Issue no: 1213 • DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... Trump - the Third President in American History to be Impeached by the House

POLITICS PAGE 5 Cristina Doros to Lead Visa FOCUS Business in the Caucasus BUSINESS PAGE 6 ON A TEEN'S Rooms Hotels – the Face of Modern Georgia SUICIDE BUSINESS PAGE 7 Luka Siradze's death rocks society and the Georgian justice system PAGE 4 First Ever Waste Expo Held in Georgia with the Support of the USAID/CENN WMTR II Program Energy, Agriculture, Industry & Waste the Main BUSINESS PAGE 8 Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Georgia Heritage Hotel and Suites – nergy tops the list of polluters in Georgia, accounting for more than Hotel Beyond Expectation half of the national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Agriculture, BUSINESS PAGE 9 industry and waste hold the next threeE positions on the list with their contribu- tions having increased gradually in recent Embassy of the State years. Following the collapse of Soviet-legacy industries, Georgia currently produces three of Qatar to Georgia times less greenhouse gas emissions than in 1990. However, a slight increase has been Celebrates its Country’s observed in the last decade. These fi ndings are included in Georgia’s National Day Second Biennial Update Report to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change SOCIETY PAGE 12 (UNFCCC), prepared with the assistance from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility The Making of a Star: (GEF) and unveiled by the Government of Georgia on December 18. George Ergemlidze “Reporting to the UN Convention on Climate CULTURE PAGE 15 Change is an important national exercise,” said Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Nino Tandilashvili. “Georgia’s Georgia’s Art Palace among recent report reveals the trends in domestic emissions over a 25-year period, identifi es the European Museum of the needs and gaps, and helps the country move towards a climate-resilient society.” The report was presented at Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel Tbilisi on December 18. Year Award Nominees Continued on page 2 Photo by Vladimir Valishvili/UNDP CULTURE PAGE 15 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 Energy, Agriculture, 88 Re-auctions Announced within Project '100 Investment Offers to Business' Industry & Waste state has mobilized about 41 million GEL. BY ANA DUMBADZE The 100 investment has objects avail- the Main Sources able in the following locations: in of Greenhouse Gas Sighnaghi an estimated value 281,763 8 re-auctions were announced GEL (13,000 sq m); in Bakhmaro an esti- Emissions in Georgia in the framework of the gov- mated value of 2,537.400 GEL (12,588 ernment’s project “100 Invest- sq.m.), in Tbilisi, at 14 Gotua Street an Continued from page 1 ment Offers to Business”. estimated value 6,595.721 GEL (6 796 “2019 is a crucial year for the implemen- Bids will end on January 8. sq.m.). tation of the Paris Agreement, when all 8On November 29, the Ministry of The National Agency of State Property countries are updating their commitments Economy and the National Agency of Management says that new facilities will to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said State Property presented the list of 100 be added gradually to the privatization UNDP Deputy Head Anna Chernyshova. state-owned buildings the government list. “The UNDP will continue supporting is offering local and international busi- The project envisages holding of 100 Georgia in its efforts to set more ambi- nesses for privatization. parallel auctions and privatization of the tious goals and make further steps to a Since then, 26 have been sold and the property through simplifi ed procedures. greener and more sustainable economy.” Georgia has been submitting biennial reports to the UN Framework Conven- tion on Climate Change (UNFCCC) since EIB Approves EUR 15 mln Loan to JSC Liberty Bank 2016, aiming to capture the major national trends in GHG emissions and describe n December 17, the Euro- lending to Georgian SME’s on signifi - the mitigation measures undertaken in pean Investment Bank cantly better terms by, among other different sectors of economy. (EIB) and JSC Liberty Bank things, transferring the fi nancial advan- The recent Report developed in 2017- signed a Loan Agreement tage afforded to Liberty within the frame- 2019 includes an updated GHGs Inven- within the framework of work of EIB facility. Liberty will also tory and information on the implemented, Othe EU4Business Initiative. Funds under receive technical assistance to improve ongoing and planned mitigation policies this facility will be used to fi nance Small its SME lending practices and product and measures. It also describes a national and Medium Enterprises operating in offers under the Eastern Partnership framework for measurement, reporting Georgia. Technical Assistance Trust Fund. and verifi cation (MRV) to track GHG Following the change of ownership in “This is yet another major milestone emissions, climate fi nance and the impact Liberty Bank in 2017, the new manage- in the development of Liberty Bank and of mitigation actions. ment have embarked on an aggressive a very strong incentive for the manage- Among the challenges faced by Geor- business transformation strategy. Key ment team to deliver on our stated busi- gia in climate action, the Report points pillars of Liberty Bank’s new targets ness objectives,” said Tkhelidze, Deputy out fragmented legislation and institu- include: General Director of Liberty Bank. Liberty tional framework, insuffi cient domestic • Investing in the training of people to Bank is uniquely qualifi ed to promote fi nance and lack of quality research and provide the best possible client services; SME lending and EIB loan will deepen climate-friendly technologies. As a solu- • Promoting a customer focused busi- our ties with entrepreneurs throughout tion, it suggests establishing of a Climate ness model to improve retail, MSME and the country.” Change Committee to co-ordinate the Corporate customer needs; “I am confi dent that this partnership climate-related activities. • Building strong international partner- will help the Bank in achieving one its Georgia’s Second Biennial Update ships to promote best business practices key stated business objective, which is Report is a joint effort of a wide range in Georgia. to solidify its position in this very dynamic of stakeholders: government agencies, The new management believes that and important segment of the Georgian civil society, academic and educational Liberty Bank is well positioned to pro- Economy,” noted Irakli Rukhadze, Chair- ident commented. “As the EU bank, we the EIB and that we reach out to new institutions and international partners. mote fi nancial inclusion across the coun- man of the Board of Liberty Bank. are committed to supporting small and institutions as well. SMEs play a signifi - Submitted in June 2019, the Report try, given its unparalleled coverage of “Support to economic development and medium-sized businesses – but we need cant role in Georgia’s economy and our received positive feedback from the Georgia that extends to even the most smart, sustainable and inclusive growth the help of local partners to do so. I am transactions will pave the way for better UNFCCC Secretariat. The Report is remote locations of the country. EIB are a key priority of the EU’s work with happy that we are extending our coop- business prospects of those companies available on the UNDP website. Loan should enable Liberty to continue Georgia,” Lilyana Pavlova, EIB Vice-Pres- eration with a strong existing partner of and the country in general.”

GEORGIA TODAY 4 NEWS DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 Luka Siradze’s Suicide Rocks Georgian Society & the Juvenile Justice System

