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OSCE CREATES SPECIAL MIKHEIL JANELIDZE TO REASSURE GROUP TO WORK ON GERMANY ON GEORGIAN MAP P. 2 GEORGIA-RELATED ISSUES P. 3 Germany has led the opposition to a Georgian Mem- bership Action Plan (MAP) and the country’s integration in the military alliance while Berlin welcomes Georgian NEW POLL REVEALS determination to pivot toward European institutions. RUSSIANS` INCREASED Close cooperation with the Germany is the key factor for Georgia’s integration in western political organiza- NEGATIVE ATTITUDE tions. Since the success of Georgian western route is TOWARD THE WEST P. 4 heavily dependent on how Germany evaluates Geor- gia’s progress, latest official visit is crucially important. PRIVATE OR STATE SCHENGEN FACES COLLAPSE: HOW IT OWNERSHIP: MPs DISCUSS LAND REGISTRATION BILL WILL AFFECT EU-GEORGIA VISA P. 8 FREE TRAVEL REGIME? P. 5 MASSIVE PROTEST Georgia’s ambassador to the EU, Natalie Sabanadze, CONTINUES AGAINST does not exclude that the crisis on migration in Europe, maybe has a negative effect on the visa liberalization PANORAMA TBILISI process in Georgia. “We have to consider that the crisis of migration is dif- CONSTRUCTION P. 9 ficult challenge by the EU. Against this background, it is difficult to make such a decision. So maybe there will be some factors that exist independent from us and that GEORGIA’S POPULATION TO could have a negative impact, but I’m optimistic,” Sa- DROP FURTHER banadze said. P. 10 2 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE POLITICS OSCE CREATES SPECIAL GROUP TO WORK ON GEORGIA-RELATED ISSUES

