Economic Conference: Coronavirus BUSINESS PAGE 7 Georgia & the World 2020 Skiing in Georgia in 2020 – Awesome Terrain with by BEKA ALEXISHVILI Growing Pains

Issue no: 1231 • FEB. 28 - MAR. 2, 2020 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... CoE Ministerial to be Held in Strasbourg, Not Tbilisi NEWS PAGE 2 Georgia to Increase Fines for Environment Pollution NEWS PAGE 3 NDI President: Georgia Has Chance to Reafﬁ rm Position as Democratic Leader POLITICS PAGE 4 With Changes in Abkhazia, Tbilisi Hopes for Progress POLITICS PAGE 4

Image source: bloomberg.com Glovo Joins USAID, CENN Environmental Campaign ON CORONAVIRUS #SayNoToPlastic Georgia joins the list of infected countries BUSINESS PAGE 6 FOCUS as authorities call on citizens not to panic PAGE 2 Wizz Air Reduces Flights from Kutaisi to Italy due to Economic Conference: Coronavirus BUSINESS PAGE 7 Georgia & The World 2020 Skiing in Georgia in 2020 – Awesome Terrain with BY BEKA ALEXISHVILI Growing Pains

n February 26, Sheraton Grand Tbilisi SOCIETY PAGE 9 Metechi Palace hosted an economic forum with the title: 'Georgia and The World 2020’. The conference was attended by Hilton Worldwide - The a number of high-ofﬁ cials from both the governmentO and the private sector. The event was Brand with 100 Years of moderated by George Sharashidze, the publisher and the founder of the Georgia Today Group, which owns History in Hospitality to the Entrepreneur and The Economist annual magazine franchises in Georgia. The convention was held under the media support of Open its First Hotel in Tbilisi The World in 2020, The Economist magazine’s annual CULTURE PAGE 11 publication, and was organized for the second time by the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. This year’s conference was attended by nearly 200 participants and invitees, including the distinguished Levan Gelbakhiani Wins economist, Professor at the Warsaw School of Econom- ics, former Deputy Prime Minister, Finance Minister, European Shooting Stars and Chairman of the National Bank of Poland, Mr. Leszek Balcerowicz. Award Continued on page 5 CULTURE PAGE 11 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 CoE Ministerial to Be Held in Strasbourg, Not Tbilisi

