Issue no: 1111 • DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... FOCUS TBC Bank & Sida Sign Loan ON REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT Guarantee Agreement The IPS training boosts Georgian sectoral development by giving the players the tools they need to exhibit well PAGE 10

NEWS PAGE 3 Ambassador Beruchashvili on UK- Georgia Relations 2018 POLITICS PAGE 4 Salome Zurabishvili Begins Her Reign POLITICS PAGE 8 Georgian Operatic Bass Criticized for Performing in Russia

4th Ceremony of Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards Held at Rustaveli Theater in Tbilisi

BY LIKA CHIGLADZE POLITICS PAGE 8

ourism is one of Geor- More Monochrome Haiku: gia’s fastest growing industries, contribut- Etseri, Svaneti ing to both the pro- SOCIETY PAGE 12 motion of the country Tinternationally and benefi tting the economy and enhancing the qual- Grand Premiere of Jules ity of life of its citizens. In order to mark the achievements in the Massenet’s Werther to Be tourism sector, the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards Held at Tbilisi Opera Theater was held for the fourth time this year. CULTURE PAGE 13 On December 17, the offi cial cer- emony of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards took place at Tbilisi’s historic Rustaveli Theater, where 23 best companies among different nominations were named. Representatives of all nominees, project partners, the government sector, private busi- ness, and international and local media attended this highly impor- tant event. Continued on page 10 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 TBC Bank & Sida Sign Loan Guarantee Agreement

Bank, Sida will act as a borrower's guar- BY ANNA ZHVANIA antor. The collaboration deals with loans that TBC Bank will offer in the fi eld of agriculture, trade, environment, manu- or the fi rst time in Georgia, facturing and service providers to sup- the Swedish International port start-ups and SMEs. Development and Cooperation The risk will be shared equally (50% Agency (Sida) will be the - 50%) based on the Borrower and Loan fi nancial guarantor of business category. With loans taken by women activitiesF conducted by entrepreneurs entrepreneurs, startup entrepreneurs or in Georgia. those that intend to create ecologically TBC Bank and Sida, represented in this clean products, 60% of risk will be shared instance by the Embassy of Sweden, by Sida. signed a loan guarantee agreement with Sida's guarantee will cover a total port- the purpose of supporting startups and folio of $40 mln. micro, small and medium (SME) busi- TBC Bank has been working with the nesses in Georgia, particularly those Swedish International Development which include female founders and Cooperation Agency for the past year entrepreneurs. and the agreement will be the fi rst pro- According to the agreement, if issues ject for Sida with the cooperation of a should arise on a loan issued by TBC commercial bank in Georgia. SUBSCRIBE! France to Adopt Law Allowing Georgians to Work Legally

Affairs of Georgia David Zalkaliani. President signed this agreement, which BY THEA MORRISON 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION - 60 GEL The Minister said after the agreement will be presented as a law allowing the (6 ISSUES) comes into force, young specialists of citizens of Georgia to work legally in Georgia, including those who received France. This is a very important achieve- Money Back Guarantee! rance is to adopt a law which higher education in France, will be able ment,” he said. will allow professional citi- to obtain a temporary residence permit Zalkaliani stated he would provide  [email protected]  +995 32 229 59 19 zens of Georgia to work there in France for legal employment. more information and details shortly. legally. “We have signed an agreement with He added that the Georgian side is The information was France that has been ratifi ed by the working on this issue with a number of Freleased by the Minister of Foreign French Parliament. Yesterday, the French other countries.

GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 Ambassador Beruchashvili on UK-Georgia Relations 2018 framework, headed by Minister of For- and successful cooperation in the areas EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY eign Affairs of Georgia H.E. David Zal- of defense and security, sharing the goal KATIE RUTH DAVIES kaliani from the Georgian side and Min- of preserving peace and stability around ister of State for Europe and the the world. These spheres and future Americas the Rt Hon Sir Alan Duncan plans are refl ected in the Joint Commu- EORGIA TODAY sat down MP from the UK side. The dialogue nique of the Georgia-UK Wardrop Stra- with H.E. Tamar Beru- focuses on a wide range of bilateral tegic Dialogue. chashvili, the Ambassador issues, such as political dialogue, coop- “We discussed a wide-range of chal- of Georgia to the UK, for eration in defense and security, trade lenges related to external interference our annual catch-up on the and economy, education, culture, people- and election meddling, propaganda, Glatest on British-Georgia relations. to-people contacts and other fi elds. organized crime, cyber security and cri- “This year is a very signifi cant one for “The United Kingdom is a leading stra- sis management,” the Ambassador told my country as we celebrate the 100th tegic partner and devoted supporter of us. “Georgia and the UK agreed to main- anniversary of Georgia’s Independence the Georgian sovereignty and territorial tain close ties and to continue to develop and the fi rst Democratic Republic,” the integrity as well as our European and the partnership. In this regard, the Ambassador told us. “Some wonder how Euro-Atlantic aspirations. We are united exchange of information between the Georgia, literally within two decades, by shared values, have common interests respective agencies is of utmost impor- has transformed itself from a Soviet of international security and stability tance. We recognized terrorism and country into the ‘Role Model’ of democ- and face common challenges,” the Ambas- cyber security as a common threat and racy for the region. It was the fi rst Geor- sador noted. “In the Fifth Round of the stressed the importance of joint efforts gian Democratic Republic 100 years ago Dialogue, we identifi ed the key priorities in this regard.” that laid a solid foundation for our mod- of our cooperation to shape our post- The signing of the MoU on Cyber ern Georgian state and society.” Brexit cooperation, which are refl ected Security between the Government of The UK-Georgia diplomatic relations in the Joint Communiqué.” the UK and the Government of Georgia CULTURAL DIPLOMACY European and Euro-Atlantic integration, date back to the time when Foreign Sec- The UK’s political support to the pro- functions as a signal of mutual commit- “Cultural links between Georgia and the the country’s economic development, retary Lord Curzon appointed brilliant cess of peaceful resolution of the confl ict ment to ongoing cooperation in cyber UK date back to the early days of the occupation of the Georgian regions of diplomat and connoisseur of Georgia Sir with the Russian Federation and to the security, as does the start of negotiations First Georgian Democratic Republic. Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, and about Oliver Wardrop as the UK’s fi rst Chief reconciliation process and confi dence- on the exchange of classifi ed informa- More than 100 years ago, Oliver and Georgia’s history and culture. Commissioner to the Transcaucasus in building has a crucial importance for tion with regard to responding to mutual Marjory Wardrop laid a solid foundation Georgian theater and cinema continue 1919. Sir Oliver Wardrop played a very Georgia and the regional stability. The threats and challenges. for British-Georgian cultural ties. It was to play active role in strengthening cul- important role in convincing the UK to Ambassador told us that the UK has “I would like to also mention our coop- a time when, through her translation of tural cooperation. In May, the 5th London recognize Georgia's independence in 1920. confi rmed its commitment to “remain eration in the crisis management system. the epic poem by the medieval Georgian Georgian Film Festival took place, fea- He became actively engaged in mobilizing vocal” in the international arena on the We already have concrete results and poet Shota Rustaveli “Knight in the Pan- turing award-winning new Georgian much needed support to deal with politi- need for a peaceful resolution of the our British colleagues will further con- ther’s Skin,” the translator and great fi lms as well as classics already well cal and economic challenges. This year Russia-Georgia confl ict. tinue their efforts to sophisticate the connoisseur of Georgian culture and known and appreciated by the British also marks the very signifi cant outcome “We also appreciate the inclusion of Georgian crisis management system. We literature Marjory Wardrop brought this audience. In the frames of the Film Fes- of Georgia-UK relations in all dimensions the human rights situation in Georgia’s also welcome that our British partners masterpiece to the British readers,” the tival, the Embassy hosted an exhibition as well as a new beginning of Georgia’s occupied regions in the FCO’s human will actively participate in the elabora- Ambassador noted. of the unique fi lm posters from 1920 - future cooperation after Brexit. rights and democracy report, which tion process of the concept of the Secu- “The exemplary cultural bond between 2000. identifi es severe human rights violations rity Council of Georgia. All these achieve- the two countries becomes even stronger “Georgian theater once again had an BREXIT and Russia’s actions in the Georgian ments, efforts and as well as future plans each year. In addition to the rich cultural acclaimed appearance at the world’s “With regard to Brexit, we respect the regions. The UK commended the deter- are underlined in the Joint Communiqué program throughout these recent years, largest Edinburgh Festival Fringe this democratic choice of the UK population mination and crucial role of the Georgian that is basis for our plans for next year.” featuring collaborative events like the year. ‘Our Theater,’ with its performance and as Britain will forge a new positive Government, as well as Georgian society research-oriented conference on Geor- ‘Paradiso’ successfully built on the rich role in the world, Georgia is ready to use to further advance the democratic con- CENTENARY OF THE gian polyphonic music at the British records of Georgia’ past participation at every opportunity to further deepen and solidation and economic development FIRST DEMOCRATIC Library, the seminar-discussion about The Fringe dating back to the 1970s,” the widen our relations,” the Ambassador of the country, including on education, REPUBLIC (1918-1921) Shakespeare and Rustaveli heritage, the Ambassador told us. confi rmed. “We welcome an outward- inclusive growth and judicial reform. This year Georgia has been celebrating fi rst ever book on Georgia published by looking, fl exible and dynamic UK and “In parallel to the intergovernmental the Centenary of the First Democratic the Publishing House of the University TWINNING CITIES are keen to actively cooperate on stra- dialogue, the parliamentary and expert Republic. of Oxford ‘Georgia: A Cultural Journey “We attach particular importance to tegic issues of common interest.” dimensions of the Wardrop Strategic “The Republic was founded on the Through the Wardrop Collection,’ this people-to-people contacts between our Georgia is in the process of developing Dialogue gained new momentum. Within most advanced ideas and values of that year has been marked with even more nations in which twinning partnerships a bilateral legal base between Georgia the framework of the Wardrop Strategic time and therefore the anniversary car- joint projects,” she said. enjoy a long and fruitful tradition,” she and the UK after the Brexit. Dialogue Parliamentary Dimension, on ries a signifi cant importance for our The Royal Asiatic Society, which pub- added. “The twinned cities (Bristol- “The Georgian side is to prepare a draft 24-31 May, the All-Party Parliamentary country. Georgia was one among a very lished Wardrop’s fi rst translation of the Tbilisi; Newport-Kutaisi; Newcastle- Agreement on Strategic Partnership and Group on Georgia – APPG in the UK few countries in which elections were ‘Knight in the Panther’s Skin,’ recently Akhaltsikhe) have a special role in bring- Cooperation between Georgia and the Parliament visited Georgia for the sec- held by universal suffrage and gender hosted the launch of the English transla- ing our communities together. This year, United Kingdom, including a compre- ond time, with a comprehensive program equality was promoted,” the Ambassador tions of 20th century renowned Georgian we marked the 30th anniversary of twin- hensive free trade component covering and Joint Communiqué adopted at the informed us. “The founders of the Geor- writers ‘Unlocking the Door: Writing ning between Bristol and Tbilisi with all priority areas such as political dia- end of the visit. gian Democratic Republic protected and from Georgia’. The new translations of special events in both cities promoting logue, defense and security, economy “As we speak on our parliamentary promoted values and high standards that Georgian writer Vazha-Pshavela is yet business, cultural and educational ties, and trade, innovations, the fi ght against cooperation, we very much appreciate at that time were controversial even in another collaborative project that will including exchange of visits at the local crime, education and culture, etc. the strong voice of the UK Parliament, Europe, such as the abolition of the death present the best of Georgian literature authority, business and cultural level. “In view of the Brexit and common having regular debates on our region, penalty, and recognition of prisoners’ to British readers. We decided to start this celebration with European and global challenges, we con- including Georgia,” she said. “On the and other human rights. The Embassy of Georgia continues to the offi cial opening of the Honorary centrate our efforts to further deepening occasion of 100th anniversary of Geor- “Together with our partner British support academic and cultural visits to Consulate of Georgia in Bristol and South and widening our cooperation in all gia’s Independence, Chair of the All-Party organizations, we hosted and co-organ- Georgia and awareness-raising about the West England, with the fi rst Honorary priority directions, bringing our coun- Parliamentary Group on Georgia Mr ized a series of events to raise awareness country. With the Embassy’s active Consul of Georgia, longstanding Chair- tries and peoples closer,” the Ambassa- Jonathan Djanogly tabled the Early Day about various aspects of the First Repub- involvement earlier this year, Georgia man of the Bristol-Tbilisi Twinning dor emphasized. Motion on Georgia that, along with suc- lic. As a result, conferences in London, was selected by the international rela- Association, Mr. Derek Pickup, an hon- cessful reforms, also clearly underlines Oxford and Sevenoaks, exhibitions, a tions societies of the London School of orary citizen of Tbilisi and a great friend ON THE WARDROP the occupation of Georgian territories.” book launch and discussions generated Economics and Political Science and the of my country.” STRATEGIC DIALOGUE much interest and ensured the high University of Westminster for their for- On 8 November 2018, Tbilisi hosted the DEFENCE AND SECURITY involvement of the British political and eign trips with the aim to learn more Find out what the Ambassador had to say Fifth Round of the Georgia-UK Wardrop COOPERATION academic circles in the process,” she about the implemented and ongoing about trade relations in next Tuesday’s Geor- Strategic Dialogue, an annual political Georgia and the UK have a long-term said. reforms, the current stage in Georgia’s gia Today Business edition.