calling the incident “a tragedy for soci- BY TEA MARIAMIDZE ety because we again failed to protect a child’s life.” Lomjaria said her offi ce is studying the case from the very begin- uka Siradze, 15, who tried to ning and will continue to monitor the commit suicide after alleged ongoing investigation. pressure from police offi cers, Non-governmental Organization Geor- died on December 17 in Iash- gian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) vili Children’s Central Hos- is protecting the interests of the minor’s pital.L family. GYLA claims that the juvenile The family of the minor claims the attempted suicide because of alleged juvenile was threatened at the Tbilisi psychological abuse committed by the police station in the presence of his staff of the investigative body. mother and forced to confess to the crime “The juvenile was forced to confess of vandalizing his former school, Green to the crime by means of psychological School, by spray-painting “F**k this life” abuse from the staff members of the on a wall there. investigative body who were investigat- Georgia’s Interior Ministry confi rmed ing the crime. They threatened him and that the minor spent only “3-4 minutes his brother and said that he would have alone” with one of the police offi cers to spend a long time in prison. The psy- before the beginning of the interrogation chological abuse and intimidation from Image source: Accent News as the minor “had a confl ict with his the police offi cers were so intense and Choloiani is accused at this stage is not torture or other cruel, inhu-mane or over the issue or the transparency of the mother and the police offi cer wanted to real that the juvenile fell ill during the enough in our view. Hopefully, other degrading treatment or punishment,” investigation. defuse the situation.” However, the Min- interview and requested medical atten- people will soon be identifi ed,” the law- reads the UNICEF statement. Gakharia specifi ed that “important istry excluded any psychological pres- tion. This assistance was not provided. yer said, adding that the investigation is “The Juvenile Justice Code of Georgia steps” have been taken with regards the sure from the offi cer, saying that the boy The juvenile's mother was also present adequately underway at this stage. establishes a child-friendly approach juvenile justice system, and major devel- was interrogated twice “in the presence throughout the interrogation process, The director of the Green School, Kakha and demands all professionals to deal opments have been made in the educa- of his mother” at the police station on although he was left alone with the Davituri, who was the one to call the with individual children’s cases with tion and healthcare fi elds. December 10-11. police offi cers at some point,” the NGO Patrol Police after discovering the text special diligence. Inasmuch as the police “However, we still face accumulated Following the death of the minor, police explains. written on the wall, said he would not are the fi rst contact with the justice sys- problems and challenges. We all, Geor- investigator Mariana Choloiani was On December 12, the GYLA applied to have called the police if he had known tem, it is vital that they have the right gian society, stand responsible before detained for placing psychological pres- the Investigative Service of the State about the possible consequences of doing motivation, knowledge and skills to be Luka and his family to reduce the sys- sure on Luka which allegedly led to him Inspectorate with the purpose of launch- so. sensitive towards children’s issues.” temic problems, which have accumulated taking a jump off the ninth fl oor of his ing an investigation. The investigation The school administration also released UNICEF put forward the following over the years, to a minimum,” the PM apartment building just hours later. The was launched on the basis of Article 335 a statement on the case. recommendations for the betterment of said. authority of two other police offi cers has of the Criminal Code, which means coer- “We feel extremely sad about the death the Georgian juve-nile justice system: The PM then ordered the Interior Min- also been suspended. cion of a person by deception, blackmail of Luka Siradze. It is impossible to fi nd • Create special units or designate spe- istry to take all actions to ensure the Londa Toloraia, the First State Inspec- or other unlawful act to get a testimony. words to express the gravity of this dif- cialized professionals who will work investigative environment be suited to tor of Georgia, said the case is being The NGO called on the Investigation fi cult time. We are sending our condo- only on children’s cases in the police minors. He also said that the Georgian investigated and a total of 70 witnesses Service of the State Inspectorate to timely lences to family, friends, and relatives of system and in all agencies involved in government will take full responsibility have been questioned since December conduct an effective, objective and impar- the minor...We are mourning his death.” the administration of juvenile justice to carry out the reforms in a timely man- 12. tial investigation on the fact of unlawful It also says that studies will be suspended • Specialized professionals should be ner, transparently and with the backing Meanwhile, demonstrations are under- conduct towards a juvenile at the police at the school until Monday. selected carefully and monitored regu- of international associates. way in Georgia's capital. The participants station and to the Prosecutor's Offi ce of Georgian President Salome Zurabish- larly He stated that using this tragedy for of the protests are demanding the res- Georgia to subject the case of incitement vili also responded to the case. Accord- • Familiarize and sensitize mid-level political purposes is “absolutely unac- ignation of Interior Minister Vakhtang to suicide for investigation to the State ing to her, the death of the 15-year-old management on child rights ceptable.” Gomelauri, insisting that he is respon- Inspectorate Service. boy is a grave tragedy for the whole state. • Provide all child witnesses of crime Unverifi ed information released on sible for the death of the 15-year-old boy, GYLA lawyer Revaz Ajaridze noted “I share the family's pain and wish them with legal assistance at any stage of con- social media reads that Luka’s father is The demonstrators claim that Luka that the detention of investigator Mari- strength at this very diffi cult time,” Zura- tact with the justice system. dead and he has a mother and a brother. Siradze is “yet another victim of the ugly ana Choloiani is not enough, adding bishvili wrote. UNICEF noted that it will continue to As the tuition fee is high in Green School, and unfair system” and that it is the fault there are more people involved in the UNICEF Georgia (United Nations assist the Georgian government in car- his mother allegedly could not afford to of society that he died. School students intimidation of the deceased juvenile. Children's Emergency Fund) was quick rying out reforms designed to implement continue Luka’s education there and are also involved in the rallies and pro- Ajaridze claims there were around 3-4 to call on the authorities to ensure chil- a child-friendly juvenile justice system moved him to a state school, which came testers have been spray-painting “F**k policemen during the questioning of the dren’s rights in the juvenile justice sys- pursuant to international standards. as a shock to the minor as he had had a the Law!” and “F**k this Life!” on walls minor and it is for the investigation to tem more competently. Georgian Prime Minister, Giorgi Gakh- lot of friends and a girlfriend in his old and roads at various locations through- reveal all the perpetrators. “The Convention on the Rights of the aria, vowed that all perpetrators will be school. This was said to be the reason out the capital. “It is necessary to determine who was Child obliges the state to ensure that no severely punished. He conveyed his “deep why he allegedly broke into the school Public Defender Nino Lomjaria sent communicating directly with the minor child be com-pelled to give testimony sorrow” over the death of Siradze, say- building and left there spray-painted her condolences to the minor’s family, via texts and threats. The mere fact that or to confess guilt and be subjected to ing there must be no question marks drawings and the words “F**k this life!” POLITICS Too Much Politics & Too Little Business ing radical political fi gures and fi gurines, when they are moving from a govern- OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE dominating not only the public sphere mental position to an oppositional plat- but our privacy too. This is the moment form. Being overwhelmed and, I would when our political old-timers have fi rmly say, infatuated with the idea of coming ven a pavement in the street dug in with their antiquated ideas and back to squeeze themselves into a law- is politicized in Georgia: no rusty endeavors. Meanwhile, those who enforcing status, many of them would other country in the world are still in their salad years are trying to go to any extent to reach the goal. What has seen this much political upstage their fossilized political prede- they are not aware of is the fact that water fl owing over its curb- cessors, although with lesser experience, political parties always lose touch with Estones than this politically inundated knowledge and qualifi cation. A colleague the core of their constituencies when nation, water which is often tossed up recently called it a generational change their members are overly carried away by political billows and swept away by which is maturing right in front of our with the ideological fi ght, forgetting the political tsunamis once in a while. No, I eyes but which has had a barely notice- most burning issues that our people suf- am not trying to stipulate with precision able effect on the political reality in the fer on a daily basis. Actually, many of whether this is good or bad. I am just country so far. them become political narcissists, totally saying that we are drowning in a life- The generational change is logical and devoid of any desire to take care of the threatening political fl ood, and need to natural. But what we most need to do is needs of their electors. use, without delay, the right lifejacket to make a cultural change in politics which Politicians often forget that politics is get out of it and dry ourselves in the will induce the present-time densely a money spender, not a money maker, warmth of economic progress. In other populated political class to acutely feel like business. Doing too much politics words, we need to be doing something and clearly see the subtle line between and too little business serves us no good, that generates money. politics and economy, ideology and and this must be true in any culture around Why does the entire nation want to standard of living, education of masses the globe. One of the greatest Americans talk rather than use the sweat of the eye- and opportunity to do business. of all time, Henry Ford, once noted that brow for survival? Why are so many Our people are gradually losing faith politics in the true sense has to do with young men and women trying to pin the economy by investing time and energy based on economic laws and rules, thus in those politicians who have the inten- the prosperity, peace and security of the down their functionality in politics rather in business rather than in politics? I promoting business and pushing politics tion to arbitrarily determine the param- people. Certainly, to fi nd a golden median than in science and craft? Why is the wonder what would happen to us if the into the rank of a second-rate commod- eters of our social, political and economic between politics and business is not an political pain in the neck not ending for currently functioning political class left ity of the day. existence, unceremoniously dictating to easy thing to do, but shouldn’t we at least Georgia to start taking pains to hold up the arena to let life roll in a natural tempo, We are living in an era of loudly talk- us what to do, when and why- especially really try to go for it? GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 POLITICS 5 Trump - the Third President in American History to be Impeached by the House

attempts to impeach him. Now-in-offi ce BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE President Trump was one of those who spoke out against the stains of impeach- ment. n Wednesday, December CNN's Kfi le unearthed a 2014 Fox News 18, the US House approved appearance in which he was shown say- two articles of impeach- ing: "He would be a mess. He would be ment against President thinking about nothing but. It would be Trump, making him the a horror show for him. It would be an thirdO president in history to face removal absolute embarrassment. It would go by the Senate. down on his record permanently," Trump The fi rst article of impeachment that said. charged Trump with abuse of power Trump is the third President in Amer- passed on a party-line vote, 230–197, with ican history to be impeached by the only two democrats opposing it. The House. The fi rst was Andrew Johnson fi rst article accused Donald Trump of in March of 1868. The House formally corruptly using the levers of government adopted the articles of impeachment to solicit election assistance from Ukraine. and forwarded them to the United States The Democratic-led House, with three Senate for adjudication. In 1998, on opposing from the party, then passed December 19, President Clinton was the second article 229 to 198, charging impeached by the House for lying under Trump with obstruction of Congress for oath about an extramarital affair, which his refusal to cooperate with the over- hurt his family and all of America. Both sight investigation. Not a single Repub- of the Presidents were later acquitted lican voted for any of the articles to pass. by the Senate. Although divided on the subject of the The fi ght about whether President President’s impeachment, the Republi- Trump should be made to leave the cans and Democrats still agreed on one offi ce or not now heads to the Senate, thing: that it was a sad day for America. where, as the New Yorker writes “the The Democrats coordinated to dress in Republican majority is expected to offer black to show their sorrow, while the another all but unanimous G.O.P. vote Republicans reported that the impeach- to acquit Trump, following a trial that ment of President Trump was “unfair”, has little prospect of featuring a single “dangerous”, and “harmful to the coun- witness.” try” (Ohio Republican Jim Jordan). The Image source: Global News But Pelosi is not going to send the case top Republican on the House Judiciary Speaker of the House from the Demo- rally in Battle Creek, Michigan, when ance to watch the vote. over to the Senate just yet, she said on Committee, Doug Collins, additionally cratic Party said that it was “a very sad the vote was conducted. Trump has shown no remorse for his Wednesday night. The House Speaker told ‘Fox & Friends’ that the Democrats day for the Constitution of the United "After three years of sinister witch actions. And it is interesting that although said that “we’ll see,” if the Republicans wanted only to impeach Trump to pre- States,” the New Yorker reported. hunts, hoaxes and scams, the House he is now trying to play it cool, he has in the other chamber are prepared for a vent him from doing his “amazing” work. Republicans, and Trump himself, denied Democrats are trying to nullify the bal- spoken about the horrors of it in the past. fair trial. For now, American society When the process was over and articles that he had done anything wrong. Trump lots of tens of millions of patriotic Amer- During the fi rst term of Barack Obama’s remains as divided as the political par- had already passed, Nancy Pelosi, the was at a "Merry Christmas" campaign icans," Trump said, delaying his appear- presidency from 2009 to 2017, there were ties of the country. GD Member Dismissed from City Council Majority after Insulting Post on Detained Georgian Doctor