EKA PKHOVELISHVILI

OSCE Security and Coopera- country, especially after Russian practically nobody supported the tion meeting was held in Austria, blocked missions in Abkhazia Russian representatives. which was attended by Georgia’s and South Ossetia. Obviously, “The speech of Russia’s ambas- Defence Minister Tinatin Khi- it is necessary to be more ac- sador was not unexpected. It is dasheli. The main issues of the tive during the forum to return usual practice and the part of the forum were the regional security organization in Georgia. This is same scenario. This is a reason challenges and the necessity for not easy, however, I think that why it is an important such kind modernization of the European the most important is when all of forums. It is not conflict reso- security architecture. Tinatin the international organizations lution and it does not automati- Khidasheli drew attention to vio- – OSCE, NATO, the Council of cally provide territorial integrity lation of international commit- Europe are clearly trying to as- of our country, but the interna- ments taken by Russia and oc- sist the country in this very dif- tional support that Georgia has, cupation of Georgian territories. ficult period,” – Georgia’s De- is the only guarantee that our Georgia’s Defence Minister fence Minister pointed out. country will have better future Tinatin Khidasheli has met with The Defence Minister said that and we are moving toward this OSCE Secretary General Lam- such meetings contribute to the way with the civilized world.” – berto Zannieri within the frame- exchange of opinions and dis- said Tinatin Khidasheli. work of her visit to Austria. The cussions about the security chal- At the end of the last century, issues of deepening cooperation lenges. These issues are crucially after the Russia’s aggression is important for OSCE in order resolution process. International between Georgia and OSCE important for Georgia’s state- against Georgia and when the to protect the interests of Euro- organization was established in were discussed during the meet- hood. military actions were stopped pean energy security and sta- order to strengthen peace and ing. The conversation also re- “We discussed not only the is- in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, bilize functioning of the South cooperation, and not to support ferred to regional security. The sues of cooperation between OSCE is constantly trying to Caucasus energy corridor run- any of the actors in the conflict. parties discussed the situation in Georgia and OSCE and ongoing solve the conflicts in Georgia. ning through. This will increase The international community Georgia’s occupied regions and projects in the Ministry of De- Despite the fact that after the Georgia’s stability and improve should strongly support its good administrative borders. fense of Georgia, but also a wide aggression of Russia in August its socio-economic development. will for the political success of The issues of demilitariza- range of topics about the secu- 2008, it vetoed the OSCE mis- It is important for Georgia in in- united Georgia. Constantly go- tion was one of the topics of the rity situation in the country and sion in occupied territory, there ternational community to be the ing against the world opinion is meeting that is successfully con- in the region generally. A special still is the necessity for organi- idea that large part of the country unbelievable, and none of the ducted by the OSCE’s support in group will be set up at the OSCE zation to be engaged in actions is illegally occupied by Russia state can do it. Russia is not the Georgia. In her speech Tinatin secretariat, which will discuss concerning the conflict resolu- and it still actively continue the exception as well. Khidasheli spoke about the im- Georgia-related issues on a regu- tion process. One of the confir- process of “borderization”. Official Kremlin, sooner or lat- portance of cooperation with the lar basis and this will remain top mation of this was the meeting of Within the framework of the se- er, will have to take into account OSCE and international commu- of the organization’s agenda,” - Tinatin Khidasheli with OSCE curity forum, the Defence Min- the world’s opinion. Therefore, nity support. Lamberto Zannieri said. Secretary General Lamberto ister of Georgia has once again the interest of the international “Lamberto Zannieri is a long- At the extraordinary plenary Zannieri, where the main focus pointed out that the block of the organizations concerning with time friend of Georgia. He often session, the Defence Minis- was on the situation in the occu- OSCE mission by Russia in the Georgia’s problems is of vital arrives in Georgia and trying ter responded to the speech of pied territories. occupied territories is a signifi- importance for countries peace- OSCE to be the instrument in the Russia’s ambassador and noted Conflict resolution in Georgia cant impediment of the conflict ful development. TAMAR BERUCHASHVILI HAS BEEN APPOINTED AS AN AMBASSADOR TO GREAT BRITAIN Tamar Beruchashvili, the for- has a possibility to receive edu- also touched on the future plans, mer Minister of Foreign Affairs cation at the best schools of Brit- which relates to the issue of edu- will start her diplomatic service ain. We cooperate in the frame- cation, staff training, more mili- in the United Kingdom from work of the NATO-Georgia joint tarys’ involvement in the joint March 1. Before her departure, package. A plan for bilateral re- projects, which will be carried she held a meeting with the De- lations was approved two weeks out; As well as the high and me- fence Minister of Georgia, Tina ago,” said Khidasheli. dium level visits, which has to be Khidasheli. Beruchashvili summed up the conducive to the development of The main topic of discussion topics discussed: “UK-Georgia our bilateral cooperation in the was the cooperation with the relations in the defense sector military sphere. “ Great Britain in the field of de- is characterized by dynamism. At the end of the meeting the fense and the relationships in Britain is one of the most distinct Defence Minister wished Beru- different directions. Special at- and active supporter of Georgia chashvili success on this respon- tention was paid to the military on its Euro-Atlantic aspirations. sible job and noted that the Brit- education in the United King- Today’s meeting with the Min- ish-Georgian relations will gain dom. ister of Defense mainly focused even more when it has a higher “We have quite a large package on the priorities of the Georgia- ranking diplomat as an ambas- in the UK relations. Our Military British military cooperation; We sador. 3 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE POLITICS MIKHEIL JANELIDZE TO REASSURE GERMANY ON GEORGIAN MAP GIORGI CHAPIDZE Georgian foreign minister reforms executed by Georgian pean and Euro-Atlantic integra- Mikheil Janelidze paid an offi- government that strengthened tion and regional cooperation. cial visit to the Federal Republic democracy and political climate One of the main point of the di- of Germany last week. During in the country. Steinmeier ex- alog was free trade regime that the visit Janelidze met with his pressed that Germany is willing resulted in increased trade ex- German colleague Frank-Walter to support Georgia in terms of change between the represented Steinmeier and other German finalizing visa liberalization pro- international actors. Janelidze officials representing Bundestag cedures with the EU. Two parties reiterated that Georgia is im- and country’s ministries. Ger- also acknowledged that making portant hub for intercontinental many is the biggest country of German entrepreneurs and busi- shipments of goods and holds the EU holding the most seats nessmen more interested in in- geostrategic location that can of the European Parliament and vesting in Georgia is one of the benefit both the European Union is one of the most influential foremost priorities for deepening and Asian states. Meeting also member of the NATO as it has cooperation together with the bi- included the discussion about a decisive leverage over the Al- lateral partnership in cultural and the expectations for approaching liance’s politics. Germany has educational issues. Warsaw summit. The head of the led the opposition to a Georgian Official visit included Bundestag’s EU affairs’ commit- Membership Action Plan (MAP) Janelidze’s meeting with Bunde- tee also declared that Germany and the country’s integration in stag’s representatives. According evaluates Georgia’s determina- known for it close ties with the Georgia’s first president She- the military alliance while Berlin to the member of CDU (Chris- tion to acquire the EU’s stand- Russian Federation. Therefore, vardnadze is credited to have welcomes Georgian determina- tian Democratic Union of Ger- ards very highly. Germany is they choose to be more protec- played a key role in the unifica- tion to pivot toward European many) Thomas Feist, Georgia’s pleased with Georgia’s efforts tive and prudent until the geo- tion process of Germany as the institutions. Close cooperation euro integration process contin- and will continue to support it. It political climate changes in the Soviet foreign minister. There- with the Germany is the key fac- ues to be very progressive espe- goes without saying that Germa- region. Another consideration is fore, Germany tended to be more tor for Georgia’s integration in cially due to the reason of sev- ny is Georgia’s one of the most that Gazprom supplies Germany supportive for small Caucasian western political organizations. eral crucial reforms in the sphere important partner and the visit with natural gas resources with state. In later years Georgian Since the success of Georgian of justice and mutual efforts both was aimed at renewal of the co- the Nordstream (North European government and mainly the min- western route is heavily depend- from the EU and Georgian gov- operation but will it help to bring Gas Pipeline). Because of this istry of foreign affairs is blamed ent on how Germany evaluates ernment. Feist believes that two a change in the core problem very reason one may speculate for not having influential am- Georgian government’s pro- countries should widen bilateral Georgia has with Germany? that Germany is not willing to bassador in the German Federa- gress, latest official visit is cru- ties to help make Georgian inte- Besides very staunch relations gamble with the Kremlin. These tion who would help to establish cially important. gration in the western organiza- and compassionate declarations explanations may be called “Rus- more favorable outlook on Geor- The two parties discussed a tions reality. Germany is still prudent to sup- sian veto” but behind Germany’s gia’s integration in the NATO in wide range of bilateral coopera- As the head of the Bundestag’s port MAP for Georgia. Ger- denial supposedly stand more Germany. Personal factors obvi- tion with a special focus on Geor- delegation Axell Fisher stated, many’s stance is important con- realistic considerations such as ously have some influence in re- gia’s integration in the Euro- supporting Georgia to become sideration for other states that Georgian frozen conflicts and the lations with the Germany. Atlantic institutions. Janelidze closer to the EU is in Germany’s affects Georgia’s integration in lack of technical or political pre- Germany is willing to support have pointed out the significance interest as well. Germany is the NATO. But when it comes to paredness. At the initial stage of Georgian integration in the EU of Germany’s support for Geor- looking forward to bring east- the relations with the EU Germa- the Georgian statehood in 1990s like other big or small European gian foreign policy aspirations. ern European states near to the ny openly expresses that Georgia when the country regained its states that is not exceptional case Georgian minister stated that the institutions’ standards. Besides, should be the member state. independence Germany was one but Georgia fails to make German discussion also included posi- Janelidze held meeting in influ- It can be assumed that the main of the first nations recognizing authorities to be more positively tive tendencies regarding to the ential German research center premise of Germany’s unwill- Georgia’s sovereignty and also predisposed about Georgia’s increased economic cooperation SWP (German Institute for In- ingness to grant Membership provided some assistance to get NATO path. Georgian govern- between the states. Frank-Walter ternational and Security Affairs). Action Plan to Georgia stems international support of west- ment should work more actively Steinmeier specified that Geor- Georgian minister delivered from the reason that German ern monetary institutions. This to win Germany’s support. Un- gia pursues its European integra- speech about the country’s cur- political establishment is well- support illustrates how personal less berlin gives a green lite to tion path very fruitfully. German rent international challenges, aware of Russian interests in the factor affects the countries’ rela- Georgia integration in the NATO foreign minister referred to the democratic development, Euro- South Caucasus and Berlin is tions. seems to be futuristic hope. GOODBYE, NOT FAREWELL: RECEPTION HELD FOR OUTGOING FRENCH AMBASSADOR Ambassador of France to Geor- post is yet unknown. pation of the Ambassador. It is gia H.E. Renaud Salins held a Acting Foreign Minister David the first time when we got the farewell reception at the French Dondua thanked the ambassador French leadership on the NATO School of Caucasus. French for his contribution in promot- package. It is very important that Ambassador underlined the ing bilateral relation between the big European countries, such as great success of the reforms, two countries and gave a memo- France and the United States will which was implemented in re- rable gift. become one of the leading coun- cent years. Renaud Salins reit- “These four years was very im- tries of our success with NATO,” erated France’s firm support for portant in the Georgian-French said Khidasheli. Except the poli- Georgia’s European integration. relations. Especially intense was ticians, the diplomatic corps ac- French Ambassador is going to the last year. It was impossible to credited in Georgia attended the stay in Georgia for some time. reach these consequences with- event. Renaud Salins has served Who will replace him on that out active and effective partici- in Georgia since 2012. 4 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE POLITICS NEW POLL REVEALS RUSSIANS` INCREASED NEGATIVE ATTITUDE TOWARD THE WEST GURAM PTSKIALADZE Recent polls by Levada Center peared, 81 percent of respond- that would lead to the lifting of the west? We should seek the an- ades, more and more Russians revealed that 81 percent of citi- ents have a negative attitude mutual sanctions comprised just swers firstly in recently occurred fueled some dislikes vis-à-vis zens of Russia believe that their toward the US. Taking into con- 26 percent. Some 58 percent of events in Ukraine that have had a the West, but recent movements country`s military forces are sideration what was the datum of those polled answered that they huge impact on the relations be- led to a greater negativity toward entirely capable of protecting this question in last year (44 per- didn’t expect any improvement tween the West and Russia. After the West (NATO, EU and the them against any military threat cent), there we have a huge gap in Russia-West relations anytime having conquered the Crimean US). Most Russians see these ac- from other nations. Notably, the between two polls` outcomes. soon, noting that their country peninsula and conducted violent tors as opponents or, rather, en- number of people giving a high Not many Russians have an affil- should learn to live in new eco- acts in Eastern Ukraine, the two emies for their country striving mark for its militaries increased iation toward European Union – nomic conditions. sides` relationships have largely for diminishing Russia`s power. by 21 percent in comparison 71 percent of respondents tended As we can see, Russians` atti- degenerated. Pondering what Imposing economic sanctions with the poll conducted in 2014 to loath EU (last year`s was 34). tude changed in last years. The to do against Russia, the West stirs up their aversion toward the (Consequently, it consisted 60 54 percent of respondents al- number of people who voted found out the choice – econom- West. Besides, we should men- percent). In contrast, 11 percent leged Russia was correct when it against Western organizations or ic sanctions that is still into the tion the Kremlin propaganda via of respondents marked out that anticipated hostile actions on the who balloted that their military force. Leaving Ukrainian case its televisions and other sources Russian military strength is not a part of the NATO bloc, whereas forces is unbeatable, enlarged aside, the West and Russia have of media. The Kremlin propa- guarantor of defending from all 36 percent said such method at some point. Just catching a other apples of discord. The fact gandist machine works well. the potential dangers. 8 percent was wrong. At the same time, 51 glimpse at the poll is enough to that the west fails vis-à-vis Rus- They forecast news as Russian pointed out that the question is percent of Russians said NATO conclude that, on the one hand, sia to make it rethink its foreign government wants and tries to too tough to answer. shouldn’t fear their country and most Russians are confident policy, allows more Russians to reflect the reality as if Russia Furthermore, people who think 39 percent said such fear would and satisfied with their military believe their military power is acts in a right way in Ukraine, that a possibility of foreign inva- be justified. strength and more and more peo- head and shoulders above others. the West wants Russia to be di- sion is real augmented to 65 per- Besides, 75 percent of Russians ple showed their fondness to- From Russian people`s point of minished and weakened. It has a cent, whereas the previous poll said that their country should do ward militarism and abhorrence view, their country gained con- great influence on how Russians showed 56 percent to ponder so more to improve the relations toward the West has mounted. trol over the Crimean peninsula see their country in international (28% - there is no such a threat, with the West and 70 percent fa- As it is obvious, the poll re- without a great effort. Being the system. 7 – refused to answer).40 percent vor extra efforts to progress rela- vealed that Russians` attitude west unable to stop Russia`s evi- Of course, the reality is not said that their military strength tions with Ukraine. At the same changed in contrast with the last dent aggression and economic as Russians see it since the should upsurge, 42% think there time, most Russians (65 percent) poll. So, why so many Russians sanctions seems to be nothing country`s military power has is no such necessity. said the country should con- regard their army so almighty? but inability to cope with Rus- many weaknesses, it is not as In addition to these questions, tinue implementing independent Why do they think that a foreign sia with military forces and they developed technologically as Levada Center asked Russian policies. Those who said Rus- threat increased or why do they think that the West is afraid of some other countries`. But, actu- upon United States. As it ap- sia needs to find a compromise have so negative attitude toward Russia`s military strength and ally, Russian population does not they have no choice but to impose take into consideration the real economic sanctions. It sharpened military situation. Their answers, Russians` negative position on apparently, are not based upon the West believing it is unfair the military potentials of great to impose sanction for them. powers, but they gauge Russia`s Achieving success in Ukraine`s military power relied on media case, it made most Russians as- propaganda and the Kremlin of- sume that their country would do ficials. As the relations between everything it wished for and the the West and Russia does not West (especially the US), despite seem to be improved soon unless having great military power, is several issues are solved, includ- toothless when it comes to fac- ing economic sanctions, events ing Russia as an enemy. is eastern Ukraine, Crimean case Raised negative attitudes stem and etc., it is highly possible that from above mentioned events to the next poll`s result might be a distinct extent. In last two dec- even more perturbing. ESTONIA’S NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATED IN TBILISI Estonia celebrated its 98th an- mon vision of the future. Excellency MR. Priit Turk also niversary as a free country in “Estonia is not only a friend to discussed the importance of part- Tbilisi’s Rose Garden Hall On Georgia, but is an example in the nership between the states. He February 24. Prime Minister of process of European and Euro- thanked the guests and expressed Georgia, Giorgi Kvirikashvili Atlantic integration. Coopera- hope that cooperation between congratulated Estonian nation tion in various areas, sectoral and Georgia and Estonia will become on the Independence Day and partnership projects represent even deeper. The ceremony thanked Estonia for unwavering an important moving force for dedicated to the Estonian Inde- support demonstrated towards Georgia on its way to European pendence Day was attended by Georgia. Pursuant to Prime Min- and Euro-Atlantic integration.” - Members of the Government and ister, Georgia and Estonia are Prime Minister states during the Parliament, diplomats, business- united by deep ties of friendship, celebratory ceremony. Ambas- men, representatives of NGOs close cooperation and the com- sador of Estonia to Georgia, His and international organizations. 5 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE FACT-ANALYSIS SCHENGEN FACES COLLAPSE: HOW IT WILL AFFECT EU-GEORGIA VISA FREE TRAVEL REGIME? NATA BITSADZE

