Issue no: 1185 • SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... FOCUS James Appathurai Responds ON GEORGIA'S to Rasmussen's Statement on Georgia NATO PROSPECTS NEWS PAGE 2 Check out our exclusive interview with Lithuania's MFA, Ukraine & Georgia: Time to Linas Linkevicius PAGE 4 Team Up?

POLITICS PAGE 5 The Rasmussen Proposition for Georgia POLITICS PAGE 6 Violence Doesn’t Pay - Can Georgia Become Too American? POLITICS PAGE 7 Women Councillors Seek a Greater Say Georgia Responds to Duma's Step to Investigate in Georgia’s Economic & Political Life "Ossetian Genocide by eeting in Tbilisi Wednesday at their sixth annual con- Georgians" ference, more than 150 members of the Women Coun- POLITICS PAGE 7 cillors’ Forum of Georgia sought a greater say in eco- nomic and political issues at the local level. Participants called for municipal public services to pay greater heed CENN/USAID Program Mto the needs of women, for example in expanding childcare options, and advocated better vocational training opportunities to help women suc- Assists the Local ceed in the labor market. Organized by the Municipal Service Providers’ Association (MSPA) of Government to Close an Georgia with assistance from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Austria, Denmark, Sweden and Switzerland, the event Illegal Landfi ll in Batumi brought together women members of local councils from all regions of Georgia, as well as representatives of the Georgian Government, Parlia- SOCIETY PAGE 9 ment, civil society and international organizations, to discuss the oppor- tunities arising from ongoing local governance reforms. Prominent national and international fi gures welcomed the conference Georgian, Swedish Gov’ts as a vital forum for women’s voices; encouraged Georgian women to become more active in public life; and called for gender parity at all lev- Tideström, Ambassador of Sweden to Georgia and Armenia. to Launch ‘Keep Georgia els of governance. “We are all aware of women’s untapped potential in many spheres in “The voices of women are becoming louder at all levels of Georgia’s Georgia, as in many other countries, from the family home to the private Tidy’ Project politics,” said Tamar Chugoshvili, First Deputy Speaker of Parliament sector as well as in local and national politics,“ said Danielle Meuwly, and Chairperson of the Gender Equality Council. “The Women Council- Regional Director of the Swiss Cooperation Offi ce for the South Cauca- SOCIETY PAGE 12 lors’ Forum is a powerful platform to help women play a more active role sus. “We thus remain strongly interested in further contributing to gen- in local governance, ensuring meaningful gender equality in decision- der equality and strengthening women’s positions to achieve sustainable making.” development for the society and economy at large.” Promotion of Georgia “The political and economic empowerment of women is crucial for Other speakers included Arad Benkö, Ambassador of Austria, and democracy and human rights and for ensuring equitable economic growth Elizabeth Rood, Acting US Chargé d’Affaires. Underway on CNN including all sectors of society, leaving no one behind,” noted Ulrik Continued on page 8 CULTURE PAGE 15 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 Rally in Sokhumi facto president Raul Khajimba gathered BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE in front of the so-called President Admin- istration building. While meeting with his supporters, Khajimba announced rally in Sokhumi concluded that despite dissatisfaction among the late night on September 10, opposition, he had won the elections having seen activists pro- and the court would prove it. testing the results of so- Abkhazian police stood guarding the called presidential elec- buildings of the so-called parliament and Ations and demanding new elections. President Administration as the protests The protest broke up after the leader took place. Image source: mod.gov.ge of the “Amc Akhar” political party, de facto presidential candidate Alkha Kvi- Abkhazia, a territory of Georgia still occupied cinia, assured his supporters that he would by Russia, held the "elections" on September continue his fi ght lawfully, in court. 8. Raul Khajimba got 47.38% of votes and Simultaneously, the supporters of de Kvicinia 46.19%. James Appathurai Responds to Rasmussen's Statement on Georgia NATO without Article 5 coverage for cussion of this issue now. I don’t see an BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI the illegally occupied territories. It appetite in NATO to consider this, nor would show Russia that creating frozen do I believe the current international confl icts can't forever freeze Georgia’s security environment makes this idea ormer NATO Secretary Gen- future,” he wrote. This statement was timely. eral Anders Fogh Rasmussen met with differences in opinion among “The Georgian Embassy to NATO is wrote on his Twitter page on the public. actively promoting more Georgia in further developing relations The NATO Secretary General's Spe- NATO, and more NATO in Georgia, between Georgia and NATO cial Representative for Central Asia and with clear and concrete ideas. This is Fand stated that Georgia can show Rus- the Caucasus, James Appathurai, the right approach, politically and prac- sia that frozen confl icts in the country responded to the statement. tically. And the NAC will soon be in cannot stop its development. “I’ve seen the current exchanges in Georgia to discuss how to further deepen His Tweet suggested breaking the Georgia on joining the Alliance without our cooperation, including to help Geor- stalemate of the Georgia/NATO mem- Article 5 applying to the two regions. gia with the reforms that help it prepare Image source: radiotavisupleba.ge bership. “Georgia could discuss joining In my view, there is no point in a dis- for membership,” Appathurai notes. GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 NEWS 3 Things to Know about Rasmussen’s “Indecent Proposal”

NATO defenses- are we ourselves ready for such as it sounds and at the risk of provoking Mr. Cof- a scenario militarily? Hardly. fey’s ire, offers us the following: And now for the “German model” that Rasmus- Georgia becomes a NATO member and this mem- sen, and earlier, Heritage Foundation’s Luke Coffey bership will be modeled after West Germany mem- referred to: West Germany became a member of bership from 1955 to 1972. There are three main NATO on May 6, 1955. As you well know, Germany conditions to identify here: was a divided country back then, with its eastern 1. We do become part of the Alliance part occupied by the Soviet Union, creating a 2. Article 5, of Collective Security, does not cover, Democratic (the nerve!) Republic of Germany, TEMPORARILY, territories occupied by the Rus- which had no real will or sovereignty to decide its sian Federation own course. 3. We continue the non-recognition policy From 1955-1990, until the unifi cation of Germany, It would be quite far-fetched for anyone to say Article 5 of the NATO Charter, that of collective that, like Germany, we would have to recognize security, did not cover the territory of the Demo- our breakaway territories as sovereign states after cratic Republic of Germany (GDR, or East Germany, becoming NATO members. Another thing to under- to put it simply, where the Soviet Military forces line is that the non-recognition policy, notwith- were still lounging about). Now some might point standing who has been at the helm of the country to the fact that West Germany should have recog- so far, has proved a success and we don’t have much nize the sovereignty of its eastern half, but let’s to worry that the modern democratic world will delve deeper into the subject before we pass judg- change its mind towards this issue anytime soon. ment, shall we? That’s what simple realpolitik logic dictates. What From 1955, one of the tenets of West Germany’s we need to do is not be a failed state when such foreign policy was the so-called Halstein Doctrine, opportunity arrives to slot seamlessly into the dictating that the Federal Republic of Germany Euro-Atlantic security space. would not establish diplomatic relations with coun- And for sanity’s sake, let’s forego the speculation Russia to continue biting off the Georgian territory tries that recognized the GDR as a sovereign state. that NATO wants us to give up and relinquish OP-ED BY DAVID BRAGVADZE, GEORGIAN piece by piece, hardly bothered by stern words of The Halstein Doctrine, in essence, can be com- something. This might be a bitter pill to swallow INSTITUTE OF SECURITY POLICY (GISP) condemnation that the many Western powers have pared to the non-recognition policy that our coun- but NATO membership in the foreseeable future found themselves limited to when it comes to react- try has pursued since 2008. But there is yet another is much more likely than regaining territorial integ- ing to Georgian issue. Just let a couple of things plot twist. 17 years after becoming a NATO member, rity. In fact, the latter would hardly happen if the s displeased as Irma Inashvili (of the sink in: on December 21, 1972, West and East Germany former were not to take place fi rst. Patriot Alliance party) and her cohort • The man tables the (arguably only) realistic signed an agreement recognizing each other as As for James Appathurai’s recent statement, where of like-minded “West’s bad, Russia’s scenario for Georgia to become a NATO member sovereign countries. he said that there’s no appetite in NATO to consider good” followers were, or perhaps and the vice-speaker of Georgian Parliament tries And as unthinkable as such scenario is in Geor- such a scenario [see page 2], as much a friend of because of it, the proposal that the to sabotage the conference where it’s being dis- gia’s case, one must remember that even that Georgia he is, and even keeping in mind that Appa- Aformer NATO Secretary General voiced at the Tbi- cussed. couldn’t deter the German people from uniting in thurai is still an active offi cial at NATO, while Ras- lisi International Conference this week, was an • Let’s assume tomorrow NATO tells us we can 1990 and creating one country that is modern Ger- mussen is a former Sec Gen, I would not think the offer that Georgia simply has no luxury to refuse, go in and Article 5 can cover the whole of Georgia, many today. latter’s opinion on the matter to be spontaneous to put it in Godfather lingo. That is, unless we want including Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Never mind Theoretically, the Rasmussen Model, as cheesy or less important. Think Positive. TBC Bank Co-founders to Establish Political Party

ticipate in the elections independently, without BY ANA DUMBADZE prominent politicians. "We will not cooperate with anyone at this stage. When we enter parliament, we will decide what amuka Khazaradze, the founder will be important for our country, for our state- of the public movement Lelo, on hood,” he noted. Thursday announced the estab- He did not say who will be the members of the lishment of a new political party party, however, he noted that new faces will be together with his partner and fel- appearing. Ana Natsvlishvili, the former chairper- Mlow TBC co-founder Badri Japaridze. son of the Georgian Young Lawyers Association, Speaking from the seaside city of Anaklia after will be the Speaker of the TBC Founders’ new the presentation of his public movement, the Geor- public movement Lelo. gian businessman noted he is not going to cooper- “It will be a new, modern platform, with a strong ate with any political party for the elections, add- team focused on goals and results, which will bring ing that at this stage the organization is determined together high-class professionals,” Khazaradze said to participate independently in the 2020 elections, this week. “Ana Natsvlishvili has joined our new while after it enters parliament, it will act for the team and she will be the speaker of the movement. benefi t of the country. Ana is a true team-player with huge professional "We are establishing a force focused on winning experience, fi rm character, a high level of objectiv- the elections in 2020, we declare this very seriously. ity and freedom.” We will not cooperate with anyone. We will par- Continued on page 6 GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 Linkevicius on the West - Georgia - Russia Triangle