of Europe and the Secretary General, in BY ANA DUMBADZE order to avoid damaging our reputation as Chair of this organization and act in accordance with its Charter. We have an he meeting of the Commit- obligation to hold a ministerial meeting tee of Ministers of the in accordance with the rules of this Council of Europe will be organization. At the same time, we had held in Strasbourg instead to respect our legislation,” he said. of Tbilisi, Georgian Foreign Zalkaliani added that if the ministerial TMinister Davit Zalkaliani announced at had been held in Tbilisi, Georgia would a special briefi ng on Wednesday. He said have had the responsibility to ensure the the decision was made at the meeting participation of all countries in the event. of the Deputy Ministers of the Council “Our legislation and the participation of Europe in Strasbourg. of the Russian Federation was an issue, “At the meeting of the Committee of though we were obliged to ensure the Ministers in Strasbourg, a decision was participation of all members in this event. made to move the Council of Europe's We held numerous consultations to dis- Ministerial to Strasbourg. In November cuss all possible scenarios, using all 2019, when we took over the Chairman- resources. When I met with the Secre- ship of CoE from France, we expressed tary General in Geneva, we talked about our desire for the Ministerial to be held this issue and they absolutely understand in Georgia and to be hosted by Tbilisi; why this ministerial needs to be held in an important high-level event that would Strasbourg and there is a precedent for be truly unprecedented in the history of President countries to hold the ministe- independent Georgia. We have done rial in Strasbourg,” the Georgian FM session of the Council of Europe's Com- in the event, including Foreign Minister protested against the possible arrival of everything since November 2019 to con- concluded. mittee of Ministers in May, however, Sergei Lavrov, who has repeatedly vio- the Russian delegation in Tbilisi, which sult with our partners, as well as with As the President of the Council of uncertainty was raised over the possible lated the Law on Georgia's Occupied raised the need to hold the meeting in the General Secretariat of the Council Europe, Georgia was to host the 130th participation of the Russian delegation Territories. Part of the Georgian public Strasbourg. Coronavirus Hits Georgia virus,” the PM’s press offi ce reported on BY THE GT TEAM Wednesday. "A decision was made to restrict entry from Iran by vehicles, along with air traffi c. The Iranian side has f all the continents, Ant- already been informed through the rel- arctica now is the only one evant channels”. not affected by the novel The Ministry of Education, Science, coronavirus that emerged Culture and Sport of Georgia on Thurs- from Wuhan, China, in day said it sees no suffi cient grounds for December.O Now, more new cases of the closing Georgian schools in the face of virus are being reported outside of China the novel coronavirus, considering such than within its territories, with at least measures disproportionate to the actual 44 countries reporting confi rmed cases threat. Instead, it is tightening sanitary of Covid-2019. standards in schools to ensure effective On Tuesday, we reported the disease prevention and risk management had spread to the Middle East and was “The process of monitoring schools bubbling up in Italy as the death toll and through local educational resource cent- overall number of infected continued to ers will become more intense so as to grow. However, there had been no cases avoid any complications,” the head of of coronavirus infection reported or the General Education Department, Eka- confi rmed in Georgia. Well, if there’s terine Khutsishvili. said. anything to take from the coronavirus The Ministry has once again called on it’s this: a lifetime of things can change the school administration to ensure in a day: on the evening of February 26, properly maintained hygiene in schools, the fi rst case of coronavirus was reported for which it issued a number of condi- in Georgia. The infected is a man of 50, tions. a Georgian citizen who travelled from After the fi rst confi rmed case of coro- Iran to Georgia through Azerbaijan by navirus in Georgia was announced, there land, and caught the virus there. The was a rush of customers to hypermarkets man is now being treated in the Tbilisi As Georgia joined the rest of the world reduced by the timely detection of the agency Coordination Council are fully throughout the country, especially in the Infections Hospital, is isolated and is in the shortage of masks, at a special virus. controling the situation. We should all capital city of Tbilisi. Despite the fact reported to be in a satisfactory condi- briefi ng on Wednesday night, the Health “We continue our coordinated work. follow the WHO recommendations. that no quarantine has been announced, tion. 10 others are being carefully watched Ministry assured people that it would We have enough places to quarantine "I would also like to say that the work citizens have begun mass-buying prod- at the Hospital, fi ve of whom travelled help pharmacies to import face masks citizens who were in close contact with of the Interagency Coordination Coun- ucts with a long shelf life, such as cere- from Italy, and fi ve who came from Iran. since the demand had increased so dra- the infected and those coming from high- cil, which was established on January als, fl our, honey, salt, and sugar. No other cases but that one have been matically. risk areas. We check they are in good 28, is still in progress. Thanks to the GEORGIA TODAY spoke to repre- confi rmed in Georgia as yet. On Thursday morning, the Ministry of health. There are several hospitals mobi- effective work of this Council, it was sentatives of AgroHub, Goodwill and However, one case was enough to send Internally Displaced Persons from the lized in Tbilisi, as well as in Kutaisi and possible to report the fi rst case of the Carrefour, each of whom confi rmed that chills of panic into the majority of the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health and Batumi. I assure our citizens that at this virus at the border, without his coming though there had been an increase in Georgian population. The information Social Affairs of Georgia followed up on stage there is no risk of a widespread into direct contact with our citizens. We customers and purchases, there is no about coronavirus entering the country its the promise. The ministry reported outbreak of the coronavirus in Georgia. have to thank each and every employee current risk of food shortages. spread like the disease itself: fast. Just that it had ordered producers and import- We will continue to work twenty-four of the Ministry of Health, as well as the Georgia is not the only country to 30 minutes after the coronavirus case ers to fi ll up their stocks of medical face hours a day,” the Minister said. border guards and customs offi cials,” announce its fi rst case of the novel coro- was announced, many rushed to phar- masks immediately. However, they She added that 13 patients, who are not said PM Gakharia. navirus. The disease also hit Estonia, Bra- macies and shops to purchase face masks couldn’t say when the shortage would infected with the virus, were taken to a On Wednesday night, the Georgian zil and Norway for the fi rst time this week. and stock up for the “coming apocalypse”, be fi lled. They also called on the com- quarantine zone from Tbilisi Infectious government followed up on its restric- The death toll in Italy and Iran continues though the authorities repeated numer- panies to sell masks at the appropriate Disease Hospital. tion of fl ights from Iran by limiting land to increase. South Korea on Wednesday ous times that there was no reason to prices. It has been highlighted by many On Thursday morning, Prime Minister traffi c between the two countries after said the 11th person had died of the disease panic. It didn’t take long for the pharma- that masks should only be worn by those Giorgi Gakharia also tried to ease Geor- the coronavirus case was confi rmed in there. Globally, over 80,000 people had cies to go short of face masks. It was coming down with fl u-like symptoms, gia’s anxiety, saying that there was no Georgia. Turkey, Armenia, and Pakistan, been diagnosed with the illness, as of Feb- reported that on Pekini Street in Tbilisi, not by those seeking to be protected reason to panic, and that the relevant who are all neighboring countries of ruary 27. The most recent data reports that only one 24/7 pharmacy had face masks from the virus. agencies were controlling the situation. Iran, sealed their borders late on Sunday. 78,497 people have been diagnosed with to sell roughly 40 minutes after Tikaradze At Thursday’s Cabinet meeting, Health “The fi rst case of coronavirus was “At the meeting of the Interagency coronavirus in China, while 2744 have died made the announcement. Since the lines Minister Ekaterine Tikaradze once again reported in the country yesterday. First Coordination Council, the Prime Min- from contracting it. Outside of China, in were only getting longer, the pharmacist assured the population that panic was of all, I want to emphasize that we have ister listened to representatives of all at least 44 countries, at least 3225 people was told to set a limit of 10 masks per not necessary, as the chances of a wide- no reason to panic. The Ministry of agencies about the current and planned have been infected and 57 patients have customer, each costing 0.95 GEL. spread outbreak in the country had been Health, relevant agencies, and the Inter- measures to prevent the spread of the died. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 NEWS 3 Georgia to Increase Fines for Environment Pollution Additional liabilities for companies BY TEA MARIAMIDZE mentioned in the draft bill require companies that generate more than 400 tons of waste to develop a waste manage- eorgia will soon see ment plan. Until now, only those com- increased fi nes for envi- panies producing more than 1,000 tons ronment pollution thanks of waste had this obligation. to a draft bill which has The bill also includes a new feature: already been submitted to placing animal remains in municipal ParliamentG by authors, members of the waste containers will be considered as Georgian Dream (GD) ruling party, environmentally hazardous. Goga Gulordava and Sulkhan Makhat- The fi ne for individuals who dump adze. animal waste of up to 20 kg will be GEL The draft law envisages doubling or 500, up from the current GEL 150, while more fi nes for dumping waste. New for the same offense legal entities will obligations are also coming into play have to pay GEL 1500 instead of the for companies. current 1000 GEL. When the bill is approved by Parlia- In case of environmental pollution of ment, any individual dumping up to two a large amount of waste (including kilograms of waste, including cigarette vehicles, electrical equipment, construc- butts, will be fi ned GEL 200 instead of tion equipment or other similar equip- GEL 100. For throwing litter fro a car ment), individuals and legal entities or from public transport, the fi ne has will be fi ned four times above the cur- been raised from 120 to GEL 250, while rent amount. Physical persons will a GEL 500 fi ne will be imposed on indi- receive a fi ne of GEL 2000 and legal viduals who dump environmental waste entities GEL 6000. of more than 2 kg. Currently, for the Persons who contaminate premises same offense, the law envisages a GEL with a small amount of fecal matter 150 fi ne. For the same pollution, legal belonging to a dog or other domestic entities will have to pay GEL 1500 instead animal, shall be fi ned 200 GEL. of the current 1000. Contamination of an area with fecal Dumping tires will cost GEL 500, and matter of up to 1 cubic meter or sewage Image source: hiveminer.com if more than fi ve tires are dumped, then waste will result in the fi ning of a per- "It is a fact that the penalties imposed Kakha Rukhaia, the problem is in enforc- tion and to tackle the problems that the fi ne can hit up to GEL 2,000. son to the amount of 500 GEL instead by law are not a deterrent to offenders. ing the law. He notes the situation is hinder its enforcement,” he said. The fi nes will also be tightened for of 150 GEL and a legal entity to the Despite the penalties, they still continue even more diffi cult in the regions, where In 2018, approximately 3200 violations improper disposal of construction waste. amount of 1500 GEL instead of the exist- to contaminate the environment. The waste management is even more disor- were reported in the municipality of Individuals will be fi ned 500 GEL for ing 500 GEL. only way to stop this is by increasing derly. Tbilisi, of which 150 offenses were com- one cubic meter of waste, and legal enti- The authors of the draft law explain the existing fi nes,” they said. “Local government services need to mitted by legal entities. ties will be fi ned GEL 2,000. However, that despite penalties for specifi c offenses Environmental NGO CENN believes up their activities. Current failings come Last year, around 3800 violations were the amount of waste here is signifi cant: in the Waste Code, individuals and enti- that increasing penalties will not work, from a lack of equipment and lack of reported in the municipality of Tbilisi, the maximum sanction is to be GEL ties are still dumping different types of as sanctions are still high. According to highly qualifi ed staff. The solution is to including 500 violations by legal enti- 30,000 for legal entities. waste. the representative of the organization enforce the existing norms of legisla- ties. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 NDI President: Georgia Has Chance to Reaffi rm Position as Democratic Leader toral preparations. making processes, and by the ruling and BY TEA MARIAMIDZE “Building public confi dence in the pro- opposition political parties to assist their cess this year will require reaching timely development of organizational, including and broad-based consensus on the coun- electoral, strategy. erek Mitchell, President of try’s electoral system; respecting the Gia Volski, the First Deputy Speaker the National Democratic rights of all candidates and parties to of Georgian Parliament, commented on Institute (NDI), a non- participate without fear of politicized Mitchell’s statement and noted that the profi t, nonpartisan organ- prosecution; safeguarding the rights of message is clear: Georgia needs to ization working to support civil society organizations to organize, strengthen its position; however, he Dand strengthen democratic institutions operate and speak freely; empowering added that Georgia is in a very advanced worldwide, says that as parliamentary women to participate safely and equally; position already. elections approach in October 2020, creating space for the constructive The politician added that Mitchell’s Georgia has a chance to reaffi rm its posi- engagement of youth; and avoiding call to “respect the rights of all candi- tion as a democratic leader in the Eura- political polarization that can degrade dates and parties to participate without sia region. national unity and invite external non- fear of politicized prosecution” is not “NDI will remain steadfast in its com- liberal infl uence,” Mitchell stated. needed, and that he does not think any- mitment to supporting Georgian democ- His statement also reads that NDI has one has a fear of persecution or being racy during this critical year, and for worked in Georgia since 1994, and responds prevented from expressing their posi- years to come,” the NDI President said to requests from its Georgian partners. tions freely in Georgia. when summarizing his visit. “NDI collaborates closely with the Volsky further said that Georgia’s posi- Mitchell released the statement after governing party and parties in opposition, as a democratic state, is very strong visiting Tbilisi and Marneuli on Febru- tion alike, and favors none over any other. and will get even more so in future. ary 24-26, during which he met with the The Institute’s interest, as always, is in Georgian Dream MP Roman Kakulia Prime Minister, the President, the Speaker transparent, accountable and inclusive also commented on the NDI statement, and MPs, heads of the ruling Georgian democratic processes, not particular saying in response to Mitchell that if Dream (GD) and opposition political electoral outcomes,” he said. Georgia has a chance to reaffi rm its posi- parties, representatives of the non-gov- The National Democratic Institute tion as a democratic leader, NDI also ernmental sector, mayors and City Coun- regularly conducts public opinion has a chance to “restore its reputation”. Image source: fl ickr.com cil members, the Chair of the Central research to provide decision makers and “As to the possibilities of the approach- Election Commission, and representa- activists with reliable information about non-confi dence in them. across the political spectrum. Mitchell ing elections, I would like to tell NDI tives of the diplomatic corps. citizens’ opinions and priorities. How- The NDI statement reads that the Insti- noted during his visit that the fi ndings that they also have the opportunity to The President of the organization said ever, it is not unusual for Georgia’s rul- tute’s surveys and focus groups are designed have been used extensively by members regain the reputation they unfortunately that Georgia’s friends in the West, including party to question the accuracy of the with input from representatives of the of parliament, as well as local elected offi - lost years ago. My recommendation to ing NDI, will be closely following elec- surveys and it has many times declared Georgian government and from parties cials, to inform their legislation and policy- them would be this," the MP said. With Changes in Abkhazia, Tbilisi Hopes for Progress

