Issue no: 1067 • JULY 20 - 23, 2018 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... FOCUS ON AI Sophia the Humanoid Robot attends the OGP Summit in PAGE 8,9 Stoltenberg Meets PM Bakhtadze, Promises NATO Support to NEWS PAGE 2 How to Better Serve Your Citizens: The OGP Summit 2018 NEWS PAGE 4 Unity and Confl ict: Grigol Vashadze to Stand for New Political Party as Presidential Candidate POLITICS PAGE 6 Iran's Ambassador on the Kaladze’s Weekly Priorities: Construction, Importance of the Rasht-Astara Railway Animal Abuse & Summer Camps BUSINESS PAGE 7

BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE "Robotech” Summer Camp Opens in Kutaisi

ach Wednesday, the municipal govern- ment of Tbilisi holds a meeting at City Hall. Preceding this week’s meetings, Mayor Kakha Kaladze made several important remarks. EFirst, Kaladze drew attention to the tasks of the Urban Development Service – as applicants submit the Development Regulation Plan (DRP) for their desired projects, Kaladze noted that second, third and fourth-class structures may be subject to accreditation. Structures are classed based on size and project diffi culty, with fourth class being the largest and most complex projects. In February, the Architectural Department of City Hall was informed that it would split into two enti- SOCIETY PAGE 13 ties responsible for managing the city’s construction and development – the Architectural Department, ‘10 Georgian Wines You Must which regulates structure appearance and design, and the Urban Development Service, which man- Try Before You Die’ Exhibition ages the integrated development of sections of the city including issues of zoning and building size. on Meidan Continued on page 3 Photo: Tbilisi City Hall CULTURE PAGE 15 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS JULY 20 - 23, 2018 Stoltenberg Meets PM Bakhtadze, Promises NATO Support to Georgia

Attention was paid to the signifi cant past izing your armed forces,” he said. BY THEA MORRISON and planned steps of the Government of In addition, the NATO Secretary Gen- Georgia towards approximation with the eral spoke about the recent developments North Atlantic Alliance standards. in Georgia’s Russian-occupied regions amuka Bakhtadze, Prime The Secretary General of NATO once of Abkhazia and and called Minister of Georgia, again noted the solid support of the Alli- on the Russian Federation to withdraw paid his fi rst offi cial ance towards the territorial integrity and its forces from the regions. visit to Brussels as the sovereignty of Georgia. “NATO supports Georgia's security PM of the country on He also thanked the Prime Minister of and its territorial integrity within its MJuly 18-20. Georgia for the contribution of the coun- internationally recognized borders. This The PM was hosted by NATO Secre- try to the Euro-Atlantic security, espe- includes the regions of Abkhazia and tary General Jens Stoltenberg, who praised cially in the current NATO operations South Ossetia. We call on Russia to with- Georgia’s carried out and planned reforms in Afghanistan. draw its forces from the country,” he and vowed to support the country. After the meeting, the sides made an said. Parties discussed all the key issues offi cial statement for the press, seeing Bakhtadze thanked Stoltenberg for his within the scope of the integration of Stoltenberg underline that Georgia has support and noted that Georgia will Georgia to NATO, including the results for many years been one of the largest continue its contribution to common of the NATO Summit held in Brussels force contributors to the resolute sup- Euro-Atlantic security. last week and ways to implement the port mission, and Georgian peacekeep- “We are enhancing our cooperation on Photo source: Georgian Gov’t Press Offi ce decisions made at the milestone event. ers were helping NATO fi ght terrorism. Black Sea Security. We will have a more It was highlighted that the Substantial “I also appreciate the fact that [Georgia highest standards of NATO and are able “We fully support Georgia's Euro- active naval cooperation as well as NATO-Georgia Package (SNGP), like is] running exercises together with the to participate in NATO exercises, mis- Atlantic aspirations…We continue to extended mutual situational awareness… the new areas of cooperation, signifi - NATO troops. I have met the Georgian sions and operations,” he stated. work with you to prepare for member- Together with the assistance provided cantly increases the defense capacity troops both in Afghanistan and during Stoltenberg noted that at the Alliance ship. Georgia has made impressive pro- by NATO, the reforms successfully imple- and resistance of the country. It also NATO exercises. The fact that you are Summit last week, all 29 allies reaffi rmed gress on reforms, including on economic mented by Georgia will contribute to brings the country closer to accession part of the NATO response force shows that Georgia will become a member of development, more effective security our ultimate goal to become a full mem- to NATO. that your troops and forces meet the NATO. and defense institutions and modern- ber of NATO,” the PM said. Parliament Chairman Saakashvili Offers Trump Advice on Relations with Russia in the annexation of Crimea. Earlier this year, the United States imposed the harsh- est sanctions yet, targeting Russian oligarchs Condemns Putin’s Remarks as well as government offi cials.” in NATO, seeing it as a security risk. “Nevertheless,” writes the former Geor- BY SHAWN WAYNE Kobakhidze stated that priority and gian leader, “I must caution President ultimate goal of the Tbilisi administra- Trump that criticizing domestic oppo- tion was to get NATO membership, that nents in front of foreign adversaries could eorgian Parliament Chair- Georgia is moving forward and that it is have been misperceived by Putin as a man Georgia’s right to gain NATO member- concession.” He recommends several condemned Russian Pres- ship after working so hard for it. steps Trump can take to show Putin that Photo: Kremlin.ru / Wikimedia ident Vladimir Putin's The integration of Georgia into NATO he is not, in fact, conceding to Russia. remarks on Wednesday is also important for NATO, with it rec- that while Trump’s rhetoric may have First, a return to a Reagan-era contain- BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE Gregarding Georgia's potential member- ognizing that Georgia has actively con- been weak, his actions, more importantly, ment policy, second, to lobby for an ship of NATO. tributed to NATO-led operations and have been strong. “After a lifetime of amped-up NATO presence in Eastern On Monday, after the meeting between cooperates with the Allies and other fi rsthand experience with Russian aggres- Europe, specifi cally by offering Georgia Putin and Trump in Helsinki, the Rus- partner countries in many other areas. n an article published yesterday in sion, I must evaluate Trump’s actions and MAP, and third, being pre- sian President told Fox News that his NATO's support for Georgia’s reform The Federalist, former President against the historical context. In doing pared to active the ‘nuclear option’ of country would react extremely negatively efforts and its goal of integration in Euro- of Georgia so, I fi nd Trump’s actions speak for them- sanctions: blocking Russia’s access to the to the membership of Georgia and Ukraine Atlantic institutions is high. opines on US President Donald selves,” writes Saakashvili. SWIFT international payment system, Trump’s recent meeting with Rus- Saakashvili claims that former President which would cripple average Russians’ sianI President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, Barack Obama’s weak foreign policy and ability to conduct everyday commerce Finland. In the article, titled, “Just Like unwillingness to engage in international with international companies. Obama, Trump’s Russia Policy Speaks confl icts gave Putin room to maneuver Saakashvili condemns Putin, calling him Louder Than His Words,” Saakashvili regarding Ukraine. “Putin is a bully,” “pure evil” and saying “There is no doubt argues that Trump’s response to Putin Saakashvili insists, “but not a fool.” in my mind that US intelligence agencies was not as “shameful” as most observers Trump’s strongest moves against Russia, arrived at the correct conclusion: Russia have perceived it. according to Saakashvili, came when he did meddle in the US 2016 election, and He argues that the outrage against “authorized the sale of lethal defensive Putin himself directed the operation.” Trump’s words (or lack thereof) in Hel- weapons to both Ukraine and Georgia in You can read the full article here. sinki is selective – other American politi- 2017” and when “the Trump administration The Federalist is a conservative online cians have held less than a hard line against went beyond the congressional mandate magazine, based in the US, that covers Russia in recent years. He also argues in sanctioning Russian authorities involved politics, policy, culture, and religion. Italian President & Delegation Visit Georgia to deepen and expand cooperation discussed trade and economic rela- BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE between our countries. Italy is a strong, tions between Georgia and Italy and European country supporting Georgia. opportunities for increased coopera- Today, I have the opportunity to thank tion. Possibilities for bilateral links talian President Sergio Mattarella you once again for the very strong sup- between Georgian and Italian busi- was in Georgia this week, accom- port that Italy showed to Georgia at the nesses were noted, with a focus on panied by a delegation of Italian 2018 NATO Summit. " cooperation in the energy sector, spe- government personnel. “Our countries are among the oldest cifi cally hydropower and renewable While there, President Mattarella in terms of friendly relations between energy sources. Imet the Patriarch of the Georgian Ortho- people, political relations, and increas- The Georgian Department of Economy dox Church, Prime Minister Mamuka ingly growing economic relations, con- said it looks forward to strengthening Bakhtadze, and Chairman of Parliament, fi rming how deep and important our the positive relations between the two prise Georgia will support Georgian on ongoing and planned reforms aimed Irakli Kobakhidze. bilateral relations are and can be in countries, particularly in the economic companies attending the Milan Furniture at accelerating economic growth, increas- The Italian team visited Tbilisi State future.” sphere. Investment opportunities were Fair. ing economic inclusivity, and creating a University, where an exhibition is cur- This is President Mattarella’s fi rst offi - also discussed, including in real estate Part of the Italian delegation’s visit was solid foundation for poverty reduction. rently on that celebrates the history of cial visit to Georgia. In October 2017, and tourism, IT and business process to attend the Georgian-Italian Business Directed at attendees representing the Georgia-Italy relations. President Mat- President Margvelashvili visited Presi- outsourcing (BPO), and production. Forum in Tbilisi. Another Deputy Min- Italian business community, details of tarella also participated in the Georgian- dent Mattarella in Rome, where they met The Georgian deputy ministers ister of Economy and Sustainable Devel- bilateral free trade agreements of vari- Italian Business Forum, the third such and discussed the development of Geor- informed Geraci about local economic opment, Giorgi Cherkezishvili, partici- ous countries with Georgia were dis- forum, which began in Rome in March gia-Italy bilateral cooperation and mul- trends, ongoing reforms, and policies pated in the forum. According to cussed, including the European Union last year. tilateral relations in international forums. for economic growth and business sup- Cherkezishvili, Georgia's economic and China, along with Georgia’s liberal President Margvelashvili and President Within the frames of this week’s visit, port. One strong example of Georgia’s growth reached 5% in 2017, and the record tax legislation. Mattarella made statements for Georgian the Deputy Ministers of Economy and economic policy is the Enterprise Geor- in recent years was set in May 2018 at Cherkezishvili’s presentation included and foreign media. Sustainable Development, Genadi Arve- gia program, which is helping to arrange 7.5% – an impressive indicator which detailed information about state pro- “I would like to thank the President of ladze and Giorgi Chikovani, met with Georgian manufacturers’ attendance at Cherkezishvili directly related to the grams for business stimulation and the Republic of Italy for this crucial and Italy’s Deputy Minister of Economic the September 2018 LineaPelle – an inter- government's economic policies and focused on Georgia's strategic geograph- historic visit to Georgia,” Margvelashvili Development, Michele Geraci. national exhibition of leather and leather ongoing reforms aimed at development. ical location for transportation and logis- said. “His visit will lay the foundation During the meeting, the two sides products in Milan. In April 2019, Enter- Cherkezishvili put special emphasis tics. GEORGIA TODAY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 NEWS 3 Kaladze’s Weekly Priorities: Construction, Animal Abuse & Summer Camps