BY TEA MARIAMIDZE

uling Georgian Dream (GD) member in Tbilisi City Council (Sakrebulo), Erekle Kukhianidze has been dis- missed from the GD City RCouncil majority following an insulting Facebook post about the Georgian Doc- tor Vazha Gaprindashvili, who is in custody in occupied South Ossetia. The decision to expel Kukhianidze from the ruling party majority in the City Council was made by the party on December 18. Beka Davituliani, Chairman of the GD fraction, said Kukhianidze will also be dismissed from the post of Chairman of the Sakrebulo Environmental Com- mission but will retain his MP's man- date, as he can be deprived of the man- date only after making a personal decision to leave. “We cannot force him to quit his man- date unless he chooses to do so,” Davi- Image source: netgazeti.ge tuliani explained, adding that each border of the Republic.” The Court in “I would like to ask the Ossetian peo- case, calling the doctor a “provocateur” to each other,” he told TV Pirveli, add- member of the majority has “strongly Akhalgori district ruled to keep him in ple who have lived together with us… I and his family “stupid.” ing that he is sorry for his “incorrect and clearly” confi rmed that they are two-months of custody on December want to believe that those misunder- “This case smells like rotten provoca- expressions.” distancing themselves from Kukhia- 13. standings and problems that we had tion! I am saying directly- when you “The family of Dr Gaprindashvili has nidze's statement on Dr Vazha Gaprin- Following the announcement of the will be resolved through tolerance,” know there is an occupant but you still a positive attitude and is trying to release dashvili and his family. decision, the family and friends of the Lapanashvili stated. go there deliberately and you know your the doctor from custody as soon as pos- “The decision was made unanimously doctor held a protest rally at the line of She added that her husband before all country has no power to oppose the sible,” he said, but emphasized his belief and each majority member signed it. Russian occupation, near village Odzisi, serves the health and protection of peo- occupant and your family confronts the that Gaprindashvili knew the risks of According to the procedure, a majority adjacent to occupied Tskhinvali region, ple, and it is unbelievable that he be state, you, the whole family, are either visiting the occupied region. meeting must be convened within the demanding his release. The demonstra- detained in his homeland because of provocateurs or idiots. F**k you!” the Kukhianidze went on to say he will scheduled dates,” he added. tors gathered near the Republic Square his "humane mission". post of the GD member Kukhianidze not quit his mandate in the City Coun- Dr Gaprindashvili was detained by in central Tbilisi and went to the village Lapanashvili said their rally was reads. cil, and will continue working as an the Russian-occupied South Ossetia of Odzisi close to the occupation line. “humane, nonpolitical and nonviolent” Following his post, Kukhianidze was independent member. regime mid-November for “illegally Gaprindashvili’s wife, Tamila Lapa- and that it was an appeal to Ossetian strongly criticized by the ruling party “They [the GD majority] made the crossing the border” under Article 322 nashvili, thanked the protesters, which doctors to let Vazha Gaprindashvili and the opposition members and he decision they wanted. They believe that of the Criminal Code of Russia, claim- included members of the ruling Geor- fulfi l his duties. apologized, saying the criticism towards my actions harmed the team...I will do ing “it was established that the Georgian gian Dream party and opposition, as After the demonstration, Kukhianidze him was “too harsh.” everything to defuse the situation,” he citizen deliberately violated the state well as civic activists, for their support. took to Facebook to comment on the “I believe that we should all apologize said. GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 Georgia: Geopolitical Forecast for 2020

remain in power. perhaps through investments and trade. OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI That said, even if there are government All trends show that China will continue changes in 2020, the country's foreign seeing Georgia, with its Black Sea ports policy is unlikely to change. of Batumi and Poti, as a link for its mas- he year 2020 will be impor- Georgia will continue fi nding itself sive ‘Belt and Road’ initiative. However, tant for Georgia in many between its EU aspirations and a geo- it is also important to note that the Chi- ways. Parliamentary elec- politically hostile Russia. It will be impor- nese involvement in the region will surely tions will be a defi ning tant for Tbilisi to see a reinvigorated EU. continue to be limited only to econom- moment for the country's The EU is likely to ratchet up pressure ics. 2020 will still be early to say that the Tinternal and foreign policy development. on Russia by providing further fi nancial deeper Beijing involves itself in defend- No political power in the past three support to Tbilisi, keeping the existing ing its assets around the world, the greater decades of Georgia's independence ever sanctions on Russia. NATO could be the possibility that China will eventually managed to remain in power for a third another tool to infl uence Moscow’s become a security partner in the South consecutive term and yet there are behavior in the region, although mem- Caucasus. chances that the current government bership for Georgia will remain a far-off There will be some issues where China might do so, making it the longest serv- perspective. will avoid causing Moscow's concerns Thus, Georgia, being at the crossroads sians and Russians against Turkey, Iran, ing government in Georgia's recent his- Tbilisi will strive to rebalance Mos- and some where it may cooperate. of East and West, has again found itself China and the EU – these are the geo- tory. cow’s pressure by strengthening its rela- For Georgia in 2020, EU and NATO in diffi cult geopolitical circumstances political combinations Georgia has for In Georgia, election years tend to be tions with Turkey and Azerbaijan within aspirations will stay at the heart of the when numerous regional powers com- centuries used to its advantage. politically tense, full of incriminations the trilateral format. country's foreign policy. Though there pete with each other to project infl uence Overall, 2020 will be tense, but as many and demonstrations in major Georgian Yet another actor for balancing out are claims that Tbilisi's foreign policy into the South Caucasus. Georgia today analysts seem to believe, it is unlikely cities. 2020 will be no different. But Russian geopolitical pressure will be is experiencing changes, trends on a pursues what it has historically: the that there will be a dramatic change though many argue that a change of gov- China, with its economic role in the regional and global level show that Geor- rebalancing of each of its bigger neigh- internally. And as argued above, possi- ernment will happen, many trends indi- region. Tbilisi and Beijing in 2020 will gia will remain fi rmly in the pro-Western bors with the other- Byzantines against bilities for changes to foreign policy too cate that the current government will strive to build deeper economic relations camp. the Iranians, Ottomans against the Per- are minimal.

BUSINESS Cristina Doros to Lead Visa Business in the Caucasus and partners and to strengthen our pres- Tbilisi, we will be much closer to our of Apple Pay, although they were avail- form that cannot be used by criminals ence in the market, shaping the future clients, will be able to react much faster able only for Android users. During cer- for fraud. Visa Token Service replaces of payments and driving innovations and will shorten go to-market time. tain time, where Android-based users sensitive account information, such as across the region.”- Cristina Doros said. Overall, we believe that Tbilisi is the were literally able to pay with their the 16-digit account number, with a best place for us, from each and every phones, Apple consumers could not unique digital identifi er called a token. WHAT IS YOUR VIEW OF standpoint. enjoy the convenience of mobile pay- The token allows payments to be pro- GEORGIA’S POTENTIAL IN We really enjoy being here for many ments. Considering that penetration of cessed without exposing actual account BECOMING THE REGIONAL reasons: people’s warmth, hospitality, Apple in the region is quite high, bring- details that could be potentially com- HUB ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS? the nature, history etc. and as I men- ing this new opportunity to the market promised. First of all, I don’t think it would be sur- tioned, being here allows us to be in the was a big deal. And second will be harnessing data: prising for anyone to see our headquar- middle of the technology development. The power of Apple Pay is in two things: Visa’s network — VisaNet — is a power- EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW ters for the Caucasus located in Georgia. the fi rst is the strength of the brand, the ful tool in the fi ght against fraud. Visa’s BY BEKA ALEXISHVILI If you look back at the history of card WHAT INNOVATIONS DOES second is that IOS is a closed operating Cyber Fusion Center brings together the payment development, Georgia has been VISA PLAN IN THE REGION? system - you cannot install bank appli- latest innovations to coordinate cyber at the front and center of many regional Visa does have some specifi cs in innova- cations on it and this is a certain limita- defense operations and enable rapid isa appointed Cristina Doros milestones in cashless. Starting from tions development across the regions. tion. In terms of pure technology and response and information sharing. The as its new Regional Man- 2009, when we fi rst launched contact- However, I would say that the innovative convenience, I would say they are almost Cyber Fusion Center harnesses petabytes ager for the Caucasus less payments in the region, here in approach of the company is the same the same - Apple Pay or banks’ mobile of data to develop threat detection mod- region. In her new role, Ms. Georgia up to tokenization and Pays and worldwide: we are innovators by nature. wallet applications. els and help data scientists better visu- Cristina Doros will focus many other amazing innovations, Geor- I would like to highlight a few things to alize and respond to threats. Von driving electronic payments in the gia has always been displaying impres- support this point of view. We have sev- COULD YOU ELABORATE ON Our approach to security and fraud Caucasus region by increasing Visa’s sive results. And here we come to several eral dimensions while discussing inno- THE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN protection is paramount to us, we did footprint in these marketplaces, and factors which contributed to these results, vations, the fi rst would be – brining new VISA AND SPACE NEOBANK? that, and we will always do that. enhancing Visa value proposition for one of them being the user’s readiness solutions to the market, the second is We are excited to have an awesome part- banks, merchants, and cardholders. to embrace innovation. People in Geor- convenience and fi nally yet importantly nership here with Space. It was a venture WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS “We are excited to announce the gia are very open to innovation. In some - rethinking us as the company. As an for us in a way, but the partnership has FOR GEORGIA FOR 2020? appointment of Cristina Doros to the markets you might get push-back, people example of the last, in 2016, Visa opened shown huge results. Space uses a neo- Our strategy in Georgia is specifi cally position of Regional Manager for the can be reluctant or hesitant, but we don’t up worldwide its networks through the bank approach, which is a progressive focused around three key pillars. The Caucasus. With proven management see this here. When the question came API’s (Application Programming Inter- and very different banking experience. fi rst is innovations, bringing new, con- and leadership skills, an in-depth knowl- where the hub would be for a cluster, of face); we developed a Visa platform and It demonstrates the transformation from venient and secure payment tools and edge of payments and a strong under- course Georgia’s leadership in innova- allowed any type of player to enter and something diffi cult-to-understand into experience. This is where we see huge standing of the regional business, I am tion and technology were among the integrate through the service. It is liter- something really simple, useful, con- potential, supporting Georgia as a mar- confi dent that Cristina will lead the factors that determined our choice. ally opening up our networks and allow- venient and fun. While big banks are ket to transform it into a cashless econ- business to greater heights refl ecting the Being here allows us to be in the mid- ing our partners to use these services. reluctant going into these areas, the neo- omy. There are studies in this fi eld which importance we place on the countries dle of the technology development and Georgia is maintaining its position as banks don’t shy away from such endeav- clearly show the positive impact for the of the Caucasus region,” said Vira Pla- close to our long-standing partners and an innovation leader, something that this ors, and show affection and love towards national economy when we move from tonova, SVP, Group Country Manager new ones - like Space, merchants, fi n- country and us can be extremely proud their consumers. cash to cashless. That remains our #1 for Visa CISSEE. techs etc. More importantly from Tbilisi of: Georgia is now #1 globally by con- priority. Cristina Doros has more than 20 years we can effectively manage other markets tactless penetration in domestic trans- ONE OF VISA’S MAIN The second pillar of our strategy is of experience in retail banking, informa- in the Caucasus. actions with over 95% contactless pen- PROMISES IS SECURITY what we call ‘everyday spend’, meaning tion technology, innovations, cards and etration. AGAINST FINANCIAL FRAUD that we want to help people to get used mobile payments. Cristina joined Visa WHAT IS THE BIGGEST Here in Georgia we will continue to AND CYBERSECURITY, HOW to electronic payments in everyday life. in 2016 to lead the regional Core Prod- CHALLENGE FOR OPENING support Georgian partners to roll out DOES VISA APPROACH We will continue helping people to bet- ucts team. Later Cristina has been acting AN OFFICE AND LEADING the most innovative, the most advanced, SECURITY IN THE REGION? ter understand payment tools, to see the as a Vice-President, head of Solutions, A TEAM HERE IN GEORGIA, safe and convenient payment solutions I would emphasize that the company’s advantages and incentivize them to start Visa CISSEE since 2019, overseeing Core REPRESENTING THE WHOLE in the country. strategy and the technologies we use paying cashless more. products (Debit, Credit and Premium), CAUCASUS REGION? against fraud attacks will not be specifi c Another pillar is premium products. Loyalty platform development, Digital Frankly, we don’t see many challenges APPLE PAY WAS RECENTLY to any region. It is an overarching approach Premium customers are affl uent consum- Solutions and Push Payments, all foun- in it because we have had a local pres- LAUNCHED IN GEORGIA, HOW and concept that we have at Visa. Secu- ers bringing much of business for banks. dational for the electronic payments ence here for quite some time already, HAS IT AFFECTED CASHLESS rity has always been our highest priority, That is why we are developing premium development. Outstanding milestones with a team on the spot, though quite a PAYMENTS SO FAR? and in the tradeoff between innovation products and focusing our attention on of Cristina’s professional successes small team. Now we are growing the Launching Apple Pay in the market was and security, we always choose the lat- that as well. We want to make payments include enhancement of Premium ben- team signifi cantly and that is a great a big thing of course and the impact we ter. Our motto at the company is, ‘respon- not only easy, secure and convenient but efi ts, launch of Loyalty program in Ukraine result. As in any other new set ups, open- see is indeed impressive. Since its launch sible innovation’. In terms of security, also rewarding for the users. Now I can and Belarus, contribution to launching ing hub here requests a thoughtful in September, domestic tokenized trans- we have layers and layers of all types of proudly say that Visa Premium Products Tap to Phone SME technology, etc. approach, understanding where resources actions in face to face (at physical mer- protection you can think of. are the best of its class. “After my fascinating experience as a can be most useful, how to effectively chants) grew 7 times, just in three months. Our approach today is grounded and So, these are the three key areas we are head of Visa CISSEE Products team, I serve the clients in Armenia and Azer- In addition, I would like to mention not limited to the several pillars and I focusing on. The overarching theme for am thrilled to lead Visa business in the baijan from here etc. Of course, we care- that overall mobile payments is not will highlight two of them. First is deval- all of these pillars is the local presence. Caucasus region. This is an exciting and fully analyzed which location would be something new to Georgia. Several Geor- uing data: Visa has deployed technolo- As I have mentioned earlier, we truly challenging opportunity to bring more the most useful for our resources and gian banks have offered mobile wallets gies like EMV chip and tokenization that believe that ‘Global Visa is proudly Geor- innovations and benefi ts to our clients services. With opening a hub offi ce in to their consumers prior to the launch transform sensitive account data into a gian’. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 BUSINESS 7 Interview with Lela Salakaia, P&O and Admin Director, Veon Georgia