Belgium joined the initiative EU’s common policy. Naturally, cording to the study, the EU’s Georgia already has a resolu- Development of the Fund’s to tighten the border control this is a very difficult challenge border control defies increase tion of the European Commis- foreign policy chief, George caused by migration crisis on for the EU,” Kvashalava said. of import prices by 3 percent, sion, according to which the Rukhadze said, that it becomes Feb. 23. The government has Independent Experts Club for 2016 to 2025, that fact will country has faithfully fulfilled the politically unpopular theme abandoned free movement as President, Soso Tsiskarishvili, forfeit 235 billion euros in Ger- imposed obligations, but the to grant visa-free travel for Geor- armed guards patrol road check- said countries that have sus- many and in France -244. This next stage of the political na- gia and Ukraine. As Rukhadze points with France and mounted pended their membership in fact will have a negative impact ture. The decision about the lib- says, on the other hand Georgia 300 officers to keep watch at the Schengen zone will be a on China and the United States. eralization process should adopt has successfully fulfilled all the rural crossing points. Interna- less available for our country. Georgia’s ambassador to the the European Parliament and requirements of the European tional Organization for Migra- “It is a fact that today the Eu- EU, Natalie Sabanadze, does the European Council together. Commission and the country tion (IOM) reported that in 2015, ropean countries that belong to not exclude that the crisis on mi- For to make a positive deci- deserves visa-free travel to the more than a million people im- the Schengen zone can not solve gration in Europe, maybe has a sion Georgia needs the consent Schengen zone of technical view. migrated to Europe. As it is this problem alone, because it negative effect on the visa lib- of 28 member states while in “Receiving a visa liberali- known, such a large-scale migra- is caused not by a member of eralization process in Georgia. Europe the migration crisis in- zation this summer depends tion crisis has not been seen in the EU but also by the first -Is “We have to consider that the creases the risk, that any country on how the government will Europe since World War II. Mi- lamic state as well as terror- crisis of migration is difficult can use the veto. After that, the manage to convince the ma- grants enter Europe in two main ist groups. Do not be surprised challenge by the EU. Against visa liberalization process will jority of the European Parlia- ways: the Mediterranean Sea if they took advantage and the this background, it is difficult to be postponed again for Georgia. ment and the EU leaders to take and the Greece-Turkey border. countless people in the stream, make such a decision. So maybe In spite of this issue, the Euro- a political decision on time. IOM spokesman said that only which penetrated Europe, sent there will be some factors that ex- pean Commissioner for Enlarge- In addition, the face of such a cardinal change of the situa- its activists and agitate of the ist independent from us and that ment and Neighbourhood Policy, appearances in Georgia will tion in Syria can stop the flow European society is complete- could have a negative impact, but Stefan Fule believes that Georgia not make the different face, of migrants. The organization ly legal,” Tsiskarishvili said. I’m optimistic,” Sabanadze said. has a progress and the visa lib- that should European legisla- predicts that in 2016, 1 million Tsiskarishvili has an initia- Prime Minister of Georgia, eralization process will depend tors think that Georgia soured refugees will arrive in Europe. tive on how to solve this prob- Giorgi Kvirikashvili, said the on the country’s homework. the road of EU,” Rukhadze said. Georgian experts actively dis- lem. As he said, the main so- European Commission supports “I hope that the migration crisis Finally, Georgia’s EU inte- cuss this issue, especially in light lution is in the region’s unity. of Georgia’s visa liberalization will not affect on the excellent gration and visa liberalization, of the coming visa-free travel “It would be better if Turkey and process, although some countries work done by Georgia and the cit- do not depend only to the state regime to Europe this summer. Greece would set up a joint initia- have some concerns with regard izens will be able to freely travel policy, but also determined by Dean of the Institute of Public tive to create a special discussion to the migration crisis. For this in the Schengen zone,” he said. outside factors. It does not mat- Affairs, Bakur Kvashilava, says about this issue with the partici- purpose, Kvirikashvili had an of- This position is shared by the ter, how successful is a country’s that this is not the first time that pation of the Black Sea. It would ficial visit in the Czech Republic international relations expert, work of the recommendations of the EU has not had a common be a good step towards a more and Prague and he tried to dispel Mr. Sharashidze as well. Ac- the European Union, the struc- opinion. But the current cri- peaceful future. I do not think doubts of foreign colleagues. cording to him, if the govern- ture and democracy develop- sis is different on the grounds that this was the great difficulty “There are concerns about ment is going to do some anti- ment, migration crisis is still one that it has direct affect to the to Georgia, Ukraine, Romania, the migrant crisis in the Neth- democratic measures this will of the main future challenges of EU population. Therefore, it Bulgaria, Turkey, to relate with erlands, France and Germany. be a serious threat to the coun- the country and can affect to the is difficult for the government this format,” Tsiskarishvili said. The Interior and Justice Min- try’s visa liberalization process. European integration process. to leave the decision on this is- Foreign media, REUTERS istries are cooperating closely “The biggest threat to the visa It is important to implement sue only in the political sphere. writes an article based on Ber- with foreign counterparts in or- liberalization process will be the right policies and not to “Increasing trends and attitudes, telsmann Foundation survey and der to make it clear that Geor- created if the government vio- violate democracy in the coun- even in Britain, are whether it is says that the EU could forfeit gia’s visa liberation process lates the principles of democra- try, as well as the fact, that appropriate or not to stay in the break up of Schengen zone 1.4 is not connected to the migra- cy. In this case, we never enter the country should prepare to EU and this is a threat to the trillion euros in 10 years. Ac- tion crisis,” Kvirikashvili said. into the Schengen zone,” he said. meet with the flow of migrants. 6 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE ECONOMICS PRIVATE OR STATE OWNERSHIP: MPs DISCUSS LAND REGISTRATION BILL

Parliament debates on agricul- soon file an alternative bill. “The painless solution to agricultural countered in the process of land tural land registration bill. The draft law presented by the gov- land legalization and property registration. issue was raised by the members ernment raised the threat that rights’ problems, we have to take “The process is completely of the government who launched farmers lose land. In Kakheti decisive steps to create the ap- public, and if anyone, includ- this legislative initiative. Ac- region such cases are many. The propriate legislative framework. ing the state will have a claim cording to the proposed bill, if a peasants that have been already If the owner confirms ownership and the land is not registered, person has no document to prove in unbearable situation, remain of the land, then the state will not the case will move to the court,” lawful ownership of the land, without income at all,” the party have any ownership registered said Japaridze. As Chairman of this land becomes a state prop- says. As for the political center on its account. the Committee, Eka Beselia said, erty. However, because of short- Girchi’s initiative, it has been It should be noted that the pro- the issue is really very difficult, extent where owner’s legal rights comings, it was decided that the reviewed on February 26 at the posed bill on the basis of the complex and sensitive, and it re- are protected, how reasonable Government will handle the bill. Human Rights and Civil Integra- ownership title to the land will ally needs legal regulation. She are the deadlines for settlement At the same time, the issue is be- tion Committee meeting, but this not be registered if the docu- mentioned that government bill of a dispute between the parties, ing discussed within the opposi- too was rejected by MPs. ment, which will be in favor of becomes refined with new ap- etc. At the session, the Commit- tion parties. Fractions agree that Zurab Japaridze presented gen- the registration of property rights proaches to the solution of the tee presents proposals and com- it is a difficult issue and needs eral principles of the bill to his and rule etc. MP explained reg- issue. The bill is presented to this ments on the report, which will timely response. colleagues and claimed that if the istration procedures in detail and committee, mainly to discuss in be submitted to the leading com- UNM officials said they will state wants quick and relatively all the issues that may be en- regard the human rights to the mittee. 7 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE LAW AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL REPORTS ON HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN GEORGIA IRAKLI PAVLENISHVILI The sentencing of Gigi Ugu- the movement in and out of the Homophobia and Transphobia on for physically assaulting one Local human rights organiza- lava, an opposition activist and breakaway territories Abkhazia (IDAHOT) proceeded peace- transgender woman and burning tions reported new cases of ill- former Mayor of the capital, and South Ossetia that remained fully in Tbilisi in a discreet lo- the flat of another whom he had treatment by law enforcement Tbilisi to four-and-a-half years restricted. Tensions heightened cation on 17 May. The authori- killed. However, the Court ruled officials. The investigation of al- prevented justice from being when, on 10 July, border posts ties had refused to guarantee the that the killing was an act of self- leged abuses by members of the done, said Amnesty Internation- were unilaterally moved several event’s safety unless it was held defence and acquitted him of the General Inspection of the Minis- al. In its annual global report the hundred metres outward from at a specific location without any relevant charge. try of Internal Affairs was slow organization highlighted an un- South Ossetia. Several civilians prior public announcement. On On 23 October, Tbilisi City and ineffective. A draft model precedented assault on freedoms were reportedly detained and 12 May, the European Court of Court acquitted four men of an independent investigative across the world. Evidence of fined for “illegally” entering into Human Rights ruled in Identoba charged with attacking the 2013 mechanism for the investigation this crackdown is seen in Geor- South Ossetia across a largely and Others v. Georgia that the IDAHOT rally in Tbilisi due to of criminal offences committed gia too with legal battles around undemarcated de facto border. police’s failure to protect par- “insufficient evidence” despite by law enforcement officials was the pro-opposition TV channel In October, the Prosecutor of ticipants of the 2012 IDAHOT the men reportedly being iden- jointly proposed by the human Rustavi 2, allegations of political the ICC visited Georgia, shortly march constituted discrimination tifiable on video and photo foot- rights Ombudsman and some pressure on the judiciary and se- after requesting that the ICC au- and restricted participants’ free- age of the event. A fifth man, NGOs. lective justice. thorize an investigation into the dom of assembly. On 7 August, also identifiable in the footage, However, the law required to The report also criticized po- situation during the Georgian- Tbilisi City Court convicted a had been acquitted earlier. Doz- establish the mechanism was not lice that prevented or limited Russian war in August 2008. man of arson and battery and sen- ens of men had taken part in the considered until the end of the peaceful gatherings and that the The International Day against tenced him to four years in pris- attack but none were convicted. year. ill-treatment by law enforcement officials remained slow and inef- fective, while a proposal for an independent investigative mech- anism was put forward but not yet legislated on. Amnesty International also in- dicated 26% devaluation of the national currency against the US dollar that affected numerous families who had taken out loans in earlier years, and increased economic vulnerability for many. World-wide Human Rights or- ganization is concerned about MATTHEW BRYZA DISCUSSES GEORGIA’S SECURITY CHALLENGES