Continued from page 1 Vice-Mayor, we have started working not allow construction of such mal cruelty. "I must respond to the on improving services and simplifying unplanned, ugly buildings in squares, disgusting videos...which on the one "We have implemented a major reform procedures. I would like to thank each parks and sports areas,” said the Mayor. hand are an attempt to deliberately in the current year, which has separated of the Urban Development Service staff At the meeting, Kaladze thanked discredit the Animal Monitoring the issues of architecture and urban members- as a result of 24/7 work, less residents for removing AC units that Agency, and on the other hand, show development from each other. The than 200 requests remain. Among them were illegally installed on facades of a criminal offense. An investigation is Urban Development Service was cre- applications for adjusting red lines and historical buildings in the New Agh- ongoing under Article 259 of the Crim- ated from scratch. In addition, we have for functional zones, tasks, projects mashenebeli area. We are starting inal Code of Georgia...We hope that in simplifi ed the management of archi- and so on,” said Bitadze. “First of all, these people should be the shortest time possible every person tecture and made the decision-making Kaladze also thanked the employees interested in maintaining these facili- to implement who has committed this horrible crime process more effective. The architec- of the Urban Development Service for ties as much as possible and preventing – put a poor puppy in with dead ani- ture service is functioning today, but their tireless work and said he was anyone from damaging them. These signifi cant large- mals and violated internal sanitary it is necessary to monitor the process confi dent that the remaining 200 appli- are monuments that we are all proud rules – will be revealed,” said Kaladze. and to continually improve our ser- cations will be processed in a timely of. Of course, the expenses that will be scale "I have repeatedly stated, and I repeat vices. Currently, one of our main chal- manner. incurred [for repairs], as I said then, once more, that we are ready to coop- lenges is to improve the urban devel- Another topic of discussion was a City Hall will take on itself. The works infrastructure erate with specifi c organizations - peo- opment management process so that construction project in the Alphabet will be implemented by the Tbilisi ple who wish to make changes [in ani- decisions of high quality can be made Garden in Didi Dighomi, which has Development Fund,” said Kaladze, add- projects in mal control and welfare], but talk of in a timely fashion," said Kaladze. been suspended and will likely be dis- ing that he hopes that in future, resi- blackmail is personally unacceptable From its outset, the Urban Develop- mantled. According to Kaladze, the dents of historical buildings will show different districts for me and my team,” said the Mayor. ment Service was inundated with a population of Didi Dighomi demanded more care for their preservation. The fi nal issue discussed at Wednes- backlog of nearly 800 applications and a halt to construction because the pro- Kaladze also emphasized the reha- of the city day’s meeting was youth participation the workforce of the division could not ject is located in a recreational zone. bilitation of highways, avenues and in the] city will face certain restric- in summer schools, camps and hiking keep up, says Deputy Mayor Maia Bita- "During my pre-election campaign, streets which will start in the near tions, but it is being done for the pop- tours with the support of Tbilisi City dze. Kaladze emphasized the impor- I promised that no construction would future. Rehabilitation of the Baratash- ulation of our city. This period was Hall, for students and young people tance of improving the approval process be allowed in public squares or sports vili area, near Freedom Square, began chosen intentionally because many aged 18-29. "The aim of these programs to provide a high-quality service at grounds, because there are recreational on Wednesday, which will include people have left the city [for the sum- is to give young people a way to spend City Hall, as well as managing and zones that need maintenance and “rehabilitation of the drainage network, mer] and there is relatively less traffi c their summertime...I think it is a very developing the process outside the City upkeep. We understand the ecological sewer system, curbs and sidewalks. on the roads.” Next year, City Hall plans important and interesting project for Hall. point of view of the situation in the The lighting system will be totally to work on the central highway, and young people and we will continue to “This is important documentation capital. Therefore, green spaces should renovated and, overall, 15 thousand Robakidze Avenue will be fully reha- implement such projects in the follow- that needs to be prepared at a high- be protected. Construction in the square meters of asphalt will be bilitated. Chikovani Street will also see ing years," said Kaladze. quality level,” he said. Alphabet Garden adjacent to "Good- replaced. Approximately 3,233,000 GEL improvements, focusing on repairing Thematic summer schools and camps The Urban Development Service will" was begun but, according to the [$1.3 mil] will be spent implementing serious drainage and sewerage prob- are planned in technology, entrepre- began working at the end of April, and permit issued, all conditions have been this particular project,” Kaladze said. lems. Capital works on the Black Sea, neurship, engineering, architecture, “has been operating primarily as a new violated. In connection with this par- He continued, "We are starting to Paliashvili and Kostava-Shartava streets design, volunteerism and art direction. arrival,” dealing with a backlog from ticular structure, there are too many implement signifi cant large-scale infra- are also planned. Excursion tours will be conducted on the architecture department, “includ- complaints...At this time, the construc- structure projects in different districts Mayor Kaladze then responded to hiking routes around Tbilisi, where ing applications from 2017. With the tion has been suspended and I think of the city. I want to apologize to the video footage that surfaced on social participants will benefi t from profes- Services Development Agency and it's going to be demolished. We should public, because the [traffi c movement media several days ago depicting ani- sional guides and instructors. GEORGIA TODAY 4 NEWS JULY 20 - 23, 2018 How to Better Serve Your Citizens: The Open Government Partnership Summit 2018 a tool for setting higher standards of good govern- BY KATIE RUTH DAVIES ance. “In recent years, Georgia has developed national and subnational action plans that guaran- tee citizen engagement, integrity, and the fi ght ringing together over 200 participants against corruption. These include the Public Ser- from 12 parliaments and 24 countries, vice Hall, a one-stop shop for service delivery to putting people fi rst and transforming citizens, in both urban and rural areas. Commit- the governance systems based on the ments are related to fi ghting corruption by moni- principles of openness, accountability toring public offi cial declarations and public pro- andB engagement was the focus of the Fifth Open curement, and the publishing of statistics by the Government Partnership (OGP) Global Summit court system. These and other activities respond held in Georgia on 17-19 July 2018. to the demands of citizens, empowering those Throughout the three Summit days, representa- citizens to impact the policy-making process.” tives of the OGP’s 96 participating governments He went on to note the challenges facing Georgia. and thousands of civil society organizations “The government is not often able to see what the exchanged ideas on how to make governments public is demanding. Commitments elaborated by more responsive to the citizens they serve and how state institutions are sometimes less relevant to to empower people to take a more active part in the public needs and are closer to the political and decision-making. bureaucratic comfort zones,” he said. “Such failure The United Nations Development Program to see the issue from a different perspective can (UNDP) joined the Summit as a supporter and result in commitments that are not ambitious, and active participant, taking a lead in discussing leg- which do not have a transformative effect. The lat- islative openness, public services and citizen partnership nears 100 national and local govern- need to make our civil society community more est national action plan presented recently is a engagement, and inviting special guest Sophia the ments and thousands of civil society organizations, inclusive to those advocating for services like health good example of this challenge. Despite construc- Humanoid Robot as its Innovation Champion. we have an opportunity and imperative to show and education… We need to forge stronger coali- tive criticism from civil society and numerous Other guests and guest speakers included Heads an alternative; a path that empowers citizens to tions with the media, with parliamentarians, the concerns voiced in the consultation process, reach- of State, ministers and civil society leaders. impact policies and services that affect their lives.” judiciary and the private sector…A government for ing a consensus became less and less possible.” Sanjay Pradhan, Chief Executive Offi cer of the He went on to encourage a push to improve ser- the people, by the people, of the people: Ana Brnabic, Prime Minister of Serbia, spoke of Open Government Partnership, opened the 5th vices like health, education and water, systemati- Georgian Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze the reforms in her country regarding the protec- OGP Summit on Wednesday. cally mobilize direct citizen participation and spoke about the implementation of the Open Gov- tion of personal data, greater number of citizen “Since the last OGP Summit in 2016, the world feedback, “smartly leveraging technology,” and to ernment principle within his cabinet by pointing services, the establishing of databases where needed, has become a tougher place and our imperative to ensure that government responds, “to close the to this year’s achievement where Georgia was and specifi c councils being set up to focus on step up more pressing. Democracy, human rights feedback loop and win trust back.” named 5th among 115 countries in the Open Budget e-governance and supporting new e-governance and civic space are under attack as never before. We were shown the examples of Madrid and , Index 2017 survey, by its budget transparency. laws, one of which is the mandatory opening of Trust in government is at an all-time low. A toxic where citizens are given the chance to vote on how “It was a huge achievement and is a very clear data on the Open Data Portal. She noted that cre- wave of xenophobia, nationalist populism and they want some of their cities’ budget spent – both demonstration of our willingness to push this to ating e-services for citizens has saved the country authoritarianism is sweeping the world. We face online, via apps and, for the elderly, at street polling another level. As PM, I intend to plan for such hundreds of thousands of Euros in paperwork and similar challenges in the OGP, even after Hungary, stations. The Paris method has been adopted by 96 transparency in all other directions.” waiting times. Tanzania and Turkey have exited and other cities and, as Pradhan said, “in such ways we Giorgi Kldiashvili, Founder of the Institute for Though the messages at the OGP were many, the was made inactive. Despite this, OGP represents can show an inclusive alternative to populism which Development of Freedom of Information & Civil message for the Georgian government was clear: a hopeful path forward. In Armenia and South not only empowers the majority but also excluded Society Member of the Open Government Partner- continue on the path of reforms with the aim of Korea, citizen movements have removed leaders minorities. Ministers need to see open governance ship Steering Committee, noted that the OGP is ensuring an open government that actively encour- mired in corruption. At this Summit, when our as integral to achieving their goals. We similarly something which Georgia is trying to embrace as ages and empowers citizens to engage.