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY WEST, THEY WOULD SAY IT’S THE ‘ALL TALK, NO ACTION.’ VAZHA TAVBERIDZE WHEN WILL THIS CHANGE? Without talk there can be no action. Ide- ally, there should be consensus and then ow What? was the title of action can follow; actions so far imple- the Tbilisi International mented are the sanctions- economic Conference 2019 and it sanctions for Crimea, sanctions because was the same question of the Kerch Strait and chemical attacks, that we asked Lithuania's because of the cyber-attacks. You see how NMinister of Foreign Affairs, Linas Link- it's increasing, and this is the good side; evicius, in an in-depth interview for again I would repeat it's not about aggres- GEORGIA TODAY and the Georgian sion, it's not an aggressive policy, though Institute for Security Policy (GiSP) that Russians always try to present such issues effectively moonlighted as his vision on as anti-Russian. They simply should not the geopolitical conundrum that the be allowed to violate international law. It Georgian issue came to be between the can be very diffi cult to fi nd the right proverbial West and Russia. action. With Georgia, Ukraine, the aggres- sion in Donbass, visiting these places and ALMOST EXACTLY ONE YEAR talking to the people, I fi nd they think the AGO YOU PUBLISHED AN OP- same: “nobody needs us.” It’s very diffi - ED IN WAPO SAYING THIS IS A cult to argue when such fi ghting is taking NEW POLITICAL SEASON THAT place in the middle of Europe. It's very WILL PROVE TO BE A LITMUS sad but again, what can we do? We must TEST FOR TRANSATLANTIC do our best to change the situation, which UNITY. ONE YEAR ON, HAS is what we are going to do regardless of THE WEST PASSED THIS TEST? these problems and skepticism and lack I wouldn't say there’s been great progress a workload but also taking risks, paying allies who really shared the risks and in [diffi cult social circumstances]. In of action. but at least it's not collapsed. It’s ongo- a price. When we talk about future mem- who wanted to join this coalition. That Russian civil society there are intellec- ing and is in fact a stress test for the bership, we always focus on the impor- was understood consequently in western tuals and those who really know what WHAT DOES THE FUTURE Euro-Atlantic alliance. We should act tant of seeing alignment with the com- Europe, which was usually more careful freedom means, what democracy means, HOLD FOR THE EASTERN with high responsibility from both sides mon policies, be they EU or NATO; we or less enthusiastic [about expansion]. and they deserve to be treated as part- PARTNERSHIP? of the ocean, especially considering that can criticize the country for its domes- In our case, the turning point was really ners and this is the Russia that we have We recently decided to make a differen- sometimes we hear some very discour- tic affairs and internal confl icts, but the unexpected. But Georgia has been prom- to talk to. tiation in the program, to recognize that aging messages from overseas. Let's mechanisms are in place and we would ised membership, in our case we were these three association agreement coun- admit, though, there are some projects like to see Georgia more advanced. At not. YOU SAID BEFORE THAT tries are not the same. Now we must in the EU that may also raise questions, the same time, we should admit that AN APPEASEMENT POLICY give it more substance and give more to like the “European army.” As former there’s no consensus (in NATO) as yet. SEEING AS WE HAVE RECENTLY TOWARDS RUSSIA HAS those who are able to digest more and Minister of Defense, I can say that nei- Despite that, we are supporting not just WITNESSED A HUGE WAVE NEVER ENDED WELL FOR THE to make sure that even if it's not an acces- ther I nor my colleagues fully understand the country’s aspirations but its mem- OF PUBLIC PROTESTS IN WEST. DO SUCH STATEMENTS sion process, it is nevertheless rapproche- it, but this is an issue being publicly dis- bership, and we’ll try to build this like- RUSSIA, WOULD A LEADERSHIP MAKE A DIFFERENCE OR DO ment with the European Union rather cussed and raising some tensions and minded group as much as possible; it CHANGE IN RUSSIA BE THEY FALL ON DEAF EARS? than with the Asian Union. I suggested even suspicion overseas. Further, the takes time and patience. It was the same THAT KIND OF WINDOW OF Things change, not just because I'm examples that would be preferable to language used overseas for bashing Euro- with us Lithuanians. Better to improve OPPORTUNITY FOR GEORGIA? making these statements but also because our partners- projects which are more peans is at times too sharp, but we can- yourself than point to others’ guilt and It depends on civic society. We know of national experience. When you’re liv- tangible and visible for people, bringing not deny the fact that Americans are so waste time: deepen ties, create implicit that sometimes things in Russia change ing in your comfort zone, war is bad, and them closer to the European kitchen, bearing this burden and that it cannot security guarantees if not judicial, and very quickly. I’m not predicting anything- while the occupation of some countries among them energy, the single digital last forever. Above all, we have to make become part of this bigger alliance not I’m just saying this is historical fact. On is also bad, it's not happening to you. market, connectivity projects, roaming. sure that the Alliance remains as strong de jure but de facto. Georgia should be the other hand, it’s also true that nobody But there have been events which really In line with the visa-free, these would as it has been throughout its 70 years of proud of what was achieved, understand- would do anything from outside; Russia triggered different thinking in many make it really clear to people that some- history. ing that the ultimate position is not should do it itself. We have no intention Western European countries, like the thing is changing in their everyday lives. reached so easily but is unavoidable. and no right to intervene, but our duty Salisbury poisonings, and the downing I'm not saying that it's so easy to reach LET'S TALK ABOUT THE is to facilitate the dialogue. That said, of that plane, or the presidential elec- out- it takes effort, but if these priorities UNWAVERING SUPPORT THE BALTIC COUNTRIES ALSO waiting for someone [Putin] to go is not tions in France. are made and the differences between GEORGIA GETS FROM EASTERN DID THEIR HOMEWORK AND a strategy; waiting for anything is not a the countries recognized…Azerbaijan, EUROPE WHEN IT COMES TO ITS THEN WAITED FOR A WINDOW strategy. YET MACRON HAD A LOVELY Belarus they have different objectives, EURO-ATLANTIC ASPIRATIONS. OF OPPORTUNITY. WHEN DO CHAT WITH PUTIN RECENTLY. no missions to join, but they should also HOW MUCH OF A YOU THINK SUCH A WINDOW WHAT ABOUT STRATEGIC But he was very angry about his med- feel comfortable in the program; there GAMECHANGER CAN THAT BE? COULD OPEN FOR GEORGIA? PATIENCE? dling in the elections. We’ll see how it should be no discrimination. So, if some- Georgia deserves to be treated better Nobody knows. For Lithuania, I'm con- Patience is fi ne but not if during this goes. It is changing, though at a slower body decides to go deeper and wider, than it is now because this treatment vinced the determining point was 9/11 time you sit and do nothing; it’s not just pace than many would like. then it doesn’t mean that the other side has to be based on the effort made and in New York and Washington because, waiting for something to change- that’s is discriminated against, because that's the performance on the ground. It's before that, we were not treated seri- not smart; we have to cooperate, we have YOU’VE REPEATEDLY their choice. The program needs to be important to emphasize that. Georgia’s ously, and our perspective was questioned to do our best to keep channels of com- CONDEMNED THE attractive to both those who are running participation in peace missions is the by many. But when these terrorist attacks munication open and trying to sell our BORDERIZATION. BUT IF YOU fast as well as to those who want some- largest per capita and this is not just took place, it changed the mindset in the case. Also, we need to keep in mind that ASK THE AVERAGE GEORGIAN thing else. This is up to us. By default, theoretical statistics but people dying, United States: fi rst of all, they needed Russia is not just the Kremlin; Russia is WHAT THEY DON’T LIKE it is not a success story yet it has the being killed, so they’re not just sharing allies, regardless of the size, they needed bigger; there are many people also living ABOUT THE EU AND THE potential to become so. SUBSCRIBE!

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 [email protected] +995 32 229 59 19 Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08  10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 POLITICS 5 Ukraine & Georgia: Time to Team Up?