the Kremlin worked to cut Surkov’s infl u- OP-ED BY EMIL AVDALIANI ence. Beyond the dissatisfaction with Surkov’s policies laid out above, there is also a ver the past several years, larger problem with how he viewed there have been hints in Abkhazia. As with his vision of eastern the media on the Russian Ukraine, Surkov regarded Abkhazia in political elite’s growing the same ideological, even geopolitical, discontent with the way prism, and he was less interested in the AbkhaziaO is being run, how effectively economic, security or military problems Russian money is spent, and the preda- of the region. For his successor, on the tory nature of the Abkhaz political elite other hand, which is likely to be Marat with regards to their gaining economic Khusnulin, economic undercurrents will benefi ts from Moscow. High level cor- be essential. Indeed, Khusnulin’s port- ruption and the black market in Abkha- folio involves economic cooperation zia have overshadowed various attempts between Russia and Abkhazia. In years by Moscow to control the effectiveness where Russia’s economy is being strained of money-spending. under western sanctions, coupled with There is an increasingly worsening an ineffective political system, spending criminal situation in Abkhazia concern- on Abkhazia, along with other Russia- ing Moscow, as the region has always controlled unrecognized territories, is a been a popular summer destination for burden for Russia. Russian tourists. But in 2017-2019, several Nevertheless, with Khajimba and his Russian citizens were killed in Abkhazia. master Surkov now gone, Moscow’s As a result, there were numerous accu- overall approach towards Abkhazia is sations from Moscow, while the Abkhaz unlikely to change. Still, it is larger geo- public responded grudgingly to Russian political trends in and around the South interventions. Caucasus (as is the case with eastern Yet another, rarely mentioned, reason Ukraine) that will formulate Moscow’s for Moscow’s discontent was the Abkhaz position. As the region is likely to remain leader Raul Khajimba’s intransigence. one of the theaters of Russia-West mili- Though for years regarded as Moscow’s tary and economic competition over the favorite, he, like his predecessors, nev- former Soviet lands, the Kremlin will ertheless was a staunch defender against Vladislav Surkov with President Putin. Source: voanews.com continue to regard Abkhazia as an impor- Moscow’s encroachments. Most notably, Surkov was also less interested in eco- ber of the European Union (EU) and fl eeing of the population to the Tbilisi- tant tool to limit Georgia’s westward he resisted allowing wealthy Russians nomic issues. Then comes his notoriety Nato. Yet Surkov was unable to solve controlled territory for medical, trade ambitions. Moreover, in Moscow’s think- and businesses to buy large swathes of for being stubborn in negotiations with long-term issues: with Tbilisi's westward and educational reasons, which, in the ing, the military build-up it is pursuing land in the region. Abkhaz politicians. Little is known on ambitions thwarted for the moment, long run, would create troubles for in Abkhazia will also prevent any large Khajimba was also closely associated his thinking regarding Abkhazia overall, what should be done with Abkhazia? Sokhumi as the population decreased non-NATO military cooperation between with Vladislav Surkov, the Kremlin- but from various statements, political Should Moscow continue trying to entice and a positive image of Tbilisi among Tbilisi and the West. appointed curator of the Russia-controlled moves and written pieces, it is possible neighboring states to recognize Abkha- the Abkhazs emerged. What we are then likely to see in Abk- empire of separatist regions in Ukraine to grasp several important features. zia's independence? With the failure of It is likely that dissatisfaction with hazia is a change of tactics rather than and Georgia. Surkov’s resignation might For Surkov, Abkhazia was an integral the recognition policy, another possibil- Surkov’s Abkhazia policies was building strategy. Moscow will try to pull strings well fi t into the overall narrative of grow- part of Russia's South Caucasus policy, ity for Moscow and Surkov was to develop up even before the January crisis. on large expenses, limit corruption ing discontent in Moscow with how Abk- as it has served as a roadblock to Geor- Abkhazia economically into a proper Khajimba was Surkov’s choice, but the schemes and help improve the security hazia has been run over the years. gia's aspirations to become a full mem- entity. This would have prevented the fi nal moments of the crisis showed how situation for Russian tourists. GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 BUSINESS 5 Economic Conference: Georgia & The World 2020