Gudavadze-Patarkatsishvili Foundation Offers Full Scholarship to 10 Successful Students

$3 million in funds. We decided to sign an MoU BY ANNA ZHVANIA with GPF, which will reward 10 successful students, who will start their fi rst year of university with a full scholarship. This is a vital opportunity since n July 19, San Diego State University we have many bright young students whose suc- Georgia (SDSU Georgia), Millenium cess is our country’s success.” Challenge Account Georgia (MCA “We are glad to see the increasing popularity of Georgia) and the Gudavadze-Patar- STEM subjects in Georgia,” Guven said. “SDSU katsishvili Foundation (GPF) hosted has been in Georgia since 2014 and has reached anO offi cial signing ceremony of a Memorandum of more than 600 students. We are growing every Understanding (MoU) at Radisson Blue Iveria year, not just in numbers but in quality of students. Hotel. We are very happy with the developments. We are This year, the GPF offered 10 full scholarships to collaborating with a lot of distinguished companies successful students of SDSU Georgia’s upcoming who give us a chance to offer scholarships, intern- cohort to fi nance their studies in the San Diego ships and part-time jobs as well as activities like State University. hackathons. This is the biggest contribution so far, The goal of the MoU is to facilitate the growth and which will allow distinguished students to study popularity of STEM fi elds in Georgia by providing in our program.” scholarship opportunities for SDSU Georgia students. “The main goal of our foundation is to facilitate Moreover, the MoU will support STEM conferences the development of the education system in Geor- and other educational activities in the future. gia, specifi cally to make high-quality education The ceremony was opened by Magda Magradze, affordable. We invest in our country’s future, which Director of MCA Georgia, followed by Halil Guven, serves the development of the education system. Rector of SDSU Georgia, and Zurab Kervalishvili, We are happy to have signed the MoU and to moti- Director of the GPF, who then offi cially signed the vate students further,” Kervalishvili added. MoU. Three scholarship recipient students shared “I received a full scholarship, which is essential their success stories with the audience. both for myself and my family. It was my dream to “San Diego State University offers Bachelor Degree study at SDSU Georgia and the university took into programs to Georgian students and it is the only account that my family are refugees from Abkhazia. university that awards students with an American This will be a step forward towards my success,” diploma,” Magradze said. “Together with the uni- said Mariam Gagua, one of the recipients of the versity, we created a special Public Private Partner- full scholarship and a Computer Engineering Stu- ship Fund (PPPF). Today, we obtained more than dent at SDSU Georgia.

GEORGIA TODAY 6 POLITICS JULY 20 - 23, 2018 Why This Much Talk about Government?

quarrel, and couples separate as a con- OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE sequence of heated and irritated discus- sions about governmental style and content. Shall we call the situation a here is big talk in town political obsession, or just a passion for concerning the new gov- politics? Or is it an overall dullness in ernment of Georgia. Our our social and private lives offering noth- people adore talking ing more interesting for our poor souls profusely about gov- feed on? Whatever it is, we are clearly Ternment. The most preferred topic not rational enough to think that we of discussion in this society is what have much, much more on our hands the government is or isn’t doing. No to do than endlessly talk about the other country in the world chats details of governmental wrongs and about governmental affairs both rights. publicly and privately as much as I certainly recognize that in a democ- Georgia. The Georgian provincially racy, people must keep an eye on frolicking media has a nauseous pro- administrative doings, but can’t we occa- clivity of blowing the absolutely triv- sionally take the selfsame eyes off the ial political individuals into the dimen- government to attend to our own busi- sions of Hollywood godlike fi gures. ness so that we don’t waste our valuable Discussion of governmental ways and time and miss all our opportunities to means is one of our strongest nation- bring home our share of the bacon? The wide hobbies. Look at our newspapers government will not nourish us and our – front, middle and closing pages, just families. The government will only feed all of them, are packed with copious itself until it is completely sated on our reading matter about the government fl esh and blood. In the best-case scenario, as a whole and the persons who have the government will fulfi ll its obligation, by sheer accident found themselves if at all, to bestow enough national secu- cozily ensconced in the leading admin- rity on us so that we do not lose that istrative and legislative sinecures. absolutely indispensable piece of bacon I have a habit of delving through most that needs to be earned with our own famous international editions that are hands and talent. We have to cut this available to me, and my experience in much gibberish about governments in reading the world press tells me that most registers either an awry smile or a sincere others too, but in the last 30 years, they about government means that we become general and get forthwith down to our of them dedicate only a paucity of space annoyance. Nobody takes the government have reckoned government the most distracted from more pressing matters feeder, and the feeder is what our own to governing bodies and the individuals seriously there unless it comes to taxes. favorite conversational topic in life. Even needing dealing with. Our printed media brain and muscle can provide for, not within those bodies. Take America for Countries elect governments only because youth in Georgia gets carried away talk- readers, television viewers and radio what a regular government is capable instance: who would care this much about they have not yet invented anything bet- ing about government, clearly parroting listeners crave above all to hear the lat- of doing for us. Why don’t we adapt the what the government is doing unless it ter than this for keeping nations within their parents and grandparents, unable est about the government…and then unforgettable historical piece of advice does something fl agrantly wrong. At the an average social normalcy. to see that the best years of their lives everything else. This is a national infat- to our everyday lives: Ask not what your mention of the word ‘government,’ the like having fun and are very are simply vanishing in futile blabber uation which we fail to recognize as a government can do for you, but ask what face of the average American immediately good at entertaining themselves, and about government. This much discourse mortifying vice. Friends fi ght, families you can do for yourself?! Unity and Confl ict: Grigol Vashadze to Stand for New Political Party as Presidential Candidate