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 POLITICS 5 In Search of that Twinkling Western Light deeds versus words, constructive versus OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE destructive, rationality versus illogical- ity, sense versus nonsense, nitty-gritty versus blah-blah. ll went well: the election of The surviving opposition, which was the new Georgian president kicked right in the pit of the stomach, will came to an end peacefully probably have to swallow the recent for the country’s electorate defeat, as unsavory as it might be, even and agreeably for the inter- if the opposition-supporting public thinks nationalA community; the country obtained that their warriors are hard nuts to crack. a lady president – a fresh breath in national The current government will most likely politics. And best of all, we are no longer have to live with its hyperactive and overly poised on the edge of chaos: the electoral cantankerous and scurrilous opposition, practice was reported as politically bal- taking it for granted that the caravan is anced and democratically structured; the moving and the dogs are barking. There current government did its possible best is no such thing as a totally fl awless and and the opposition did its affordable absolutely complete pleasure. At some utmost; both the content and malcontent point in time, from somewhere, a fl y will got sated with mutual defamation and come to land right in the ointment you reciprocal mudslinging that might suffi ce want to heal your ailing body with. This for a while; the inauguration of the new kind of thing happens in life, but this is head of state took place at a historically not the end of the world. Time will pass symbolic and patriotically romantic venue; and a fairer perception of political pro- the inaugural picture was modest but in cess, sense of democracy and rule of law good taste; for the fi rst time ever, the for- will persist in Georgia to create every mer and the current presidents fi gured possible condition for survival. This state- in the ceremony as a token of peaceful ment is for anybody to hear who cares transition of power; Her Excellency, the about Georgia, especially for Georgia’s stepping-in presidential incumbent, looked foreign friends and fans who want and dazzling in her white coat and maroon are ready to invest in this culture and shirt, and spoke with soothing serenity, economy their money, time, talent, energy pledging her lofty services to the nation and qualifi cation. and a watchful eye over the people; the the air and the old misgivings froze immo- peace and order, a perfect chance for impression of statehood was fi rmly in The skill of balancing politics and presence of handsome public with a bile provisionally; the curious nation those who wanted to see the inaugura- place; the necessary general calm and economy is still in the making here. This European smack in dress and manner watched the show, no longer concerned tion bust – the harder the authority defi es security of the participating community is a clear prerequisite for forging both confi rmed their approval with reserved about Yays and Nays; the world got the the oppositional attempts, the easier is were amply provided for; the overall in our minds and actual life the model applause, contentedly accentuating the point, but took it nonchalantly. the tension to trigger. The event was gar- feeling of celebration was strong enough of development, long ago tested and prospective political highlights in the All went well indeed, but it was not a nished with the habitual clash between for the invited foreign guests as well as inculcated in the friendly West, which presidential opening speech; the weather cloud without the silver lining. The crushed law enforcers and belligerent public, a the observers via media to know that all has proved to the rest of the world that was friendly and the air was transparent; opposition hit the road forthwith, lock, legislator and a policeman literally press- is good and nice in the Republic, but in their way was right. And Georgia’s new the closing male polyphony penetrated stock and barrel, straight in the direction ing their foreheads together – a classic supraliminal reality, Georgia is not yet female presidency is going to be a sharp the gorgeous mounts of the Caucasus in of the incipient place of the formal pro- case of prelude for a disturbance! completely out of the woods when it weapon that will cut through the linger- the background with vocally enchanting cedure, but behold, the police force kept The inaugural ceremony was beauti- comes to giving preference to econom- ing local murk in the quest of that twin- sound; the new beginning crystallized in vigil on the road to honor the spirit of fully conceived and staged, and the ics versus politics, labor versus indolence, kling western light. First Female President Does Not Signify Gender Equality