Matthew Bryza Discusses the government and civil society Georgia’s Security Challenges towards addressing the main se- On February 25, 2016 the Geor- curity threats. Matthew Bryza gian Foundation for Strategic and gave comments to the media rep- International Studies (GFSIS) resentatives. Apparently, he had and Atlantic Council of Geor- no doubt of the current govern- gia organized a panel discussion ment’s foreign policy course, but “Shaping Policy Responses to he’d like to see more emphasis Complex Challenges”. on long-term strategy and that The speakers of the panel dis- the officials had to take action cussion included Matthew Bry- according to this strategy. “The za, former Deputy Assistant Sec- current government, as well as retary of State for European and the Georgian Dream coalition is Eurasian Affairs, Ivlian Hain- made up of people with different drava, Deputy Secretary, Na- opinions. GD team consists of tional Security Council and Da- patriots and they want the best vid Sikharulidze, Chair, Atlantic for their country, but the long- Council of Georgia. The discus- term political strategy oriented sion was moderated by Kakha vision is overshadowed by the Gogolashvili, Director of the short-term economic interests, Centre of EU Studies, GFSIS. which since 2008 has maintained The participants discussed the stability in Georgia,” he said. policy responses to the politi- The presentation was followed cal and economic security chal- by an ardent discussion. The au- lenges that Georgia faces. The dience at the event represented speakers also emphasized the ne- academic, think-tank, expert and cessity of holistic approach from international communities. 8 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE LAW WITNESSES TO BE INTERROGATED AT NEW COURT BUILDING TAMAR UMPRIANI

The grand opening of the new ends. Our duty is to guarantee of crime. Intentional murder, at- court building was held by the witness’ safety and the efficiency tempted suicide and terrorism chairman of the Supreme Court. of the process. As for the sys- aren’t included in the new regu- Going forward, witnesses will be tem employees, we are holding lations. questioned in the presence of a special trainings to raise their Giorgi Pantsulaia, a member master judge. professionalism and ensure their of Georgia’s lawyers associa- The process of approving the fruitful work. By re-training, tion, talked to The Observer and bill was cancelled several times they will be ready to work with shared his opinion about the by parliament, and on Feb. 20, it the new regulations.” news. By his words, expectations was finally set in motion. Some New regulation of the law was of some crimes in the law can be citizens refused to collaborate represented to the parliament by explained by its innovation for with the investigation or be ques- the Justice Department in 2009. the country’s criminal code. tioned. However, if police have It took several years, including “For a while, the new law will a valid argument that a witness discussing the sides of regula- be kind of tested on severe crime, has information that will help the tions and cancelling its approv- so after being convinced it works case to be investigated faster and ing date. The reasons of delaying without delaying – maybe in more effectively, the prosecutor approval was said to be due to 2017-18 – other serious crimes to legally apply for witness ex- the U.K. and France. Because has the right to examine the wit- financial problems and unprepar- will be included in the law, too” amination. This means the police of the developing democracy ness in court. Interrogation will edness for changes. Until now, Pantsulaia said. and defendant’s side have the ad- in Georgia, settling this kind of be held behind closed doors, at- the investigation was referenced The bill has opponents within vantage of winning the case. The tendency is very important and tended only by the witness, the on the 1998 year procedural pro- the National Party, too, says law doesn’t guarantee the same useful for the country’s integra- judge and the prosecution’s side. vision, which implies that wit- Davit Darchiashvili. rights for both sides. tion with the developed world. As Nino Gvenetadze, the chair- ness examination is held by a de- “The cases where witnesses are “If a witness refuses, a lawyer By the canards, there are cases man of the Supreme Court, says, tective and a litigant and doesn’t threatened by criminals aren’t doesn’t have any right to ask him when witnesses are threatened or the master judge will attend but have the right to attend process. included in the new law. It says questions according to any le- are victims of physical and psy- won’t take part in the examina- If a citizen refuses collaboration police have the right to force wit- gal ways,” said Pantsulaia, who chological violence from police tion. If there is any attempt of with the investigation, according nesses to go to court for exami- overall noted that his thoughts offers, who use these techniques physical or psychological vio- to the law, he will be punished as nation, and the other side’s law- on the law are positive. “Often, to get only desired information lence against witness by police well. yer or litigant doesn’t have the a lawyer has the opportunity to from them. agents, though, he will take legal Representatives of the public right to attend the process. By talk to the witness the first time According to the new law, wit- provisions. sector are talking about legal this way, the principle of com- on the court, which shortens the ness’ rights will be absolutely “We made a decision to hold deficiencies of the new law. As petitive process is violated.” chance of winning the case. On protected while they are inter- interrogations behind closed they say, after several years of NGOs are criticizing this part the other hand, the defendant’s rogated in the court. Experience doors,” Gvenetadze said. “Any discussing and changing the de- of the law as well. They think side has the support of old and will be useful for the country information the court gets from tails of the law, parliament still violation of competitive prin- new laws at same time.” to stimulate its democratic pro- witnesses is important for the set it in motion the way they ciple is a big drawback of the The same kind of rules of wit- cesses and settle the standard of case and we should protect its wanted. Also, the changes will law. During the investigation, ness interrogation successfully protecting international human safety until the court session be instituted on only some kinds the litigant doesn’t have the right work in developed countries, like rights. ALEKSI PETRIASHVILI FOUND SHOT AND WOUNDED AT THE CEMETERY Former Minister of European “Buka was at Levan Mike- this horrific attack,” said the Free and Euro-Atlantic Integration, ladze’s grave when he was at- Democrats, deputy chairman Aleksi Petriashvili was physi- tacked. He has three bullets in Nino Goguadze. cally assaulted and shot in both his body and surgery continues. I Aleksi Petriashvili teammates’ legs at Saburtalo district on Feb- cannot say anything, except that did not talk about the details of ruary 26. we ask the police to investigate the incidents. According to the preliminary report of the attack, Aleksi Petri- THE SPANISH MINISTER ashvili was with his three friends at the cemetery of a former dip- OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS lomat Levan Mikeladze. The notification was given to Emergency Response Center AND COOPERATION “112” by a citizen living in a nearby apartment building. VISITS GEORGIA Tbilisi Police Department start- The Spanish Minister of For- Mikhail Janelidze. Also he held ed investigation in accordance eign Affairs and Cooperation the meeting with the Patriarch of with Article 117 of the Criminal José Manuel García-Margallo Georgia, his Holiness and Beati- Code, which means a deliberate paid an official visit to -Geor tude Ilia II. and serious damage. Police ap- gia on February 27-29. He met The Spanish Minister of For- peals to eyewitness to cooperate with Georgian President Giorgi eign Affairs and Cooperation ex- with law enforcement authorities Margvelashvili, Prime Minister pressed his honor to the memory in a timely manne. Petriashvili’s Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Parliament of fallen soldiers and laid a wreath health condition is stable. Speaker and Foreign Minister at the memorial of heroes unity. 9 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE SOCIETY MASSIVE PROTEST CONTINUES AGAINST PANORAMA TBILISI CONSTRUCTION SALOME KHVEDELIDZE The union of civil movements people, give us the opportunity tect. Some experts note, that the problem of busy roads and traf- project, “Panorama Tbilisi,” We and organizations jointly held a to host international large-scale plan has flaws, and some of them fic jam. Opinions on this issue ask you to take steps to ensure march against the “Tbilisi Pano- conferences and attract big num- go further saying the change of are divided - Liberty Square and that the proposal is rejected and rama” project on Feb. 27. Thou- ber of tourist. It is known that the protection zone is law violation, Erekle II are the spots where the historic sites of Tbilisi are pro- sands of citizens also joined the value of the project is one billion because according to our consti- project may fail to respond to de- tected,” says the letter, signed protest that took place at Pushkin three hundred million dollars. tution, the change can only be mand. In addition, parking is not by Monuments Fund UK, Eu- Square. Main opponents of Co-in- made by the Prime Minister and something that can necessarily rope Nostra, the Global Heritage The main demand of the organ- vestment Fund and its leading the government. solve a problem with the flow of Fund, Joint Committee of Na- izers is to appoint a meeting with investor Ivanishvili are art his- “In 1995, Georgia presented cars in the neighborhoods, con- tional Amenity Societies , and the Prime Minister, Giorgi Kviri- torians, environmentalists and historical part of the city to the sidering the scale of the project’s other well-known organizations. kashvili, and discuss the current city planners. The main coun- World Heritage list according to buildings. As of today, the num- They also see the need for strict issue. It should be noted that it terargument of the art historian 1985 resolution,” Tsintsabadze ber of registered cars in Georgia zoning laws and heights. was not the first protest against Tamar Amashukeli and the city said during Green Forum of the is over 1 million and when com- The difficulty to reach a- con “Panorama Tbilisi” construction; planner Zurab Bakradze is that City meeting Feb. 21. In 2001, pared with statistics of 2007-08, sensus is due to the fact that there it was in the center of public at- the implementation of the pro- UNESCO evaluated uniqueness it can be said that the number are two groups with different in- tention a few times in 2015. The ject will ruin the authenticity of Tbilisi’s cultural heritage and has doubled. About 50 percent terests: on the one hand, inves- social network spreads the peti- and appearance of the Old City it is in the preliminary list along of those cars are gathered in Tbi- tors and on the other the city’s tion and the signatories share and roughly invade in historic with the world’s 11 other sites. lisi. One of the most important population. Beside the necessary the opinion on the matter of the district. Secretary General of The organization also declared problems that Tbilisi faces today documentation signed by Tbilisi project: constructing of the huge Georgian National Committee of that process will come to an end is busy streets and traffics – the City Assembly, Tbilisi City Hall complex, business trade centers International Council on Monu- when Georgia will obtain man- city does not have enough public and the Ministry of Economy, which will be connected to each ments and Sites ICOMOS, Nato agement system for above-men- transport and its popularization/ representatives of the Fund talk other by cableways and lifts, Tsintsabadze argues that there tioned site. UNESCO’s decision promotion is not happening. about uniqueness of this part of will do harm to a historical part was governmental resolution in can be of three kinds: the ap- Environmentalists believe that the city, which will make their of Tbilisi. They say the alterna- 1985 on improvement of protec- plication is admitted; rejection, the project is unacceptable not hotels and the complex itself tive to the existing plan is to find tion zones of historical Tbilisi, which means there will be no only because of the invasion to more attractive. According to another place for the complex. which reflects extension of the further debates on it; and the de- the historic district, but also be- their opponents, the value of The petition was signed by 16 cultural heritage concept and lay. UNESCO recommended re- cause of the environmental dam- Old Tbilisi should not be sacri- organizations: Guerrilla Garden- a new vision on how important applying when the system exists, age. Carbon dioxide emissions ficed to the interests of private ing, Tbilisi Forum for Architec- environmental surroundings/cul- but no further steps were taken are connected to transport ex- business. The complex that will ture, Green Fist, Green Alterna- tural landscape are. According concerning this matter. Moreo- hausts, which in high concentra- be visible from all parts of Tbi- tive, Frontline Georgia, My City, to the document, three protec- ver, experts say that if “Pano- tion is present in busy streets of lisi, will damage the cityscape. Tiflis Hamkari and others. tion zones appear: the protection rama Tbilisi” is constructed, Tbi- Sololaki. When speaking of alternative Co-investment Fund held the zone which includes basically lisi autoomatically will be taken It must be said that international options, the most popular is the presentation of the grand pro- Sololaki and part of the left bank out off the World Heritage list of community seems to be against territory near Tbilisi reservoir, ject in Tbilisi Marriott, in March of the river; development regula- the candidates. “Panorama Tbilisi.” In Septem- which would be another attrac- 2014. “Panorama Tbilisi” covers tion zone, or so-called buffer part Additionally, the construction ber, the British cultural heritage tion hub for other businessmen four spots – Erekle the Second’s and landscape protection zone, of the complex will lead to the is- and international leading organi- as well. The city is developing Square, Freedom Square (the which includes Tabor mountain, sue with transportation in the city zations sent a letter to the gov- fragmentally - there is no uni- former Central Union building), Tsavkisi, Mtamsminda and Tur- center. Authors of the project say ernment and recommended the fied capital development plan, surrounding territories of Solola- tle lake park. In 2009, when the that it will include underground closure of the project within the which would move the biggest ki Hills and Sololaki Gardens. land-use plan was developed, parking, which will be designed mentioned area. “Tbilisi, one of and the most important objects Representatives of Old City De- it ignored the last zone. The for 1,800 cars (Erekle II Square the most comprehensive and his- out of the center to its peripher- velopment state that the project cultural heritage is mentioned, - 500, Freedom Square – 300, torical capitals, is under threat to ies and would eventually end up will bring prosperity to the capi- however, there is no mention of Sololaki Hills and Gardens- 500- be destroyed in the form of dom- creating more than just one busy, tal, as it will employ thousands of Old Tbilisi, as a legacy to pro- 500); the parking will solve the inant, large-scale architectural business center. 10 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE SOCIETY GEORGIA’S POPULATION TO DROP FURTHER GURANDA DZAMELASHVILI