Continued from page 1 “We are not here to discuss just the portfolio. Why? We all understand well Georgian government’s achievements,” that Georgia is a small market and yet we The conference covered three panels, Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakha- want our country to emerge mainly as a with guests allocated according to the ria said. “We are more interested in dis- platform and hub for trade and business discussion themes. cussing the achievements of Georgian activities between larger economies, and Before the panel talks kicked off, the business, because we all understand that for investment services. And that is exactly conference began with welcoming the cornerstone and backbone of our why we are putting together a strong FTA remarks from the Georgian Prime Min- economy is free business: strong Geor- package,” the PM stated. ister, Giorgi Gakharia. Leszek Balcero- gian business that creates jobs. Creating Gakharia then underscored that the wicz also offered welcoming remarks to new jobs is our economy’s systemic Government of Georgia spares no effort the audience, which will be detailed later challenge. Without balanced relations to ensure an exceptional business climate in the article, after which Giorgi Khis- and policies between the private sector in the country, especially in the area of tovani, a representative from PMCG and state interests, it is impossible to services. (Policy and Management Consulting achieve any serious results. Given the “In addition, everything related to Group), delivered a presentation on overarching and global title of our con- transport, transit, and logistics is a pri- ‘Georgia’s Economic Outlook’. ference, Georgia and the World 2020, ority for our economy. And that is exactly The fi rst panel, with the title ‘Economic we naturally focus on the economy, and why the Government of Georgia, above Development Model of Georgia – Bal- I must emphasize that we see our coun- all else, does everything to put in place anced Interests Between the Public and try, Georgia, as an economically robust an exceptional business environment in Private Sector’ included the participants platform providing larger economies all areas, especially in the fi eld of ser- Ivane Machavariani, the Minister of with services”. vices. Services are the future of our Finance of Georgia; Selim Cakir, the The Head of Government, in underlin- country and economy. We all understand Resident Representative of the Interna- ing the signifi cance of the conference, that it takes years, and that services tional Monetary Fund for Georgia; and pointed out that it enables every delegate require exceptional competences, but a Leszek Balcerowicz. and stakeholder to engage in open dis- service-oriented economy is the future The second panel of the conference cussions on the challenges and achieve- of our country. covered the topic ‘Competitiveness of ments of Georgia’s economy. “That is exactly why conferences of the Georgian Economy in a Global Con- The Prime Minister spoke about free this kind are vitally important for us text, Infrastructure Development: and The title of the third panel was ‘Georgia The Economic Conference panel dis- trade agreements and emphasized that together: business, the expert commu- its Role in Increasing Competitiveness’. in the EU Market – Achievements and cussions took a look at the model of Georgia is the only country to enjoy such nity, and the government, to pinpoint The invitees for the second panel were Existing Challenges,’ and the speakers Georgia’s economic development, bal- agreements with China and the EU the country’s proper role in global and Maya Tskitishvili, the Vice-Premier and were Genadi Arveladze, Deputy Minis- ancing state and private sector interests; respectively, together with all of its regional contexts. the Minister of Regional Development ter of Economy and Sustainable Devel- the competitiveness of Georgia’s economy neighbors. “The participation of Georgia’s Euro- and Infrastructure; Natia Turnava, the opment; Carl Hartzell, the EU Ambas- in the global context, its infrastructural “Georgia is committed to signing a pean friends in such discussions can Minister of Economy and Sustainable sador to Georgia; and Nino Zambakhidze, development and role in bolstering com- number of free trade agreements. Geor- hardly be overestimated. Today, Georgia Development, and Sebastian Molineus, President of the Georgian Farmers Asso- petitiveness; and spotlighted the chal- gia is the only country to enjoy such is a transitional economy, and its key the World Bank’s Regional Director for ciation. lenges and relations between the Geor- agreements with China, the EU, and all political aspirations lie in Euro-Atlantic the South Caucasus. The event was also attended by repre- gia and EU markets- overall, analyzing of its neighbors. We are actively negoti- integration, while its economic aspira- The third panel included participants sentatives of international donor organ- Georgia’s progress, and reviewing and ating, and are about to fi nalize, similar tions aim at an open market economy,” from different sectors, including the izations, as well as delegates from the discussing current challenges and new agreements with Israel and India. Con- PM Gakharia concluded. government, EU and assorted NGOs. private sector and economic experts. opportunities in the global context. sequently, we will have a very strong FTA Continued on page 7 GEORGIA TODAY 6 BUSINESS FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 Glovo Joins USAID, CENN Environmental Campaign #SayNoToPlastic