In English, our function is called ‘Peo- BY ANA DUMBADZE ple and Organization;’ in Georgian it is a little diffi cult to translate this term. It is different from traditional HRM as we ffective Human Resources try not to manage HR but to identify Management, or HRM, is a and manage the factors that contribute vital area of business strategy to the full engagement of employees as and key to improving organ- individuals. As you know, modern trends izational performance. are no longer just about motivating ExploringE areas of employee engagement employees, but about engaging them, and motivation, organizational develop- which is quite complex. The actively ment and labor relations is one of the involved employee: 1. talks positively main factors of any company’s success. about the company; 2. links his/her One of the obvious examples of intro- future to this company; and 3. is moti- ducing innovative and effective methods vated to use additional efforts for the of HRM in Georgia is Veon Georgia company. (Beeline), the policy of which is fully tailored to the needs of employees and TELL US ABOUT THE UPCOMING is aimed at their constant development EMPLOYEE TRENDS FOR 2020. through various trainings and learning Very interesting trends were introduced platforms. by Korn Ferry at our recent meeting in GEORGIA TODAY spoke with Lela our headquarters in Amsterdam. Differ- Salakaia, People and Organization Chief ent age groups’ approaches to work, and Offi cer of Veon Georgia, who elaborated their motivators, vary and therefore the on the novelties offered by the Beeline efforts of companies will be focused on team in 2019, the employment policy of developing specifi c approaches to dif- the company, its approach to employees ferent age groups and researching and and the innovative HR management creating important components of work methods it has introduced. for these groups.

TELL US ABOUT THE to any question. work environment. I would also highlight comments: “even my grandma doesn’t WHAT NOVELTIES ARE NOVELTIES VEON GEORGIA the competitive salary and very good meet me so warmly when I visit her,” YOU PLANNING TO INTRODUCED IN 2019. WHAT KIND OF AN EMPLOYER benefi ts package, within it probably one really strengthened our opinion that INTRODUCE NEXT YEAR I would like to emphasize the SaVvy IS ‘VEON GEORGIA’? of the most important tools for continu- Onboarding is very important in employee AT VEON GEORGIA? Academy, since the learning platform WHAT DOES IT OFFER ous development: both online and offl ine adaptation. We will continue to focus on developing CrossKnowledge is a group wide prod- FUTURE APPLICANTS? training and work projects. both new training and work projects. uct, while SaVvy was introduced spe- First, the environment and the team. A Just over a week ago, we ran a survey THE GROUP CALLS YOUR We also want to change and improve cifi cally by our team as a guide and person who comes here to work does among new employees about the "wel- FUNCTION ‘PEOPLE AND our existing skills development program. support to each employee during many not feel at all uncomfortable, as he or come kit" - what do they like, what they ORGANIZATION.’ WHAT And, most importantly, we will have the exciting and adventurous journeys of she is met by an employee, a “buddy” won’t use or what they would add. We DOES THIS MEAN? HOW results of our 2019 Employee Engage- online learning. Communication with on the day of arrival with a box full of got some really good and constructive IS IT DIFFERENT FROM ment Survey, which will tell us exactly SaVvy is very easy, and it has answers gifts that are very useful in the everyday feedback, but one of the new employees' TRADITIONAL HRM? where we need to strengthen our efforts. MKD Law Rooms Hotels – the Face of Modern Georgia

djara Group has announced the open- Promotes Diverse ing of a new Rooms Hotel in the pic- turesque mountainous Kokhta-Mitarbi resort, which will start operating from 27 December. The ski in-ski out con- Acept hotel includes 95 rooms, a farm to table res- taurant, conference halls, as well as a soon to come swimming pool and gym. Rooms Hotel Kokhta is Partner Class the perfect place for mountain lovers and travelers KD Law, carrying on the endur- onstrated not only the highest levels of professional who are looking for local experiences, cultural ing legacy of the Mgaloblishvili accomplishment, but alignment with the fi rm’s exchanges and design-centric spaces. Kipiani Dzidziguri (MKD) Law core values, ability to build meaningful relation- Adjara Group has revolutionized the hospital- Firm, tracking its history back ships with clients, a distinctive set of entrepre- ity industry in Georgia by creating a unique life- to the mid-90s and praised as neurial skills, and strong business acumen. style brand. In 2012, Rooms Hotel Kazbegi became oneM of the pioneers of the Georgian legal market, According to Victor Kipiani, Senior Partner, an instant success both among locals and inter- is proud to announce the election of fi ve new “MKD Law is a dynamic, constantly evolving fi rm, national visitors. Later, in 2014, Rooms Hotel partners, two of them women. Tamar Tkeshe- eager to accept the challenges that the future brings Tbilisi welcomed its fi rst guests and generated lashvili and Mariam Antia come from extremely to the legal profession. The newly promoted part- new ecosystems, transforming the previously strong corporate law and banking and fi nance ners will be the driving force behind introducing numbed part of the historic Vera neighborhood. Adjara Group’s unique vision of hospitality. backgrounds, with experience of serving as in- an innovative approach to the delivery of high As such, the brand has become the face of con- Rooms Hotel Kokhta’s “farm to table” restaurant house counsels to state-owned corporations; quality legal services to our existing and potential temporary Georgia while proudly embracing the with fl oor-to-ceiling windows and an extensive David Metskhovrishvili and Sandro Samadbe- clients, ensuring that the fi rm stays ahead of the country’s historical roots. terrace displays the grandeur of the mountainous gishvili are the fi rm’s top litigators, well versed, curve. MKD Law is extremely happy and proud Adjara Group’s hospitality concept, which inte- landscape of Kokhta-Mitarbi. The culinary journey respectively, in construction law and PPP and to have created an environment of growth for our grates the country’s design, gastronomy, and cul- is developed by the company’s Executive Chef infrastructure projects, whereas Mikheil Gogesh- colleagues.” ture, has made the experience of Rooms Hotels Irakli Asatiani, who is behind Adjara Group’s most vili’s expertise in M&A, contracts and commercial The new chapter in the fi rm’s life will also be passionately authentic. The composition of color, acclaimed establishments, among them Café Stamba, law is top-notch. marked with a revamped corporate identity, includ- textures, artwork, furnishings, music and light Lolita and the Kitchen. The restaurant at Rooms The promotion of the newly-minted partners is ing a rebranded logo and website relaunch, clearly results in a unique signature design. Specifi c details, Kokhta is set to elevate the gastronomic experience an important milestone for MKD Law. It is the communicating the MKD Law brand and refl ect- such as the hand-woven rugs and salvaged, locally of the region by serving fresh produce from local largest promotion not of individual, but, indeed, ing its dynamic and innovative essence. sourced oak, have been incorporated into the design farmers and Georgian dishes with a modern twist. the class of partners since of Rooms Hotels. Poised for expansion throughout the country and the founding of the fi rm, Proud of the country’s cultural heritage, Adjara perhaps even beyond, Adjara Group is continu- and highlights MKD Law’s Group is a fi rm supporter of local artists and crea- ously developing Georgian regions into sustainable commitment to strategic tives. In addition to owning and displaying an destinations. By 2021, the company is to open a development, growth and extensive collection of Georgian paintings, Rooms new Rooms Hotel in the historic resort of Abas- breaking of the glass ceil- Hotels have become hubs for important cultural tumani. The iconic building of an old sanatorium, ing, so particuliar to the events, including exhibitions, art fairs, and festivals. initially built in 1924, will be transformed into a law fi rm practice in Geor- Rooms Hotel Kokhta is a new page in the devel- new hotel under the brand. Furthermore, Adjara gia. None of the newly opment of the brand. With its wooden façade, metal Group has turned towards the Black Sea coast and promoted partners are balconies, and the “wild minimalist” interior, the is working on Rooms Hotel Batumi. Cobblestone lateral hires; they have building takes inspiration from the local culture roads and art deco architecture will surround the been with the fi rm for over and nature surrounding it. The spatial experience new hotel, while its open courtyard will be directly ten years, and have dem- that the establishment creates is a continuation of connected to the old city. GEORGIA TODAY 8 BUSINESS DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 First Ever Waste Expo Held in Georgia with the Support of the USAID/CENN WMTR II Program