The demographic situation in risks, as it will help only approx- “The death rate exceeds the Georgia will significantly get imately 30 percent of newborns birth rate in six regions of Geor- worse through 2017-18, accord- and does not provide a range of gia. Starting in June 2014, the ing to a study published Feb. 22 assistance like in many EU coun- country launched a demographic by the Institution for Develop- tries,” Avalishvili said. policy to fund third and further ment of Freedom of Information The president of Demographic childbirths. However, the ini- (IDFI). Development Foundation, Tamar tiative works only in six regions IDFI has been conducting the Chiburdanidze, has responded to and with a monthly amount of fi- research since May 2015. Or- the IDFI survey. nancial support of 150 GEL, and ganization representatives say “The demographic crisis starts in the mountains, 200 GEL. As that they have been studying the in Georgia in the 2017 year, a result, it is supposed to reduce European Union countries exam- and if nothing changes, the cri- the imbalance in the population.” ples of large family support pro- sis will reach its peak by 2030,” As Chiburdanidze says, the re- grams, official data of various Chiburdanidze said. “The United gional demographic policy has ministries, agencies and the Na- Nations predicted in 2010 the de- already achieved some posi- organizations as well as repre- if the United Nations Research tional Statistics Office of Geor- mographic catastrophe in Geor- tive results. From June 1, 2014, sentatives of the government. Foundation predicts such a dev- gia, presumptions of the United gia would take hold by 2050, but through December 2015, the sup- The chairman of the Population astating reduction of the birth Nations’ reports, and experts on the crisis is going to start next port has been received by 5,283 Research Center and Demogra- rate, according to their study demographic issues. year.” To Chiburdanidze, the beneficiaries. However, the birth pher Irina Badurashvili says she published in the second half of “In 2017-18, the birth rate in birth rate reduction is inevitable. rate is still lower than the death doubts the population will de- 2014, the highest in birth rate in Georgia will be significantly re- Chiburdanidze points out, “If rate in these six regions. cline as much as predicted. Europe was considered in Geor- duced. This presumption is sup- nothing is changed, the crisis According to United Nations “If you consider that research gia. Health and Social Affairs ported by the opinion that the will be reach its peak by 2025- studies and preliminary results was properly conducted in 2014 Committee chairman, Dmitry of the population census in 2014, and the population was record- Khundadze, spoke about the in- the number of citizens of Geor- ed correctly, then this means creased birth rate in 2015 as well gia decreased by 14.7 percent that the population in 2002 was and announced positive statis- compares to the 2002 census wrong, because in the last 12 tics. results (4,371,535 people), and years, it’s impossible to have As he revealed, since 2012 the now the total population consists such a large reduction of the birth rate has increased from of 3,729,635 people. A United population. The main reason for 1.6 to 2.0 in 2015. A report was Nations Population Fund Re- reducing the population is the published by the Department of search in 2010 survey predicted immigration process. It’s a con- Statistics last year. According to Georgia by 2050 will face a de- tentious issue, how much worse their studies, by Jan. 1, 2014, the mographic catastrophe and the these numbers could get in the birth rate had increased by 4.8 country’s population will de- future,” Badurashvili said. De- percent. In this regard, different in 2017-18 years the population 2030. That’s why we started to crease even further to 1,170,000 mographers are suspicious of the views emerged. Some demog- born in the 1990s, when the birth work together with the govern- citizens. But on the other hand, opinion that the birth rate is low raphers saw a slight increase in rate was very low in Georgia, ment three years ago, but the pro- International Monitors predicts in Georgia. the birth rate connected to free will enter into potential marital cess should have started at least that population will be around “An analysis that had been car- childbirth or establishment of and reproductive age,” said Le- 10 years ago in order to achieve 4,400,000 by 2030. ried out last year by the United the Demographic Development van Avalishvili, IDFI chairman. better results in 2017 in terms of There are many discussions Nations Population Fund has Foundation or the patriarch’s “The government should make demographics. In her view, in about Georgia’s poor demo- stated that the overall birth rate initiative to baptize the third and a strategy for the crisis period to order to avoid the demographic graphic condition and the low in Georgia in recent years is each subsequent child. Accord- reduce the demographic risks,” crisis, large family support poli- birth rate. Different opinions 2.0- 2.1. This is not so low,” ing to GeoStats, by Jan. 1, 2015, he continued. “The current state cies should be the government’s have been heard from demog- Badurashvili noted. Georgia’s population consisted program can’t decrease those main priority. raphers and non-governmental It should also be mentioned that of 3,729,500 people. EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRIES TRANSPARENCY INITIATIVE AS A BASIS FOR OPENNESS AND SOCIAL DIALOGUE The Extractive Industries Kachagiani, issues of additional Transparency Initiative. First received from the oil and gas op- velopment of Georgia, Ministry Transparency Initiative (EITI) is gas supplies from Russia, state- time in 2012, SCOs prepared erations and other taxes, license of Finance of Georgia to Geor- a global standard, endorsed by ments of company Frontera recommendations for the Gov- or permits - will change the busi- gian Railway, and all the com- multi-countries and stakehold- regarding the gas resources of ernment of Georgia, among the ness environment considerably. mercial legal entities that are ers, to promote an open and ac- Georgia. recommendations was - “Imple- Citizens will have an opportu- involved in the industry and are countable management of natu- Extractive Industries Transpar- mentation of the Extractive and nity to examine the revenues willing to engage in the EITI. ral resources. ency Initiative guarantees ac- Transit Industry Transparency accumulated in budget from the Benefits attained from a partic- Today the relevance of EITI cess to information and creates Initiative” and later in 2013, an- oil and gas pipelines, as well as ular corporate legal entity can be must be highlighted because the the basis for a social dialogue other set of recommendations from extractive industries. Dif- subject to a commercial secrecy lack of knowledge on the sphere between the employers and em- were prepared for the Govern- ferent governmental and non- thus the information should be of natural resources and transit ployees. ment to consider in the Open governmental structures should published with the approval of a related issues became clear that Institute for Development of Government Georgia Action be engaged in the project - start- particular commercial legal en- leads to confrontation and social Freedom of Information (IDFI) Plan which included - “Imple- ed from the Ministry of Energy tity or by the entity itself. conflicts. For example, strikes of along with other civil society or- mentation of EITI in Georgia”. of Georgia, Ministry of Envi- workers of Chiatura and Tkibuli ganizations has been actively ad- Implementing the EITI princi- ronment and Natural Resources mines, confrontations regard- vocating for Georgia’s engage- ples in Georgia - publishing the Protection of Georgia, Ministry ing the Gold mine of Sakdrisi- ment in the Extractive Industries information about the revenues of Economy and Sustainable De- 11 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE SOCIETY TBILISI ZOO REMAINS WITH HOPE OF SOLIDARITY GVANTSA SILIKASHVILI