Moscow for the fi rst Russian-French BY LORRAINE VANEY Security Cooperation Council in fi ve years. He noted that “The time has come, the time is right, to work towards reduc- n fi ve years, the Tbilisi Interna- ing the distrust between Russia and tional Conference has built up a Europe, who ought to be partners on a grand reputation through its speak- strategic and economic level." ers, mostly foreign experts and In this context, Georgia’s voice alone diplomats from the US and Euro- may not loud enough to be heard in the Ipean countries. This year, each took the international arena. This is a concern opportunity to emphasize its full support that was underlined by several speakers to Georgia’s democratic development, at the conference. However, it could the rise and on the international stage, survived to date, with success. The direc- Ukrainian and Georgian questions in the to its Western orientation and to its ter- actually be an opportunity for Georgia Russia has not made any substantial tion proposed by President Macron won’t US. He argued that Ukraine and Georgia ritorial integrity (minus the comment and Ukraine to enhance their coopera- changes.” lead to anything but the weakening of should further reinforce their coopera- of the former NATO Secretary-General tion and push the issue of the Russian “It is not sending the right message to the European project,” Zalishchuk tion in order to make their voice louder Anders Fogh Rasmussen regarding the occupation higher up the European the Kremlin and may encourage Russia claimed. on the international stage, and to push possible exclusion of Abkhazia and agenda. to continue violating human rights and “History speaks for itself,” she added their priorities to the top of the diplo- South-Ossetia from the integration pro- Lately, Europe has indeed been rather international law,” she adds. during an interview. “There was the matic agenda of their European and cess to NATO). ambivalent. In June, the Council of Europe Invited to the Conference, the Ukrain- Obama policy of ‘reset’ with Russia, but American partners. This last would indeed be a way out of decided to restore Russia’s voting rights ian politician Svitlana Zalishchuk, who it only brought war in Ukraine and war It also echoes to the proposition of the the current blockade, but even if, inter- despite the fact that the reasons for its was part of the Ukrainian Delegation in Georgia.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelen- nally, Georgia could come to an agree- exclusion, namely the annexation of at the Council of Europe, notes that “it If European countries are softening sky to Georgian President Salome Zura- ment, NATO members should also fi nd Crimea in 2014, remain unresolved. The delegitimizes any decisions from the their politics towards Russia, it could bishvili during their last meeting on a consensus regarding the integration resolution was presented as a step for- CoE, especially since the decision to then be crucial for Ukraine and Georgia September 2. He offered to create “a of Georgia- something which is not risk- ward in protecting human rights in Rus- suspend Russia’s voting right was made to strengthen their solidarity in front of joint strategy with Georgia on how to free for the Alliance, nor for the region. sia, as it gives Russian citizens the oppor- because of serious war crimes.” Dur- the Russian occupation. combat the Russian occupation and help President Vladimir Putin told Fox News tunity to appeal to the European Court ing a panel on the Ukrainian situation, Zalishchuk confi rmed, “There are many both countries become members of the last year that Russia would react of Human Rights. she expressed her concerns regarding opportunities for Ukraine and Georgia EU.” “extremely negatively” should Georgia Interviewed on the margin of the Tbi- the new political strategy of some to work better together within the frame- However, with former President or Ukraine join NATO. lisi International Conference, Natalia European countries, France among work of the Eastern Partnership, but also Sakaashvili, leader of the Georgian oppo- The timing doesn’t seem so right on Arno, a Russian human rights activist them. in exchanging know-how in terms of sition, back in Kyiv, this might be a con- the international stage either, with some based in the US, disagreed with this “President Macron said that the enemy democratic development. We are not troversial position for the ruling elite. European countries making efforts to position. “Even among human rights of our friends is not necessarily our just fi ghting against Russia but also for Hence, although strategic and praised restore political dialogue with the Krem- activists in Russia, the decision was not enemy. It was a turning point for me in our national success.” by international experts, teaming up lin. On September 9, the same day as the welcomed, because the regime did not the trajectory of the European project During the same panel, James Nixey, with Ukraine remains a matter of inter- opening of the conference, the French do anything to deserve this gesture. In because the EU and NATO are both rely- researcher at Chatham House, noted that nal politics, which enters a complicated Minister of Foreign Affairs M. Jean-Yves fact, the situation within Russia is no ing on the opposite strategy to solidarity, from his external perspective and expe- phase ahead of the parliamentary elec- le Drian was visiting his counterpart in better: human rights violations are on and this is how these two projects have rience, there is a lack of coverage of the tion in October 2020.

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[email protected] +995 595612600 +995 599871077 GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 The Rasmussen Proposition for Georgia

rounded by Russian troops. Military infl uence. It is exactly for these reasons OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI bases in Tskhinvali region and in Gyumri, that the Russians have been threatening Armenia, would serve as a strong disin- the road, pipeline and railway infrastruc- centive for the West. Making a move in ture running from east Georgia to the he proposition of the for- a militarily highly-congested region Black Sea shore and vital to the entire mer NATO Chief Anders would require a much stronger and sta- region. In Moscow’s thinking, an unsta- Fogh Rasmussen during a ble leadership in the West, similar to ble South Caucasus full of Russian troops geopolitical conference in what we saw in the post-World War II (as is the case in our time) is what would Tbilisi on accepting the period when US troops were facing the limit, if not entirely preclude, Georgia Tcountry into NATO without the Alli- Soviet in various parts of the world, risk- from joining western alliances. ance’s obligation (most notably Article ing global warfare. Considering that, the Rasmussen prop- 5) to cover the separatist regions of Abk- Another disincentive is that there is also osition, and I would like to point out that hazia and Tskhinvali region caused wide- a strong Russian resolve in keeping the it was only a suggestion to discuss the spread discussion within Georgia’s Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions under idea, not to actually move forward with political and analytical community. control because troops as close as pos- it straight away, also takes place at a time In a way, Rasmussen's ideas can be sible to Tbilisi will always put any Geor- of grand geopolitical shifts taking place regarded as a refl ection of internal debates gian government under pressure by ramp- in Western-Russian relations. Various within NATO. Similar ideas were ing up or cooling military activities. signs show that there might be an improve- advanced last year and, considering Making Georgia a NATO member will ment in said relations. As the West is various statements from western polit- require a strong commitment from the worried about Russia's increasing friend- ical and military leaders on Georgia’s West to confront/respond to Russian liness with China, moves not to lose NATO chances, there might be some moves. Georgia is interesting for Mos- Russia "forever" will be made. This does willingness to move the idea forward for cow due to its geographical position in not mean that Ukraine and Georgia might a wider, much deeper discussion. the South Caucasus. And it is not only become a part of grand bargain where While many in Georgia praised the prop- about barring Tbilisi from joining NATO Russia will be given a carte blanche, but osition, others stated it would end Georgia's or the EU. Russia’s goal historically has the need to have Russia closer nowadays hopes for territorial reunifi cation. been to minimize the importance of the would outweigh a diffi cult decision to What the majority actually missed is Caucasus mountain range as a barrier make Georgia a NATO member. that geopolitically the situation in the between the South Caucasus and the Thus, there are considerable obstacles South Caucasus has not changed since Russian mainland. to Georgia’s NATO accession. As said, 2008. In fact, what we see nowadays is An insecure, destabilized South Cau- the Rasmussen proposition does show Russia's build-up of military capabilities casus would be a serious problem for that discussions on Georgia’s member- in Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region. Moscow as it could spill over into the ship within the alliance are indeed tak- A look at the map of the South Caucasus North Caucasus (Chechnya, Dagestan, ing place. However, it would be prema- shows that it would be diffi cult for the etc.). But it would be more problematic ture to say more than that, as there are West to get Georgia into NATO in the for Moscow if the South Caucasus was still too many geopolitical obstacles in current context. Tbilisi is almost sur- stable, pro-western and under NATO Georgia’s way. Image source: nato.int Khajimba Wins, Opposition Protest

in return for appointing Ankvab as Prime OP-ED BY ZAZA JGARKAVA Minister. This is how Khajimba and Kvitsinia came to September 8, but despite such support, Kvitsinia was unable to nalogies between the pres- defeat Khajimba. And while he has already idential elections held in appealed the election results, it is highly occupied Abkhazia and last unlikely that anyone will annul the fi nal year in the rest of Georgia results, results which put Putin’s favorite continue. Like the Georgian candidate in power. ADream case, the occupied regime was Kvitsinia and the whole opposition of able to mobilize an unprecedented num- Abkhazia believes that the election law ber of voters during the second round was violated, which states that the elec- of the elections. Like a year ago, the tions are won by the candidate who gets candidate who came in third in the fi rst more votes than the sum of the defeated round called on his supporters to vote candidate’s votes and the votes given for the opposition candidate in the sec- “against every candidate.” Despite this, ond round. The election campaign strat- there is another article in the law, which egy was also similar – pressuring voters, states that the winner of the second bribes and fraud. The analogies end round is the one who simply gets the there, but the second round of elections majority of votes. Khajimba got 999 more in the breakaway region had other inter- votes, while 3154 people voted “against esting features too. Let’s take a look. every candidate.” Perhaps this fact will Raul Khajimba’s forecasts proved true. be the major trump card for the opposi- He said after the fi rst round: “We know tion. The results of the elections held in where we have worked and where we Image source: emerging-europe.com the occupied territory are as follows: still have room to gain votes.” And together member of the so called Abkhazian elite, and this fact further reinforces the opin- ander Ankvab and the oppositional Khajimba – 47.38%, Kvitsinia 46.19%, with his election team, he was able to get which made his situation even more dif- ion that Khajimba won over his com- spectrum decided to support Kvitsinia voter turnout 65.98% and the total num- the votes he had hoped for. The second fi cult. Khajimba comes from Tkvarcheli, petitor’s votes, the ones that the opposi- only a few days prior to the second elec- ber of voters 126,950 people. round showed that votes had been ‘seized’ region with the least number of voters. tion had hoped for. tion. At fi rst, it was thought that the Whether the legislative collision in the from that very electorate which the oppo- He couldn’t have relied on votes from the Alkhas Kvitsinia seemed to have a opposition wouldn’t support any candi- occupied territory becomes the cause sitional candidate thought guaranteed his region, nor from those of Gali, the region guaranteed victory in the second round: dates, thus leading to the likelihood of of a future political crisis is yet unknown. victory. Sokhumi, the biggest election where Khajimba’s policy deprived the he was supported by the party of former a third round. The majority of the oppo- A crisis like that of 2004, when the Krem- region of the occupied territory was where majority of their right to vote. Of course, President Alexander Ankvab, which sition supported this scenario, however, lin agreed to having their favorite can- Khajimba lost the fi rst round. It seems it was clear who the Georgians would meant that he was supported by the everything in the end was decided by didate only as a vice president, but what Putin’s favorite did his homework in vote for, given a chance. Polling stations Abkhazian elite and, most importantly, the position of Ankvab, the former leader is noteworthy is that in 2004 too, the Sokhumi and was able to take advantage were open in Moscow and Circassia, the so-called citadel of Abkhazian inde- of the occupied regimen. Kvitsinia’s Kremlin’s favorite was that same Raul of the fact, though Khajimba is not a where he lost again in the second round, pendence – the Gudauta region. Alex- campaign team agreed to get the votes Khajimba. TBC Bank Co-founders to Establish Political Party Continued from page 4 cess of confrontation and splitting our create a healthy, progressive and pro- will be joined by the representatives of of civil peace,” he said. community,” Khazaradze says of the reason Western society since it is obvious that different spheres, those who will be united “Based on this, I made a decision to In her turn, Natsvlishvili says that she for creating Lelo. “On the night of June 20 the de-escalation of the situation and the by the idea of building a modern western establish a public movement with my sees the real power and resources to our worthy and free youth expressed fair achievement of civil peace is impossible state in Georgia, with the most competi- friends and colleagues and professionals create a new reality and change the and sincere protest against occupation and only through the efforts of government tive and strongest economy in the region, of various spheres, the main purpose of situation in the country in Mamuka violence. This protest is a part of the con- or political parties. Society should be where the rule of law will be celebrated. which is to unite the country and main- Khazaradze's movement. tinuous historic process and continuation actively engaged in ongoing processes. Once and forever, we must stop using tain its independence and freedom. "Recent developments in the country are of our country's struggle for independence. Therefore, I believe that it is necessary labels against each other. On the contrary, “Long live united and free Georgia!” getting alarming. There is a deliberate pro- “It is necessary today to consolidate and to establish a new public movement which we should all come together for the idea Khazaradze stated. GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 POLITICS 7 Violence Doesn’t Pay - Can Georgia Become Too American?