ging behind that of other countries, BY AMY JONES meaning not enough is being done to lessen the discrimination and inequality towards women in political, as well as alome Zurabishvili was sworn- economic and social life. The rate of in as the new President of Geor- women’s political participation has gia on 16 December at an inau- increased globally much more than it guration ceremony in Telavi. has in Georgia over the past years. Many foreign media outlets “Georgia needs to do more to avoid focusedS on the fact she is Georgia’s fi rst being left behind in this key area of social female president. However, despite her and economic development” reads the signifi cant victory, equal participation is UNDP report. The implemented fi nancial far from reality in Georgian politics. incentives to political parties to include ‘Salome Zurabishvili has won Georgia’s females on party lists have proven to be presidential election, becoming the fi rst relatively ineffective. Instead, the UNDP woman to hold the offi ce’ read the open- recommends Georgia adopt mandatory ing lines from a BBC report. As the fi rst quotas, at least as a temporary measure, female to be elected President of Geor- to improve equality in the political sphere. gia, her victory is indeed historic. None- Quotas are one method to help kick- theless, it shouldn’t detract from the fact start women’s political representation. that women remain a marginal force Countries such as Slovenia, Mongolia, within Georgian politics. Kyrgyzstan, Poland, Montenegro, and In reality, females account for only 15% Serbia, among others, have established of MPs and less than 14% of local coun- a quota to ensure minimum participa- cillors. In addition, only 3 of the 19 gov- tion of both genders on party lists for ernment ministers are women. These parliamentary elections. fi gures, published by the UNDP at the To make signifi cant progress towards Image source: Reuters beginning of 2018, show that Georgia proportional representation, Georgia Article 11 of the Law on Gender Equal- and women may be elected on equal cal life is essential to build a successful remains well below the global average should undergo signifi cant reform in its ity, adopted in 2010 in Georgia, has three terms without discrimination.’ However, society based on sustainable develop- of female participation in politics. The electoral systems to provide for at least main goals: ‘Everyone shall have the right these declarations remain unrealized. ment. Although the appointment of average number of female MPs in national 30% participation by women, as well as to participate in elections on equal terms Achieving women’s full and effective Salome Zurabishvili to the post of Pres- parliaments in Europe and OSCE mem- include the participation of marginalized without discrimination; Both men and participation as well as equal leadership ident of Georgia does indeed make his- ber countries is 27.5%. and disadvantaged women, including women shall have equal rights to be opportunities at all levels of decision tory, it does not yet represent a victory Furthermore, Georgia’s progress is lag- ethnic minorities. elected to a representative body; Men making in public, economic and politi- for gender inequality in Georgia. GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 Georgian FM on the Ambassadors Conference priority of the governmental program BY THEA MORRISON and noted the Prime Minister's personal involvement in the success of the coun- try in terms of foreign relations. eorgian Foreign Minister “The PM’s involvement and signifi cant David Zalkaliani, deliver- activity has brought Georgia tangible ing his speech at the results in foreign policy this year, dem- Ambassadors’ Conference onstrating the dynamics of high-level 2018 in Tbilisi, stated the bilateral visits, resolutions supporting Gtradition of uniting ambassadors was Georgia, new forms of cooperation, and established by current President Salome more,” he said. Zurabishvili when she was serving as In his speech, the Minister emphasized the Foreign Minister of the country. the foreign guests’ involvement in the Zalkaliani thanked the new President, conference. The Vice-Premier of Mol- saying he is sure she will be successful dova and the Minister of Temporary in her future activities. Occupied Territories and Internally “A few days ago, the inauguration of the Displaced Persons of Ukraine are taking fi fth President of Georgia was held. I am part in the Ambassador's Conference confi dent that with strong coordination, this year. we will be able to strengthen our country Zalkaliani also thanked Georgia's dip- with the newly elected President. It is lomatic corps for their work and efforts. important that Salome Zurabishvili estab- "You're protecting Georgia's foreign lished the tradition of an annual meeting policy interests and priorities abroad of the ambassadors and we remember and have been serving your homeland the ambassadorial organized by her in for many years," he said. Batumi," said Zalkaliani. The Georgian FM also spoke about Zalkaliani expressed gratitude to vari- Russia’s destructive actions, noting that, Image source: MFA of Georgia ous heads of diplomatic representations together with military forces, Russia is Zalkaliani noted that the occupation “Together with military force, the Rus- of 2018, discuss the achievements and and consulates, as well as diplomatic increasingly using hybrid methods. and annexation of the Georgian territo- sian Federation is increasingly using new initiatives of the Ministry and hold missions of Georgia abroad, and noted “The large-scale military aggression ries of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, increased hybrid methods to achieve its foreign thematic meetings on topical issues of their signifi cant contribution to the launched by Russia in Georgia in August militarization, frequent provocations, policy goals and seeks to reverse the international policy. country's foreign policy objectives. 2008, which was followed by Russia’s non-fulfi llment of international obliga- traditional values of society," said Zal- Within the framework of the Ambas- The Minister particularly emphasized aggression against Ukraine in 2014, dete- tions and violation of the principles of kaliani. sadors Conference, diplomats, govern- the decision of the Prime Minister of riorated the security environment in the international law pose serious threats The Ambassadors Conference is taking ment, parliament and civil society are Georgia to make the country's European region, where unresolved confl icts remain to the security not only in the region, place in Tbilisi on 18-21 December. The also to discuss the project of the Foreign and Euro-Atlantic integration goals a signifi cant challenges,” he said. but in Europe as well. diplomats are to summarize the results Policy Strategy of 2019-2022. Nagorno-Karabakh: a Small Confl ict with Big Repercussions structure spanning from the Caspian Sea player in the Nagorno-Karabakh confl ict BY EMIL AVDALIANI to the Turkish border through Georgian – Russia. territory. Geopolitically, Turkey has resisted the expansion of Armenia as it RUSSIA’S GEOPOLITICAL he confl ict between Armenia will not only weaken Azerbaijan but will IMPERATIVES and Azerbaijan around also strengthen Russia’s military position Moscow’s indirect involvement in the Nagorno-Karabakh has in the South Caucasus. confl ict falls neatly within the Russian reached a dangerous level, Another power which could poten- overall strategy of fostering and manag- where the existing status quo tially play an important role in the sim- ing separatist confl icts across the Soviet Tis diffi cult to preserve due to the military mering Nagorno-Karabakh confl ict is Union. The Russia-infl uenced separatist successes of Azerbaijan and inherent prob- Iran. Since the lifting of sanctions against statelets of Abkhazia, South Ossetia and lems of Armenia’s dependence on Russia. Teheran in early 2016 by major western Transdnistria have remained a corner- Nevertheless, as Moscow has biggest stakes powers, Iran’s infl uence is expected to stone of the Kremlin’s foreign policy in the confl ict, it will continue to supply increase in the South Caucasus. While against the western military and eco- arms to both Baku and Yerevan to keep until now this has been mainly in the nomic encroachment. From Moscow’s Image source: Wikipedia/Achemish the military balance, preserve the existing economic realm, another area of involve- perspective, Moldova, Georgia and Moscow also needs to be involved in Nagorno-Karabakh area, Russia was the state of affairs, as well as deny any other ment for Iran could be the Nagorno- Ukraine’s pro-western aspirations would the confl ict as it fears Azerbaijan, with power which stopped the fi ghting by power, such as Turkey and Iran, possi- Karabakh confl ict. And Iran already has be stopped if not permanently, then at its rich energy resources and strong brokering a ceasefi re in Moscow between bilities to increase their infl uence in the experience dealing with the Azerbaijani- least signifi cantly hampered if these military capabilities, would be able to the Armenian and Azerbaijani military confl ict resolution process. Armenian confrontation: in the early confl icts continue to exist. limit Russian infl uence on its foreign offi cials. Russia is also very careful not Unlike other breakaway confl icts across 1990s, there were some unsuccessful Although Moscow does not have its and internal political processes. Losing to allow any of the competing sides to the former Soviet space, the one around attempts by the Iranian government to troops in Nagorno-Karabakh, it does have any levers of infl uence to impact Azer- achieve ultimate military preponderance. Nagorno-Karabakh has not been frozen mediate the confl ict. Since both Arme- a military base – the 201st – in Armenia. baijan’s foreign policy will be tantamount It is true that statistically Russia sells since its inception in the early 1990s. nia and Azerbaijan border on Iran, it is Moreover, Russia’s infl uence in Armenia to the near collapse of Russia’s South more armaments to Azerbaijan than to Daily ceasefi re violations can at times quite natural to expect from Tehran to has been increasing over the past decade Caucasus policy, which includes not only Armenia, but this defi ciency is more to reach more than 100 instances, which try playing a bigger role in the confl ict. or so with Kremlin-backed businessmen denying Armenia, Azerbaijan and Geor- accentuate Armenia’s need of having limits the possibility of reaching a peace- However, Russia, which still is a domi- and companies such as Gazprom and gia possibilities to join western integra- Russia as its supporter. In other words, ful resolution to the standoff where nant power in the confl ict resolution others buying up vital electricity, com- tion projects, but also to successfully Armenia’s military dominance would Armenia and Azerbaijan are locked. process, would be opposed to any Ira- munication and gas infrastructure in the export rich deposits of oil and gas from negate any logic of needing Moscow as However, as the near-war between the nian initiatives which can diminish country. Yerevan has also joined Moscow- the Caspian Sea. a military factor around the Nagorno- two sides showed in April 2016, the con- Moscow’s role. led integration projects such as the Eur- Any moves around the Nagorno-Kara- Karabakh confl ict. fl ict is not static but is susceptible to There are other powers too which are asian Union and Collective Security Treaty bakh confl ict which could harm Russian Bearing in mind these geopolitical changing geopolitical circumstances. interested in the confl ict resolution pro- Organization (CSTO). Russia is also sup- interests will in turn embolden Russia’s imperatives the Russian government has, Beyond the immediate situation on the cess. Yet, in comparison with the neigh- porting Yerevan militarily through pro- geopolitical contenders Turkey and Iran. it is thus unlikely to see any major shifts contact line, any progress towards reso- boring Turkey and Iran, the US and the viding separate multi-million loans to Turkey could increase its military coop- around the confl ict. Russia will try to lution of the confl ict is complicated by EU currently have only nominal infl u- buy Russian military hardware. eration with Azerbaijan, while Iran could maintain the existing status quo, mean- the many actors which have geopolitical ence. Both are taking an active part in Armenia’s overall dependence on Rus- potentially become more vocal about its ing both Baku and Yerevan will remain interests in the South Caucasus. One of the Minks Process (the offi cial name of sia’s economic and military potential broader interests in the South Caucasus. largely dependent on Moscow’s actions. the major powers is Turkey, for which the mechanism for the confl ict’s resolu- gives the Kremlin the ability not only to For that reason, Moscow is increasing Western infl uence as well as that of Iran Azerbaijan is an important economic and tion), but due to geographic distance, navigate Yerevan’s foreign policy vector military hardware sales to both Armenia and Turkey will be limited as Russia will military ally. Since the end of the Soviet their direct engagement in said resolu- and keep it strictly within the Russian and Azerbaijan and thus tries to remain continue pursuing its policies of isolat- Union, the two countries have developed tion remains minimal. This leads us to sphere of infl uence, but also to impact a major arbiter. When in April 2016 a ing other major powers from interfering a network of railway and pipeline infra- the remaining and arguably the biggest the Nagorno-Karabakh confl ict. near full-scale war broke out in the with the Nagorno-Karabakh confl ict. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 POLITICS 7 Salome Zurabishvili Begins Her Reign diplomat, and perhaps in part because BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE she grew up and began her career out- side the tight-knit Georgian political community, she has so far avoided the alome Zurabishvili has offi - dirty, aggressive tactics commonly used cially begun her work as by oppositional voices from all sides of President of Georgia. As the Georgian political spectrum. Pun- President, Zurabishvili is mak- dits expect that the new president will ing history in several ways: be able to voice opposition or criticism sheS is the country’s fi rst female presi- of actions taken by the Government of dent, she is the fi rst president to have Georgia without the conversation been born and raised outside of Georgia, descending into name-calling or phys- and she is the fi rst president who rep- ical violence. resents a cooperative, respectful transi- However, Zurabishvili’s presidency, tion of power from one regime to the from the beginning of her campaign next. She has also made the surprisingly through her inauguration, has been controversial decision to work out of marked by vocal, aggressive opposition. Orbeliani Palace on Atoneli Street rather During her inauguration ceremony near than the dramatic, fl ashy modern glass Telavi, massive street protests broke and metal Presidential Palace built by out around police road blocks, leading former President Mikheil Saakashvili, to several injuries and, later on, arrests. often referred to as “the egg.” It is yet to be seen whether opposition One of the most interesting features voices will agree to fully participate in of Zurabishvili’s heavily-guarded, pri- the political process or continue to boy- vate inauguration ceremony was her cott votes and call for public protests. statements about previous leaders of On her fi rst day in offi ce, President Georgia. With an air of conciliatory Zurabishvili walked to work, fl anked by respect, she noted the positive achieve- staff and press. She announced that the ments of the presidents who came before Head of her Administration will be Lasha her, including political opponents. It Zhvania, who served as Minister of was also the fi rst time a former presi- Economy in the Saakashvili government dent attended the inauguration of his and most recently as head of the Patri- successor. Giorgi Margvelashvili was arch’s Humanitarian Fund, and the Par- gracious and professional in passing his liamentary Secretary will be lawyer mantle on to President Zurabishvili. Dimitri Gabunia. The composition of Although the role Zurabishvili holds her cabinet is not yet known, but she is now primarily ceremonial and sym- promised the press that her administra- bolic rather than political, she still sets tion will be fully staffed by next Monday. the agenda for Parliament and has the In another break from tradition, Zura- power to call attention to important bishvili made it clear that the media will issues. She is an infl uential voice in the be welcome and their position formal- halls of Georgian political power and ized within the Atoneli Street Palace. policy-making circles. Offi cially, Zura- She plans to create a media club to have bishvili declares herself an independent regular discussions with journalists on politician, but she has a close affi liation this month preceded Zurabishvili’s vic- popular vote of citizens. In the future, coherence between Parliament and the important topics. “Your house will be with the ruling Georgian Dream party tory. presidents will be chosen by an elec- President. Zurabishvili, as she is tech- here,” the President told members of the whose massive public relations cam- In accordance with constitutional toral college comprised of the members nically outside the ruling party struc- press on Tuesday, pledging to maintain paign and deep pockets before the amendments, this was the fi nal presi- of the Parliament of Georgia and 150 ture, may bring a valuable critical per- “normal relations” between the Presi- presidential run-off elections earlier dential election to be conducted by a others. This is expected to lead to more spective to the role. As a former dential Administration and the media. GEORGIA TODAY 8 POLITICS DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 Georgian Operatic Bass Criticized for Performing in Russia