e throw away billions in their daily lives and to replace them the various activities it implements in tic campaign; however, Glovo will always in the campaign primarily because we of utensils every with reusable items. The participants terms of environment protection, and join any social responsibility campaign are a vegan restaurant, contributing to year. Like many plas- of the campaign upload photos depict- future plans in this direction. aimed at reducing the ecological foot- the popularization of vegan cuisine, tic items, plastic ing their changes in behavior on social print in the delivery industry, with which means that we care about animals cutlery often fi nds media under the title #SayNoToPlastic. GLOVO JOINED THE pleasure. and ecology in general,” said Gobi itsW way into the environment, where it One of the largest companies that has #SAYNOTOPLASTIC * * * founder Nato Kvavilashvili. poses dangers for animals and can take recently joined the campaign to con- CAMPAIGN. WHY DID YOU GEORGIA TODAY also spoke with “This is essential today for our coun- hundreds of years to break down. tribute to environment protection DECIDE TO BE A PART OF representatives of restaurants involved Currently, plastic cutlery is listed as throughout the country is Glovo, a IT AND WHAT STEPS DOES in the campaign to fi nd out more about among the items “most deadly” to sea multi-category lifestyle app with food GLOVO TAKE WITHIN THE their motivation and the activities they turtles, birds, and mammals, and alter- delivery being the most popular offer- NEW PARTNERSHIP? implement in order to reduce environ- natives have proven particularly hard ing, which is actively used by Georgian One of the Glovo's core values is “Care,” ment pollution from plastic. to come by, though not impossible. customers due to its comfortable and which is shared by all employees of the “Kiwi Vegan Café has always been To target the issues related to plastic quick service. company. It not only means to care cutlery and reduce its use among Geor- As part of joining the campaign, Glovo about app users, but also to have a sense gian society, on October 25, 2019 with has added an eco-friendly category to of global citizenship and social respon- try and environment. For this purpose, the support of USAID and CENN, the its application, within this category the sibility. In all countries where Glovo everyone should try to reduce the con- large-scale environmental campaign customers can either refuse to order operates, the company always strives sumption of plastic and polyethylene #SayNoToPlastic was launched. The single-use plastic cutlery or, if available, to reduce the negative impact on the as much as possible. We wanted our campaign aims at reducing environment order wooden alternatives. environment and it helps numerous company to contribute to the imple- pollution from plastic. Active and moti- Along with Glovo, the following part- local and international NGOs. Since mentation of this project, to protect the vated youth, CENN partner organiza- ner restaurants have joined the cam- active care to raise awareness on plas- environment and also to encourage tions, embassies operating in Georgia, paign: Kiwi Vegan Café, Gobi, Gomi da tic pollution in society, and taking con- others to do so”. international organizations, well-known Kveli, Manji, Macaroni, Greek Point, crete steps to address this problem, is With this campaign, everyone can actors and journalists and other stake- Pazza, Nocco, Soup Culture, Pho, and essential in the delivery service indus- contribute to protecting the environ- holders are getting involved in it. Frieteria. try, Glovo decided to join USAID/ ment. It is a part of the Waste Manage- The #SayNoToPlastic is a social media GEORGIA TODAY spoke with Shalva CENN’s Waste Management Program, ment Technology in Regions (WMTR) campaign, calling on the public to reduce Iosava, the Head of Glovo Georgia, about and we hope that many other partners program implemented by CENN with their consumption of disposable plastics the company’s collaboration with CENN, will join this social responsibility pro- the support of USAID. The program ject in the future. careful about its environmental impact assists the Government of Georgia to and we have always tried our best to modernize the country’s waste manage- GLOVO ADDED AN ECO- choose the most eco-friendly products ment sector and supports sustainable FRIENDLY CATEGORY TO ITS and the greenest ways of doing things,” development and inclusive economic APP. TELL US WHAT IT MEANS. says co-founder and director Soroush growth, ensuring responsible manage- Glovo and several of its partner restau- Negahdari. “That said, we were more ment of natural endowments that min- rants have joined the campaign against than glad to join the #SayNoToPlastic imize adverse impacts from waste on polluting the environment with plastic campaign. I believe that campaigns like human health and natural resources. waste, #SayNoToPlastic. The involved this will help restaurants to avoid using “The #SayNoToPlastic campaign is restaurants in the app will be placed unnecessary plastic items without caus- aimed at companies just as much as under the fi lter: ‘No to Plastics’, while ing any customer dissatisfaction. Before individuals. If companies and organiza- users of these facilities will be able to this campaign, and since Kiwi’s earliest tions can establish sustainable practices refuse plastic containers and utensils, days, we have been using paper and and give their customers an option to use only eco-friendly items instead, aluminum dishes, bags, containers and choose environmentally friendly prod- thereby reducing environmental pollu- straws instead of plastic, and we have ucts, the results will be much bigger tion. Customers who have the most always dedicated a portion of our income and systematic. Often, as consumers, orders from restaurants involved in this to buying more expensive but more we are faced with the issue of not hav- campaign will be given a Glovo gift card environmentally friendly alternatives. ing other options and this is an excel- and various other gifts each week. By We do not use plastic dishes or bags for lent example of how businesses can doing so, we strive to encourage both our takeaway orders, and even before offer that choice and encourage positive our partners and customers to take care the campaign, we provided our clients change in behavior, one that yields real of the environment together. with disposable cutlery only when they results and has a lasting impact,” note asked for it. Besides, most of our take representatives of CENN. IN ADDITION TO REDUCING away meals are prepared in a way that THE USE OF DISPOSABLE they can be eaten without any need for PLASTIC CUTLERY, WHAT disposable cutlery (e.g. wraps, sand- ACTIVITIES DOES YOUR wiches, burgers, etc.) COMPANY PLAN TO FURTHER In the ‘no plastics’ category, custom- EXPAND ECO-FRIENDLY ers will also fi nd Georgian-Asian and ACTIVITIES IN FUTURE? vegan restaurant Gobi. We are starting with the #SayNoToPlas- “Our company decided to get involved GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 BUSINESS 7

Wizz Air Reduces Flights from Kutaisi to

Italy due to Coronavirus Puri Guliani – this is what our ancestors called pastries that they earnestly created all over Georgia with variety of fillings. These pastries The Georgian Airports Association has reported BY ANA DUMBADZE were later shared with important and beloved people, marking the that only one out of four fl ights per week will remain in the direction of Milan, each Friday during the significance of the dishes. period from March 12 to April 2. ungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air As for Rome, only one (the Saturday fl ight) of the That’s why we call our Sakhabazo (bakery) and kitchen Puri Guliani. has reduced the number of fl ights two fl ights will be carried out from March 18 to Here we bring history to life and contribute to the everlasting tradition from Kutaisi Airport to several Ital- March 25. of Georgian baking. Every day our team creates new variations of ian cities due to the coronavirus In Bologna, only one fl ight will remain per outbreak. The company representa- week from March 17 to March 24, while for Bar, traditional dishes, Guliani breads, pastries and mouthwatering desserts Htives claim that the reason for the restriction is a three fl ights have been canceled from March 12 by using only Georgian wheat and regional products. decline in demand for fl ights to Italy. to April 2.