form for lobbying the interests of com- panies operating in the waste manage- ment sector as it acts as a facilitator between the sector and various stake- holders, including state agencies. “As for organizing such an exhibition in the coming years, we are defi nitely planning on giving Waste Expo a regular format,” Mrs. Janashia says. “We believe that it will be interesting if this event occurs regularly, as we will have the opportu- nity to see how the waste management sector is developing in Georgia and, most importantly, this will be motivation for the companies to progress. On behalf of CENN and the USAID / CENN WMTR program, I can say that we will continue to work to strengthen the Association and its members, as this sector really needs both technical and fi nancial sup- port.” “The exhibition was held successfully, and I would like to thank our friends and partners – USAID / CENN Waste Man- agement Program, Sector 3 and the Prodemos Foundation,” Giorgi Guliashvili told GEORGIA TODAY. “The aim of the Waste Expo 2019 was to present the activities of its members, waste recycling companies, to the wider public. Paper, plastic, glass, tires, used cooking oils, hazardous, electronic and wood waste collecting and processing companies were presented at the exhibition. They featured videos showing their activities, the visual side of recycling processes, and interme- diate and fi nal products obtained through recycling different types of waste, as well as the services they are offering to cus- tomers. This kind of exhibition was held n December 13, with the gian Waste Management Association, ious stationery with recycled paper; GEORGIA TODAY interviewed the for the fi rst time in Georgia and we think support of USAID/CENN Giorgi Guliashvili. • Ltd. ‘Geo Mulch,’ which produces Executive Director of CENN and the an interesting and important tradition WMTR II program, Sector The following companies participated organic mulch by recycling green waste, President of the Georgian Waste Man- has been founded. We hope that more 3 and the Prodemos Foun- in the exhibition: used both in agriculture and in the city's agement Association to fi nd out the main companies will be showcased at future dation, the fi rst ever Waste • Ltd. ‘Zugo’, the only plastic bags pro- landscape architecture; reasons for such an exhibition in Geor- exhibitions and that the capacity of the ExpoO was held in Georgia at the Expo cessing company in the Caucasus, which • Ltd. ‘Sanitary,’ which manages haz- gia and its importance and role in terms processing sector will be increased and Georgia exhibition space. The members also produces biodegradable bags; ardous waste in accordance with Euro of the Georgian waste management sys- diversifi ed.” of the Georgian Waste Management • Ltd. ‘Clean World,’ a company col- standards; tem and environmental protection. Mr. Guliashvili went on to point out Association (GWMA) and the work of lecting plastic, glass, paper and aluminum • Ltd. ‘Biodiesel Georgia,’ which col- “The Waste Management program, that a number of new waste management these companies, the main players in the waste separately; lects and processes oil waste from food, supported by USAID, is implemented regulations will come into force and the recycling sector, were presented. Attend- • Ltd. ‘Kriala,’ a paper waste collector using it to make biodiesel; by CENN,” Nana Janashia told us. “The role of the processing sector has becom- ees had the opportunity to fi nd out and processing company that produces • Ltd. ‘Polyvim,’ which is currently in purpose of the program is to support the ing more and more important in light of detailed information about recycling hygienic paper with recycled paper; the process of constructing a used plas- modernization of the waste management these planned regulations. He noted, technologies in Georgia, production lines • Ltd. ‘Kere,’ a glass waste collector and tic bottle processing plant; sector. One of the key objectives of the though, that “awareness is still low.” The of the companies and collection services processing company; • Ltd. ‘Oilillo’, which collects and exports program is to support the private recy- Waste Expo served to raise awareness across the country. • Ltd. ‘TRC,’ a tire recycling company cooking oil; cling sector. It is very important for the of the Georgian Waste Management The event was opened with welcom- that produces rubber granules that are • Ltd. ‘EnviroServe Georgia,’ which program to support companies working Association and companies operating in ing remarks of representatives from the used to build playground infrastructure; collects and exports electronic waste; in the waste recycling sector. The Waste the sector. Ministry of Environment Protection and •Ltd. ‘Eco Geo Pet,’ which collects and • Ltd. ‘Caucaspack,’ which produces Expo 2019 was a good tool for raising “As for future plans, the Waste Man- Agriculture of Georgia, Tbilisi City Hall, recycles plastic bottles; recycled plastic raw materials; public awareness about the Georgian agement Association of Georgia will CENN’s Executive Director, Nana • Social enterprise ‘Green Gift,’ which • Ltd. ‘Neoprint,’ which collects and waste recycling sector. continue its active work in promoting Janashia, and the President of the Geor- collects paper waste and produces var- processes paper waste. “The main purpose of the exhibition processing companies, increasing their was to show the public that a waste man- capacity and awareness,” he told us. “We agement sector exists in the country and intend to actively engage in collabora- that there are companies that separately tion with all stakeholders - central and collect and recycle different types of local government, NGOs, international waste (paper / cardboard, plastics, glass, organizations and the private sector. The aluminum, tires, oils, sanitary and elec- Association intends to increase its mem- tronic waste),” she said. bership and seek to strengthen the pro- “With this purpose, the companies cessing sector by lobbying the interests presented their products to the attend- of companies operating in the sector. ees, showing intermediate and fi nal waste The Association will continue to be processing products and giving them actively involved in the process of draft- the chance to discover the main players ing and reviewing legislation and regu- of the waste recycling sector and the lations on waste management.” processing technologies available in the The Georgian Waste Management country.” Association was founded with the sup- Nana Janashia noted that the Waste port of the USAID/CENN Waste Man- Expo 2019 was also a good opportunity agement Technologies in Regions to meet and talk directly with the rep- (WMTR) Program in 2015. The mission resentatives of the waste management of the Georgian Waste Management sector. “Due to the format of the exhibi- Association is to develop the waste man- tion, we wanted to devote more time to agement sector and support the intro- direct communication with companies duction of modern principles of waste than to formal presentations. The rep- management in the country, which will resentatives of the Ministry of Environ- facilitate the sustainable economic devel- mental Protection and Agriculture and opment of the country and contribute the Tbilisi City Hall welcomed the audi- to the creation of a safe and healthy ence at the event. I also had the oppor- environment. tunity to welcome guests on behalf of CENN and the USAID Waste Manage- ment Program. Giorgi Guliashvili, Pres- ident of the Association, addressed the audience on behalf of the Waste Man- agement Association and provided brief information about the Association and its 26 member companies, who collect and recycle different types of waste.” Nana Janashia stated that the Waste Management Association is a good plat- GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 BUSINESS 9 Heritage Hotel and Suites – Hotel Beyond Expectation acter of the venue perfectly suits its name, offering a unique symbiosis of the Old Tbilisi architecture and modern minimalist design. “Heritage is not only a place to spend a night at. Guests arriving here get a chance to touch the Old Tbilisi culture. A truly fantastic concept,” she says. Actress Eka Chkheidze recalls her deep-rooted love for the street since she attended a school in the neighborhood now home to Heritage. “The building is 120 years old and can be seen as a cul- tural heritage monument. One can see lots of old buildings across the street. What makes the hotel unique is the bold fusion of old and new styles,” she says. Heritage is designed to ‘connect the cen- turies’ through a seamless blend of contemporary minimalist design with the more traditional Geor- gian touches. Designed by the best architect of the time, Heritage is a veritable oasis of luxury and comfort at the gateway to the age-old Aghmashen- ebeli Avenue. laced in a handsome 120-year-old build- The hotel’s central location facilitates immediate ing, Heritage Hotel & Suites boutique contact with the most enthralling aspects of the hotel is one of Tbilisi’s most anticipated city, ranging from the vital historical monuments openings of 2020. The glittering Open- to the most famous Abanotubani (an ancient dis- ing Ceremony held on December 13 trict known for its sulphuric baths). The Heritage hostedP a multitude of guests who, pampered with hotel is in the middle of the action: within walking Ala Beridze’s charming music and scrumptious distance from the venue are numerous shopping stand-up buffet, received numerous prizes. malls, local and foreign restaurants, the metro sta- Giorgi Keniashvili, the founder of HotelX, says tion Marjanishvili, theatres and the best spots of the offi cial status of cultural heritage monuments. air conditioning, free WI-FI access, working space, his hotel management company has earnestly par- nightlife, to name a few. The location is convenient The Apollo cinema, the Choreography School, the mini-bar and an in-room safe box. ticipated in the creative process of designing and for both business and leisure travelers. It takes just Art Palace and Marjanishvili Theatre are a few among After taking it all in, head to the fancy relaxation administering Heritage. “From the outset we aimed 10 minutes to drive from the hotel to Freedom Tbilisi’s cultural treasures, each of them with its area with steam room and sauna for further enchant- to create something special and memorable, some- Square and Rustaveli Avenue. Experiencing Tbilisi own unique history. Chavchanidze’s House attracts ment. After a long and busy day, you will defi nitely thing that would surpass all expectation. We offer is an important part of the hotel's ethos. viewers for its unique entrance painted by Floren- need this little bit of heaven to ensure a pleasant our guests elegant rooms, furniture and a myriad Agmashenebeli Avenue is one of the longest and tine artists, and its refi ned ceiling décor. sleep. Or else, you can begin your day here, to feel of surplus facilities that are essential for the hotel,” most alluring streets of the city. Here you can fi nd The hotel boasts 23 chic rooms with / without refreshed from morning on. Giorgi says. gorgeous historic buildings, painted entryways and balconies, fully equipped with the fi nest amenities. The venue has been smartened up a with a styl- Medea Janiashvili, deputy head of the Georgian distinctive architectural ornaments. Built in the 19th All rooms feature private bathrooms, extra free ish Patrimony Restaurant with a show-kitchen, National Tourism Administration, says the char- and early 20th centuries, most of the buildings have toiletries, Smart TV, complimentary coffee/tea set, offering an abundance of healthy European cuisine.