Tbilisi Zoo, which was heav- ets and leases (sum is paid by German collaboration, funding ily damaged during the June 13 owners of cafés, shops and side- has been received for new cages flood, isn’t yet recovered. Its shows). But, the Tbilisi city hall to be built for four local types of dwellers are also still struggling; gave them privilege and now the animals. while at one time they compet- zoo hasn’t had this kind of profit. “It will be modern European- ed for world attention, after the In return for it, the zoo didn’t re- style cages without barriers. It disaster, hippopotamuses were ceive any compensation. means that visitors will be able freely walking in the street and The director of the zoo, Zurab to be in contact with the ani- bear-cubs ran scared. Slowly, Gurielidze, said their income is mals,” Gurielidze explained. they’ve been returning to their very little, which is a result of The lower part of the zoo isn’t usual lives. few visitors. Gurielidze thinks planned to be restored, while in The cabinet of Georgia has ac- that one reason for so few visi- the upper part, work goes on. tively started talking about mov- tors is the lack of animals. Two new cages are being built ing the zoo. It’s said that new ter- “Among the rescued animals for primates, including monkeys. ritory of the zoo will be adjacent are white tigers, hippopotamus, The upper part , particularly eg- to the Tbilisi Sea. After eight elephants and unicorn, although zotarium, wasn’t damaged in months, there still isn’t any pro- a vast number of the most popu- consequence of the elements, gress about this issue. lar animals aren’t alive. In ad- and some kind of reconstructive The damaged zoo has lost its at- dition to this, people remember was carried out: a new aquarium tractiveness and also visitors and bad stories about the loss of their was made and an insectarium the most important thing is that favorite animals. As it seems, the was created. Visitors can see the zoo must resolve problems zoo looks in a bad condition and many interesting expositions. By by itself. After cleaning work, its little profit cannot be enough the end of spring, several ani- Tbilisi City Hall has only once for resolving problems,” Guriel- mals will be added to the Tbilisi the zoo will receive a kangaroo. reptiles, and a farm with domes- given money 95,000 lari to the idze said. With his own attempts Zoo. The zoo is going to astonish chil- tic animals. Director of “pauna zoo. It was enough for up-build- to find revenue for it, he takes As Gurielidze says, European dren and adults with amazing land” Diana Khmaladze says that ing of the hippopotamus cage as care not only of the existing but zoos supported them very much. various animals again. connecting with animals is good it can’t live in an open area in actively tries to arrange a new They gave the zoo not only new Before the planned novelties and wholesome for our physical winter. Besides that, money was zoo. animals, but they also paid ex- will be ready, animal lovers can and psychological health. Visi- used to enclose a new territory of With support of city hall, the penses for transportation, which visit the newly opened “pauna tors can caress and feed animals the zoo. new territory of the zoo received demands a huge sum. Among land” in Tbilisi. Contact Zoo is like pigs, rabbits, hedgehogs and The establishment has two in 2011 year is being cleaned lit- the sent animals are 24 penguins located in Kolmeurneoba Square, ostrich. While the old zoo is be- sources of financing: the budget tle by little. Although because of from Bristol Zoo, and they are in the shopping centre GTC. ing restored, the new zoo plans from the city hall and its own misery, moving is planned step expected in March. New cages There are two sections: a jungle to take an important place in a income, which is from sold tick- by step. Now with supporting of will have new dwellers. Soon section with exotic animals and branch of family holiday. GUDAURI HOSTED WROCŁAW HOSTS INTERNATIONAL DAYS OF ADJARA SKI COMPETITION

Chamber of Commerce and In- Gallery, a ball signed by Buffon dustry France-Georgia (CCIFG) and rugby ball with Georgian organized ski competition in Gu- players’ autographs. dauri and Kazbegi on February “The charity auction was very 27-28. successful, important works of The event was attended by the art were sold. By the decision of CCIFG members, members of the organization all the money the other Chambers of Com- will be granted for the home- merce and Industry and Busi- less children”,- Chamber of ness Associations presented in Commerce and Industry France- Georgia, embassies of European Georgia Deputy Executive Di- countries and U.S., the World rector Kati Kenkishvili said to Bank, EBRD and the UN repre- the Observer. sentatives. Minister of Justice Tea Tsu- The first place from the men’s lukiani delivered a speech about group took a diplomat Mr. Peter children living in the streets. Danis, and the winner from the According to her initiative, the women’s category became Ms. government recently approved a Keti Kvartskhava. All six win- bill for the Homeless Children, ners were awarded by the spon- which makes authority to take In order to sign an memoran- ness circles the economic forum place. Two ensembles “Kho- sors. care of them. dum on bilateral cooperation “Wrocław- Batumi 2016″ held rumi” and “Batumi” was danced The awards ceremony was The Chamber of Commerce between Lower Silesia and the on February 26-28 tourism de- during the event. held in Kazbegi, afterwards and Industry France-Georgia is Autonomous Republic of Ad- partment of Adjara took par Wrocław is European Capital they organized the charity auc- a non-profit organization whose jara, Georgian delegation visits for the first time in the tourism of Culture 2016, which raises tion. There were sold important mission is to foster business re- Wrocław. exhibition held in the city of the meaning and provides op- pictures from the National Geo- lationships between France and To promote cooperation be- Wrocław. In the frame of the portunities for Batumi-Wrocław graphic, paintings from the Baia Georgia. tween Polish and Georgian busi- events Adjara days have taken cooperation. 12 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE BLOG REPEAT AFTER ME: BIG GIRLS ARE BEAUTIFUL

NINI JAPARIDZE

Several days ago I posed for a You’re doing your best to find I have a sense like it’s playing a others. Before you decide to be zine City, which announced the photographer at a studio. That clothes you want to wear, and hide-and-seek game. We realize critical toward “big girls,” try to competition for “Big Girls.” The was a special day and I felt won- finally you find something that that we are big only when we see make somebody happier. Give project spread throughout social derful. I was not worrying about fits you, but it’s not the style you the result; the process is often people motivation and instead of media and was called Lose your my plus-size form and I didn’t like. Those girls who posed for disregarded. In the beginning, asking an ugly question, say that Weight with City and become even care if somebody would the photo shoot yesterday for we are warring about two kilos, big girls are precious. the face of City. As I was the say, “Oh my God, she’s so big sure knew what I meant. We all then it rises to 10, and finally an Those who attended this photo biggest girl in my friend circle, and she’s wearing tight jeans.” were plus-size. All of us had the initial number endlessly doubles shot, including me, were expe- I immediately decided to apply. Usually I don’t care about pub- same problems and the same and doubles. People who gain rienced in both losing and gain- I uploaded the picture, wrote a lic opinion, but when it comes to goals. These girls were not ask- weight often become confused ing the weight, so they never long text saying how bad it was my weight, everything changes. ing ugly questions, like: Why did and depressed. They have no asked the questions that could to be a big girl and why I needed First, I become uptight, and then you gain so much weight? Why idea how to fight a problem they be humiliating. We could under- to become skinny. my mood totally spoils. In order haven’t you lost your weight were not familiar with before. stand each other even only with During the last several years, I to understand what I mean, you before? What does your boy- In the middle of a lot of prob- words. Apparently that happened was sure that being fat was the have to deal with the problem – friend think about your weight? lems, you are trying to find the because all of us were plus-size most terrible thing in any per- obesity. Does he want to break up with way out. You are saying that you girls; we all had the same prob- son’s life, but when I went to the I can tell you for sure that ex- you? Are you sure he likes you gained your weight for a specific lems and the same goals. All of us photo shoot, I realized that I was tra kilos can influence a life. If the way you are? Questions like reason, but people say that no knew what was wrong and what wrong. Despite having already you live in a country like Geor- that don’t motivate a person. It’s reason is strong enough for it. was not. We knew that in order to made my decision that I do not gia where plus-size girls aren’t so pitiful that some people don’t Despite that, you still try to prove lose weight, its necessary to eat want to become the person I was appreciated very much, the situ- think about consequences. They your truth implying that for those less, get rid of candy and junk a couple years ago, I realized ation becomes more difficult. don’t realize that sometimes who tend to have weight prob- food, exercise more and be ac- that big girls can be beautiful, Mostly, the weight loss prob- even a word can be decisive: It lems, each thing can be a reason. tive, but in order to start another even their forms, which are so lems in Georgia are related to can make you happy or kill you. Including: depression, personal diet, the most important thing is special, and fat can be precious. depression, low self-esteem and People are saying to each other issues, problems with health, fi- needed, and this is the motiva- Big girls have a lot of advantag- disrespect of your own body. so many useless words, when nancial crisis, family, children, tion. Frankly speaking, the main es. Their eyes shine in a different The situation becomes more dra- the simplest magic words exist: etc. on’t think that if you suc- purpose of why we went to the way, they are never critical, they matic when it comes to clothes. “You can do this.” cessfully fought any of these photo shot was the motivation. are happy and warm. If you stop Plus-size girls in Georgia have Everybody knows that it’s so problems, they can’t become the Everything started with a project looking at them with critical eyes many difficulties finding clothes. easy to gain weight. Sometimes, reason for gaining weight for launched by Georgian Maga- you will find it out for yourself. GEORGIAN WINE EXHIBITION HAS OPENED IN MARSEILLE

CHARITY EVENT HELD TO SUPPORT BICYCLE PARKING ARRANGEMENT “Partnership for Road Safety” students who are willing to travel organizes a charity event on Feb- by bike. We hope that the pilot Georgian wine corner has artifacts and other important in- where the wine making tradition ruary 26, at 19:30 pm, at the Rose project, which entails the crea- opened at the Museum of Euro- formation, as well. At the open- counts a thousand years of exist- Square. The name of the action is tion of bicycle parking, will also pean and Mediterranean Civili- ing ceremony the president of ence and development. Georgian “Travel by bike and eat biscuits”. contribute to the future move- zations in Marseille. Exhibitions Museum and the Vice-Mayor of traditional rule to make peasant The project aims to promote safe ments by bike”,- said organizers. displays agricultural develop- Marseille Jean-Francois Choug- wine is unique in the world and transport –bicycle and install In the frame of charity cam- ment stages from ancient times. net talked about the importance since 2013 represents the World parking system at Chavchavadze paign American rusks will be Georgian corner is presented of Georgian representation at Cultural Heritage. The museum, avenue. sold (Price 0.50GEL) and the with the traditional wine vessels the museum. It was was noted which also organizes seminars, “We believe that the bicycle it collected money will be spent on and attributes of Marani- Pitch- that Georgia is one of the old- colloquiums and forums, is visit- is necessary to create a bicycle the project’s successful imple- er, Sartskhi, Orshimo, historical est centers of the wine industry, ed daily by up to 20 000 visitors. parking place. This will help the mentation. FEBRUARY 29, 2016 13 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE CULTURE GEORGIAN NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLDS A CONCERT WITH GIDON KREMER