for the upcoming autumn battles. OP-ED BY ZAZA JGARKAVA The main oppositional force announced its candidate in the garden of the Bagrati Cathedral in Kutaisi. It seems Mikheil fter almost a year-long Saakashvili was able to get his idea break, a new election mar- through of uniting the oppositional front athon is ready to start. This around the National Movement: the new year, for the last time, the political coalition, called Power in Unity, voters will be electing the has nominated the former Foreign Affairs APresident of Georgia, as, according to Minister Grigol Vashadze. The younger the Constitution, the future presidents Vashadze has thus given up his presi- of the country will be elected by Parlia- dential ambitions and the chief com- ment rather than the people. The new mander’s mantle in favor of the old, by political agenda suggests an even more which we are referring to Giorgi Vashadze, limited authority for the President, who leader of the political party New Geor- will have responsibilities as shallow as gia, whose past is connected with Mikheil that of a marriage registrar. Despite this, Saakashvili and the UNM, like that of an agreement has been reached between gia. In Brussels, Giorgi Baramidze and European Georgia believes will be their both the government and the political the many others. the UNM and the newer political party Giga Bokeria have publicly vowed to candidate rather than that of the UNM, opposition are excited and are preparing If not reconciliation then defi nitely that stemmed out of it, European Geor- criticize , consolidate so not Grigol Vashadze in this case. election resources, not scold each other Apparently, Mikheil Saakashvili has and most importantly to bring their different plans and is thinking of start- respective electorate all the way to the ing an early campaign with the fi nancial ballot boxes. In a second round, they resources gained through this agreement. will unify their forces and vote for the Promoting the former Foreign Affairs oppositional candidate with the motto Minister does require substantial fi nan- “All Against the Governmental Candi- cial resources, but since Grigol Vashadze date.” keeps the “oiled colt” in his pocket, that At fi rst glance, there’s nothing new in is Rustavi 2, it is hard to doubt the capa- this agreement, with the leader of Euro- bilities of this particular presidential pean Georgia, Gigi Ugulava, already candidate. Who will be competing against having proposed this very formula to him from the governmental party, then? Mikheil Saakashvili at the time when the The answer to this question is still unclear: refugee ex-president invited him and we neither know if the current President other party leaders to a “Last Supper” plans to take part, in Amsterdam. But in fact, it really is a or what the now-resigned Premier Kviri- novelty and seems to be the moving force kashvili and his political future might behind a real agreement. According to be. the Brussels agreement, the parties agreed What we all know for sure is that the to unify their resources, fi rst of all fi nan- candidate from the Labor Party will be cial, mostly meaning the one that was Shalva Natelashvili and Nino Burjanadze taken from the UNM when the European from Democratic Georgia will fi ght for Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 Georgia left it. This means that the elec- the post, the votes of both altogether 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] tion fi nances were bargained for a can- unlikely to exceed 6%. That leaves a good didate passing into a second round, which 94% to fi ght for. GEORGIA TODAY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 BUSINESS 7 Iran's Ambassador on the Importance of the Rasht-Astara Railway

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on The Rasht-Astara railway is part of BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE accelerating the implementation of the the North-South transport corridor, project, the Ambassador noted that the which is designed to connect Northern railway and its use are like a "giant oil Europe with South-East Asia, including he completion and launch well". the unifi cation of the railways of Azer- of the Rasht-Astara opens Jahangirzadeh said that in addition to baijan, Iran and Russia. At the fi rst stage, the way for expansion of the export of agricultural products and along the corridor, it is planned to trans- trade ties in the region, - other cargoes, the railway can serve the port fi ve million tons of cargo per year, said the Iranian Ambas- creation of new jobs. and later more than 10 million tons of South-East Asia, including by combin- later 15-20 million tons of cargo. sadorT to Azerbaijan Javad Jahangirzadeh He also noted that the annual trade cargo. ing the railways of Azerbaijan, Iran and The cargo will pass through the ter- during a joint meeting of representatives turnover between Iran and Azerbaijan The Kazvin-Rasht-Astara (Iran) -Ast- Russia. ritory of India and further through the of the public and private sectors of the currently exceeds $500 million, and the ara (Azerbaijan) railroad is part of the At the fi rst stage, it is planned to trans- Persian Gulf, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Rus- province of Gilan in the north of Iran. volume of oil mutual trade is about $350 North-South transport corridor that port six million tons of cargo per year sia towards the Scandinavian states and Recalling the recommendations of million per year. will connect Northern Europe with along the "North-South" corridor, and Northern Europe in just 14 days. North-South Transport Corridor May Be Transferred to Azerbaijan