Austrian Embassy Invites Applications for Position of Executive Assistant to the Ambassador

he Austrian Embassy in Tbilisi invites effectively with senior members of the Diplomatic applications for the position of Exec- community, government offi cials and members of utive Assistant to the Ambassador. the civil society. The position requires a self-starter, able to work independently and with DESIRED PERSONAL Ta high level of intuition, initiative, energy, judge- QUALITIES AND SKILLS: ment and discretion. The successful candidate must • ability to foster productive and supportive work- have strong organisational and communication ing relationships skills, including the ability to liaise effectively with • ability to prioritise competing tasks and to meet a wide range of people, and good writing and deadlines research skills. • ability to work independently and to take ini- Above all, the applicant must be able to work well tiative under pressure as part of a small and dynamic team. • ability to travel Fluency in German and English is essential. Flu- • enthusiasm, adaptability and ability to work in ency in Russian is desirable. a small team • a high level of professionalism and an exemplary TASKS AND FUNCTIONS standard of personal conduct • Manage the Ambassador’s offi ce (including • excellent computer/IT (including Power point, coordinate and distribute all classifi ed and unclas- Access and Excel) and writing skills sifi ed material in and out of the offi ce, screen phone calls and visitors), determine priorities and provide REMUNERATION & START DATE timely and responsive administrative support. A salary and benefi ts package will be offered under • Manage documentation and inform the Ambas- contract in accordance with current staff condi- sador of matters requiring attention. Research and tions of service. Austrian Federal Ministry of Europe, prepare correspondence in German & English, Integration and Foreign Affairs is equal opportunity speech notes, travel programs, quarterly and annual employer. An initial appointment will be made on reports and diplomatic cables as required. a fi xed-term employment contract, after an initial • Liaise on behalf of the Ambassador for contact/ probationary period. appointments. Liaise with staff of all agencies in Start date preferably: 1 February 2020 the Embassy on behalf of the Ambassador. Manage Ambassador’s diary and program of appointments. APPLICATIONS • Offi cial event management; Assist with public Applications should include a cover letter or suc- diplomacy events; Manage Embassy protocol issues; cinct statement addressing the four selection cri- Undertake research tasks and translation exercises teria outlined above. Please include your CV and the name and contact SELECTION CRITERIA FOR THE POSITION details of two referees and send your application • Masters Degree in Law, Economics, Finance or to tifl [email protected] no later than 31 December Business Administration (or other related fi elds); 2019. • Demonstrated experience as an Executive Assis- tant or similar experience in diplomatic or inter- Only short-listed candidates will be contacted and invited national environment (5+ years); for a hearing / an interview. • Proven ability to take initiative, work under pressure and prioritise workloads in order to meet tight deadlines. Demonstrated fl exibility and abil- ity to adapt to different work environments; • Strong verbal and written communication skills including ability to build productive working rela- tionships; professional manner and ability to liaise GEORGIA TODAY 10 BUSINESS DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 Simetria Park- Harmony Inside and Out

imetria Park is a human-cen- drive from the heart of Tbilisi, close to tered neighborhood in Tbilisi, the city's largest park and the city's most near Mtatsminda Park in Okro- prominent recreational area. kana, spread over 20,000 sq/m What’s more, Simetria Park is to pam- and comprising 39 apartments per its residents with the fi nest infra- Sand 31 individual townhouses. structure and service to create a safe and To create something distinctive, obser- enjoyable atmosphere for living and vation is not enough; one must be part leisure. These include a gym, spa, mul- of the ecosystem. The accumulated tipurpose playground, square, bike lane, problems in the environment should hiking trails, and co-working, recreational concern one personally; the perpetual and commercial spaces. eagerness to try and solve these issues “Simetria Park is primarily an idea, a is essential. way of life,” says Tariel Gabunia, CEO The concept behind Simetria Park is of the company. “The design of the pro- based on the idea of "inside and out har- ject is based on proper research and mony", which implies a closed residen- accurate environmental analysis. Sime- tial neighborhood tailored to the needs tria Park's main asset is that it is thor- of modern urbanization. Indoor and oughly conceived, cherishing every detail. outdoor spaces have equal importance The project’s aim is to create a balanced here: project planning and design deserve environment for living. All the condi- as much attention as human relation- tions here are designed to enable a mod- ships and socializing. ern person, who is part of a bustling, When thinking about the project, the busy city, to move to a more relaxed most vital aim for the company was pick- environment without having to leave The group operates mainly in the realm to its completion. In each individual case, system. The Simetria neighborhood is ing the right location. Sharing no simi- town.” of attracting and managing investments. the Simetria team creates a well-thought- an eco-friendly jewel in the crown of the larity with a regular village settlement, Simetria Park is a project of the Sime- The company Simetria Real Estate Devel- out business plan, develops an invest- city. There should be more projects like Simetria Park was conceived as a daily tria Real Estate Development Company, opment operates in residential complexes, ment project based on thorough research, Simetria. residential district; an inalienable part which is a member of the Capitol Invest- as well as hotels and business and shop- and in the end ensures that the project of the city and at the same time a move ment Group. The Capitol Investment ping centers. Its work ethic involves is attractive and well-implemented. Link to the video: https://www.facebook. away from its turmoil. Ultimately, an Group was founded in 2006; it has come managing and taking responsibility for There is a pressing need to address the com/105098424212155/posts/15700 area was selected that is a mere 8-minute- to unite a multitude of business sectors. the project all the way from its inception urgent challenges in our declining eco- 7415687922?vh=e&d=n&sfns=mo GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 SOCIETY 11 Water Whoa: Etseri, Svaneti

BLOG BY TONY HANMER

t’s starting to feel like, all things being equal, our winter water setup is slowly moving towards stability and success, the goal being NOT TO FREEZE. Because ifI it does freeze, there are hours of mis- ery ahead, if not days, of hard, dirty, cold, wet work getting it running again. Earlier this year, we hired three men from Zugdidi, gave them a break from the 3-story hotel they’re building in Mes- tia, and had them work on said water system. We removed the 1000-L water tank from the garage, installed an electric pump which we can use or not, added a fi lter with replacements to change as necessary. Most important, we set it up so that the hose through which water dip in the pipes and it sits, unavoidable ets from 50 m or so below the house. can run without stopping is turned on given our topology. So it did indeed freeze I now have to beg the mayor to try to or off, up or down, inside the house. All in our absence. Everyone else was there see that such interferences are not allowed vast improvements, complete with insu- at home to take emergency measures to happen again when someone is not lation everywhere the men worked. and restore fl ow; we were not. We came home to be involved; they might be nec- However… we were called away to back to silent pipes and dread, quite essary for one household, I get that, but Kakheti on urgent family business for a angry. for others they are crushingly damaging. few days. Of course we left the water I spent a whole day fi nding out where All it takes is a few phone calls to the running, to minimize chances of its freez- the water was still liquid in our pipes, potentially affected people! This type of ing, knowing full well the risks when from below which it was frozen. How to thoughtless action only serves to set vil- outside it’s dropping to -10 degrees C at get the frozen part thawed? The warm- lagers one against another, justifying night, only a few degrees above freezing ing trend, softening snow, melting ice all themselves and blaming each other. during the day. The ground is moving mocked me; the ground remained hard. Unless they’re TRYING for harm and towards being frozen as well; and the I boiled and salted one 3L bottle after demoralization, in which case, have at it sun’s warming effect is being lessened another, disconnected the frozen pipes, and we’ll see who outlasts whom. maximally by the refl ective effect of all and started funneling the hot brine into that white snow, which has indeed started them, for a few hours. To no avail: the Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since to fall. frozen part was too long for this to thaw 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a AND… during our time away, someone it in the few hours of daylight I had left. weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He had the bright idea to turn off the water So I uncoiled a new pipe we had (care- runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook to our part of the village to work on it, ful, don’t let it kink!) and connected this group, now with nearly 2000 members, at with the worst possible timing. Things to the part from where water was still www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- were no longer all equal. Keeping one’s running; then sealed the several joins with sance/ own water running can only work if there wire so they can’t separate. By sundown He and his wife also run their own guest house IS water to run! If you stop its fl ow, it we had water in the house again, luxury in Etseri: will freeze somewhere where there’s a indeed after a day of collecting it in buck- www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti GeoStat Publishes Earnings Statistics

cated an increase in the average monthly – 3.7%) BY ANA DUMBADZE earnings compared to the same quarter • Financial and insurance activities – 1 of the previous year. According to the 898.6 GEL (annual growth – 19.4%) economic activity the highest monthly As for average monthly earnings by n Q3 2019, the average monthly earnings were observed in the following sex, in Q3 2019, the average earnings earnings in Georgia increased by fi elds: equaled 924.1 GEL for women, 1,475.7 91.6 GEL compared to the second • Construction – 2 008.4 GEL (annual GEL for men and the annual growth of quarter of the previous year and growth – 16.4%) earnings amounted to 72.2 and 115.2 GEL, amounted to 1 217.1 GEL, the • Information and communication – 1 respectively. In the majority of sectors INational Statistics Offi ce of Georgia 958.7 GEL (annual growth – 9.7%) of the economy, the average monthly reports. • Professional, scientifi c and technical earnings of men were higher compared In Q3 2019, the majority of sectors indi- activities – 1 936.2 GEL (annual growth to those of women. GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 Embassy of the State of Qatar to Georgia Celebrates its Country’s National Day