Evgeny Mikeladze National “Kremerata Baltica”, and per- Violinist Gidon Kremer is an Music Center hosted Grammy- forms at the world’s leading con- important person in the history winning musician and world-re- cert halls today. His name is as- of 20th century. He was born in nowned violinist, Gidon Kremer. sociated with many of Kancheli’s Riga, started playing when he The concert was held at the reno- premiere performances, some was 4-year-old, and at the age vated Opera and Ballet Theatre of which Kancheli composed of 16 he was awarded the first on February 22 with the support exclusively for him. Kremer awards of the Republic of Latvia. of the Ministry of Culture and performed “Sadness Angels” In 1969, he began studying at the Monument Protection of Geor- together with the famous cel- Moscow Conservatory. Kremer gia. list and violinist Giedre Dirva- is a winner of many competi- Gidon Kremer expressed a de- nauskaite. The world premiere tions: Paganini named Interna- sire to visit Georgia in the jubilee of this work was held in 2014 in tional Violin Competition in year of virtuoso composer, Giya the framework of Kronberg Fes- Genoa and in Montreal in 1969, Kancheli. The concert presented tival, and then at the Berlin Phil- as well as the Tchaikovsky Com- the National Symphony Orches- harmonic. The concert, which petition in 1970. The musician tra together with Gidon Kremer was a sort of a demonstration by left the Soviet Union in 1980. In conducted by Nikoloz Rachveli. Gidon Kremer, Martha Argerich, 1981 he founded the Chamber “I’m glad that I visited my fa- Emmanuel Pahud, Khatia Buni- Music Festival in Austria, Lo- pered. I know that first of all, I tention to the important issues vourite city, Tbilisi once again. atishvili, Nikoloz Rachveli and kenhaus, which until 2011 was love him, not only music, but sometimes, which he regrets. He Giya Kancheli, not only for me other well-known musicians, the head intact. In 2001, the vio- also the life and my relatives,” has a dream to get calm but even but for my colleagues too is an condemned the violation of hu- linist, together with his orches- said the musician. in his dreams he can rarely find important person and composer. man rights by Russia. tra “Kremerata Baltica” won a Kremer never speaks on his it. I love it when I play Kancheli’s Kremer also performed a new Grammy for the album “After successful performances or pro- The violinist has released more music, because I am fully aware symphonic work of Kancheli Mozart”. jects; he believes that positive than 120 albums. Twenty-five of his music in the performance “NU MU ZU”, whose world “Over the last 30 years, I travel change should be noted by the of those albums he recorded of all of the emotion. I am glad premiere took place in Brussels a lot to perform in different cit- society. He likes to make sur- with orchestra “Kremerata Bal- that I had another opportunity to on November 5, 2015. Kremer, ies. I’ve worked a lot on stage prises and admits that there have tica”. Gidon Kremer plays with work with him,” said Gidon Kre- together with young altist Gior- and with different people. I al- been many times when he was a Nicola Amati violin, created in mer at the end of the concert. gi Tsagareli, performed “TWI- ways tried to be sincere with in love. Often think about many 1641. He is the author of three Kremer is a head at the world- LIGHT”, which premiered in friends and music, be faithful things simultaneously, and this is books, where his artistic opin- famous chamber orchestra, Salzburg in 2005. and act as the conscience whis- why he does not pay proper at- ions are collected. GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM HOSTS SOLO EXHIBITION OF AZERBAIJANI ARTIST Georgian National Museum exhibitions worldwide. Dimitri Shevardnadze National His work is held in public col- Gallery invites you at the open- lections in the State Museums of ing of the solo exhibition of Russia, Azerbaijan, the Ukraine, prominent Azerbaijanian artist Lithuania, Germany, China and Farhad Khalilov. Opening event in the reserves of the Interna- will take place on 1st of March tional Confederation of Artists’ at 7 p.m. Union, Azerbaijan. Farhad Khalilov is a distin- It is included in private collec- guished representative of the tions in Azerbaijan, the USA, contemporary art. In his crea- Mexico, and in European collec- tive career he managed to cre- tions, in Germany, Poland and ate his own artistic style, which France. was free from the Soviet ideol- Since 1987 Farhad Khalilov is a ogy and was demonstrating his Chairperson of the Artists’ Union personality from the different of Azerbaijan and award winning perspective. The exposition will artist whose works are sold at the showcase his canvas executed in Sotheby’s and Phillips de Pury different genres. Contemporary Art Auctions. The author’s works were ex- Following exhibition is once hibited at the numerous muse- again highlighting deep and ums and galleries including The long-lasting relations between Saatchi Gallery in London, Gal- Georgia and Azerbaijan. lery of Berlin City Administra- Exhibition is supported by the tion, Central House of the Artists Ministry of Culture and Tour- in Moscow, The State Tretyakov ism of the Republic of Azerbai- Gallery in Moscow, The State jan, The Ministry of Culture and Museum Center of the Republic Monument Protection of Geor- of Azerbaijan, and La Cite Inter- gia, the National Art Museum nationale des Arts in Paris. Khal- of Azerbaijan and the Georgian ilov has exhibit in over 40 group National Museum. 14 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE CULTURE GEORGIAN MOVIES LEFT WITHOUT ANY NOMINATION AT BERLINALE AND OSCARS

Sandro Sanaia, a son of famous the introduction of the new Cash Tree”, “Falcon”, the list goes on TV host Giorgi Sanaia is a 2nd Rebate system in the country is endlessly, fortunately. Humor, as year student at Tbilisi State Uni- an important development for well as, the tragedy - both quali- versity faculty of Journalism. In the Georgian film sector. tatively and transmitted through conversation with Observer San- In total, about 15 Georgian the films of any social layer (but dro claims that the movie is his films have participated in Berli- then all of a social class consid- hobby and he plans to organize a nale so far. In 2013, for the first ered), familiar and easy to under- public screening followed with a time after a long pause, 2 Geor- stand “, - said Sandro. discussion, which he will guide gian films took part in Berlinale: Sanaia thinks that the post- himself. Nana Ekvtimishvili’s and Simon Soviet period put a mark on the “To become a film critic is not Gross’ “In Bloom” and Zaza Ru- public, especially on creative easy. It would be very naive and sadze’s “A Fold in My Blanket”. people. They filmed social pov- arrogant from my side to claim Both Georgian films were very erty that was adequate to that pe- that I am a movie critic; I’m just successful in Berlin. Next year, riod hence the problem, clichés interested in cinematography Levan Koghuashvili’s “Blind and complexes gets the begin- and enrich knowledge on a daily Dates’ and Tinatin Kajrishvili’s ning from that time which has basis. In addition, it is necessary “Brides” participated in various not been liberated. to know the literature, art, music, sections of the festival. “Sex and tragedy themes sells and, in general, most of the fields The first Georgian film in Ber- well, this is not a novelty in the of the arts, because it is the uni- lin was Giorgi Shengelaya’s art, that’s why we take the tragic verse of what is called the film,” “Trip of a Young Composer”. films and films in which we see said Sanaia. The film participated in the main a naked Ms. Begashvili, but I According to the young film competition of Berlinale in 1986 should admit that we have many critic the 66th Berlinale festival, and was awarded Silver Bear. In talented filmmakers such as Le- whose jury was Meryl Streep, 1992 Berlinale hosted Mikheil van Tutberidze, Zaza Urushadze was very interesting. The win- Kalatozishvili’s “The Chosen and Giorgi Ovashvili”, - said gian soap operas issue and noted audience should be active, as it ner became the Italian film “Fire One”, whereas in 1993 Temur Sandro. Tutberidze’s new film that “My Wife’s Friends” and sounds, without the audience Water”, but two other movies Babluani’s “Son of the Sleep- “Moira”, Ovashvili’s “Corn Is- “Tiflis”. there is no movie”, - said Sandro. could also become a winner such less” was awarded Silver Bear land” and Urushadze’s “Tange- Two of the most popular TV Sanaia expressed his grief that as “Alone in Berlin” or even for Best Direction. rines” - these films, as young film series nowadays, because first is young people do not show much “Death in Sarajevo”. In Sandro Sanaia`s opinion, critic said will be added to the based on Georgian stereotypes desire to attend the screenings, This year, like last year in Ber- modern Georgian films are di- Georgian Film Classics in a few and false traditions, the other is while in the last 16 years has lin Georgian films have not been vided into three stages: the So- years time. Moreover, the “Tan- historical in nature and actors been held annually the biggest presented. However, this year viet period, a time when movie gerines” had a chance to take the performance and technical func- cultural event in what is called Georgia celebrates 11 years of experienced censorship, but, Oscar for best foreign-language tionality is on high quality. the Tbilisi International Film cooperation with the Berlinale nevertheless, we had such great Film nomination in 2015. But in “We have a very good genera- Festival. At the festival one can this year and at Berlinale Co- directors, such as: Tengiz Abu- 2016, unfortunately, none of the tion of directors and actors and see latest films and attend master production Market Georgian ladze, Paradjanov and so on. Georgian film gained nomina- therefore more funding should classes at very low price. How- delegation presented a new com- “At this time our film, in my tions. “Moira” had a chance, but be allocated to the Georgian film ever, as it turns out more adults ponent of the governmental pro- opinion, was at its peak. ”Repent- could not hit. industry, so it keeps evolving, enjoy this opportunity in Geor- gramme “Shoot in Georgia” and ance”, “Crazy”, “The Wishing Sandro also discussed Geor- however, on the one hand, the gia, than today’s youth.