Economic Conference: Saarbrucken Square, Tbilisi Georgia & The World 2020 Call: 577 00 00 83 9:00AM - 11:00PM

Continued from page 5 involves not only businesses but individuals,” Mr. Balcerowicz concluded. In his own opening remarks, Mr. Balcerowicz The Prime Minister then again stressed the impor- spoke about the last decades of Georgia’s economy, tance of the EU’s support to strengthen connectiv- although he did not confi ne his words to this coun- ity in order to enable businesses to translate polit- try alone. The Polish economist is an expert in ical achievements into concrete profi ts. helping post-soviet economies fl ourish and exceed “Presently, we enjoy the Deep and Comprehen- in their regions. He noted the challenges of today’s sive Free Trade Agreement with the EU, as well as world economy, and what countries like Georgia access to a vast market with the highest standards, can do to avoid the fi nancial fl uctuations and to and all that in harmony with our political aspira- sustain progression. tions,” Gakharia stated, adding that Georgia will “Economic development is of crucial importance spare no effort to raising the bar across a variety to transitional economies like Georgia. […] We can of areas. confer on two types of power: there is systematic “We are holding extensive discussions on factors power and crisis. The latter slows down progress. conducive to bolstering our economic growth, and, There is a lot of blaming the market when a crisis of course, there are structural reforms and institu- occurs, although we must remember that it’s like tional empowerment,” the Prime Minister said. a race, and crises are like crashes, which we can He also accentuated the challenges and the impor- learn from, and which logically slows down the tance of assistance from European partners in speed of the momentum of progression. overcoming challenges. “The systematic powers include employability “Connectivity is a challenge to overcome, some- and productivity, which depends on innovation thing which we need assistance for fi rst from our and reforms in the economy. I think Georgia has European colleagues. Georgia has an ideal legal achieved a lot, and I’ve been following the pro- framework, agreements with the EU, but though it gresses of your country. To further speak about is very close to Europe from the institutional and institutional fundamentals, an economy must be value-based point of view, Georgia does not have private, and state ownership is a risk in its own a land border with the EU and so faces physical right. Consequently, politicization is very easy and connectivity issues. Consequently, it is important risky, and we must avoid it. Privatization is what for us to have support from eminent representa- we can use to counter the detrimental economic tives of various fi elds of the economy and science, forces. […] Competitiveness is very important to on different EU platforms. Today, Georgia needs combat monopolies. And the regulations adhering EU support fi rstly to boost connectivity, be it by to the EU market, must be pushed to the maximum,” means of the Black Sea, direct fl ights, railroads, or he said. other transport, so that we can enable our economy “The rule of law is of foremost importance, which and business to translate our political and institu- means that institutions must be independent from tional rapprochement and achievements into con- politicians. Rule of law is interconnected, and crete profi ts,” the Prime Minister stated. GEORGIA TODAY 8 SOCIETY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 Sleeves Still Up: Etseri, Svaneti