he Embassy of the State of Qatar to Georgia cele- brated the National Day of the State of Qatar, which marked the Accession of HisT Highness Sheikh Jassim Bin Moham- mad Bin Thani, the Founder of the State of Qatar, to the throne, and commemo- rated the inception of the modern state of Qatar in 1878. On this occasion, H.E. Mubarak Bin Nasser Al-Khalifa, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Georgia, hosted a reception on December 18 in Courtyard Marriott Tbilisi. All guests at the event, including the representatives of government bodies, diplomatic corps and the media sector, as well as members of the Qatar Embassy to Tbilisi, were welcomed by the Ambas- sador of the State of Qatar. The Ambassador delivered a speech congratulating the invitees on the remarkable date and thanking them for their attendance. He outlined the role of the former and present leaders of the State of Qatar for the development and modernization of the country. While addressing the audience, His Excellency noted the numerous achieve- ments and projects implemented by the State of Qatar: “The State of Qatar, through its correct position and wise leadership, has been able to increase the energies and potential of the Qatari people, resulting in GDP growth of around 15% in 2018 and hydrocarbon GDP of about 9%. The country is stead- ily moving towards the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. “It has recently provided $500 million in support to the core resources of the United Nations, making the State of Qatar one of the largest partners sup- porting the United Nations in various fi elds. The State of Qatar has signed a partnership agreement with the United Nations Offi ce for Combating Terror- ism, and provided $75 million to strengthen the capacity of the Offi ce.” The Ambassador concluded his speech by focusing on the friendly relations between Georgia and the State of Qatar in different areas, stating: “The Qatari- Georgian relations are developing con- tinuously; we have seen this through increasing the number of high-level visits of offi cials of the two countries, as well as the holding of the second round of political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and Georgia in the capi- tal, Tbilisi, last November. A number of agreements and memorandums of cooperation are underway to serve the interests of our peoples.” The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, David Zalkaliani, also addressed the audience at the event, where he, on the behalf of the Georgian nation, con- gratulated the Ambassador and other representatives of the State of Qatar on the celebration of the national Day. He strongly emphasized the signifi cance of the close partnership of Georgia and Qatar and noted that the State of Qatar was the fi rst country among the Arab states to launch an Embassy in Georgia in 2013. Zalkaliani expressed hopes for continued and enhanced friendly rela- tions between Georgia and the State of Qatar. The celebration was followed by a cake-cutting ceremony accompanied by music and a marvelous reception with various dishes. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 CULTURE 13 Lenny Kravitz to Perform in Georgia

BY NINI DAKHUNDARIDZE

uch like the lyrics to his song Are You Gonna Go My Way, Lenny Kravitz is coming to Georgia to “save the day and won't leave until he’s done.” Presented by the Bank Mof Georgia and SOLO, the American musician, who is a living legend at the age of 55, will hold a con- cert in the Georgian capital for the fi rst time within the frames of his “Here to Love” World Tour. The musician’s 2020 Europe tour will kick off from Georgia. The four-time Grammy Award-win- ning artist will perform for the Georgian audience at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium on May 31. Kravitz is known for creating an unforgettable atmosphere at his energetic live performances, and Georgia expects nothing less. Over the course of a 20-year musical career, Lenny Kravitz has won four consecutive Grammy® Awards as well as set a record for the most wins in the Best Male Rock Vocal Performance category. In addi- tion to his ten studio albums, which sold 40 million copies worldwide, Lenny Kravitz elevated the union of rock ‘n’ roll, funk, blues, and soul raising the bar for music once again. The only child of actress Roxie Roker and Holly- wood producer Sy Kravitz, Lenny was born in 1964 in Manhattan, New York City. Infl uenced by his Just like Prince, who was one of his major early Performance four years in a row from 1999 to 2002, well as performing on tracks for Michael Jackson, parents' love of R&B, jazz, classical, opera and blues, infl uences, Kravitz played nearly all the instruments breaking the record for most wins in that category Mick Jagger, David Bowie and Jay-Z. Kravitz showed his fascination with music from the on the album. The musician broke through with as well as setting the record for most consecutive Tickets are already available for his Georgia con- age of fi ve, learning to play different instruments. his second album, ‘Mama Said,’ which came two wins in one category by a male. cert. Music lovers can fi nd them online on tkt.ge. In the late 1980s, he started pursuing his music years after his debut album. His third album ‘Are Additionally, Kravitz has starred in movies, includ- Note that until December 26, they are only open career in NYC and on the way met Lisa Bonet- the You Gonna Go My Way,’ released in 1994, earned ing the Hunger Games, and has co-written and to SOLO clients/ WM Customers, after which they two quickly became a star couple. His fi rst album a BRIT award for best international male artist. He produced material for various artists, including will open to the general public. Going Lenny Krav- came out in 1989 and was titled ‘Let Love Rule’.’ won the Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Madonna, Vanessa Paradis, and Steven Tyler as itz’s Way will cost you from 95 to 550 GEL. British DJ Jamz Supernova Live Set Completes UK/ Georgia 2019 Season

s part of the UK/Georgia 2019 sea- owning their own careers, highlighting women son on 13 December, British Coun- and people of color. cil Georgia, in collaboration with The UK/Georgia 2019 season was a specially Tempo RadioLab and Khidi/G2 Club, curated program of more than 60 events jointly presented a workshop hosted by the presented by the British Embassy in Tbilisi and versatileA British musician, DJ and Radio Selector British Council in Georgia, which ran from Sep- presenter Jamz Supernova. The workshop shared tember to December 2019. UK/Georgia 2019 the DJ’s experience with local musicians. included events in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and On December 15, Jamz Supernova performed other locations across Georgia and showcased at Khidi/G2. the best that modern, diverse, global Britain has Jamz Supernova is one of the leading next- to offer in culture, sport, education and busi- generation DJs in the UK. A keen agent for ness. It drew on the shared values of both the change, Jamz created DIY Generation – a spot- UK and Georgia to deliver a program with a light on amazing young people building and specifi c focus on diversity and inclusion. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER Language: Non-verbal IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Nikolaevich Romanov and Brothers Gia Davitiani, Guja Mardaleishvili, Start time: 20:00 TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM Zubalashvili, as well as books with Dato Mchedlishvili, Ticket: 10, 15 GEL - KARVASLA signatures of Ilia Chavchavadze, Ilia Sabadze, Tengo Gumberidze, TBILISI OPERA 8 Sioni St. Ivane Machabeli, Victor Hugo, Alexa Dre Japaridze and others. AND BALLET THEATER December 22 TEL (+995 32) 2 98 22 81 Dmitri Mendeleev and Antoine- Presenters: Ninaka Gelashvili and 25 Rustaveli Ave. TAMADA IN MANHATTAN Augustin Renouard, etc. Guram Jashi Georgian-American Premiere Until January 19 Author and Director: Jemal December 21, 22 GALLERY Washington Theater Company E Project "Contemporary Art Bagashvili MACBETH and Movement Theater co-stage Musical Director: Gia Bagashvili Premiere Gallery" presents the exhibition a performance in the format of a THE NATIONAL GALLERY Start time: 16:00 Giuseppe Verdi's opera "How to Catch up with a Dead Broadway musical 11 Rustaveli Ave. Ticket: 15-30 GEL Start time: 19:00 Hare" by Georgian contemporary Directed by Paul Gordon TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 Ticket: 10-300 GEL artist ILIKO ZAUTASHVILI Author: Paul Gordon, Ioseb THE BILTMORE HOTEL Bakuradze, GRAND MASTERS FROM THE TBILISI December 26 MUSEUM OF SOVIET Choreographer: Robbie Priore, GEORGIAN 29 Rustaveli Ave. OTAR TAKTAKISHVILI 95 OCCUPATION Abby Leithart, Vanessa Owen, NATIONAL MUSEUM Participants of the concert: 4 Rustaveli Ave. Gavin Strewart, Lasha Robakidze COLLECTION XIX – XX CENTURY December 20 Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 Genre: Musical VOCAL ACADEMY soloists, Choir and Orchestra. www.museum.ge Language: Non-verbal Until February 29 CHRISTMAS EVE Conductor- Zaza Azmaiparashvili Start time: 20:00 The exhibition hall is equipped The Georgian National Museum Participants age category: 5-18 years Start time: 19:00 Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 10-100 GEL Ticket: 25 GEL with monitors, where visitors and the Embassy of Italy in Georgia can see documentaries of various present the exhibition ROMA Ticket: 10 GEL SHALIKASHVILI THEATER historical events. AETERNA. MASTERPIECES OF GABRIADZE THEATER SPORTS PALACE 14 Shavteli Str. 37 Rustaveli Ave. ROMAN SCULPTURE FROM Until January 20 THE DINO AND ERNESTA 26 May Sq. December 20 December 20, 21 Exhibition SANTARELLI FOUNDATION LIKE THIS SVANETI-KHALDE REVOLT 1875- The National Gallery features 33 December 20 RAMONA A MESSAGE TO THE YOUTH Revaz Gabriadze Comedy novels based on 1876 sculptures depicting the stages Georgian national motives Introducing the history of the of artistic or stylistic evolution An Art Performer, Bus's fi rst large- Directed by Revaz Gabriadze scale concert featuring art-show English Subtitles Language: Non-verbal uprising for the fi rst time, the from the Roman Republic to the Start time: 20:00 exhibition is based on archival Neoclassical era. elements. Start time: 20:00 Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Ticket: 15 GEL documentation, ethnographic and photo-video materials, telling the TBILISI DIGITAL SPACE Ticket: 10-30 GEL MUSEUM December 21 story of the determination and self- Tbilisi Mall MONOHALL STALINGRAD sacrifi ce of the inhabitants of small 2 D. Bakradze Str. Revaz Gabriadze GEORGIAN NATIONAL mountainous village Khalde, the The fi rst museum of digital art in Directed by Revaz Gabriadze MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA freedom-fi ghters who confronted Tbilisi, where you will meet three December 20 English Subtitles MUSEUM the Russian imperial power. different spaces: Vazha-Pshavela's EKO & VINDA FOLIO Start time: 20:00 3 Rustaveli Ave. "Dried beech", the world of torches, New Album Ticket: 20, 30 GEL TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS and a digital space decorated with www.museum.ge 10 Betlemi Str. various graphic and visuals effects. Start time: 23:00 Ticket: 20 GEL December 22 In the main hall decorated with THE AUTUMN OF MY Exhibitions: Discover the Museum of Illusions video projections and mirrors December 21 SPRINGTIME GEORGIAN COSTUME AND Be brave and jump into an illusion you will discover that there is no DCBL: KANGDING RAY Revaz Gabriadze WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH created by the Vortex, deform the boundary between Man and nature. DASHA RUSH, SIGHA, Directed by Revaz Gabriadze CENTURIES image of yourself in the Mirror Ticket: 10-30 GEL GEORGE EFFE English Subtitles NUMISMATIC TREASURY Room, free yourself in the Infi nity MUSIC Start time: 22:00 Start time: 20:00 EXHIBITION STONE AGE Room, resist the laws of gravity Ticket: 20 GEL Ticket: 20, 30 GEL GEORGIA and size, and take selfi es in every ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE possible pose. Enjoy the collection TBILISI CONCERT HALL SPACEHALL December 26 NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL of holograms and discover optical 1 Melikishvili Ave. 2 A. Tsereteli Ave. REZO COLLECTIONS illusions. Animated documentary fi lm December 20 December 21 Directed by Leo Gabriadze Until February 1 THE BOOK MUSEUM IUMORINA 2020 GREEN ROOM English Subtitles Exhibition 5 Gudiashvili Str., National Cast: Bidzina Makharadze, Start time: 21:30 Start time: 20:00 NEANDERTHALS IN THE Parlamentary Library Teimuraz Tsiklauri, Nugzar Ticket: 32-40 GEL Ticket: 15 GEL SOUTH CAUCASUS – +995 32 297 16 40 Kvashali, Vakhtang Tatishvili, TSUTSKVATI CAVE, OLD AND "Parody Theater": Beso ART HALL MOVEMENT THEATER NEW DISCOVERIES The Book Museum holds a Berulashvili, Merab Gegechkori, 26 Ts. Dadiani Ave. 182 Agmashenebli Ave. The exhibition displays the unique collection of items, Levan Shengelia, Mamuka latest fi ndings of archeological including private libraries of Lomashvili, December 21 December 21 and paleontological excavations Ilia Chavchavadze, Dimitri David Bekoshvili, Roman Kerkadze, THE ORGANISM INTRO discovered by Georgian National Bakradze, Giorgi Chubinashvili, Chorus Mkhleveli, DYNAMIC MUSIC/DISCO HALAL Directed by Kakha Bakuradze Museum's Tsutskvati Cave the recently recovered book "Street Musicians" - Dito Start time: 23:00 Music: Sandro Nikoladze Archaeological Expedition. collections of Grand Duke Michael Sakandelidze, Ticket: 25 GEL