than by opposition politicians. BY THEA MORRISON GD member Gia Volsky says Burchu- ladze’s action was especially inappro- priate as, in addition to being a singer, eorgia’s famous operatic he is also a politician. bass, Paata Burchuladze, “Of course there is nothing bad in who was involved in Geor- culture, but it is incompatible with the gian politics two years political ambitions he [Burchuladze] ago, has been heavily has,” Volsky said. criticizedG by various politicians in Geor- The operatic bass released a statement gia after he performed at a concert in in response to the criticism, saying he St. Petersburg which was attended by could never have imagined his perfor- the Russian President Vladimir Putin. mance in Russia would cause such a The concert was dedicated to the negative reaction in Georgia. Conductor Yuri Temirkanov's 80th “I sang at that concert because of my birthday. gratitude towards Yuri Temirkanov, Elene Khoshtaria, member of Euro- great maestro, who invited me to take pean Georgia, slammed Burchuladze, part in the event…In 2013, he was in saying any person singing or dancing Georgia with his orchestra and in 2008 for Putin in Moscow is harming Geor- he visited the country on my birthday,” gia. Burchuladze’s letter reads. “Apart from being a singer, Burchu- He also says Temirkanov and his ladze was quite a serious political fi gure. orchestra performed for the third Pres- He has special responsibilities and such ident of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, behavior is unacceptable. It is harmful adding the maestro is well-respected to our country when Russia creates the in every country. illusion that culture is a space separate “I served my country for many years Image source: cec.ge from politics,” she stated. as well as I could. I have received much Member of the United National Move- love and support from Georgians and when he cancelled several scheduled In early May 2016, he announced that veys Burchuladze polled third with 12% ment, Salome Samadashvili, took to if some people do not like my lifestyle, concerts at Milan’s La Scala, London’s he would run in the October 8 parlia- support from potential voters, his coa- Facebook to criticize Burchuladze. they can create a better one. I think the Covent Garden and New York’s Met mentary elections under his own State lition failed to pass the 5% election “This man [Burchuladze], should fi nd energy spent criticizing me should be Gala to launch the Georgian Develop- for the People Party. In August, he threshold and was left without any seats out what he wants…His action was dis- spent creating a better future for our ment Foundation, which he described formed a coalition with three other in parliament. gusting,” her post reads. country,” he added. at the time as an attempt “to end the opposition parties to form the State for In December 2016, he announced that Burchuladze was criticized by the rul- Burchuladze ended his 35-year opera era of fear and unprofessionalism in the the People Movement. he was quitting politics and thereafter ing Georgian Dream (GD) offi cials more career for a life in politics in early 2015 country.” Although in pre-election political sur- returned to his opera career. Qatar Embassy Celebrates National Day of the State of Qatar projects implemented by the State of facilitate the visa obtaining process for Qatar on a local and international scale, Georgian citizens. He also expressed including plans to achieve water, food support to the Government of Georgian and suffi cient electrical energy security. in the implementation of new reforms. He also emphasized the major economic The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs investments and aspirations of the gov- of Georgia, Alexander Khvtisiashvili, ernment for the rapid development of also addressed the audience at the event, the country in the near future. where he, on the behalf of the Georgian The Ambassador concluded his speech nation, congratulated the Ambassador by congratulating the Georgian govern- and other representatives of the State of ment for organizing the recent presiden- Qatar on the celebration of the National tial elections successfully. He also focused Day. He strongly emphasized the sig- on the friendly relations between Geor- nifi cance of the close partnership of gia and the State of Qatar in different Georgia and Qatar and noted that the areas, stating: “Georgia holds a special State of Qatar was the fi rst country among place for the State of Qatar as the friend- the Arab states to launch an Embassy in ship and communication have been Georgia in 2013. Khvtisiashvili expressed enhanced by the convergence of the hopes for continued and enhanced international arena and the encourage- friendly relations between Georgia and ment of trade exchange”. The Ambas- the State of Qatar. sador underlined the signifi cance of a The celebration was followed by a number of agreements and memoranda cake-cutting ceremony accompanied by signed between the two countries and music and a marvelous reception with the decision of the Qatar government to various dishes.

media sector, as well as members of the the solidarity and declaring the loyalty BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA Qatar Embassy to Tbilisi, were welcomed between the leadership and the Qatari by the Ambassador of the State of Qatar, nation, as well as sending the messages His Excellency Mubarak Bin Nasser of broadened respect towards the friends he ceremony devoted to Mubarak Al-Khalifa. and brothers from the different countries the National Day of the The Ambassador delivered a speech, of the world.” State of Qatar, which congratulating the invitees on the remark- While addressing the audience, His marked the Accession of able date and thanked them for their Excellency noted the numerous chal- His Highness Sheikh Jassim attendance. He outlined the role of the lenges the State of Qatar faced as a result TBin Mohammed Bin Thani AL Tahni, former and present leaders of the State of an unjust siege 1.5 years ago and the the Founder of the State of Qatar, was of Qatar for the development and mod- strength of the country’s government hosted by the Courtyard Marriott Hotel ernization of the country. He focused on and the Qatari nation to overcome the on December 19. the signifi cance of the celebration of the diffi culties by standing fi rmly by its mor- All guests at the event, the list of which National Day within the borders of the als and understanding the importance included the representatives of govern- country, as well as beyond them, as it: of national sovereignty. The Ambassador ment bodies, diplomatic corps and the “creates an opportunity for expressing also spoke about the previous and future GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 BUSINESS 9