CHABUKIANI CHOREOGRAPHIC FESTIVAL WILL BE HELD IN TBILISI

With support of the Ministry of to visit the expositions of various Culture and Monument Protec- museums, excursions in the capi- tion of Georgia, from February tal and its surroundings are also 27 to April 6, Vakhtang Chabuki- planned. ani children and adults III Inter- Ensembles and solo artists from national Dance Festival will be Azerbaijan, Turkey, and other held. The event will be opened countries will visit Georgia. on February 27 at the Chabuki- The festival aims to raise the ani Museum, where there will be level of all the public and pri- academic conference, as well as vate dance studio and school dance and musical numbers. children, gathering teachers liv- In March, the well-known cho- ing abroad and foreign teachers reographers will conduct master to share expertise, as well as to classes for students. During the promote Vakhtang Chabukiani event, foreign guests will be able creative work. 15 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE EDUCATION THE PURPOSE OF ADDING A NEW SUBJECT AND THE DIFFICULTIES OF THE PROCESS MARI TABATADZE

“Me and Society” is the name meant to be basic and secondary tive and cultural development of for a new subject at the primary of a new school subject that is levels. As for the primary grades, every schoolchild. Therefore, a level, this is not an easy task, planned to be taught at every as a new subject initiators say, it new subject is treated as a dupli- considering the age of the pupils public and private school in is characterized by a deficiency. cate of the first, as for granting and its characteristics. Georgia in the coming years. Ac- So, they do not think that it is a it the status of a subject, and is For the purpose of teaching the cording to the Ministry of Edu- new matter and consider it as a measured as a formality. subject, another important issue cation and Science of Georgia, a preparatory stage. From the ini- Especially important is the is to create a new textbook and new course is the basic of social tiators’ point of view, when the question of what should be a the compilation of the standards. sciences and combines the disci- higher classes begin studying the specialization of a person who And, of course, it needs addi- plines of history, geography and subject, the students find it -dif will teach a new subject. As is tional monetary resources. So, civics. ficult to move their attitudes in mentioned above, the subject is for the part of the public, who The Ministry of Education and actions. According to them, the from the group of social scienc- thinks that the functions of a new Science aims social sciences to monitoring of the learning pro- es, besides, it should be taught at subject are equal to the functions fusion and misunderstanding. An be involved in the learning grid cess showed the need of these the primary level of education. of an existing one (civics) and extensive discussion on the sub- from the primary school, and dispersed issues to become one Therefore, the selection process those who do not see the need of ject, as it is known, was attended that is why pupils will study this discipline and be taught from of teachers is quite difficult be- the subject for the primary level by parents, psychologists and ex- subject in the third and fourth elementary classes. As for the cause apart from the content of may consider it irrational. perts. Also, schools, higher edu- grades. planned teaching methods, they the subject, the age of pupils During the teaching process, cation institutions and non-gov- As for the content, within include role-playing games and is also significant. In addition, program piloting is no less a ernmental organizations were the subject in the list there are learning by doing for the pri- among other undoubtedly impor- complex issue. In order to gen- involved in the process. Accord- themes: my family; school en- mary levels. Both of them enable tant issues there is a definition of eralize the results, it is undoubt- ing to the Ministry of Education, vironment; friends; the environ- schoolchildren to understand keywords, such as community, edly necessary to define clearly the discussion about the issue is ment in which I live. The special situations better and to perceive family, dignity, etc. where and which schools will not over yet, nor educational re- emphasis is being put on issues them clearly. While speaking about the teach- be involved in the process. It is sources – the textbook is printed such as pupils’ rights and respon- How much is it needed to add ers, one of the most important is- important to select the same type and work on the standard is still sibilities, safety rules, healthy the above-mentioned subject in sues is their transition from one of schools that have similar char- continuing. lifestyle, tolerance, etc. Accord- the primary school, and what level to another and the exam acteristics in order to create the Shortly, the process of review- ingly, as the Ministry of Educa- are the problems they may come which they will have to pass. The basis for a generalization of the ing the issue requires consider- tion and Science mentions, the across during the process? These issue has required some atten- results. That is the essence of the able effort on the teachers’ train- goal of the subject is to develop are the main issues that are worth tion because the teacher’s salary piloting process and, without the ing, sufficient school resources the pupil’s responsibility and to discussing. This process, in turn, is planned to be tied with his/her definitively defined characteris- and proper training methods. give them a caring, wide and in- implies a deeper studying of the status, according to the scheme. tics, speaking about generaliza- Thus, naturally, a new subject depth approach to the different objectives and ways of achieving Moreover, in order to define tion is totally impossible. will become possible to be taught issues. As a result, it is expected them. the timetable of a new subject, Despite the fact that the subject at schools after the standard is that a pupil will be more aware After looking through the pur- working hours should be re- “Me and society,” in essence, is approved, the textbooks are cre- of their surrounding environ- pose and directions of the sub- duced to any other item in the not unknown to the Georgian Ed- ated and the teachers are trained. ment and will become an active ject, at first glance it seems that it same group. On the one hand, it ucation System, it still represents So, as long as there is no manual, citizen. repeats the main functions of the is likely to create a certain kind an innovation on the one hand and it is quite impossible to see It should also be noted that sim- tutorial classes. Both of them are of problem connected with the and, of course, problems still ex- the full picture, we should be ilar issues are still discussed by oriented to promote the sociali- outcomes set before. And this is ist with regard to its implemen- more careful to draw conclu- the pupils during the lessons of zation process of the schoolchil- feasible due to the lack of time. tation. The most significant is sions. And, of course, only more civic education and the hours of dren. Also, it aims to encourage On the other hand, if working that the existence of discussions public awareness may be issued tutorials, too. However, there is personal, moral, physical, cogni- hours are planned to be added should not be linked to any con- as a recommendation. 15 FEBRUARY 29, 2016 WWW.OBSERVER.COM.GE SPORT

airBaltic flights from Tbilisi via Riga to Oslo, Helsinki, RIGA - TBILISI BT 722 5,7 RIX TBS 23:05 04:35 +1 735 03:30 Copenhagen, Amsterdam, London, Milan, Paris, Ber- lin, Munich, Vilnius, Tallinn and Warsaw have mini- TBILISI - RIGA BT 723 1,6 TBS RIX 05:20 06:55 735 03:55 mum connection time 25-30 minutes in Riga airport FC DINAMO WINS A LOCAL DERBY IN TBILISI VAKO KIPIANI Dinamo wins a local derby in Budu Zivzivadze opened the Dila, the match ended in a draw Dinamo 2:1. The first half ended minutes, Dinamo made a draw Tbilisi score in the 9th minute; the sec- 2:2. The teams showed spectacu- 0:0. The second half Locomotive with a penalty kick by Alexander The national championship ond goal went in the 28th min- lar football. Martsvaladze once opened the score with a corner Iashvili. Otar Kiteishvili scored held the second round of meet- ute by Markozashvili. The final again proved to be a high-class kick, Dinamo defenders managed the winning goal. At 69 min- ings. “Tskhinvali” hosted Me- point gained Jikia on 83 min- forward. Gori residents were los- to take the ball out of the penalty utes, Dinamo managed to score. rani of Martvili and played a utes scored. Without a goal, the ing twice, but both times man- area, but there, Revaz Chiteish- Overall, Dynamo scored and is a draw 1:1. In the 17th minute, match ended in a draw between aged to score Martsvaladze. vili met the ball and powered the frontrunner with a 7-point differ- Tskhinvali opened the score; two Guria and Kobuleti “Shukura.” At local derby in Tbilisi, Di- shot in one of the most beauti- ence with Gori Dila. Third place minutes later, Martvilians equal- Highest number of balls had a namo defeated Locomotive by ful goals of the season. After 5 takes Tskhinvali. ized. In the remaining time of match in Sachkhere. Chikhura the match, nothing has changed. defeated Saburtalo by 5:0. In Since the resumption of the sea- the first half, Chikhura players son, Merani “gained 4 points in gained 3 goals against its oppo- two rounds, and they are strug- nent; in the second half, they in- gling to stay in the top league,” vaded opponent’s door twice and therefore each point has crucial scored the first victory of the sea- importance for Martvilians. son celebrated. Bolnisi, Sioni de- Torpedo of Kutaisi defeated feated Poti Kolkheti by 3:1. The Zugdidi by 2:0. The score was first goal went at 27 minutes of opened after 35 minutes by Gior- the game by Dimitry Tatanashvi- gi Kimadze. In the last minute li, in the second half Goginashvi- of the second half, Kapanadze li increased advantage with two scored the second goal and Tor- balls difference. Kolkheti scored pedo got three points in total. on 73rd minute, but Tatanashvili Samtredia got three points too, made a goal in last minute and which defeated Sapovnela by Sioni won. 3:0. Samtredia went ahead with Interesting meeting was be- two goals in the first 30 minutes. tween Tbilisi Dinamo and Gori WEEKLY SPORT NEWS Football

FC Spartak Moscow held friendly match against Aris Li- massol and defeated with rival 9: 0. Giorgi Melkadze and Jano Ananidze played in the Spartak team. Melkadze made three as- sists that led to the goals, while Jano together with Melkadze made Ze Luis to score, who took the lead with five goals. * * * * * contract with Russian Premier The Extraordinary FIFA Con- League team Rostov during the gress (their words, not ours) in winter transfer period and held Zurich, where Gianni Infantino a few test matches, but has not of second-placed Romania with pionship to Denver Nuggets. was elected as president of the scored. five points. The next match our Dallas Maverics defeated the world’s governing body of soc- Rugby team will play against Russia on opponent in overtime with the cer. March 12. score 122: 116. Georgian National Rugby Team Zaza was playing in starting * * * * * defeated Spain by 38: 7. In the Basketball five, but only for 8:11 minutes. Rostov FC brought Georgian second round our team won all He left the pitch without point. three matches and earned bonus newcomer Nika Kacharava in Georgian basketball team cap- Pachulia minced a shot, only one points. At this stage, Georgian his team at the Russian cham- tain Zaza Pachulia wins NBA’s rebound and two steals are on his team has 34 points and is ahead pionship Kacharava signed the next match of the regular cham- account.

Managing Director: Nino Sharashidze 15 Shio Mghvimeli Str. [email protected] 0179, Tbilisi, Georgia Chief Editor: Tamar Chapidze [email protected] E: [email protected]

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