BLOG BY TONY HANMER

fter fi ve mostly successful fi rings, the 2nd week of the clay workshop has been focusing on decorating the pieces, mostly with gouache Aand spray-on varnish. A few of them exploded in the Svan-stove-kiln, likely due to hidden air pockets; but overall there was about a 96% success rate. Not bad, considering the quick buildup to full temperature and lack of insulated ceramic shelves which are necessary features of this kiln and fi ring. The fi t- test pieces survived. The future daugh- ter in law of the teacher made and pre- sented me an adorable caricature monster of myself, complete with CYMRU toque, glasses and blue slippers. Here, too, with gentle music in the background, there was a really good in using it to make totally local pottery life? Such are indeed my dreams for this creative atmosphere. Teacher and chil- and hand-built pieces or sculptures, place. dren alike were delighted to see their would be a great privilege. Such are the work come out of the kiln, and ready to thoughts which arise when one dips a Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since paint it. We couldn’t use actual ceramic toe into the waters of creativity in an 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a glazes because a) They aren’t readily area which is… still rather too apathetic, weekly writer and photographer for GT since available in Georgia’s mostly unglazed needing some kind of stimulus to get it early 2011. He runs the “Svaneti Renais- clay culture and b) I have no facilities further and more so on its own feet. May sance” Facebook group, now with nearly for fi ring potentially messy glazed works, one dream long-term of an industry to 2000 members, at www.facebook.com/ which might drip and leave residue on rival that of Shrosha, in the dividing pass groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ what is mostly an oven for food prepa- between east and west Georgia, and He and his wife also run their own guest house ration! another reason for local young people in Etseri: The learning curve for what will make to stick around and make a living and a www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti it intact through a fi ring and what won’t is a bit diffi cult when you only have a few days per year to work and learn from your mistakes, but this is the current situation, and a whole lot better than no ceramics lessons and workshops at all. The whole spectrum of colors is available to the children, as well as gold and silver, and brushes of all sizes, and even texturizing items like sponges and pat- terned surfaces. Nothing to limit the active imaginations of these children who are thrilled to be able to spread some paint around, get a bit spotted with it, and actually make and decorate something permanent of which they can genuinely be proud. Some parents have dropped in as well, not doubt hearing the rumors of strange bohemian goings- on in the Hanmer household, and been impressed with that their youngsters are creating. A local school bus driver for Etseri’s furthest away hamlet, Hebuti, some 7 km away, volunteered the information that clay has been mined above his place, and offered to bring us a sample. Great, we responded, expecting something in spring when snow would be gone, and the very next day he appeared with a bag of it! A bobcat had been digging in the area, despite the winter season, so some had been exposed and he grabbed some. It seems to be pretty good, although it will need a thorough process of wash- ing and fi ne-mesh sieving to purify it of sand, stones and other debris, and then make, dry and fi re a test object. This will show us its necessary fi ring temperature range, plasticity, and other characteris- tics, and tell us whether to call it an earthenware (low temperature: lighter and more porous) or, best, a stoneware (high temperature: stronger and denser). To be able to have some hand in rein- vigorating a purely local source for min- ing clay, as well as more of an interest GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 SOCIETY 9 Skiing in Georgia in 2020 – Awesome Terrain with Growing Pains Championships in 2023, Georgia’s pop- INTERVIEW BY AMY JONES WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ularity as a winter sports destination is RESORT IN GEORGIA? sure to continue increasing. Goderdzi. It’s a very different place, more We sat down with Taylor Beckwith- local, and with fewer tourists. The access tepping off the marshrutka after Ferguson, founder of Vagabond Ski to the mountains is very easy and you a stomach-lurching 2-hour ride School, to fi nd out more about Georgia’s can hike everywhere or go by snowcat. into the mountains, you are skiing potential and any growing pains Skiing in the forest is great and there’s greeted with mighty snowy peaks the resorts may have. much more snow in that part of Georgia. and tourists, speaking Russian, The terrain is fl at and not so exciting, SEnglish and other languages, trudging back WHAT FIRST ATTRACTED YOU but it’s still a lot of fun thanks to the to their chalets after a long day on the TO GEORGIA’S SLOPES? forests and powder. There’s so few tour- slopes. You’ve arrived in Gudauri, Geor- The snow. At that time, it was a much ists that it’s very easy to connect with gia’s most-developed ski resort. less popular destination and I wanted people and ski with them the next day. Word is traveling fast that Georgia is an adventure somewhere that I didn’t It takes so long to get to that it feels kind a top skiing destination within easy reach know anything about and that not many of like you’re at the end of the universe. of Europe. Last week, CNN published people had heard of. I saw some really an article titled ‘Why Georgia is one of cool ski videos so I could tell that the IS THE INFRASTRUCTURE the world’s most underrated skiing des- terrain was amazing – big wide open WELL SET-UP TO WELCOME tinations,’ further propelling Georgia’s terrain and good snow. INTERNATIONAL TOURISTS? image as a top winter sports destination. In Gudauri – almost. Although I love Currently, only 11% of tourists enjoy DID IT LIVE UP TO YOUR Gudauri, it still has some growing pains. Georgia’s skiing opportunities, but this EXPECTATIONS? For example, the gondolas and chair- is changing fast. The number of skiers The terrain did for sure – it’s incredible. lifts work well but the different base increased fi ve-fold from 2018 to 2019. Georgia is also an interesting place to areas are not connected. It’s stressful to With Bakuriani set to hold the FIS Free- live. But the snow is not always very deal with the taxi driver mafi a since style Skiing and Snowboarding World good. there’s no app like Bolt or Yandex available and there’s no public transport between the base areas. It needs toilets on the mountain as at the moment there’s just squatters, and squatting in ski boots Photo by Taylor Beckwith-Ferguson is not ideal. The medical facilities are teaching skiing. It’s more chaotic which is both good and also poor here. The doctor has misdiag- Other than that, when there’s good bad. It’s kind of nice that there are no rules nosed fi ve of my friends who were snow in Gudauri, it’s amazing. Gudauri and you can ski anywhere without red severely injured, yet were told by the is great for intermediate skiers, there’s tape. If you know what you’re doing, it’s doctor to just walk home. a huge selection of runs. It’s cheap and an incredible place to ski. Georgian food As a ski instructor here, I can also say there’s good food. It has awesome poten- is also the best ski food. As it’s above the that the beginner facilities are terrible. tial to be a world-class skiing destination treeline, the terrain has an epic feel – eve- First-time skiers are limited to one tiny and, with a bit more attention to detail, rything is huge and steep. The slopes aren’t slope at the top of the gondola which is it could be the same quality as the Alps. groomed very regularly which isn't good poorly maintained and not suitable for Ultimately, that’s why I’m still here. for the average tourist, but is lots of fun all ages, especially kids. If Gudauri wants for advanced skiers. Ultimately, you get to be an international ski resort it needs HOW DOES GEORGIA much better value for money in Georgia to have a beginner facility which is COMPARE TO OTHER WINTER than in the States or Europe. You pay a lot designed by an expert who knows about SPORTS DESTINATIONS? less but the quality is still pretty good. GEORGIA TODAY 10 CULTURE FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER "Shirley Beis", "Painter", February 26 – March 10 NATIONAL MUSEUM for a one-of-a-kind experience. "Bohemian Rhapsody" EXHIBITION "NEGLECTED COLLECTION XIX – XX CENTURY Ticket: 5-20 GEL Directed by Kakha Bakuradze MEMORY" TBILISI ZAKARIA MUSIC Start time: 20:00 BY IA MCHEDLISHVILI Until February 29 PALIASHVILI OPERA AND Price: 10, 15 GEL The exposition includes paintings, Georgian National Museum and the BALLET THEATER video and installation. The Embassy of Italy in Georgia present TBILISI STATE 25 Rustaveli Ave. Every Wednesday exhibition aims to present original the exhibition ROMA AETERNA. CONSERVATOIRE TEL (+995 32) 2 99 04 56 A LO CUBANO NIGHTS form and idea to the general public. MASTERPIECES OF ROMAN 8 Griboedovi Str. Cuban dancers’ masterclass SCULPTURE FROM THE DINO February 29 Start time: 20:00 MUSEUM OF SOVIET AND ERNESTA SANTARELLI February 28 GAETANO DONIZETTI'S OPERA Ticket: 10 GEL OCCUPATION FOUNDATION SERGEY BELYAVSKY L'ELISIR D'AMORE 4 Rustaveli Ave. National Gallery features 33 I Two-act ballet MUSEUM TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 sculptures depicting the stages L. W. Beethoven- Sonata A-fl at A co-production of the Auditorio www.museum.ge of artistic or stylistic evolution major, op.26 de Tenerife, Tbilisi Opera and GEORGIAN NATIONAL from the Roman Republic to S. Prokofi ev- Sonata N6 A Major, Ballet State Theater and Teatro MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA The exhibition hall is equipped Neoclassical era. op.82 Comunale di Bologna MUSEUM with monitors, where visitors II Conductor: Levan Jagaev 3 Rustaveli Ave. can see documentaries of various F. Chopin- Polonaise F-sharp minor, Stage Director: Pablo Maritano SPHERO TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 historical events. op.44 Scenographer: Serena Rocco City Mall Saburtalo, www.museum.ge C. Debussy- "Bergamasque Suite", Costume Designer: Lorena Marin Veranda, II Floor MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS "L'Isle joyeuse" Lighting Designer: Virginio Levrio Exhibitions: 10 Betlemi Str. SPHERE F. Liszt- Hungarian Rhapsody N2. Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State GEORGIAN COSTUME AND A domed cognitive-entertainment Start time: 19:00 Theater Choir and Orchestra WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH Discover the Museum of Illusions space where you can become Ticket: 15-25 GEL Start time: 19:00 CENTURIES Be brave and jump into an illusion part of an impressive 360-degree Ticket: 10-200 GEL NUMISMATIC TREASURY created by the Vortex, deform the panorama image. For all ages. February 29 EXHIBITION STONE AGE image of yourself in the Mirror SCARLET ANGELS MOVEMENT THEATER GEORGIA Room, free yourself in the Infi nity TBILISI DIGITAL SPACE Artists Union Concept Art presents 182 Agmashenebeli Ave. ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE Room, resist the laws of gravity Tbilisi Mall a project created by the synthesis NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL and size, and take selfi es in every of music and speech. February 28 COLLECTIONS possible pose. Enjoy the collection Collaboration of renowned artists- The fi rst museum of digital art in PARADISO of holograms and discover optical Giorgi Zagareli (viola), Tbilisi, where you will meet three Directed by Irakli Khoshtaria March 5 – December 5 illusions. Giorgi Gigashvili (piano) and different spaces: Vazha-Pshavela's Author: Ketevan Chachanidze Ammunition, memorials, paintings, Erekle Deisadze includes Sergei "Dried beech", the world of torches, Choreographer: Lasha Robakidze sculptures of oriental deity and HOLOSEUM Prokofi ev, Arvo Part, Dmitri and a digital space decorated with Start time: 20:00 household items - The Georgian 10 Betlemi Str. Shostakovich, Ioseb Bardanashvili, various graphic and visuals effects. Price: 10 GEL National Museum presents Giya Kancheli and Nikoloz In the main hall, decorated with THE UNKNOWN COLLECTION At the new Museum of Holograms Rachveli’s masterpieces and video projections and mirrors, February 29 OF GENERAL ZURAB in Tbilisi, 120 projectors splash William Shakespeare, Paul Celan you will discover that there is no THE TEMPEST KOBIASHVILI art onto the walls, the characters and Erekle Deisadze’s texts. boundary between Man and nature. Based on the work of William turning, twisting and moving as Start time: 20:00 THE GEORGIAN ROOM Shakespeare IOSEB GRISHASHVILI visitors watch, bringing art to life. Ticket: 15-35 GEL Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM The museum has opened with an FOREST OF LIGHTS MAIN HALL WITH VIDEO Composer: Sandro Nikoladze - KARVASLA exhibition of NIKO PIROSMANI'S SPACE CLUB PROJECTIONS AND MIRRORS Choreographer: Lasha Robakidze 8 Sioni St. ART. 22 Bakhtrioni Str. Scenography: Kakha Bakuradze TEL (+995 32) 2 98 22 81 Ticket: 19.50 GEL, children: 12.5 GEL, DIGITAL EXHIBITION OF GUSTAV KLIMT Start time: 20:00 students: 14.5 GEL February 28 Price: 10, 15 GEL February 25 – March 10 The work of art nouveau painter PVP BATTLE FINAL: GALLERY EXHIBITION "FLIGHT #4/12" BY Gustav Klimt is brought to life TAHA VS MONTANA March 1 KETI BATIASHVILI AND TEONA by digital technology in Tbilisi Line Up: DJ Slack tah Kontra, Cas, SILENCE, REHEARSAL! PAICHADZE. THE NATIONAL GALLERY in an immersive exhibition that OzzyDaGr81, Kay G, One-act spectacle behind the The exhibition combines two 11 Rustaveli Ave. marks the 120th anniversary of the FlowFlow, Kid L, Taha. scenes, showing various short artists with different visions, TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 painter’s. See his works brought Start time: 19:00 novels: outlooks, biographies and styles to life with sounds and music, and Ticket: 15-25 GEL "Good Morning", "Cinemat", around one world, one birthday, GRAND MASTERS FROM THE colors exploding throughout Digital "Welcome-Host", one race as a child and a profession. GEORGIAN Space’s immense projection surface KHIDI 10 Saakadze descent