Should this bother me so much? Yes OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE and No. No, because I cannot cure all the vices of the world with my inapt and fragile hands, and yes, because there he notorious epidemic of looms the prospect of Georgia imitating killing people in the United the dire paradigm of the West as it does States has turned into a almost everything else. Incidentally, I national problem of over- have nothing against useful mimicry, like whelming gravity affecting a lucrative economy or promoting mod- Tthe American citizenry not only physi- ern education, but I cannot accept the cally but psychologically too. Take me, thoughtless mechanical copying of all for instance: while walking the streets that is called western, saying no to good of the lovely little town of my habitual old indigenous traditionalism and way residence in America, I would catch of life. myself thinking nervously of the chances There is something that scares me of an unexpected wacko shootout hap- about where America is going today pening at any moment during my regu- and how much Georgia is involved in lar recreational strolls in the neighbor- the process of westernizing our society, hood. which does not always mean ameliorat- This uncomfortable sensation stuck in ing the life in the country. Let’s look at people’s minds is called ‘fear’, and one the general picture this way: moderni- might have a good number of reasons zation is good and even necessary, but for being under said stressful spell of roots are also very important. I can fear. In the free (or not so free!) world, hardly imagine enjoying the fruits of everybody is talking about the likelihood scientifi c novelty and techno-econom- of being slaughtered right out of the blue, ical modernity unless all those good right in the middle of the street or in a things are grafted on traditional values dark alleyway. Isn’t this awful? I fi rst and purely ethnic features that attract went to America in the early and blissful our foreign guests and friends like mag- 1980s and I think that little is left of what nets to our culture. Would it not be I saw then and there. The so called mass perfectly acceptable for all of us to walk shootings have become a scary routine Image source: Karen Bleier/AFP via Getty Images through that golden median safely and in the New World which, statistically peacefully? I dare say this might work speaking, is an uncontested champion other places on our trouble-ridden planet year old American culture is currently regular American lifestyle is a Hollywood as the most powerful and productive of this infamous trade. too, but not in numbers like this. What going through a painful metamorphosis, cinematographic paradigm of the blood national medium for making this beau- I am reading in reliable reference books is happening to the US, then? Well, this but it is almost impossible to make a and violence usually reserved for movie tiful land the paradise we’re all dream- that since 2013, there has been, on aver- is too big and complicated a question to clear statement right now as to whether screens: but it is gradually moving from ing of. I understand that this kind of age, a shootout a day in the public, which be answered in a small journalistic piece the ongoing change might end in some- screen to street, turning us all into the idealistic thinking is too far removed makes more than 2000 shootings to date. like this but fi nding a quick answer to it thing very negative or moderately posi- witnesses of a cruel bloodshed and human from real-life pragmatism, but thinking, To be fair, such atrocities happen not is not completely impossible. My most tive for the nation. aggression that destroys the lives of at least the way I think, is not yet pro- only in the United States but in many affordable guess is that the entire 400- One of the most noticeable factors of innocent thousands. hibited by law, is it? Georgia Responds to Duma's Step to Investigate "Ossetian Genocide by Georgians"

BY THEA MORRISON

eorgian Parliament Speaker Archil Talakvadze says “Georgian history can be read, but not rewritten or changed.” GHe made the statement in response to information released by the Russian State Duma on the creation of a special work- ing group to study “the genocide of the South Ossetians in 1920 by Georgians.” “This is not the fi rst attempt from the Russian side to revise Georgian history… Our choice is not to seek new confl icts or to open old wounds, but to fi nd com- mon ground with Ossetians and Abkha- zians," he stated. The Speaker added that the use of his- torical themes for political conjuncture is risky, especially in such a region as the Caucasus. “We consider this kind of short political vision as unpromising and dangerous,” he stressed. Vyacheslav Viktorovich Volodin, a Rus- sian politician who has served as the 10th Image source: duma.gov.ru Chairman of the State Duma since Octo- ryone realize that if the people of South ing the “genocide” issue on July 31. The which was between 8 and 25% of the resistance. It was incited and supported ber 2016, stated that the legislative body Ossetia suffered a genocide, it would be address specifi es that "the 1920 events whole population, according to different by Bolsheviks from Russia while the has set up a working group which will right to acknowledge it and support our were not appropriately assessed, and the assessments,” it says, adding that in 1989- Georgian government at the time was discuss the appeal of the breakaway South colleagues in South Ossetia,” he noted. masterminds and those behind the geno- 1992, Georgia "again attempted ethnic dominated by their opponents - the Men- Ossetia’s “parliament” asking the Duma Volodin said much depends on what cide of South Ossetians were not held cleansings against the Ossetian people, sheviks. to recognize the “genocide of the South kind of arguments and materials will be accountable." but the Russian interference in 2008, The confl ict resulted in the loss of thou- Ossetians in 1920 by Georgia.” presented and whether or not Georgia Moreover, it reads that after breakaway which forced Georgia to [declare] peace, sands of lives on both sides, but the He said the group will be led by Viktor will cooperate. South Ossetia declared its right to self- prevented the people of South Ossetia approximate number is said to be around Vodolatsky, First Deputy Chairman of the “We hope to cooperate with Georgia determination and ascension to Soviet from being completely wiped out.” 2-6 thousand casualties. Committee on CIS Affairs, and after it during the consideration of the South Russia, "the Georgian government sent The confl ict between Ossetians and In contrary to the position of the break- studies the issue and drafts a proposal, Ossetian appeal regarding the recogni- their units to suppress South Ossetia" in Georgians started as a social dispute but away South Ossetian authorities, Georgia the State Duma will return to the matter tion of the Ossetian genocide,” he added. June 1920 and "the Georgian troops elim- rapidly turned into a confl ict after the denies the notion of this being genocide and make a decision. Russian leadership, the State Duma and inated most of the residential communi- uprising of Ossetians in breakaway Tskh- and points to the destructive and desta- “It is important for the Russian lawmak- the Federation Council, were addressed by ties in South Ossetia." invali region in 1918 which culminated in bilizing role played by Russian Bolsheviks ers that the decision be objective and eve- de facto South Ossetian parliament regard- "Several thousand people were killed, 1920 when Georgian troops quelled the in the confl ict. GEORGIA TODAY 8 BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 Georgia Negotiating Direct Flights with the US

Women Councillors Seek a Greater Say in Georgia’s Economic & Political Life Continued from page 1 needs and unleashing the energy and creativity of every member of the popu- The low political representation of lation. Georgia will only realize its full women has been a growing concern in potential when it ensures equal economic Georgia in recent years. Only 14% of and political opportunities for all of its municipal council members are women. citizens.” Only one of 64 elected mayors is a woman. Participants discussed economic and The share of women in the national Par- educational opportunities available for Image source: Ministry of Economy liament is just 15%. The Women Coun- women in Georgia’s regions, including launching of direct fl ights between the US-Georgia fl ights will be a very clear, BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA cillors’ Forum was established in 2013 state-funded programmes. Priority needs two countries, reports the Ministry of positive political step in terms of the with support from UNDP and Sweden include vocational training, preschool Economy of Georgia. strategic partnership of two countries, as a vehicle to encourage Georgian education and health care in rural areas. The Georgian offi cial will meet with and a commercially attractive aspect women to become more active in public Representatives of the Ministry of atia Turnava, Minister the representatives of the world’s lead- for various companies. life and local decision-making. Regional Development and Infrastructure of Economy and Sustain- ing companies, such as Delta Air Lines The visit of the Georgian delegation “Heeding women’s voices is not just outlined the ongoing decentralization able Development of and United Airlines, and deliver a thor- was organized by the Ministry of Econ- about fairness,” said Louisa Vinton, UNDP reform, focusing on its impact on Geor- Georgia, along with an ough presentation on Georgia. omy and Sustainable Development of Head in Georgia. “It’s about designing gia’s efforts to achieve meaningful gender offi cial delegation, is in It is noted in the Ministry statement Georgia and the Embassy of the USA public services that meet everyone’s equality at all levels of governance. Nthe US this week to negotiate the that achieving an agreement on direct to Georgia. GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 SOCIETY 9 CENN/USAID Program Assists the Local Government to Close an Illegal Landfi ll in Batumi the legislative requirement – as of February 2019, all local governments are required to start the gradual introduction of separated waste collection within their territories. It is also important because it reduces the amount of waste disposed of in landfi lls and supports the economic development of the country.