TBC Bank Named Leading Partner Bank in Trade Financing in Georgia by ADB identifi ed 23 best partner banks with tunities.” BY ANNA ZHVANIA which it cooperates most actively. ADB was founded in 1966 with the "Over the past 12 months, we have purpose of reducing poverty through achieved positive fi nancial indicators economic growth and regional integra- sian Development Bank with the help of our partner banks,” said tion in the Asian and Oceanian countries. (ADB) named TBC Bank Stephen Beck, Head of Asian Develop- ADB fi nanced a number of sectors across the ‘Leading Partner Bank ment Bank's Trade Financing Program. various countries in 2017 with a total of for Trading in Georgia’ for “It is a great opportunity to reward them $32.2 bln. the fourth time running. once again for the partnership and for Since 2009, the ADB Trade Financing AThe awards ceremony was held in Sin- the work done. In cooperation with the Program has provided over 12,000 small gapore and attended by about 200 rep- winning banks, we have collectively and medium enterprises with fi nancial resentatives of banks and fi nancial insti- contributed a large share towards eco- support, equaling a total of $30bln worth tutions across 15 countries. ADB nomic growth and employment oppor- of 16,600 transactions. ‘Rooms Hotel Kokhta’ To Be Built in Bakuriani ith the fi nancial sup- port of TBC Bank and EBRD, GRDC and Adjara Group will build ‘Kokhta Roma WHotel Management’ in Bakuriani. The agreement between the parties was signed at the Hotel Rooms and cov- ered the construction of the 92-room hotel and 70 apartments in the adjacent territory of the new ski area on the Kokhta mountain. The project is a continuation of the Georgian Rooms Hotels brand develop- ment created by Adjara Group. GRDC will undertake the construction of addi- tional residential apartments for the next phase. Rooms Hotel Kokhta will contribute vices. The total cost of the project amounts Tkhelidze. “We are confi dent that this signifi cantly to tourism development to $10 mln. $ 5. 4 mln will be fi nanced by investment will further motivate inves- with its outstanding architecture and TBC Bank and EBRD, with a loan issued tors to carry out such interesting projects design. It will be located in Bakuriani, under the RFS program, while the rest within this region.” Kokhta Gora, on the new ski slopes of will be covered by GRDC and Adjara "We are happy to continue our coop- Kokhta and will serve guests year-round Group's capital. eration with the EBRD's three partner from summer 2019. The fi rst phase of "With the GRDC and the support of companies, TBC Bank, Adjara Group and the resort development includes a 17,009 EBRD and TBC Bank, another Rooms GRDC, to develop the real estate and sq.m complex, of which 5,000 sq.m will Hotel will be opened in Georgia, which tourism sectors in Georgia,” said Bruno cover apartments, while 12,000 sq.m will will offer various concepts and designs Balvanera, Director of EBRD in the Cau- be used for the hotel. to our guests. By implementing this pro- casus. “The EBRD's fi nancial support Rooms Hotel Kokhta will be based on ject, Georgia will take another step closer includes a grant component and aims to a ski-in ski-out concept, offering ski run to the world's leading ski resort stand- provide energy-effi cient insulation mate- infrastructure that can be accessed ards,” said Valeri Chekheria, Executive rials and LED lighting. We aim to create directly from the hotel territory. Along- Director of Adjara Group. energy effi cient buildings in the moun- side the rooms/apaprtments, the hotel "We are pleased to have the opportu- tainous region of Georgia and to support will include: a conference hall for 300 nity to fi nance the construction of another the development of such new standards.” guests, a restaurant for 300 guests, a project by the two leading companies, The interior of the hotel is under con- lounge bar and terrace with 360-degree GRDC and Adjara Group,” said TBC struction and will be completed in the views, a swimming pool and other ser- Bank's Deputy Director General, Giorgi spring of 2019. GEORGIA TODAY 10 BUSINESS DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 The IPS International Property Show David Residence on December 20 and was supported by Georgia Today Media terms for participation. GEORGIA ‘Strategic Marketing and Exhibitions’ BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA had a clearly outlined program compris- Holding. TODAY also played a vital role in the of IPS, Julia V. Khomych, spoke about ing three blocks: Block 1. Pre-exhibition; The participation of GEORGIA organization of the event and contrib- the decision to hold the training ses- Block 2. Participation at an Exhibition; TODAY as a Media Partner while car- uted to the future of sectoral develop- sion in Georgia and stated that this is he Middle East’s biggest Block 3. Post-exhibition. The event was rying out this project was benefi cial ment, guaranteeing the distribution of a country with “a great potential for property sales platform concluded by an awards ceremony giv- for numerous reasons. Firstly, it pro- the relevant information to real estate growth in the fi eld of real estate.” She for local and international ing participants certifi cates. vided the participating real estate companies countrywide, so supporting also emphasized the signifi cance of IPS real estate markets, the The training was organized within organizations with useful information their future inclusion in such events. and the advantages offered by the given International Property the scope of the IPS Presentation and about the nature of the project and Business Development Manager at training to the real estate organizations ShowT (IPS), which takes place in a operating on the market, including the number of countries worldwide, this opportunity to promote themselves year chose Georgia to deliver a train- and boost their ability to present a ing course. Every year, IPS brings strong business program and cooper- together top real estate developers, ate with major investors. “Many organ- investors, government authorities, izers invite exhibitors to take part in a banks and other fi nancial institutions show, but none will let them know how in order to present an educational to do so effectively; none of them will practical training and enhance the effi - give specifi c tips or point out the com- ciency of participation at exhibitions. mon mistakes. That is where we come The four-hour training, named: ‘Effec- in, with a willingness to help exhibitors tive Participation at the Exhibition. All participate in any show to maximum You Need to Know,’ was held in the King effect,” stated Khomych. 4th Ceremony of Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards Held at Rustaveli Theater in Tbilisi “Georgia has many advantages and Tourism Awards Project told GEORGIA unique features to develop the tourism TODAY. “We can see how the market sector. We possess fascinating nature, has expanded based on the number of cultural heritage, as well as distinguished guests and nominees. This year, we have culinary traditions that are cherished by up to 400 nominees: companies that are tourists. The country offers numerous playing the main role in the development opportunities for holidays year-round of Georgia. The aim of creating the Wel- in Georgia. This year we hosted around come to Georgia! National Tourism 8.5 million foreign visitors, twice the Awards was to motivate all those people number of our population. As such, both who help to develop Georgia as a tourist the government and the private sector destination.” should do their best to advance service The Chairman of the Agency of Pro- in the tourism sector and satisfy the tected Areas, Valerian Mchedlidze, also needs of future visitors,” Kobulia said. made a speech highlighting the impor- Giorgi Chogovadze, Head of Georgian tance of Georgia’s natural environment National Tourism Administration, also and its role in attracting more tourists. greeted the audience and thanked the “This year, Georgia’s Protected Areas attendees for contributing to the general received a record-breaking number of development of the country. visitors: we hosted around a million tour- “Revenue from intentional visitors in ists in our protected territories and 2018 will amount to $3,200 billion. It national parks. Now, we are developing means that your hard work and success new directions and trying to play our benefi ts not only the Georgian tourism role in developing the tourism industry sector but the development of economy in Georgia,” he said. and the country itself. So I want thank For the fourth year already, the Geor- each of you for your substantial work,” gian National Tourism Administration, he said. on behalf of the Ministry of Economy The offi cial Award Ceremony hosted and Sustainable Development of Geor- more than 800 guests. At the reception, gia, was Co-organizer of the Award pro- guests were treated to champagne, Geor- ject. Offi cial Supporters were Tbilisi City gian wine and sweets while the ceremony Hall, Partnership Fund; Co-organizer - Continued from page 1 barestan; THE BEST INCOMING TOUR methodology by a professional jury board. itself was held in the Grand Hall of the Bank of Georgia, General Sponsor - Alli- OPERATOR AWARD: Caucasus Travel; The pioneer female winemaker, 25-year- impressive Rustaveli Theater. The cer- ance Group. THE BEST COMMUNITY-BASED old Baia Abuladze, received two prizes emony was followed by an after party at The main mission of the Welcome to THE WINNERS WERE REVEALED TOURISM AWARD: Nazy's Guest at the ceremony. She has been bottling the Republic Event space. Georgia! National Tourism Awards is to IN FOLLOWING NOMINATIONS: House; THE BEST ADVENTURE TOUR- and distributing her own wine Titska- “We are happy to host our guests at encourage tourism and boost the hospi- CONCEPT ACCOMMODATION ISM AWARD: Altihut 3.014, THE FAST- Tsolikauri since 2015. According to the the Fourth Offi cial Ceremony of the Wel- tality industry in Georgia and raise aware- AWARD: Quadrum Ski & Yoga Resort; EST GROWING COMPANY OF THE young entrepreneur, after she turned her come to Georgia! National Tourism ness about the high-achieving tourism THE BEST WELLNESS & SPA RESORT YEAR IN THE SME SEGMENT AWARD: family tradition into a business, more Awards,” Maryna Chayka, Welcome to businesses and brands that create a AWARD: Crowne Plaza Borjomi; THE Wehost; ICREATE, THE MOST SUC- and more tourists starting coming to her Georgia! Co-founder of the National positive image of the country worldwide. BEST MOUNTAIN ACCOMMODATION CESSFUL GEORGIAN BRAND IN THE village to taste her wine. “I was not AWARD: Borjomi Likani; THE BEST TOURISM INDUSTRY AWARD: Lopota expecting to win, although I really wanted SEA ACCOMMODATION AWARD: Lake Resort & Spa; THE BEST WOMAN to take an award back to my village Obcha Sheraton Batumi Hotel; THE BEST ENTREPRENEUR IN THE TOURISM where my winery is located. It was so VALUE LOW BUDGET ACCOMMODA- INDUSTRY AWARD: Tinatini Dugash- exciting when my company was named TION: Hostel Pushkin 10; THE BEST vili; AWARD FOR CONTRIBUTION winner of THE BEST YOUNG WINERY VALUE STANDARD ACCOMMODA- TO TOURISM DEVELOPMENT GNTA AWARD and I was twice as happy, when TION: Ramada Encore Tbilisi; THE on behalf of the Ministry of Economy Swarovski named me the best female BEST VALUE PREMIUM ACCOMMO- and Sustainable Development of Geor- entrepreneur and gave me a prize”, Baia DATION: Radisson Blu Iveria Tbilisi; gia: Giorgi Tavadze, GMT President; told GEORGIA TODAY. THE BEST FESTIVAL OR EVENT THE BEST TOURISTIC START UP on The Award Ceremony was opened by AWARD: Tbilisi Open Air; THE BEST behalf of the PARTNERSHIP FUND: Minister of Economy and Sustainable MICE TOURISM AWARD: Calypso Wehost and THE BEST YOUNG WIN- Development of Georgia Giorgi Kobulia. Travel & Event; THE BEST WINE ERY AWARD: Baia’s Wine. He spoke about the importance of the TOURISM AWARD: Château Mukh- 350 different companies representing tourism industry for Georgia’s economy, rani; THE BEST E-TOURISM AWARD: the tourism and hospitality market from latest achievements in the fi eld and sig- Travel Guide App; THE BEST TRA- all over Georgia, including hotels, travel nifi cance of the Awards project. He per- DITIONAL GEORGIAN RESTAURANT agencies, festivals and events, restaurants, sonally awarded Giorgi Tavadze, President AWARD: ETHNO TSISKVILI; cafes and wineries were honorably given of GMT Group, for his contribution to THE BEST HOTEL OF INTERNA- the status of Nominee of Welcome to tourism development, and thanked the TIONAL CHAIN IN GEORGIA AWARD: Georgia! National Tourism Awards 2018. organizers of the Awards for highlighting Tbilisi Marriott Hotel; CONCEPT Each nominee was assessed in accord- and celebrating the achievements of so CAFÉ/RESTAURANT AWARD: Bar- ance with internationally recognized many companies in the tourism industry.

GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 More Monochrome Haiku: Etseri, Svaneti

confectionary, spun-sugar or eggshell BLOG BY TONY HANMER delicacy to miles-thick Titanic-destroying bergs, from purest white to deadly cold blues, the ranges are seemingly endless. es, we knew the snow would This day I was concentrating on fences, come again. This time there which here are nicely handmade from has been enough of it that wooden slats wired together and prefer- it might just stay until the ably oak posts, giving them a pleasingly next layer arrives. If so, and non-uniform look. There are hardly any theY trend continues, then we’ll be stuck colors already, especially with wood with it until spring warming starts revers- which has been bleached by the sun long ing the trend, despite the near-1 (perfect enough to lose most of its warmer tones refl ection of all radiation) albedo I men- and reduced to grays. So there is rhythm, tioned in last week’s article. from the structures’ repeating forms, Because this last snowfall came while and variation in their heights, thicknesses the temperatures were still very mild, it and so on. A perfect mix. was extra-sticky: just right for making I call these images photographic haiku snowballs and snowmen! It also adhered after the minimalist three-line Japanese to everything: trees, fences and so on. It poems because there is hardly anything wasn’t going to last long in such warmth, to them, but not nothing. In them, I strive though, so I took a couple of hours and to capture something small but signifi - walked up the road past our house toward cant, the quintessence of the subjects, Becho, marveling in and shooting images covered or revealed by their silent veils of the haiku-like minimalism which win- of white. Here is an example of a haiku ter brings. Color is almost absent, and by the master of the genre, Basho, called things are reduced to some kind of The First Snow: essences of themselves. For this, I have The fi rst snow found, black and white photography is the leaves of the daffodil best. Although I do always shoot in color, bending together because colorizing a colorless image is That’s all. While I’m not a practitioner much harder than stripping the hues of Zen, I do appreciate the sparseness from a color one, I almost always end of haiku, the statement about just one up with a grayscale image in these set- thing. This is what I’m aiming for in these These things, the making of so many let them speak for themselves, whether weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He tings. Color is more of a distraction from images, which I fi nd more of every win- images and then the long descriptions in three lines of a few syllables each or runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook form, light and shadows. ter. I don’t have to go far; I can start in of them and the process, are actually in endless effortless volumes. After all, group, now with nearly 2000 members, at The snow and ice do indeed have so my own fenced-in yard, and don’t even somewhat against what haiku is about, a single photo is supposed to be worth www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- many forms that I’m not too surprised that have to leave it at all to fi nd what I’m however If I was really serious about it a thousand words. Is it not? sance/ people who live in mostly winter condi- looking for. But I do, because I’m a bit even in pictorial form, I would present He and his wife also run their own guest house tions have many more words for H2O’s greedy for more. This time I ended up the images with no writing whatsoever, Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since in Etseri: solid forms than we westerners do. From taking 120 frames on my digital camera. save perhaps the permitted titles, and 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti HUAWEI Revolutionizes Language Translation

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with their meaning. HUAWEI has tried each language has only 1 book adapted. BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI to simplify and correct the problem In the future, a great collection of fairy with the StorySign application built tales is on the creative agenda. into Android. Apply your phone to the Most importantly, this isn’t the only UAWEI Mate20 and HUA- children's book and application. With or last news regarding the HUAWEI WEI Mate20 Pro have the help of artifi cial intelligence, it offering. The translation application already been on the world translates words into gestures, which has been made using the HUAWEI market for two months. will be shown on the screen by the Mate20 and HUAWEI Mate20 Pro, in “These smartphones cre- Avatar. cooperation with Microsoft company. Hated by the most powerful, sophisticated Specially designed animation-appli- It enables consumers to get high-qual- and fl exible technologies of the indus- cation not only helps children learn ity translation material without using try, represent the highest achievement reading, but also teaches the parents the Internet. To determine the quality in innovative technologies” was said sign language so that communication of the result, Microsoft uses the indus- following the release of the HUAWEI between parents and child can be sim- try standard - BLEU – according to Mate20, which is the best choice for plifi ed and adults are able to tell stories which the comparison of human and capturing high-quality photos. personally to their children. The appli- software translation is evaluated. How to read properly is a great chal- cation is free and it’s not necessary to During internal testing, the translation lenge for hard of hearing children. have a HUAWEI phone to download it. of the entire page was not only accurate Parents and teachers often do not know Currently, the application can translate but also 3 times faster than the previous the sign language and little ones can’t 10 languages into sign language, includ- version of Microsoft Translator. connect the words written on the paper ing European languages. At this stage, For example, when HUAWEI Mate20 GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 CULTURE 13