February 28 TREEBAL: OZORA ONE DAY IN TBILISI with ASTRIX Start time: 23:00 Ticket: 40-75 GEL

TBILISI CONCERT HALL 1 Melikishvili Ave.

March 3 HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAIA– RESTART Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 10-50 GEL

MOVEMENT THEATER 182 Agmashenebeli Ave.

JAM SESSION Improv music Every Tuesday Musical director- Sandro Nikoladze Start time: 21:00 Price: 10 GEL

February 22 RECITATIVE IN THE CITY BY KAKHA BAKURADZE ALBUM PRESENTATION Musical evening with a recital- Ticket: 5 GEL Album price: 30 GEL Start time: 20:00 GEORGIA TODAY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 2, 2020 CULTURE 11 Hilton Worldwide - The Brand with 100 Years of History in Hospitality to Open its First Hotel in Tbilisi

ilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. is an American multinational leading hospitality company, founded by Conrad Hilton in May 1919. Hilton Worldwide comprises 17 brands in moreH than 117 countries, with around 6000 prop- erties and 954,000 rooms all over the world. The fi rst Hilton Garden Inn, targeting as a business scale hotel, will start operating in the fi rst quarter of 2020 in Tbilisi, at 64 Chavchavadze Avenue, the downtown of the vibrant Georgian capital. The hotel offers 170 fabulous rooms of different categories, suitable for the needs of business segment travellers as well as leisure guests. The hotel offers eight meeting spaces with natural daylight and a spectacular view over the main Avenue, ideal for any kind of event- busi- ness or social. All meeting rooms are located on the second fl oor with a common spacious pre- function area. On the spot, guests will have a chance to enjoy delicious international cuisine with Georgian highlights, as well as special dishes from the Chef in the hotel’s restaurant “Andazi”. Also, having a gym and “The Shop’’ 24/7 will make our guests’ stay even more comfortable and enjoyable! All Hilton’s 17 distinct hotel brands, including Hilton Garden Inn, participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program, which gives guests the unique opportunity to gain points and use them afterward in any Hilton brand hotels worldwide or convert them into Amazon points. We look forward to welcoming you in our mod- ern and trendy hotel soon!

Levan Gelbakhiani Wins European Shooting Stars Award

from Europe". “At only 21-years-old, he is already a master of physical elegance and psycho- logical sensitivity", the European Film Promotion jury team said while com- menting on their selection of Gelbakhi- ani. The plot of ‘And Then We Danced’ tells of Merab (Levan Gelbakhiani) who has been training at the National Geor- gian Ensemble with his partner Mary BY ELENE DZEBISHASHVILI (Ana Javakishvili). However, when Irakli (Bachi Valishvili) arrives, he becomes both his rival and strongest desire. evan Gelbakhiani, the main European Shooting Stars is an initia- actor of ‘And Then We Danced’ tive of the pan-European network organ- (a luminous drama fi lm by ization European Film Promotion and Levan Akin) received the is the oldest and most renowned Europe- European Shooting Stars wide event to cast a spotlight on the AwardL 2020 as part of the program at most talented, up-and-coming perform- the Berlin International Film Festival. ers. Winner of best actor prizes at the Sara- Levan Gelbakhiani is not the fi rst Geor- jevo and Valladolid festivals for his part gian actor to be named among Europe's in the same fi lm, Georgia’s young talent rising stars. Irakli Kvirikadze was like- is now recognised along with nine other wise named as Europe’s Rising Star in actors in the selection of "the best up- 2018 for his leading role in Rezo Gigi- and-coming young actresses and actors neishvili's fi lm, Hostages.

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