WHAT ELSE IS PLANNED IN THE ADJARA REGION AND IN GENERAL, COUNTRYWIDE? 10 illegal dumpsites of various sizes were closed in Adjara in close cooperation with the local government. Such activi- ties have also been implemented in the Kakheti region. In the future, a separated waste collection system is planned to be introduced in two municipalities of Adjara (Kobuleti and Khelvachauri), which will further progress the waste management situation in the region. This initiative will be implemented in close cooperation with the local government.

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE WMTR PROGRAM. WHAT The Gagarini dumpsite covered an area ronmental problem in our city,” the rep- and transportation of the waste disposed CONTRIBUTION DOES IT BY ANA DUMBADZE of 1,950 m2. Batumi City Hall placed two resentative told us. “In general, closure in the dumpsite to Batumi’s offi cial land- MAKE TO ENVIRONMENTAL waste bins on the territory. Furthermore, of illegal landfi lls can be expensive. fi ll. In addition, two waste collection bins PROTECTION AND the program will install an informational Human resources alone are not enough were placed on the territory that will be WHICH ORGANIZATIONS atumi, the charming seaside banner on the cleaned area in the hopes - heavy equipment is also needed, espe- served by the local municipal waste col- COOPERATE WITH CENN IN city in Georgia’s Adjara of preventing further littering. cially when working towards interna- lection service. Furthermore, an infor- ITS IMPLEMENTATION? region, represents one of the GEORGIA TODAY contacted Batumi tional standards. In the Gagarini Street mational banner will be installed in the The program is implemented by CENN leading tourism destinations City Hall for more details. A represent- case, those expenses were fully covered area to prevent further littering on the with the support of USAID in three in the country due to its ative of the Agency noted that the clo- by the CENN / USAID WMTR program. territory. regions – Kakheti, Shida Kartli and Adjara breathtakingB nature and landscapes. sure of the landfi ll is important for the City Hall participated through non-cash –and in Tbilisi. The program assists the Thousands of tourists visit Batumi every city’s ecology and human health, as it contributions - as defi ned by the project. IS IT TRUE THAT WASTE HAD Government of Georgia to modernize year to take in the sites and indulge in represented “quite a serious danger” to This is the second illegal landfi ll in Batumi BEEN ACCUMULATING IN THE the country’s waste management sector its natural wonder. However, special care the local population. to be closed in collaboration with CENN/ AREA FOR 15 YEARS? WHY and supports sustainable development and attention is needed to maintain such “Batumi City Hall has been actively USAID. In April, an illegal landfi ll on WASN’T IT CLOSED SOONER? and inclusive economic growth, ensur- a unique and diverse natural environ- cooperating with CENN for several years, Tabidze Street was also cleaned up and Yes. Different types of municipal and ing responsible management of natural ment and protect it from littering and within the framework of the WMTR closed - about 2000 cubic meters of waste construction waste were disposed of endowments that will minimize adverse pollution. program supported by USAID,” the City was collected and transported to a legal during this time on the territory. The impacts from waste on human health Littering is an ever-increasing world- Hall employee told us. “Through joint landfi ll in Batumi. City Hall has placed dumpsite was located in a non-urban and natural resources. We are actively wide problem. Chances are, you’ve seen efforts, we established a fi ve-year waste waste bins in the area of all closed illegal part of the city near a rural settlement working with both the central and local litter scattered along roadsides, fl oating management plan for our city and began landfi lls to prevent further pollution and and was often a place cattle roamed. In governments at the legislative level as in waterways, or blowing across parks. implementing it. This resulted in closure organizes meetings and events aimed at the last few years, urban development well as implementing actual work in The well-being of people, animals, and of the dumpsite on Gagarini Street, where raising the environmental awareness of has progressed in the direction of Gaga- terms of assisting the local government the environment is compromised by lit- different types of municipal and con- residents.” rin Street. There are number of different- in fulfi lling their waste management ter. People can become injured by items struction waste had been accumulated. Apparently, illegal dumpsites can “spon- sized illegal dumpsites in the city and obligations under legislative require- such as broken glass and are susceptible Over 2500 cubic meters of waste was taneously occur” in various locations. the local government is working to close ments. to disease caused by unsanitary condi- collected and transported to a legal land- Batumi City Hall has been cooperating them. Closure of the sites is quite expen- We are working with the private sector tions. Animals are at risk of ingesting fi ll in Batumi. Illegal dumping not only with CENN within the scope of the sive and maintaining the cleanliness of to support the development of the waste garbage and becoming trapped and distorts the appearance of the city, but USAID-supported Waste Management the area is not only dependent on the management sector in the country. Within debilitated by waste. The environment it is also pollutes the air, soil and ground- Technology in the Regions program since waste collection service, but also on the the program, the Waste Management becomes threatened when litter invades water. Such steps aimed at reducing 2015. Considering that many important behavior of the public. This is why it is Association of Georgia was established natural habitats and when toxic chemi- negative environmental factors, espe- events have been implemented and much integral to raise environmental aware- which unites separated waste collection cals from items, such as plastic, seep into cially in a touristy town like Batumi, are effort has been made to improve the ness. and recycling companies. The association soil and groundwater. of utmost importance.” environment in the city of Batumi as has two main objectives: creating a To combat this, the Waste Management Over the years, low environmental well as in the whole region, City Hall THIS IS THE SECOND CLOSED business-friendly environment for the Technology in Regions Program imple- awareness has been and remains a major says it expects that cooperation will ILLEGAL LANDFILL IN BATUMI development of waste recycling and mented by CENN with the support of challenge countrywide, including in the become even more active in the future THIS YEAR. PLEASE TELL aggregating companies in Georgia USAID, assisted the local government Adjara region. to positively impact the environmental US ABOUT THE FIRST. through advocating and lobbying key of the city of Batumi in closing an illegal “We have to identify illegal waste dis- policy of the city. Our program cooperated with the local issues for sector development with dumpsite located on I. Gagarini Street. posal sites every year and conduct fur- GT also talked with CENN represent- government to close the illegal dumpsite different interested parties, including This is the second landfi ll closed in ther liquidation works. Although we see ative Nino Tevzadze, Deputy Chief of on Tabidze Street, in which similar afore- decision makers; and developing the Batumi this year, with an illegal landfi ll a clear decline in this direction compared Party of WMTR Phase II, to fi nd out mentioned activities were implemented. capacity of recycling and aggregating on Tabidze Street shut down in April. to previous years, it is still a major envi- more about the illegal landfi ll closure, It is essential to implement such activi- companies according to the best ecological conditions in the region and ties in close cooperation with local gov- international practices. CENN’s future plans for the WMTR ernments as their involvement ensures We are also working with individual program. the sustainability of the results. waste collection and recycling companies through various technical assistance to PLEASE ELABORATE ON THE IN GENERAL, WHAT IS THE support their further development. IMPORTANCE OF THE GAGARINI SITUATION REGARDING Within the program, we have a grants LANDFILL CLOSURE IN TERMS OF ENVIRONMENTAL component that aims to equip target ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION? PROTECTION IN THE CITY? companies with modern equipment to The closure of the illegal landfi ll was The two closed dumpsites were the two support their development. A key important not only from an environmen- largest in the city, the closure of which component of the program is awareness tal perspective, but also for promoting has had quite a positive impact on the raising and public outreach; within this tourism. In general, illegal landfi lls cre- city. Batumi has actively begun to component the program is actively ate a serious problem in terms of both introduce a separated waste collection working with youth via various campaigns. groundwater and air pollution, create system in the city with the support of unsanitary conditions at the local level our program. Currently, 11 recycling and are visually displeasing. Therefore, corners have been installed, where we think that such activities are impor- residents and visitors can bring their tant for the development of the region. separated waste (paper, glass, aluminum and plastic PET bottles) to be further WHAT MEASURES WERE TAKEN recycled. These recycling corners are WHILE CLOSING THE LANDFILL? served by the municipal waste collection Closure works included the collection company and are important for meeting GEORGIA TODAY 10 SOCIETY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 Murman Pataraia, Director General of Biodiesel Georgia on Launching Regulations on Energy Commodities Export