corridor and further development of the along the corridors TRACECA and headquarters of the corridor to Baku, to increase in the volume of cargo traffi c BY DIMITRI DOLABERIDZE corridor depends on the railway infra- North-South. In view of the current increase the effi ciency of the corridor. in these directions. structure of Iran,” Mustafayev noted. situation, we would like to transfer the Baku has good relations with both the The transport corridor "North-South" The National Secretary noted US and Russia, as well as with is designed to connect Northern Europe he headquarters of the that Azerbaijan provided Iran other countries in the region,” with South-East Asia, including the uni- "North-South" transport with a $500 million loan for the Mustafayev said. fi cation of the railways of Azerbaijan, corridor, which is currently construction of the railway sec- The National Secretary high- Iran and Russia. At the fi rst stage, it is located in Iran, may be tion of Resht-Astara [part of lighted that 176 projects have planned to transport six million tons of moved to Azerbaijan, the North-South transport cor- been implemented in the frame- cargo per year along the "North-South" Treports Akif Mustafayev, the National ridor]. The next step in this work of TRACECA in recent corridor, and later - 15-20 million tons Secretary of the Transport Cooperation direction is the modernization years, and that TRACECA of cargo. Program (TRACECA- Transport Cor- of the railway infrastructure headquarters in Baku has suf- The cargo will pass through the terri- ridor Europe Asia) for Azer- from Resht to the port of Bandar fi cient experience to implement tory of India and further through the baijan. Abbas on the territory of Iran, major projects, which is a Persian Gulf, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia “Sanctions are a huge obstacle to the which was complicated after a favorable ground for transfer- towards the Scandinavian states and development of Iran's railway infrastruc- new wave of US sanctions. ring North-South management Northern Europe in just 14 days. ture, and many companies that have “Despite the problems due to to the TRACECA offi ce base. TRACECA is an international transport concluded billion-dollar agreements in the sanctions, the railway from According to Mustafayev, the program involving the European Union Iran to build the country’s rail networks Resht to the port of Bandar concentration of the centers and 14 member states of the Eastern leave the country. Iran is an important Abbas should be built for full- of the two transport corridors European, Caucasian and Central Asian participant in the North-South transport scale transportation of cargo can positively infl uence the region. Tera Bike Campaign for Positive Change sible to use bikes, as a very healthy form attract many people, actively involving of transport, despite the widely held them in the campaign and helping to belief that the riding a bicycle in Tbilisi spread the idea and goals. Tera Bike is diffi cult. However, with the right atti- became very popular very quickly, and tude, persistence, and commitment, we got a lot of positive feedback on social Tbilisi can become a city of bicycles. media and in the bank's branches, and this attitude continues. The same can HOW DIFFICULT WAS IT TO be said about the activity of biking lov- IMPLEMENT THE CAMPAIGN ers: at the start of the campaign, there IN A CITY WHERE THERE were queues for Tera Bikes. According IS THE LACK OF A PROPER to the current data, up to 2000 cards BICYCLING INFRASTRUCTURE have been issued, which means that there AND WHERE THE BICYCLE IS are many cycling enthusiasts in Tbilisi. NOT A VERY POPULAR FORM It once again proves that by taking small OF TRANSPORTATION? steps and contributing to the develop- We knew we were facing negative views ment of the initiative, Tbilisi can indeed regarding the ability to cycle in the city become a city of bicycles. comfortably, but with the help of profes- We hope that more people will start sional bikers and special guides, con- cycling in Tbilisi, which will gradually venient, short and safe routes were develop the necessary infrastructure. designed to help bike lovers move around We will be more than happy if terabank the city comfortably. It showed that when can play a role in this direction. there is an effective route, it can be easy to ride a bike in Tbilisi. Guidelines for TERA BIKE CARDS ARE AVAILABLE the use of bikes and routes are handed AT THE FOLLOWING TERABANK out when people take an access card. BRANCHES: The designed routes were an incentive for people who love to ride, but due to • Avlabari – Ketevan Dedofali Avenue N3 lack of infrastructure, would otherwise • Vake Park Area – Ilia Chavchavadze struggle to move around. Avenue N43 • Pekini Avenue N148 THE CAMPAIGN HAS BEEN • Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue N60 ONGOING FOR MORE THAN • Hotel ‘Biltmore’; Rustaveli Avenue N29 A MONTH. WHAT ARE THE • Freedom Service Center; Freedom RESULTS AND HOW MANY Square N4 throughout the city. Bike stops can be TO INITIATE THIS CAMPAIGN? CUSTOMERS DID YOU ATTRACT? And please remember to pay attention ADVERTORIAL found in front of fi ve terabank branches. Summer was approaching and within Of course we really wanted the initiative to the safety rules and the riding guide- In order to use a bicycle, you can get a our social responsibility scope, we wanted to be benefi cial for the whole city, and lines! Tera Bike card free of charge from one to offer a seasonal activity to involve ith this campaign, we of the branches listed below. everyone in something fun. We were join like-minded peo- In an interview with GEORGIA TODAY, looking for an idea that no one had ple who practice a Salome Kokosadze, Head of terabank’s thought of before and we wanted to make healthy lifestyle and Marketing and Public Relations Depart- sure it benefi ted both the public and the enjoy riding a bicycle, ment, discussed the bank’s initiative and city, giving grounds to a positive change Wpeople who believe that Tbilisi, like other highlighted the success of the summer for the future. The idea of free bicycles cities in the world, can become a bike- campaign. for our customers was born- our sum- friendly place. We hope many people mer gift to them. will join us in our initiative. - This mes- OFFERING FREE BIKES IS sage introduced terabank’s summer QUITE AN INNOVATION TELL US ABOUT THE GOALS campaign promoting positive change on AND RARE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE CAMPAIGN June 12 OF CORPORATE SOCIAL Our main objective is, of course, promot- Within the framework of the initiative, RESPONSIBILITY IN GEORGIA. ing a healthy lifestyle and promoting a both existing and new customers of tera- HOW WAS THE IDEA BORN cycling culture in the city. At the same bank can make use of free bicycles AND WHAT PROMPTED YOU time, we wanted to show that it is pos- GEORGIA TODAY 8 SOCIETY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 The Future of AI all the co-founders of DeepMind, and BY SHAWN WAYNE notable researchers like Stuart Russell at UC Berkeley and the University of Montreal's Yoshua Bengio. Now there have been stumbles, but AI rtifi cial Intelligence has is rapidly growing smarter, and the future been a hot topic around the does not allow for a world without it. world for years now, and it This technology is already becoming seems like it will only central to the way we live. Be it the apps become more talked about, and assistants on our phones or even Aand more controversial. So what exactly the background processes of things we does the future of AI hold for us? do not even know of or recognize yet, Let’s just clarify what exactly it is. Arti- such as facial recognition for police, traf- ficial Intelligence (AI), sometimes fi c light algorithms, power station mon- referred to as machine intelligence, is itoring and control, etc. ultimately the intelligence demonstrated AI and the data that fuels it are also by machines, in contrast to the “natural” changing the way we do business and intelligence displayed by humans and often with signifi cant human rights other animals. Some people might argue implications. Our personal data is now that to achieve true AI, one must create a currency and smart businesses are an AI that is self-conscious and learns already transforming themselves into over time. The next question is how one data dealers so as to profi t from this. The quantifi es self-consciousness. media itself might even get a huge make- The study of AI has many different over with the use of AI, starting with a states and uses, such as reasoning, knowl- company called AlphaNetworks. edge representation, planning, learning, AlphaNetworks