILI & Start time: 20:00 Start time: 19:30 Tato Akhalkatsishvili's solo show NIKOLOZ RACHVELI Ticket price: 10-15 GEL Ticket: 12-14 GEL Georgian National Museum NEVER SLEEP UPSIDE DOWN Conductor: Kakhi Solomnishvili and Korneli Kekelidze National A multimedia installation related to Start time: 20:00 TBILISI CIRCUS RUSTAVELI CINEMA Centrer of Manuscripts present the the galaxy. Ticket price: 10-75 GEL Address: Heroes’ Sq. Address: 5 Rustaveli Ave. exhibition Telephone: 2 55 50 00 MEDIEVAL TREASURY PROJECT ARTBEAT BIOLI HALL December 23, 24, 27 www.kinoafi sha.ge Permanent Exhibition Address: 14 Ingorokva Str. Address: Bioli Medical Wellness NEW YEAR CIRCUS SHOW Resort, Kojori Start time: 13:00, 17:00 Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL Exhibition November 24 – December 30 Ticket price: 10-25 GEL December 22-28 NUMISMATIC TREASURY Project ArtBeat presents December 24 The Georgian Philharmonic Orchestra and Nikoloz Rachveli present A new version of the project THE WORLD’S GREATEST SOUNDTRACKS Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 595 GEL The price covers: Festive dinner and wine

CONCERT HALL MOZAIKA Address: 61 Agmashenebeli Ave. Telephone: 247 92 20

December 27, 28 Enki-Benki TV and ‘Children's Music Hall’ Presents theatrical play CITY OF DREAMS The miracle, which took place in the City of Dreams on Christmas night. Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 12, 15 GEL

ELEKTROWERK Address: 2 Monk Gabriel Salosi, 1st Turn Telephone: 577 78 24 97

December 23 GEORGIAN ROCK BAND DAGDAGANI THE FIRST SOLO SHOW Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 12, 15 GEL

FABRIKA Address: 8 Ninoshvili Str.