is prohibited. The government policy TRANSLATED BY KETEVAN should also do the same with regard KVARATSKHELIYA secondary oil.” Pataraia goes on to note that we live in an era where we have to face numer- eorgia is in an extremely ous challenges, where energy resource poor condition in terms of supply is decreasing on a daily basis energy independence, globally. especially with regards to “Taking into account the fact that Geor- the fuel sphere, where the gia is certainly not rich in terms of oil Gcountry is mostly dependent on imported products, we must maximally assimilate oil products – Pataraia tells us. Yet, turns and use everything we have,” he says. out that through modern technologies “We plan to launch a large-scale cam- and innovative approaches, even coun- paign in the near future, working actively tries with scarce oil resources can pro- with government services, including duce their own renewable and eco- executive and legislative circles, and the friendly fuel, including biodiesel, offices of the Business and Energy bio-petrol as well as bio-gas. In Georgia, Ombudsmen. We also plan to hold con- the fi rst step in this regard has already sultation with NGOs, international been made by the startup Biodiesel Geor- organizations and diplomatic corps to gia, which has been operating for two use this industrial resource primarily years. for the energy independence of Georgia,” This innovative startup produces bio- Pataraia concludes. diesel, utilizing secondary cooking oil as the raw material. Thanks to modern technologies, secondary oil has become a signifi cant strategic resource for Geor- gia. Indeed, through the utilization of this waste product, the country has been given an opportunity to regularly man- ufacture fuel and decrease dependence on the import of oil products, as well as is uncontrolledly leaked from Georgia. country, is, to put it mildly, a crime,” fi rst successfully bio-fuel factory is already ameliorate the ecological and economic The process of leakage takes place even Pataraia claims. in operation in Georgia,” he says. “Our conditions. when a special refi nery, able to produce “The government should strictly con- legislation with regards to electricity “Any state would take special care of an alternative product – biodiesel – out trol the use of this strategically important export is a clear example of the kind of this resource and use it benefi cially. of this resource, is running in the coun- resource, restrict its export and prioritize policies implemented by the government: And yet we see a reality where an try. Considering this, moving this local manufacturers, especially when the if there is no excessive production of energy commodity of vital importance resource out of the borders of the fi rst step has already been made and the electric energy in our country, its export NGO: Crime in Georgia up by 17.23% in 2019 crime groups decreased compared to the BY THEA MORRISON previous year. The growth rate of other registered crime groups ranges from 4% to 33%. The number of crimes against he non-governmental organ- human rights and freedoms has increased ization ‘Institute for the by approximately 33% compared to the Development of Freedom same period last year, which is 393 more of Information’ (IDFI) cases reported to the police. reports that the crime rate Moreover, in the same period, the num- Tin the fi rst seven months of 2019 has ber of drug offenses has increased by increased by 17.23%. 26% compared to the previous year. The NGO says that in January-July 2019, Among them, 257 cases of drug posses- 38,748 crimes were registered in the sion, storage or selling were registered, country, 17.23% more than in the fi rst with 227 cases of repeated drug use. The seven months of 2018. increase in this category can be partly Moreover, in 2019, there is also a nega- explained by the tightening of control tive trend in terms of opening of crimi- in this fi eld. nal cases, which has deteriorated by However, the number of crimes against about 4% compared to 2018. life declined by 16% compared to the The report reads that comparison of previous year. The number of suicide the 2018 and 2019 crime rates to statistics cases increased by 15.5% (168 cases) while of the previous years raises important the number of premeditated murders questions about the methodology used decreased by 54% (25 cases less), but at and possible falsifi cation of statistics to the same time the number of premedi- show the desired results. tated murders in aggravated circum- “The number of crimes registered in stances increased by 43.7%. seven months of 2019 already exceeds In 2019, the number of crimes against those recorded in 2014-2017 throughout property increased again (by 19.6%). The the year… Also, changing the accounting biggest increase (+2265 cases) remains system seems to have had a signifi cant as theft. impact on the accuracy of case opening In addition to this, the rate of domestic Image source: molivam42.com rates. For example, in the fi rst seven violence increased by 305 cases, (+10.38%), in the number of registered crimes by report, the IDFI welcomed the Ministry rate in 2018 was 17.2% less compared to months of 2017, the opening rate was followed by rape (18 cases more, +36%) crime groups had a negative impact on of Internal Affair’s (MIA) practice of the previous year. 53.82%, which is down to 32.28% in 2019,” and cybercrime (+610 cases, +130%), their case opening rate. proactively disclosing crime statistics As in the past, this year the MIA said the IDFI claims. which includes unauthorized access to “The crime opening rate declines every from 2018. the main reason for the increased crime The organization also noted that accord- computers, computer data or illegal use year amid increasing funding allocated The 2018 statistics of the MIA showed rate is that citizens are addressing the ing to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and of the computer system. from the state budget to the ministry,” that crime increased by 55.8% January- police more often following awareness during the fi rst seven months of 2019, only The organization noted that during the IDFI said. July compared to the corresponding raising of their rights, and due to increas- the number of traffi c and public servants’ fi rst seven months of 2019, the increase Despite the concerns expressed in the period of 2017 while the crime opening ing trust towards law enforcers. GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 SOCIETY 11 Unique Technology News from Smartphone Manufacturers IFA 2019

UAWEI has introduced the fi rst 5G 990 (5G) provides a brand-new ISP 5.0 for capturing processor, the Kirin 990, at the IFA brighter and sharper images in low light environ- 2019 in Berlin, where the innovative ments. It is also the fi rst to use dual-domain video products of the most popular brands NR for more accurate noise processing for videos. were showcased. Moreover, at the IFA 2019, HUAWEI also pre- HAt the event, special attention was devoted to the sented its new, wireless earphones. HUAWEI Free- product which immediately appeared in the focus Buds 3 uses a delicate earphone design and comes of the world tech media, the 5G, 7-nm+EUV manu- with a unique, round case. HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 facturing process Kirin 990, which achieving a provides users with more comfortable wearing smaller area and lower power consumption. experience and a nice grip. It has two color options: “Kirin 990 (5G) is the world's fi rst 5G SoC, and black and white. HUAWEI FreeBuds 3 provides it will enable end users to access superb 5G con- stable and fast connectivity, impressive sound qual- nectivity experience one step ahead in the fi rst ity and smart noise canceling experience. It’s the year of 5G commercialization.” stated Richard Yu, world’s fi rst open wireless earphone that provides CEO of Huawei's consumer business group. real active noise canceling performance. According to his estimation, the Kirin 990 5G is It was also announced at the event that HUAWEI designed to fully meet customer expectations in Mate Series models, which will work on the new the new technology era: “The Kirin 990 Kirin 990 Kirin 990 Series chip, will be coming soon in Sep- (5G) has been fully upgraded in terms of perfor- tember. mance and power effi ciency, AI computing, and HUAWEI products and services are available in ISP, extending mobile phone experiences to a new more than 170 countries and are used by a third of level.” the world's population. There are 16 research and Kirin 990 (5G) is the fi rst fl agship SoC that packs development centers operating worldwide in the a dual-core NPU built on the Da Vinci architecture, USA, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China. which comprise large NPU cores and tiny NPU HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of three business cores. The large cores achieve high performance units of HUAWEI, mainly focusing on the produc- and power effi ciency in heavy computing scenarios, tion of smartphones, personal computers, tablets while the tiny core structure, fi rst in the industry, and cloud services. The HUAWEI Global Network empowers ultra-low power consumption applica- is based on 20 years of experience in the telecom- tions, fully tapping into the intelligent computing munications business and serves to the production power brought by the innovative NPU architecture. of innovative technologies to customers around To enhance the photography experience, the Kirin the world. GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 Doubling: Rikoti Pass, Georgia

almost to the Pass now, nearing Khashuri length when I took it. and Surami at its east end. But for years I only hope the homeowners who are I have been wondering: in these narrow forced to sell and move are being prop- places, just how are the road engineers erly compensated. As for the churches going to proceed? Surely they can’t fi nd along the road, well, especially the old or make the necessary space for the job! ones will simply stand where they are, So many new bridges and tunnels to forcing detours as they can’t be moved build; will they simply bypass this whole and are too important to be lost. And road and take the highway elsewhere? the local clay-works, originally just at We were forced to use bad-grade alter- Shrosha but now much more widespread, nate routes across the country for a while which are a mainstay of the area? I also after the 2008 war anyway, as Russia had hope that these will survive to make bombed the main bridge near Gori. more qvevrebi (amphorae for wine) and Well, it looks like they’re going through. tonebi (cylindrical bread ovens). In many spots there are temporary Of course, the question must be asked, buildings erected to house the hundreds why now? Well, either simply because of workers living here; hundreds of the time has come for this stretch of road heavy machines are parked or busy; to be tackled; or because there are Elec- cement factories have been built; forest tions looming and we must be seen to sections are being cleared, ramps built, be being busy! much earth moved. It’s a massive pro- ject which could take years; it will also Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since have to wait when snows come, as they 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a do to this area. Most of the highway weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He will, just like the bit immediately west runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook of Tbilisi’s edge, be on two different group, now with nearly 2000 members, at levels, one for each direction. It is a www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- badly needed increase in road space for sance/ this otherwise dreadful trucking and He and his wife also run their own guest house slowdown section, which was crawling in Etseri: at walking pace for quite a bit if its www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti

village down to Zugdidi, the hour being However, this leg turned out to be no BLOG BY TONY HANMER just a bit too late for the morning minivan faster. Probably due to a combination of runs. Fortunately, the car was shared, so factors. One was the slightly later hour the price per passenger was only 20 GEL. when we hit the bottleneck part, the had some swift business in Tbilisi, Three hours later… I played in my head Rikoti Pass after Zestaponi, now with so, time to shut up shop and guest this little speech: “Use this money to get more big trucks on it slowing everything house for just a couple of days. your [broken] speedometer fi xed, so you down in the many places where the twists Having washed up from serving can see how fast you’re NOT going.” But and turns prevent overtaking. breakfast to 10 guests, I handed instead of delivering it, I just paid up The other was that this section, 60 km Iover barn duties to kind neighbors and and left, memorizing the car’s make, or so long, is now fi nally being doubled fl ed the scene with just a single small model and license plate so as never to in width, part of the decade or so long day-backpack. take it again. Next stop, after a quick program to massively upgrade the main After about 10 cars ignored my out- lunch, Zugdidi railway station, where I road through the whole of Georgia from stretched hitchhiking hand, one stopped: was the last passenger to board the min- Azerbaijan to the Black Sea coast cities. my fi rst time ever taking a taxi from our ibus and off we set towards the Big City. West from Tbilisi, we’re completed Georgian, Swedish Gov’ts to Launch ‘Keep Georgia Tidy’ Project

BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA

n September 10, the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agri- culture of Georgia hosted the rep- resentatives of governmental and non-governmental organizations, asO well as media, to announce the upcoming pro- ject titled ‘Keep Georgia Tidy’. The four-year ini- tiative is to be implemented by the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture of Geor- gia, the Greens Movement of Georgia and the NGO Keep Georgia Tidy (KGT), with the support of the Government of Sweden in 2019-2023. Ulrik Tideström, the Ambassador of Sweden to Georgia and Armenia, addressed the audience on the crucial importance of environmental protec- tion with regards to climate change, and strongly accentuated the signifi cance of this project in terms of improving the waste management system in Georgia. “The main aim of the project is to reduce pol- lution of the environment and greenhouse gases by 2030, promoting sustainable environmental education and a circular economy,” stated Tideström. The Ambassador of Sweden also commented on the case through social media. “Happy to launch #KeepGeorgiaTidy with imple- menting partners and Minister of Environment Levan Davitashvili. Project aims to reduce pollu- tion and emissions by educating 700.000 people incl. schoolchildren on sustainable development,” reads his Tweet. It was also noted at the press conference that with regards to the upcoming World Clean Up campaign, there are various activities planned in more than 1,000 locations countrywide on Sep- tember 20-22. Image source: Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture of Georgia GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 SOCIETY 13 Proving the Pessimists Wrong – Datishvili on the Joys & Diffi culties of His Bike Journey to Edinburgh

a well-planned-out route made it much easier to make the journey.

WERE YOU ALWAYS SURE THAT YOU WOULD REACH YOUR DESTINATION? DIDN’T YOU EVER WANT TO GIVE UP? I was always confi dent I would reach my goal. When hard times hit, I never thought about giving up. What I did think about then was taking a break, resting, and then carrying on. The rugby match between Scotland and Georgia was something that kept me focused – I knew I had to make it in time.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO THOSE WHO MIGHT WANT TO FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSEPS, OR RATHER, YOUR BIKE TRACKS? My advice is to get to really know your- self; fi nd out what your abilities and wishes are so that what is expected and what is a likely reality do not part ways and there is no room for disappoint- ment. Plan the route in detail, as much as possible, and listen to those who have done it before you. Each misguided calculation can really ruin the experi- ence.

WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM YOUR JOURNEY? Each kind person I was lucky enough EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY WHY THE RUGBY MATCH? I’ve been a big fan of rugby for a long to cross paths with on this journey is a NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE time. So when the match was announced, memory I treasure. The biggest accom- I got my second important motivator plishment is the relationships I have to fi nally put my theory into practice. formed through this experience. andro Datishvili is a 25-year- I didn’t think there would be another old Georgian architect who chance like it to conclude such a jour- DID YOU EVER IMAGINE cycled all the way from Tbilisi ney with triumph. THAT YOUR STORY COULD to Edinburgh, Scotland- BECOME SO TALKED ABOUT? through Turkey, Greece, Bul- WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST Even before I headed down the road, I Sgaria, Serbia, Austria, Hungary, Germany, CHALLENGES YOU FACED was sure the project would be a subject Luxemburg, Belgium and France, to the ON YOUR JOURNEY? of interest. However, even with that UK. Sandro left Tbilisi on June 1 and The mistrust and pessimism of society, realization, it was never part of the point made it to Scotland on September 4, two I would say. No-one believed I would or main goal. And during the trip itself, days ahead of his schedule: his goal being cross the fi nish line. Consequently, it I realized that it was not such a big deal to arrive in the capital of Scotland on became nearly impossible to fi nd spon- to the public. The BBC did write about September 6, the date of the rugby match sors or get any kind of encouragement. me, though, and a very good article, at between Scotland and Georgia. The moments they would try to change that. While he was in the UK, the BBC wrote my mind or stand in my way were very an article about Sandro and his impres- annoying. It was even more frustrating IN YOUR OPINION, COULD sive 113-day bike journey. Now, he is get- that those who could have made this SUCH ACTIVE CYCLING AND ting back to his normal life in Tbilisi, journey a better project chose a state ADVENTURE-SEEKING BECOME GEORGIA TODAY went to talk to him of disinterest – they couldn’t have cared A NORM IN GEORGIA? about the joys and diffi culties of his jour- less. The biggest things needed here are self- ney from Georgia to Scotland. For me, traveling is an essential part improvement, empowerment and get- “At fi rst, before I decided to put the of those enchanted by the world of art, ting more experience. Tourism is inter- theory of cycling into practice, I realized as it is a great way to get new sources esting everywhere. However, it can be how unusual cycling is in Georgia and of inspiration. rather tough in Georgia because many saw how the countrywide pessimism is routes are in bad shape. On the other something of a disease; killing every DID YOU DO ANY PHYSICAL hand, this is balanced with picturesque creative idea its habitants might have. OR PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAINING nature and historical monuments. The The bike thing was just a hobby to inter- BEFORE YOU SET OUT? only two things that cause obstacles for est and humor myself at fi rst. But then, I I started thinking about this trip one cycling becoming part of everyday life kept calculating how much time it would year before I headed off on the journey, in Georgia are laziness and the wrong take to travel from here to Germany or psychological training of a kind. It the mentality. someplace else and each time I tried to belief in my mission and psychological share it with someone, they would start readiness that helped me most through ANY INTERESTING PLANS talking about the troubles the trip could the diffi culties on the road. About the FOR THE NEAR FUTURE? (and would) bring, not the possible happy physical training – I didn’t have time to I can’t imagine life without change and days and moments, the adventures that do much working out because of my novelty. I guess I’ll think of something it would surely offer. So I decided to give job. I bought my bike a few months but right now I’m concentrated on get- them [the Georgians] an example of how before I left Tbilisi! So, to say that I met ting my strength back and getting back to deal with diffi culties: how to set a goal the start of this trip in the shape of a into the swing of my normal life. I hope and accomplish it.” true sportsmen would be a lie. However, that lots of interesting things lay ahead. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER MOVEMENT THEATER Until September 29 MUSIC RUSTAVELI THEATER 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave. Multimedia technology exhibition- 17 Rustaveli Ave. TEL (+995 32) 598 19 29 36 IMMAGICA. A JOURNEY INTO GABRIADZE THEATER TBILISI SPORTS PALACE BEAUTY September 13 13 Shavtelis St. 1 26th May Sq. September 14 With the help of the screen CHARITY CONCERT FOR VATO TEL (+995 32) 2 98 65 93 Performers: Georgian Philharmonic FAUST projection, visitors have a chance September 13 Orchestra to take a look at the following After Johann Wolfgang von Goethe David Garrett’s Conductor- Ilya Mashkevich, September 13 artists’ artworks: Giotto– Directed by Kakha Bakuradze new tour UNLIMITED –LIVE Piano- Giorgi Gigashvili THE AUTUMN OF MY SPRINGTIME Composer/Arranger: Sandro Nikoladze “Ognissanti Madonna” and the Playwright, director, and Garrett celebrate his 10-year Program: Sergei Prokofi ev- Piano Language: Non-verbal “Scrovegni Chapel”, Leonardo da crossover anniversary with fans Concerto N3, op.26 Art director: Rezo Gabriadze Start time: 20:00 Vinci– “Annunciation”, Botticelli– Dmitri Shostakovich- Symphony Language: Georgian Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10, 15 GEL “The Birth of Venus” and “Spring”, Ticket: 130-250 GEL N5, op.47 English Subtitles Raffaello– “The Madonna of the Start time: 19:30 Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-35 GEL September 15 Goldfi nch, Bellotto– “Piazza San MOVEMENT THEATER Ticket: 20, 30, 40 GEL ASTIGMATISTS Marco”, “Castello Sforzesco”, 182, Aghmashenebeli Ave. TSINANDALI CLASSICAL Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze Canaletto– “The Chapel of Eton TEL (+995 32) 598 19 29 36 September 14, 18 College”, Canova– “Amor e Psyche” MUSIC FESTIVAL Composer: Sandro Nikoladze Tsinandali, Kakheti STALINGRAD Language: Non-verbal and “The Graces”. September 17 Playwright, director, and Start time: 20:00 JAM SESSION- Improv played September 13 Art director: Rezo Gabriadze Ticket: 10, 15 GEL MUSEUM OF SOVIET by different Georgian and foreign SCHUMANN, SCHUBERT Language: Georgian OCCUPATION musicians and instrumentalists. Repertoire: Franz Schubert- Songs English Subtitles September 19 4 Rustaveli Ave. Musical art director- Sandro Nikoladze on Texts from Heinrich Heine Start time: 20:00 INTRO TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 Start time: 21:00 Robert Schumann- Die Lieder für Ticket: 20, 30, 40 GEL Directed by Kakha Bakuradze www.museum.ge Ticket: 5 GEL eine Singstimme und Sandro Nikoladze's Musical Alegry das Pianoforte / Gedichte Baritone- Thomas Hampson September 15, 17 The performance is the synthesis of The exhibition hall is equipped FOLK SHOW with monitors, where visitors Piano- Jan Lisiecki RAMONA various genres- Brecht's theater, 10 Rustaveli Ave. can see documentaries of various Start time: 12:00 Playwright, director, and circus performance, puppets and historical events. Ticket: 25-180 GEL Art director: Rezo Gabriadze contemporary theater. September 13, 15, 17 Language: Non-verbal FOLK SHOW September 13 Language: Georgian MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS Start time: 20:00 The fi rst full and systematic folk BEETHOVEN, SCHUMANN English Subtitles 10 Betlemi Str. Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10, 15 GEL show made for tourists Repertoire: Ludwig van Beethoven Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 20, 30, 40 GEL Piano Sonata No. 12 in A fl at major, MUSEUM Discover the Museum of Illusions Ticket: 25-55 GEL Op. 26 Be brave enough to jump into an Robert Schumann September 19 GEORGIAN NATIONAL illusion created by the Vortex, DJANSUG KAKHIDZE Piano Sonata No. 1 in F sharp REZO MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA deform the image of yourself in a TBILISI CENTER FOR MUSIC minor, Op. 11 Directed by Leo Gabriadze INTERVAL MUSEUM Mirror Room, be free in the Infi nity & CULTURE Script: Rezo Gabriadze room, resist the laws of gravity and Robert Schumann 3 Rustaveli Ave. 123a D. Agmashenebeli Ave. Producer: Timur Bekmambetov size ratio, and take selfi es in every Fantasie in C major, Op.17 TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 Genre: Animation, Biography possible pose. Enjoy the collection Ludwig van Beethoven www.museum.ge September 15 Piano Sonata No. 21 in C major, Op. 53 Language: Georgian of holograms, and discover optical The opening concert of the 27th Sir András Schiff (Piano Recital) illusions. English Subtitles Exhibitions: International Music Festival Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 GEORGIAN COSTUME AND GALLERY “AUTUMN TBILISI” Ticket: 25-300 GEL Ticket: 15 GEL WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH The participants: Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra CENTURIES September 14 THE NATIONAL GALLERY Under the baton of Maestro CHOPIN, FRANCK TBILISI VASO ABASHIDZE NUMISMATIC TREASURY 11 Rustaveli Ave. Vakhtang Kakhidze Start time: 12:00 MUSIC AND DRAMA STATE EXHIBITION STONE AGE TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 Soloists: violist Georgy Kovalev Ticket: 25-180 GEL THEATER GEORGIA 182 D.Agmashenebeli Ave. and cellist Giorgi Kharadze ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE September 20 September 14 TEL (+995 32) 2 34 80 90 Program: Concerto for viola and NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL GRAND MASTERS FROM THE TCHAIKOVSKY, SIBELIUS, www.musictheatre.ge orchestra by Alfred Schnitke and COLLECTIONS GEORGIAN Concerto for cello and symphony MOZART Start time: 19:00 NATIONAL MUSEUM orchestra by Antonin Dvorak September 17 Ticket: 25-300 GEL Until November 30 COLLECTION XIX – XX CENTURY Start time: 19:30 WELCOME TO GEORGIA Exhibition ‘WISDOM Discover the cultural heritage of Ticket: 10-30 GEL September 15 The Musical TRANSFORMED INTO GOLD' artists who founded 20th century A musical, theatrical play and CHOPIN, SHOSTAKOVICH, Supported by the EU fi ne art in Georgia: Gigo Gabashvili, September 19 MENDELSSOHN romantic comedy telling a story With ancient archaeological fi nds, Mose Toidze, Valerian Sidamon- DUO GURFINKEL AND TBILISI Start time: 12:00 about Georgia and its people by the exhibition presents for the Eristavi, Alexander Tsimakuridze, SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Ticket: 25-180 GEL combining song, dance, culture, fi rst time gold jewelry of Late Aleksandre Bazbeuk-Melikov, Program: concertos by Ivan Erod traditions, history, national Antiquity (2nd-4th century AD), Dimitri Shevardnadze, Sergo and Evgeny Levitas, “Fantastic September 15 costumes and local cuisine. goldsmiths' tools from the Museum's Kobuladze, Irina Shtenberg, Symphony” by Hector Berlioz ENESCU, DVORAK, SIBELIUS Start time: 20:00 ethnographic collection, and items Mikheil Bilanishvili, Felix Start time: 19:30 Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 50-80 GEL made from gold and precious metals. Varlamishvili and Tamar Abakelia. Ticket: 10-30 GEL Ticket: 25-300 GEL September 16 CHOPIN, MEDTNER, RACHMANINOFF Start time: 12:00 Ticket: 25-180 GEL