Grand Premiere of Jules Massenet’s Werther to Be Held at Tbilisi Opera Theater

Fabrizio Cassi, Scenographer Emmanuelle Favre, BY LIKA CHIGLADZE and Costume designer Ester Martin. “I am extremely happy to visit Georgia for the second time already,” Conductor Fabrizio Cassi bilisi’s historic Opera and Ballet State told GEORGIA TODAY. “The rehearsals went well Theater has prepared yet another with the Georgian orchestra and the musicians surprise for opera enthusiasts. On showed great commitment and hard work, so we December 22, at 19:00, celebrated are ready for the premiere. I’m also very happy French composer Jules Massenet’s since this will be my debut in Werther in the lead Tlegendary opera named Werther will be premiered role.” in Tbilisi. Exactly 76 years since its last showing Before the grand premiere, GEORGIA TODAY in Tbilisi, the famous French opera based on the also talked to Italian Director Joseph Franconi Lee, German epistolary novel The Sorrows of Young who has collaborated with Georgian opera singers Werther by great writer Johann Wolfgang von Goe- before, among them Lado Ataneli. the, is back. The operatic version of this tragic story “I’m so excited to be debuting in the beautiful about the unhappy young Werther, who is driven state theater of Tbilisi,” he said. “I must say this to suicide by his unfulfi lled passion for the married is one of the most beautiful theaters I have worked Charlotte, has moved audiences for generations. in, and I have worked in the major theaters around In 2002, the production was premiered at Tokyo’s the world. I am so impressed by the enthusiasm new National Theater and was a huge success, of theater crew, from technicians to singers. It is receiving a standing ovation. This very version of good that Tbilisi Opera gives young singers a Werther is considered one of the most memorable chance to perform on this stage. I usually have productions, being of a classic style and well express- one company or maybe two companies with one ing the epoch of the piece. or two performances, but here we’ll have a new The German-language version of Werther pre- company every day. I’ve been working hard and miered on 16 February 1892 at the Imperial Theater they more so. I’ve never seen this much enthusi- Hofoper in Vienna, while its original French ver- asm for Werther. It's not a job you can do every sion premiere followed in Geneva on 27 December day and then go home: but they live, they think 1892. The fi rst performance in France was given and breathe the play. Working in such an environ- by the Opéra-Comique at the Théâtre Lyrique on ment is a great joy for me.” the Place du Châtelet in Paris on 16 January 1893. Another pillar of the great production taking us Werther is still regularly performed around the back the previous era and creating a magnifi cent world and has been recorded many times. Moreo- environment on the stage with her costumes is ver, Massenet’s Werther is included in the program Ester Martin. She also shared her emotions with of the world’s leading operas. us. The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Theater saw “I can't remember a period in my life that I didn't its premiere on October 16, 1904 and until the 1940s, make dresses or costumes,” she told us. “From an the play was included in the theater’s regular pro- early age, the passion for costumes led me to the gram. In 1942, Werther was staged in Tbilisi Opera theater, inside this magical world full of tutus, his- by Alexandre Tsutsunava. The main roles in the torical costumes and incredible stories. I grew up opera were performed by renowned Georgian opera inside the theater as a professional dancer for ten singers Davit Andguladze, Vera Davidova and Davit years, then as an opera singer and from 2015 as a Badridze. And after 76 years, the great opera will costume designer. I'm very happy and honored to be brought back to life in Tbilisi on December 22, come back to Tbilisi with this masterpiece of the 23, 26 and 29. French repertoire. Massenet's score is amazing. The team behind the upcoming production com- When you hear this music, you can feel all the pain, prises both foreign and Georgian artists and musi- love, drama and suffering of Werther, the war inside cians: Director Joseph Franconi Lee, music direc- Charlotte, Albert's evolution and Sophie’s inno- tors and conductors Zaza Azmaiparashvili and cence.” Tbilisi Inspires Baku's Rave Scene, Says Electronic Beats Magazine and became enamored with techno music and rave BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE culture.” They made the seven-hour drive as many as two weekends per month, frequenting places like Bassiani and Khidi. ollowing a cascade of articles from inter- “Deprived of access to techno clubs at home, a national publications giving glowing generation of Baku partygoers made Tbilisi their reviews to Tbilisi’s electronic music clubbing home,” says Matusevich. scene and culture, a new article from Azerbaijani culture is even more traditional and Electronic Beats online magazine chron- conservative than Georgian, and Baku’s fringe iclesF neighboring Azerbaijan’s “Raving In Azerbai- experimental elements are still developing. The jan: How Tbilisi’s Club Culture Inspired A New article explains, “While iN clearly aspires to follow Techno Scene In Baku.” in the footsteps of famous industrial techno spaces The article follows the story of Natig Ismayil and in Europe, the club also has a broader social mis- his nightclub iN, one of Baku’s only electronic sion that goes beyond offering the full techno club- music venues. The opulent, oil-rich, shiny façade bing experience to locals. In a country where rave of Baku hides, says author Yan Matusevich, “a city culture is perceived as morally reprehensible by a that many local young people describe as stifl ing large proportion of society, particularly among the and despondent, where good places to go out are older generation, the founders of iN are adamant few and far between. Unlike Tbilisi, which has about challenging existing prejudices towards rav- recently gained international recognition for its ers and other expressions of non-conformity.” innovative club scene, Baku offers surprisingly lit- Matusevich also notes that, “Given its unique his- tle in terms of dance clubs despite being the larg- tory and close ties to the Georgian club scene, iN is est and wealthiest city in the Caucasus.” not only attracting major talent from Berlin and Tbi- In the mid-2010s, before opening iN, Ismayil and lisi—such as Ben Rau and Kwartz—but also hopes his friends “discovered Tbilisi’s bustling club scene to provide a platform for local talent going forward.” GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER December 21, 27 November 29 – January 20 Every Tuesday, from 15:00-20:00 December 22 Animated documentary fi lm The Georgian National Museum Until February 20, 2019 NANI BREGVADZE TBILISI ZAKARIA REZO in the framework of the project Multidisciplinary exhibition project The concert will be accompanied PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Directed by Leo Gabriadze “Contemporary Art Gallery” IN-BETWEEN CONDITIONS by famous musicians: BALLET THEATER Start time: 20:00 presents ‘In-between conditions’ displays Eka Mamaladze, Natalia 25 Rustaveli Ave. Ticket: 15 GEL SOLO EXHIBITION OF LIA 18 work contributions expressing Kutateladze, TEL (+995 32) 2 99 04 56 BAGRATIONI cultural impulses affected by Nikoloz Rachveli and the Band. MOVEMENT THEATER A MAD TEA-PARTY political or social forces. Start time: 18:30 December 22, 23, 26 182 Aghmashenebeli Ave. Ticket: 80-200 GEL MUSIC Premiere TEL (+995) 598 19 29 36 MUSEUM OF SOVIET OCCUPATION WERTHER ELEKTROWERK 4 Rustaveli Ave. SOUNDS OF GEORGIA Jules Massenet December 25 1 Monk Gabriel Salosi, 1st Turn TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 Music Director - Zaza JAM SESSION www.museum.ge December 21, 26, 27 Azmaiparashvili IMPRO MUSIC December 21 Mini concerts in the cozy Director- Joseph Franconi Lee Musical art director- Sandro STUDENTS NIGHT December 11 – March 1 atmosphere of Old Tbilisi: a mix Scenographer- Emmanuelle Favre Nikoladze Start time: 22:00 Exhibition of traditional Georgian music, Costume designer - Ester Martin Start time: 20:30 Ticket: 10 GEL RED TERROR AND GEORGIAN featuring folklore, a capella, guitar, Start time: 19:00 Free Entrance ARTISTS as well as new Georgian pop and Ticket: 10-300 GEL TBILISI STATE The Exhibition showcases artworks city songs. CONSERVATOIRE December 15 by Dimitri Shevardnadze, Petre Start time: 17:00 8 Griboedov St. MARJANISHVILI THEATER GAMMA Otskheli, Henryk Hryniewski, Tickets: 23 GEL TEL (+995 32) 2 93 46 24 5 Marjanishvli St. Directed by Kakha Bakuradze Richard Sommer, Kiril Zdanevich, Venue: December 21: TEL (+995 32) 2 95 59 66 Composer: Sandro Nikoladze Vasily Shukhaev, Elene Akhvlediani, New Tifl is, 9 Agmashenebeli Ave., December 21 Start time: 20:00 Wine bar ‘Wine Station’; December 22, 23 Lado Gudiashvili, David Kakabadze, VOCAL MUSIC EVENING Ticket: 15 GEL Venue: December 26: Maka Makharadze Ballet Studio Ucha Japharidze, Aleksandre Alice Quintavalla- soprano 16 G. Kikodze Str., Café ‘Ezo’; presents: Bajbeuk-Melikov, Korneli Sanadze Mikheil Sheshaberidze- tenor TBILISI CIRCUS Venue: December 27: THE NUTCRACKER and more. The exposition also Mikheil Kiria- baritone 1 The Heroes Sq. Europe Sq., 2 D. Megreli Str., Start time: 14:00, 17:00, 20:00 showcases documentary footage Zaza Azmaiparashvili- conductor TEL (+995 32) 2 98 58 61 Hotel "Nata", Terrace Ticket: 5-12 GEL depicting the 1920-30s repressions. Tbilisi Z. Paliashvili Opera and Ballet State Theater Orchestra December 22, 23 TBILISI CONCERT HALL SHALIKASHVILI THEATER GALLERY Program: Works by Puccini, NEW YEAR SHOW 1 Melikishvili St. 27 Rustaveli Ave. Donizetti, Start time: 13:00, 17:00 TEL (+995 32) 2 99 00 99 THE NATIONAL GALLERY Lara, Favlo and Verdi Ticket: 10-25 GEL December 21 11 Rustaveli Ave. Start time: 19:00 December 22 HOST AND GUEST TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 Ticket: 10-40 GEL MUSEUM SOLOMON VIRSALADZE Based on Vazha Pshavela poem 110 YEAR JUBILEE Start time: 20:00 October 9 – January 17 (2019) December 23 GEORGIAN NATIONAL NIKO PIROSMANI’S RENEWED Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA ORGAN MUSIC EVENING- EXHIBITION MUSEUM December 25, 26 MARTIN STURM December 21 3 Rustaveli Ave. SOLO presents Program: works by Bach, Steigleder, REFLECTION Until October 5, 2019 TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 CHRISTMAS CONCERT Kerll, Cage, Felix Mendelssohn- Love triangle: a successful artist EXHIBITION www.museum.ge Georgian musicians Beka Bartholdy, and a ballerina love each other, MASTERS OF GEORGIAN ART Gochiashvili and Nikoloz Rachveli Alain and Improvizations but the businessman, owner of Paintings of Kirill Zdanevich, Exhibitions: will perform along with the Start time: 19:00 the gallery, is also in love with the Shalva Kikodze, Ketevan GEORGIAN COSTUME AND Georgian National Symphony Ticket: 10-25 GEL ballerina… Magalashvili and Elene Akhvlediani WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH Orchestra. Start time: 20:00 together with Lado Gudiashvili's CENTURIES Special guests: Festival Choir, December 25 Ticket: 15 GEL and David Kakabadze, giving Natalia Kutateladze, Levan ALEXANDER KORSANTIA a comprehensive picture of NUMISMATIC TREASURY Deisadze, and leading artists of the Program: works by Chopin and GABRIADZE THEATER the diversity and aesthetics of STONE AGE GEORGIA music industry: Mussorgsky 14 Shavteli Str. Georgian Art. ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE Mike Mitchell, Cameron Graves Start time: 19:00 TEL (+995 32) 298 65 93 NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL and Max Gerl. Until January 20, 2019 COLLECTIONS Start time: 20:00 December 26 December 22 The anniversary exhibition of Ticket: 70-190 GEL Georgian Folk Music RAMONA Georgian artist December 6 – February 28 ENSEMBLE SHILDA Revaz Gabriadze USHANGI KHUMARASHVILI In the framework of the GEORGIAN NATIONAL Directed by brothers Beka and Directed by Revaz Gabriadze His artistic traditions are classic celebrations of the European Year MUSEUM Gocha Bidzinashvili and English Subtitles avant-garde. A severe Soviet legacy of Cultural Heritage in Georgia, 3 Rustaveli Ave. The Choir of the University of Start time: 20:00 and socialism brought his creativity the Georgian National Museum Chant directed by Ticket: 20, 30 GEL into a space of non-conformism. presents the exhibition December 22 Giorgi Donadze and Teona The main and initial stage of his WISDOM TRANSFORMED INTO Classical Music in an Alternative Rukhadze, December 23 art began in the 1970s, when he GOLD Environment- The Choir of the University of STALINGRAD defi ned himself as an expressive PIANO RECITAL Chant Revaz Gabriadze abstractionist. ANDREW TYSON IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Start time: 19:00 Directed by Revaz Gabriadze TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM Program: Ticket: 5-20 GEL English Subtitles - KARVASLA KHIDI Ottorino Respighi- Notturno Start time: 20:00 8 Sioni St. V.Bagrationi Bridge, Right Frédéric Chopin- Sonata No. 3 in B DJANSUG KAKHIDZE Ticket: 20, 30 GEL TEL (+995 32) 298 22 81 Embankment minor, Op. 58 TBILISI CENTER FOR MUSIC Maurice Ravel– Miroirs & CULTURE Start time: 20:00 123 a Agmashenebeli Ave. Ticket: 50 GEL December 23 December 24 CONCERT OF CHORAL MUSIC Classical Music in an Alternative Start time: 19:30 Environment Ticket: 10 GEL Closing Concert SOLOIST VERIKO December 27 TCHUMBURIDZE- VIOLIN TRINITY CATHEDRAL CHOIR Tbilisi State Chamber Orchestra CONCEPTART Georgian Sinfonietta The concert will include Program: the performance of modern Mozart– Symphony No. 1 E-fl at choral music together with the major masterpieces of Georgian Folk and Mozart– Violin concert No. 4 D Chants. major Music directors: Svimon Start time: 20:00 Jangulashvili, Giorgi Donadze. Ticket: 50 GEL Special guests: CAFE MZIURI Solos From Choir and Special Mziuri Park Guests, Nino Katamadze, Nino Surguladze, Ketevan Kemoklidze, December 23 Tamriko Chokhonelidze, SAKVIARO FOR CHILDREN Mariam Roinishvili, Ketevan Great fun with invited guests Kartvelishvili, Zviad Bolkvadze, Start time: 12:00-14:00 Zviad Michilashvili, Giorgi Khunashvili REPUBLIC Start time: 20:00 1st Republic Sq. Ticket: 16-45 GEL GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 21 - 24, 2018 CULTURE 15 I, George Balanchine – the Life of a Georgian Choreographer