December 24 THE NEW YORK CLARINET Levan Tskhadadze- clarnet, Davit Aladashvili- piano, MIsho Urushadze- DJ set. Start time: 21:00 Ticket: 35 GEL GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 22 - 25, 2017 CULTURE 15 Georgian Actor on the Latest Success & Berlinale 2018 allow him to express passion, anger and sensibility. “I ended up at Shooting Stars through the Geor- BY LIKA CHIGLADZE He has a natural presence and his overwhelming gian National Film Center,” he told us. “Georgia energy combined with humble eagerness, makes presented my candidacy and I was accepted. I suc- him an undisputed 'one to watch’." ceeded thanks to the help of many people, in par- uropean Shooting Stars, the annual pres- For the 21st edition of European Shooting Stars, ticular, director Rezo Gigineishvili and producer tigious selection of 10 young talents to this year's jury of industry experts selected a list Tamara Tatishvili, who introduced my name to the watch, has announced its fresh faces for of what they deem to be 2018's 10 most talented, Georgian Film Center. To be honest, I was not 2018, among them Georgian fl edgling up-and-coming actors from all over Europe, who expecting to be selected for the award and I can actor Irakli Kvirikadze, famous for play- are ready to step out onto the international fi lm hardly believe in it even now. It’s a really big achieve- ingE the lead role in the fi lm Hostages by celebrated scene. They will be presented to the fi lm industry, ment and it really means a lot to me.” Georgian director Rezo Gigineishvili. public and international press during the 68th Ber- The world premiere of Hostages, through which The selected up-and-coming actors from Europe, lin International Film Festival (February 15 – 25, the actor earned his fame, was held as part of the including Irakli, will be honored at the Berlin Inter- 2018). The group will take part in a dedicated work- 67th Berlin International Film Festival and only national Film Festival 2018. He is the fi rst Georgian shop program, rounded off by an awards ceremony afterwards, in April, was it screened in Georgia’s actor to be given this prestigious prize. at the Berlinale Palast on Monday, February 19, cinemas. The fi lm by Rezo Gigineishvili is based "Irakli is a fresh talent, having given a truly impres- where each actor will be given a European Shoot- on a tragic story that took place in 1980s Soviet sive performance in Hostages, an ensemble drama ing Stars Award. Georgia. A group of friends who wanted to escape in which he shines, thanks to the emotional depth GEORGIA TODAY spoke to actor Irakli Kviri- the Soviet regime attempted to hijack a plane in he displays,” the Shooting Stars jury stated. “Still kadze who is currently based in Los Angeles, and Tbilisi airport and fl ee to the United States, but young, Irakli's admirable skills as a trained actor asked him to tell us about his achievement. their plan failed and the result was a tragedy. “Playing this role in the fi lm was extremely inter- esting and a big responsibility,” Irakli said. “It is a ning that this fi lm would receive controversial big challenge when you play a person who was feedback, because the story on which the movie is known to the entire country. There are many peo- based is very private and painful for many people How a ple who knew Gega Kobakhidze very well and had in Georgia. The whole team put a lot of energy and close relations with him. I knew from the begin- effort into making work.” Georgian Artist’s Painting Ended up in Björk’s Hands organizers of the event. I asked one of the staff BY LIKA CHIGLADZE members if it was possible to give my painting to the singer. They did not respond instantly and told me to leave my artwork and contact information. egendary Icelandic musician and singer One of the organizers left the artwork along with Björk paid a visit to Georgia this summer the documentation in the room and told me that for the fi rst time and held two concerts Björk’s manager personally saw it and was really at the Tbilisi Concert Hall and Opera in impressed. As I was told, the manager had a look Tbilisi. The popular and one of the most at the documentation and when realizing that eve- highly-paidL singers, in addition to performing in a rything was made in accordance, kept the artwork. fl oral crown designed by a Georgian designer, and The very next day, as agreed, I called the member enjoying Georgian bean soup lobio, upon departing of the organizational team and, as it turned out, took a painting by a young Georgian artist with her. Björk had taken the painting with her. What could The artwork depicts Björk from her video clip for be more pleasing than hearing that your favorite the song Pagan Poetry, which is the second single musician took your artwork?” Paichadze told us. from the album Vespertine released in 2001. As it When artist heard the news, she was so excited turned out, the person behind the portrait of the that she instantly made it public on her social media well-known singer is Nino Paichadze, a young artist account: and a big fan of Björk’s music, who is best known “Guys, I have very good news. The organizers of for creating rare 3D style artworks. the SOU festival informed me that Björk took my Nino Paichadze is 24 years-old and lives in Tbi- painting with her!” lisi. She studied artistic woodwork and design at Nino’s artworks stand out for their individuality the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts. In parallel with and performing technique called 3D Anaglyph that creating art, the artist works as a creative director creates a three-dimensional effect. at the Japanese Language & Culture Center. “In order to see the artwork as a 3D object, one As a true lover of Björk’s music, Nino attended has to look through 3D glasses. These are the types her concert at Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater and of paintings that are fi rmly connected with music. even managed to make her dream come true and Actually, I’m the only one doing it right now in present her artwork to the beloved musician. Georgia,” the artist elaborated on her art. GEORGIA TODAY contacted her to fi nd out The artist explained she has been drawing since more. she fi rst took a pencil in hand. When she enrolled “I painted Björk’s portrait in 2013. The main pur- at the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts, she received pose of all my paintings where I portray famous 100% scholarship after passing the national exams singers and musicians, is that one day they will see successfully. After graduating, the artist was accepted my artworks and like them so much that decide to by the New York Academy of Arts as a student in keep them. Even though I didn’t know whether I’d the Master of Fine Arts degree program, but unfor- be able to give my artwork to Björk, I quickly got tunately, she was not able to continue her studies, the special border-crossing documentation ready since she could not get funding in Georgia. for the painting and took my one-meter wooden “Every human being who uses one’s potential and piece to the Tbilisi Opera. When I entered the skills at best is like a god. We have the potential to building, I started searching for someone who could invent, bring change and create everything from help me hand my present to the singer. At fi rst I scratch, but because we do not fully realize it, we was told to approach administration, then the cou- lose this opportunity and potential,” the young art- lisses and fi nally I ended up at the room of the ist told us.

PUBLISHER & GM Journalists: Website Manager/Editor: ADDRESS Reproducing material, photos George Sharashidze Tony Hanmer, Zaza Jgarkava, Tamzin Whitewood 1 Melikishvili Str. and advertisements without Maka Bibilashvili, Tbilisi, 0179, Georgia prior editorial permission is COMMERCIAL Dimitri Dolaberidze, Layout: strictly forbidden. DEPARTMENT Maka Lomadze, Misha Mchedlishvili Tel.: +995 32 229 59 19 The author is responsible for Commercial Director: Joseph Larsen, E: [email protected] all material. Rights of authors Webmaster: Iva Merabishvili Vazha Tavberidze, Sergey Gevenov F: GeorgiaToday are preserved. The newspaper Marketing Manager: Nugzar B. Ruhadze, is registered in Mtatsminda Salome Vashalomidze Nino Gugunishvili, Circulation Managers: ADVERTISING & district court. Thea Morrison David Kerdikashvili, SUBSCRIPTION EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT: David Djandjgava +995 577 14 14 87 GEORGIA TODAY Editor-In-Chief: Photographer: E-mail: Reg. # 06/4-309 Katie Ruth Davies Irakli Dolidze [email protected]