September 16 FRÉDÉRIC CHOPIN Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 25-300 GEL

September 17 RACHMANINOFF, TCHAIKOVSKY, SCRIABIN, SHOSTAKOVICH Start time: 12:00 Ticket: 25-180 GEL

September 17 MOZART, SCHUBERT Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 25-300 GEL

September 18 WEBER, BRAHMS Start time: 12:00 Ticket: 25-180 GEL

September 18 RACHMANINOFF, PROKOFIEV, SHOSTAKOVICH Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 25-300 GEL

September 19 FAZIL SAY & FRIENDS Start time: 12:00 Ticket: 25-180 GEL

September 19 MOZART, SHOSTAKOVICH, BEETHOVEN Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 25-300 GEL GEORGIA TODAY SEPTEMBER 13 - 16, 2019 CULTURE 15 Promotion of Georgia Underway on CNN discover the ‘country with rich history BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA and trendy urban spaces.’ Mesmerizing views, fi ne cuisine, and the ancient win- emaking tradition have also been included he promotion of Georgia in the promotion. as an exceptional tourist This is not the fi rst CNN project aimed destination is underway on at introducing Georgia to the rest of the one of the world’s leading world as it recently launched a special media platforms, CNN. webpage ‘Discover Georgia,’ focusing TCNN International has released a promo on Georgia’s history, nature and cuisine. to the documentary titled ‘Destination: Various articles about historic sights Georgia,’ which is to be broadcasted on around Georgia have also been published Saturday, inviting travel enthusiasts to by CNN. Image source: lonelyplanet.com Autumn Tbilisi Music Festival 2019 BIAFF 2019 - BIAFF short fi lms competition BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE The BIAFF 2019 International Jury features: Alexander Mindadze, Russia – Head of Jury, Tatiana Detlofson (USA), he annual Batumi Interna- Martin Blaney (UK), Carmen Grey (UK), tional Art-House Film Fes- Rusudan Glurjidze (Georgia) tival (BIAFF), established Besides the competition, the festival in 2006, this year will open showcases three other sections that have on September 15. proven interesting for cinema-goers: TPartnered with Batumi City Hall, the - BIAFF Master’s collection – present- founder, and organizer of the interna- ing the latest fi lms by famous fi lmmakers tional festival is "ARGANI", the Batumi - BIAFF Special Screenings – fi lms pre- Art-House. sented by special guests and partners of The 2019 festival is dedicated to the City of Riga Stradins University Mixed The festival focuses on art-house cin- the festival BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE 30th anniversary of the Djansug Kakh- Choir "Riga" ema and has enjoyed ever-growing rec- - BIAFF Georgian Panorama – show- idze Tbilisi Center for Music & Culture Georgian State Choir ognition as it aims to become the biggest casing new Georgian fi lms (shorts, fea- and will host musical ensembles from Conductor: Evita Taranda, Zane Zil- fi lm festival on the Black Sea Coast. ture, docs) n September 15, the Djan- Italy and Latvia, famous soloists from berte (Latvia), Archil Ushveridze BIAFF’s international competition pro- You can see the list of nominated and sug Kakhidze Tbilisi Israel, France, Germany, and China. 3 October, Concert of chamber orches- gram includes three sections: screening movies on the offi cial website Center for Music & Culture Festival Schedule: tra (19:30) - BIAFF Feature Films Competition of BIAFF here. BIAFF will wrap up on will present the 27th 15 September, Opening concert (19:30) Chamber orchestra "Cameristi Della - BIAFF Doc Films Competition September 22. annual Autumn Tbilisi Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra Scala" (Italy) MusicO Festival. The musical celebration Conductor: Vakhtang Kakhidze Conductor: Vakhtang Kakhidze will conclude on October 17. 19 September, Concert of symphonic 6 October, Concert of piano music The participants of the international music (19:30) (small hall 19:30) festival’s celebratory opening concert Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra 9 October, Concert of symphonic music will be the Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra, Conductor: Vakhtang Kakhidze (19:30) under the baton of Maestro Vakhatng 22 September, 15th anniversary of the Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra Kakhidze, and two outstanding soloists: folk ensemble "Didgori" (19:30) Conductor: Vakhtang Kakhidze violist Georgy Kovalev and cellist Giorgi Folk ensemble "Didgori" 11 October, 100th anniversary of Alex- Kharadze. Both soloists are prize win- 25 September, Vocal Ensemble "Latvian ander Shaverzashvili (small hall 19:30) ners of several prestigious international Voices" (19:30) 17 October, Concert of choral music competitions; they also pride themselves Vocal Ensemble "Latvian Voices" (19:30) on having played at major concert ven- 28 September, Concert of symphonic City of Rustavi Youth Choir "Tutar- ues of the world. The pair will perform music (19:30) chela" a Concerto for Viola and Orchestra by Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra Conductor: Tamar Buadze Alfred Schnittke and Concerto for Cello Conductor: Vakhtang Kakhidze The tickets for the opening concert of and Symphony Orchestra by Antonin 1 October, Concert of choral music the Autumn Tbilisi Music Festival are Dvorak. (19:30) available online.

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