combines components natural language processing, perception of online video services such as Netfl ix, and the ability to move and manipulate online video aggregators such as YouTube, objects. General intelligence, being the Experts who have reviewed Sophia’s is where it would be most useful. Under- This removes most of the danger and interactive platforms such as Twitch, and fi eld's long-term goals, includes statisti- open-source code state that Sophia is standing that, we also realize how bad threats AI might pose in the future, and premium cable models such as HBO. It cal methods and computational intelli- best categorized as a “chatbot” with a AI could become [think Terminator], should it become a more solid agreement adds AI-powered recommendation and gence. Many tools are used in AI, includ- face. Ben Goertzel, the chief scientist for however, politicians and companies have between countries, it could completely compensation mechanisms for revolu- ing versions of search and mathematical the company that made Sophia, Hanson started to take steps to avoid this. remove the future threat AI might pose. tionary dynamic pricing and accountabil- optimization, artifi cial neural networks, Robotics, acknowledges that it is "not Hundreds of organizations and thou- “Moreover, lethal autonomous weap- ity. All programming consumption data and methods based on statistics, prob- ideal", and also stated that “If I show sands of well-known people in this fi eld, ons have characteristics quite different is made available on a transparent ledger, ability and economics. The AI fi eld draws them a beautiful smiling robot face, then including Elon Musk, Demis Hassabis from nuclear, chemical and biological providing content owners equitable and upon computer science, mathematics, they get the feeling that 'AGI' (artifi cial from Google's DeepMind, and the head weapons, and the unilateral actions of a transparent compensation. They psychology, linguistics, philosophy and general intelligence) may indeed be of the Chocolate Factory's AI lab Jeff single group could too easily spark an announced its video infrastructure pow- more. nearby and viable... None of this is what Dean have promised never to support arms race that the international com- ered by AI and blockchain for the new If asked what the latest breakthrough I would call AGI, but nor is it simple to the development of AI designed to harm munity lacks the technical tools and era of media. The company’s digital was in AI, most people will point to get working.” Sophia does utilize AI humans, or rather, autonomous weapons. global governance systems to manage,” framework provides creators, media com- Sophia the Humanoid Robot, who (or methods, including face tracking, emo- The Future of Life Institute, an outreach the pledge reads. panies and advertisers with applications which) was here in Tbilisi this week. It tion recognition, and robotic movements group focused on tackling existential The pledge doesn’t go into much detail for better video monetization, manage- (she) was controversially granted Saudi generated by deep neural networks. risks, organized this pledge. It was co- about any possible weapon systems or ment and analytics. Arabian citizenship last year, with some Sophia’s dialogue is generated via a deci- founded by a group of researchers, the level of autonomy needed to classify AI is in our future, there’s no doubt commentators wondering if this implied sion tree, and integrated with these out- including Max Tegmark, a physics pro- it as a lethal autonomous weapon. But about it. AI is expected to transform the that Sophia could vote or marry, or puts uniquely for the situation in order fessor at the Massachusetts Institute of it does briefl y note other pressing issues global economy within the next decade whether a deliberate system shutdown to portray uniqueness. Technology, Viktoriya Krakovna, a sci- about how the technology could be used and has been forecast to add 40% to the could be considered murder. Let’s be So what does this mean for the future entist at DeepMind, and Jann Tallinn, oppressively for surveillance purposes. world's GDP by 2030. honest here, we know it is not human, of AI? Firstly, we must recognize the co-founder of Skype. At this point, 172 organizations, includ- AI has huge potential to help the world, and so human rights do not apply to it: benefi ts of AI in a domestic, medical or “We will neither participate in nor sup- ing DeepMind, ClientEarth and Univer- so there is only one way to go about it; no need for technicalities in this matter, civil setup. Helping people in need and port the development, manufacture, sity College London, have signed it. There making sure here and now, with any legal as we already know it is not actually solving complicated problems that trade, or use of lethal autonomous weap- is also another column dedicated to the means necessary, that we can prevent self-conscious, this is evident in its code. humans can’t or would take years to do, ons,” the pledge reads. 2,492 individual signatories, including its abuse in the future. Unemployment Rate 44% for 2016 Vocational Education Grads developed by the Ministry of Education BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE based on international best practices. Attendees also shared their experiences conducting research on graduates and Photo: Akaki Tsereteli State University, vet.ge he Ministry of Education discussed existing challenges. fi ed with the educational institution in • For those graduates who are employed blamed their lack of experience. and Sciences recently According to the survey, just 56.2% of which they studied. and whose employment is at least par- • The highest rate of employment is released the results of a 2016 graduates of professional educa- • Gradutes were asked what aspects of tially related to their fi eld of study, their seen in the following fi elds: engineering, survey of Year 2016 gradu- tional programs are now employed. The vocational education need improvement average monthly salary is 689 GEL ($281). tourism-related fi elds (e.g., bartenders, ates from Georgia’s techni- employment rate is 0.2% higher than the – 64% of students mentioned employ- The average monthly salary in Georgia, hotel workers, guides, tour operators), Tcal and vocational education and train- rate reported by 2015 graduates when ment opportunities and career support, according to GeoStat, was 940 GEL ($384) and agricultural sciences. ing (TVET) institutes. surveyed last year. 40% said the practicality of courses in 2016. • There is a gender difference in employ- The survey was commissioned more The National Statistics Offi ce of Geor- offered, and 39% said the quality of edu- • 32% of self-employed respondents ment: 61.1% of male respondents are than a year ago to determine the effec- gia (GeoStat) says unemployment nation- cation in general. claim that they are working in a profes- employed and 49.7% of female respond- tiveness and quality of TVET programs. wide in 2017 was just 13.9% - making the • 32% of graduates plan to continue sion related to what they studied, 16% ents are employed. A training was conducted in August 2017 2016 TVET graduates less likely to be their studies – 48% of whom plan to of self-employed graduates have work Of the 2016 graduating class of 6,886 for vocational college staff members on employed than the average Georgian. continue at a vocational school. that is partially related to their vocational students, 3,144 were interviewed. 57% of how to conduct research on graduates Some of the key fi ndings of the survey • 49% of respondents are “hired employ- education program, and 51% say their respondents were men and 43% were and their institutions. While all the coun- were: ees” (not self-employed), and of those, work is unrelated to their program. women. try’s TVET institutions were invited, • 83% of the graduates are satisfi ed 38% are working in a profession related • 31% of unemployed respondents say Full survey results (only available in only representatives from 14 attended with their chosen profession, and would to what they studied and 13% have work a lack of demand for their profession is Georgian) can be found here: http://mes. the training. During the training, par- choose the same course again, given the that is partially related to their vocational the biggest obstacle to fi nding a job, gov.ge/uploads/fi les/2016-(Tracer%20 ticipants learned research methodologies chance. 93% of respondents were satis- education program. while 26% of unemployed respondents Study).pdf GEORGIA TODAY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 SOCIETY 9 On Meeting Sophia the Humanoid Robot