composer and his mother played piano. his most well-known works. BY AMY JONES His older sister, Tamara, died trying to George Balanchine was incredibly reach Georgia from Leningrad when it infl uential in the world of dance. He was besieged. signifi cantly changed the perceptions of he Tbilisi film festival, Balanchine was fi rst introduced to bal- ballet, and his ideas still infl uence other showcasing a taste of Geor- let when his mother insisted he audition choreographers. Touched by music, he gia’s rich and diverse cul- with his sister at the Imperial Ballet choreographed each dance based on the tural legacy, came to a close School in Saint Petersburg. After gradu- musicality and strengths of his dancers. on December 9. The fi lm ation, he then enrolled in the Petrograd Speaking in the fi lm ‘I, George Balanchine’, ‘I,T George Balanchine’ showed a particu- Conservatory and worked in the corps many of the dancers who worked with larly poignant insight into the cultural de ballet at the State Academic Theater him gave emotional tributes to the pos- infl uence of Georgians internationally, for Opera and Ballet. He already began itive way he developed their dancing. telling the story of the prominent cho- composing as a teen, and choreographed Balanchine never forgot his ties to reographer, George Balanchine. his fi rst piece, La Nuit, in 1920. Georgia despite his strong international Originally named Giorgi Melitonovitch After suffering a serious knee injury presence. Many experts believe his style Balanchivadze, Balanchine was actually that prevented him from performing, he of dance and some of his signature move- born in Saint Petersburg in 1904. His began to choreograph more regularly. ments were inspired by traditional Geor- father was the well-known Georgian He eventually formed the Ballet Russe gian folk dancing. He also visited Geor- opera singer and composer Meliton Bal- de Monte Carlo in 1931, before moving gia and was reunited with his brother in anchivadze, who was one of the founders to the United States and working with the 1960s. of the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater. the New York City Ballet. Balanchine “Dance is a continuation. You cannot His whole family were gifted creatives served as the artistic director of the New predict the signs of its evolution,” Bal- dancers globally even today. Balanchine Balanchine’, although at times too overtly with strong links to Georgia. Indeed, his York City Ballet, where he worked for anchine famously said. It is true: his made more than 465 works that have praising of Balanchine, celebrates the brother, Andria Balanchivadze, who set- over three decades, producing more than legacy lives on and is interpreted and been performed by nearly every ballet life of possibly the most infl uential bal- tled in Soviet Georgia, was a celebrated 150 works. The Nutcracker was one of developed by new choreographers and company in the world. The fi lm, ‘I, George let composer of all time. The Pride of Traditional Georgian Chant

BY MARIAM MERABISHVILI

t is well known that Georgian chants are an integral part of Georgian folk songs, a fact rec- ognized worldwide, a direction without which Georgian culture isI unimaginable. In the Folklore State Center of Georgia, the sheet recordings of chanting are being digitizalized in order to strengthen this art. The material description together with a specially created database will be placed in the electronic space to make it available to any interested person. The unique project to preserve this Georgian treasure found in various archives, to digitalize the handwritten notes of traditional charts and put them together with a scientifi c description online, is being implemented by the Folklore State Center of Georgia. "The traditional Georgian chant is one of the unique things we are proud of,” said Giorgi Donadze, Director of the Folklore State Center. “So far, about 30,000 pages have been digitalized, which has taken a lot of time and fi nances. It is no easy task, as each sheet in the State Conservatoire and ‘Georgian Chant’ Donadze noted. manuscripts protected at the National Georgia and the National Center of Institute of Manuscripts and the National Fund will work jointly. In the course of The Anthology of Georgian Chants Center of Folklore, the National Archives Manuscripts. Its purpose is to promote, Archives is scanned using the best preparing the anthology, the Folklore aims to present, in academic style, all of Georgia and the Korneli Kekelidze restore and maintain Georgian traditional equipment. We created a website, so Center digitalization project will be samples of the sheeted Georgian tradi- National Center of Manuscripts will be polyphony, and popularize it internation- the digitized materials can be made employed. In fact, the anthology project tional chanting of the 19-20th centuries. completely digitalized: chants performed ally. The publishing of a Georgian chants available for both Georgians and for- is a follow-on stage of the digitalization The edition is intended for choristers, by Filimon Koridze, Ekvtime (Estate) anthology is based on several key fac- eigners. All interested persons can see project of the chant manuscripts. choral collectors, researchers and eccle- Kereselidze, the Karbelashvili Brothers, tors: anthology as a scientifi c-practical what the manuscript looks like.” "We have invested huge resources in siastical music lovers. Razhden Khundadze and other great edition, which aims as far as possible to The next project, which will be imple- the ten-volume Georgian traditional The database and description of Georgian fi gures. bring together all the chants of Georgian mented in 2019, will be the Anthology chants anthology. High-level specialists annoted manuscripts of Georgian chants The project (headed by Svimon Jangu- chanting tradition. For this purpose, the of the foundation ‘Georgian Chant.’ Two work to publish from the Tbilisi State (up to 23,000 pages) was fi rst digital- lashvili) is implemented with the fi nan- chants of the various chapel schools and volumes have been published to date, Conservatoire and Folklore Center. It’s ized in 2015. cial support of the Ministry of Culture liturgical choirs (from the above listed with eight more in the pipeline. Special- a colossal job- each volume consists of Currently, the second stage of the pro- and Fund ‘Georgian Chant’ under the sources of chants) will be printed in its ists of the Folklore State Center, Tbilisi 700-800 pages and is totally unique," ject is underway. Within the framework, partnership of the National Archives of collections.

PUBLISHER & GM Journalists: Website Manager/Editor: ADDRESS Reproducing material, photos George Sharashidze Tony Hanmer, Zaza Jgarkava, Katie Ruth Davies 1 Melikishvili Str. and advertisements without Maka Bibilashvili, Tbilisi, 0179, Georgia prior editorial permission is COMMERCIAL Dimitri Dolaberidze, 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 Samantha Guthrie, F: GeorgiaToday are preserved. The newspaper Sergey Gevenov Marketing Manager: Amy Jones, Thea Morrison, is registered in Mtatsminda Anuka Poladishvili Ana Dumbadze, Circulation Managers: ADVERTISING & district court. Ketevan Kvaratskheliya David Kerdikashvili, SUBSCRIPTION EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT: David Djandjgava +995 597 97 21 12 GEORGIA TODAY Editor-In-Chief: Photographer: E-mail: Reg. # 06/4-309 Katie Ruth Davies Irakli Dolidze [email protected] BBATUMIATUMI VVIEWIEW

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