December 23 POTSKHISHVILI CHOREOGRAPHICAL DYNASTY REPRESENTS A NEW CHOREOGRAPHICAL BALLET CHOREOGRAPHIC RHAPSODY Start time: 22:00 Ticket: 10-15 GEL

REPUBLIC 1st Republic Sq.

December 21 PARIS CITY JAZZ Famous Parisian musician and DJ Bellaire Start time: 23:00 Ticket: 30-80 GEL

ELEKTROWERK 2 Beri Gabriel Salosi I turn

December 21 ONE STORY All guests will receive a New Year's gift Start time: 23:00 Ticket:15 GEL

MOVEMENT THEATER 182 Agmashenebli Ave.

December 24 JAMM SESSION- Improv played by different Georgian and foreign musicians and instrumentalists. Musical art director- Sandro Nikoladze Start time: 21:00 Ticket: 5 GEL GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 20 - 23, 2019 CULTURE 15 The Making of a Star: George Ergemlidze

a band. I had a few songs written already, BY TAMZIN WHITEWOOD OTHER MUSICIANS ON THE and he really liked them, so we decided SCENE IN GEORGIA? to give it a shot. We became quite popu- I try to think outside the box. When you lar, but I felt we reached a stage creatively live in a country like Georgia, it’s hard t’s fair to say that Georgia has seen where it has hard to move forward to go against the grain and create some- something of a revitalization of together. I think, as a band, music was thing different. I don’t believe in limita- its music scene in recent years. our hobby, whereas for me personally, tions. Sometimes music can be rushed, While its traditional folk music it was my life, my passion, which is why and somewhere along the way, something will never be forgotten, there are I decided to continue as a solo artist. gets overlooked and the music lacks the Isome particularly talented singers and Was there a defi ning moment when key element it needs to make it a hit. songwriters who could rival those of any you realised you had become successful? western country. Tbilisi-based George Popularity in Georgia can be short-lived. WHY DO YOU ONLY Ergemlidze has been climbing his way One day, you’re famous, the next, people SING IN ENGLISH? up the music ladder for years now, and are like “what’s your name again?” I was There is something of an expectation GEORGIA TODAY met with him to fi nd in Star Academy at the age of 20, which for Georgian artists to sing in Georgian out how he managed it. offered me my fi rst taste of fame. But on - but why? There are some Georgian that show, they told me I didn’t have music critics who have openly said that TELL US HOW YOU FIRST enough talent to be successful. Nine years local singers should only sing in Geor- GOT INTO MUSIC. later, I released my song ‘Violet Star’. I gian. I don’t want to mention any names, Music has been a part of my life since I remember sending the song to the ‘New but suffi ce to say, they know who they can remember. I was always playing the Retro Wave’ YouTube channel, at which are. I personally think that this narrow- piano as a child. I vividly remember time they had 300,000 subscribers. The mindedness is a tragedy. When you start watching Queen perform at Live Aid and next day, the owner of the channel told to dictate to an artist what to do, you thinking to myself “wow, I want to be me it was amazing and, within two hours take away part of their individuality. just like him.” I think I was 10 at the time, of it being released, it got 20,000 hits English is a universal language that is and that was when my musical taste and around the world! Proving Star Academy spoken and understood by millions of style really began to form. When I was wrong is among the highlights of my people. I want to be able to reach as 13, I learnt how to arrange and produce career. I’d imagine that’s a defi ning moment many people as possible with my music. music myself on my laptop, and every- for any artist, knowing you’ve become So what’s next for George Ergemlidze? thing went from there. popular outside of your home country. To continue making music! I’m work- So yes, I think that’s probably the moment ing on some great new songs at the BEFORE YOU WENT SOLO, my career really took off. moment that I’m hoping people will love. YOU WERE IN A BAND. HOW I also want to become even more exper- DID THAT COME ABOUT? WHAT DO YOU THINK imental with my music, and cater to more When I was 20, my friend and I created SETS YOU APART FROM tastes. Georgia’s Art Palace among European Museum of the Year Award Nominees work of a commitment to citizenship, BY ELENE DZEBISASHVILI democracy and human rights, to bridg- ing cultures and social and political bor- ders, and to sustainability. The different he European Museum Forum awards within the EMYA scheme refl ect, (EMF), which has been represent, and emphasise different awarding the most prestig- aspects and dimensions of these values”, ious European Museum reads the EMYA website. Award (EMYA) every year Art Palace qualifi ed for the EMYA Tsince 1977 for outstanding, courageous nomination through its major renovation and innovative exhibition concepts, has in 2014, which saw the venue's individ- shortlisted the Tbilisi-based Art Palace ual, themed halls revitalized along with as one of the nominees for the year 2020. wall paintings restored with historical The Art Palace museum is one of Tbi- accuracy. The museum houses exhibits lisi’s stand-out venues due to its Gothic ranging from 16th century Persian min- architecture and splendid styling. The iatures, French engravings, the works by museum, commissioned by the German 20th century Georgian painters to cos- Prince in the late 19th century as a pre- tumes from cinema and stage produc- sent to his Georgian lover, was picked tions. for the nominee list that involves new This vital depository of Georgian cul- or recently renovated venues, including tural heritage is home for more than the Hexenmuseum Museum in Switzer- 300,000 objects that provide compre- land, the Museum of Secret Surveillance hensive information on the unfolding of in Albania and the Pentala Archipelago Georgian theater, cinema, circus, folklore, Museum in Finland. opera and ballet. Included in the muse- EMYA has brought to center-stage a um’s exhibition are works by 20th Cen- myriad of small museums with distin- tury modernist painter Petre Otskheli guished cutting-edge content, which (1907-1937), whose modernist style and otherwise would not have received rec- constant experimentation in painting ognition at the European level. Within earned him a lasting legacy in Georgian the EMYA scheme, all museums are theater design. equal whether public or private, small The EMYA awarding ceremony will or large. be hosted by the National Museum Wales “EMF works within an overall frame- in Cardiff, from 29 April to 2 May 2020.

PUBLISHER & GM Journalists: Website Manager/Editor: ADDRESS Reproducing material, photos George Sharashidze Tony Hanmer, Katie Ruth Davies 1 Melikishvili Str. and advertisements without Zaza Jgarkava, Tbilisi, 0179, Georgia prior editorial permission is COMMERCIAL Maka Bibilashvili, Layout: strictly forbidden. DEPARTMENT Vazha Tavberidze, Misha Mchedlishvili Tel.: +995 32 229 59 19 The author is responsible for Commercial Director: Nugzar B. Ruhadze, E: [email protected] all material. Rights of authors Webmaster: Iva Merabishvili Beka Alexishvili, F: GeorgiaToday are preserved. The newspaper Sergey Gevenov Marketing Manager: Tea Mariamidze, is registered in Mtatsminda Sesili Tikaradze Ana Dumbadze, Circulation Managers: ADVERTISING & district court. Nini Dakhundaridze David Kerdikashvili, SUBSCRIPTION EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT: David Djandjgava +995 555 00 14 46 GEORGIA TODAY Editor-In-Chief: Photographer: E-mail: Reg. # 06/4-309 Katie Ruth Davies Irakli Dolidze [email protected]