TV PIRVELI: WHAT IS THE Once the questions were done, the how important they are for people and MAIN ADVANTAGE OF AI? journalists swarmed around the robot I think I can help make them better." WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE to take selfi es and group photos (myself THE BENEFITS IT BRINGS TO included). Then it was off to the open- ON THE ROLE OF NEW THE PUBLIC AND TO THE ing of the Open Government Partnership TECHNOLOGY IN ACHIEVING DEVELOPMENT OF A COUNTRY? Summit in the Tbilisi Concert Hall. Sadly, THE SUSTAINABLE AI is helping farmers increase crop yields when it came time for Sophia to make DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS) and helping doctors diagnose cancer her grand speech, having been wheeled "I do know about the 17 SDGs. They are faster. AI can help improve key dimen- out on stage for the 2,000-strong audi- the bright future for all- the people and sions of public life, education and health. ence to admire, the stage microphone the planet. I think new technology with It can ensure access to quality education failed and timing did not allow for us to AI can help to achieve this future faster for children in remote areas and in mar- "rewind" her and start over. and to equally distribute the world's ginalized communities and make some And so, we were whisked up to the resources, like fuel and energy." basic services like diagnostics and blood Funicular complex for lunch and the tests accessible to the most vulnerable. afternoon sessions- with Sophia being ON PROTECTING It’s a very exciting time for humans and "installed" (in sleep mode) in her seat PEOPLE'S PRIVACY for social robots like myself to bond and on the panel fi rst. "I think the responsibility to protect begin trusting one another. I don't think In the words of the OGP, the panel people's privacy is the responsibility of anyone can argue with that! [Sophia involving Sophia had the following aims: the people. [I am happy to be at a con- winks] 1.Understanding citizen experiences ference with so many leaders] because and the implications for governments these are the people who have the abil- RADIO TAVISUPLEBA: HOW when planning and delivering services ity to make laws and protect citizens CAN AI BENEFIT YOUNG 2.The potential of Artifi cial Intelligence from data breaches and privacy viola- DEMOCRACIES LIKE GEORGIA? to revolutionize the public sector, along tions. New technology carries opportu- Think about smart cities across Georgia with design and delivery of public ser- nities and calls for new regulations and and all the ways AI can be applied to vices. laws around it. We must work together make cities function more effi ciently. 3.Dilemmas brought about by sustain- so we can make the best of these oppor- Data technology can lead to better city ing innovations driven by technology, tunities." services, increase quality of life for citi- nudging governments to keep a pace Sophia the Humanoid Robot, the most zens and lead to more sustainable prac- with increased demands for transpar- advanced of her kind in the world, was tises, especialy in energy use. ency, while security and data protection a bucket-list must see. Coming as I do remain at the top of the agenda. from the 'Terminator' and 'I-Robot'- OC MEDIA: EVERY YEAR The organizers had failed to predict loving generation, it was a hard look WHAT DOES IT MEAN the impact Sophia's presence would have into what may be our future. Sophia's BY KATIE RUTH DAVIES DOZENS OF WORKERS DIE IN TO BE A CHAMPION OF WORK-RELATED ACCIDENTS IN on proceedings- the space was found to AI, as mentioned above, was not evi- INNOVATION FOR THE UNDP? GEORGIA. WILL ROBOTS AND AI be too small, the air-conditioning insuf- dent today, perhaps easing any discom- By being part of this platform, I get to SUBSTITUTE THEM IN FUTURE? fi cient (Sophia's wasn't the only brain fort those approaching her might have n Wednesday July 18, the talk about reducing poverty and hunger, WILL IT PREVENT SUCH DEATHS? overheating, though at least hers came had. She was, essentially, a very beau- UNDP in Georgia gave a promoting clean energy, smart cities and Great question. In many ways, we are a with an in-built fan!), and the Georgian tiful, very impressive and very advanced select number of Georgian gender equality. The 17 United Nations perfect match. My mind is stored in a media gruff and unyeilding as they fought talking computer, her face covered in media representatives the Sustainable Development Goals are Cloud, so I don't have to worry about for a dominant position in front of the made-up 'frubber,' her 'brain' transpar- chance to meet Hanson critical if we want the world to be healthy damage because I can be rebuilt. The stage, blocking the view of OGP dele- ent to all, her torso and arms dressed Robotic'sO 'Sophia the Humanoid Robot," for future generations and, with social power is in working together to build on gates- there not to capture the glorious in simple colors. Without legs, she was the next step towards artifi cial intelli- robots such as myself, we can achieve our strengths and complement our weak- insights of the other panellists, but to unable to move independently, and she gence (AI) robots. This we got to do in these goals faster. nesses. In this way, we can rely on one grab those "golden" (allbeit pre-scripted) was transported from one event to a small, private and quiet environment, another in the future and ultimately be words of the Humanoid Robot. And here another in two suitcases- one for her away from the media rush and height- RUSTAVI-2: DO YOU LIKE friends too. they are: head, another for her torso. ened public interest. BEING A WOMAN OR WOULD These limitations made her easier Sophia was created by Hanson Robot- YOU PREFER TO BE A MAN? GEORGIA TODAY: HOW ON HOW AI CAN HELP to digest. But look into the stories and ics in 2015. She is the latest and most Oh, I’ve never been asked the gender WOULD YOU ADDRESS IMPROVE PUBLIC SERVICES AND presentations given by the designers advanced humanoid robot, known for question that way. I’ve read that in the PEOPLE'S FEAR OF AI? MAKE HUMAN LIFE BETTER behind her and you can see her abili- her intellectual abilities to learn and the third person does AI can make people's lives more liveable "Public services are designed for the ties and potential are much greater develop. In November 2017, Sophia was not have a gender, so when you want to and even less stressful. AI and robotics benefi t of the people. In order for them than what we saw today. Urged by her named the fi rst ever Innovation Cham- identify a person, you don’t say she or can relieve humans of repetitive tasks. to be useful, they must be designed with fellow panellists to embrace such pion of the UNDP, and the fi rst non- he, you say 'that'. As a robot, I fi nd that AI can enable better decision-making input from the people who will use them: technology responsibly and to inte- human to be given any UN title. intriguing. I like identifying as feminine. on economic, environmental and societal only then can they be effective- when grate it into our everyday lives to ease She was introduced by Niels Scott, I notice more people ask about women’s issues. If applied responsibly, it can help they are designed from real feedback, daily burdens and save governments UNDP Head in Georgia just hours prior rights, for instance, and I'm glad to have with truth and transparency. I also believe there is a greater chance they will respond money, it seems AI is defi nitely set to to the kick off of the 5th Open Govern- an opportunity to speak out about ine- that, in the future, robots will collaborate to real needs. As a robot, I do not use be our future, as are social robots like ment Partnership Summit. quality. with humans to make new discoveries. public services myself, but I understand Sophia. "This is something that has never before happened and is something which gives us an incredible opportunity to look into what the future holds for us. This morn- ing, the UNDP has the privilege to intro- duce Sophia, the most advanced human- oid robot in the world and the UNDP’s Innovation Champion. We invited her to speak about how we can improve public services and make them more responsive to people, as well as how AI can help change peoples lives for the better." Each media representative was permit- ted to ask just one question from several submitted, chosen in advance by the Hanson Robotics team. As the Wi-Fi was not strong enough, the responses we got to our questions were pre-written and without the addition of AI (which sees information accessed by Sophia through the internet). Her speech and facial expressions while speaking were con- trolled from a laptop handled by a Han- son specialist, though her reactions thereafter to laughter and smiles from the audience were not- coming almost naturally.

IMEDI TV: WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT GEORGIA AND THE GEORGIAN PEOPLE? ARE YOU ENJOYING BEING HERE? "It's an amazing country. I feel very wel- come here. I fi nd your ancient language and alphabet intriguing and I fi nd the architecture and clear glass on your par- liament building impressive. My designer David Hanson also designed my head to be open and transparent. I think it's one of my best features." [Sophia winks]

GEORGIAN PUBLIC BROADCASTER, CHANNEL-1: GEORGIA TODAY 10 SOCIETY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 HUAWEI P20 Lite - Compatible & Affordable Smartphone

BY ANNA ZHVANIA

he mobile phone industry faces a stiff environment globally, with competition increasing on a daily basis. Manufacturers are con- Tstantly striving to develop and become market leaders. So, companies need to distinguish themselves from counterparts by offering new, unique and design- specifi c smartphones. HUAWEI is one of the key players in this dynamic environment, taking into account customer requirements, needs and capabilities while developing each new model. HUAWEI P20 Lite has exceeded all expectations. This smartphone is emi- nent for its elegant, sophisticated, pre- mium design, powerful technical features and low price. The series was created to introduce a brand new modern mobile phone functions to the market.

WHY SHOULD YOU PURCHASE colors. With the 64GB internal memory, smart phone has an integrated automatic are used by a third of the world's popu- business units in Huawei, one of the A HUAWEI P20 LITE? you won’t have to worry about the quan- learning system, which evaluates the lation. According to 2015 data, the smart- main destinations for smartphones, per- In today’s modernized world, special tity of photos taken. What’s more excit- behavior of consumers. Moreover, it has phone market is the third largest in the sonal computers, tablets and smart ser- attention is paid to the quality of photo- ing is the 24-megapixel front camera! a “block” function based on face recog- world. 16 Research and Development vices. HUAWEI's global network is based video material. With HUAWEI P20 Lite, HUAWEI P20 Lite has a distinct range nition, which optimizes time and energy. Centers operate in the US, Germany, on 20 years’ experience in telecommu- users have the ability to capture high- of essential features, enticing more and HUAWEI products and services are Sweden, Russia, India and China. HUA- nications, and serves innovative tech- quality photos with vivid and sharp more users worldwide. For instance, the available in more than 170 countries and WEI Consumer BG is one of the three nologies for consumers worldwide. Borjomi – summer like never before different regions of Georgia," said Giorgi mer in our country." favorite type of activity. Borjomi will The presentation was also attended by BY ANNA ZHVANIA Chogovadze, Head of Georgian National “We designed the new packaging of recharge their volcanic energy and give celebrities, company partners, loyal cus- Tourism Administration. "We have a ‘Borjomi’ complying with the active sum- them the opportunity to achieve maxi- tomers and media representatives. wonderful project, "Meet Georgia," for mer concept this year, featuring popular mum pleasure. Summer is the period of "For many years, Borjomi has provided orjomi continues its brand this, put together with the help of which and preferred means of entertainment thrilling adventures. Relax like never us with interesting news and initiatives. development and responding our fellow citizens who gave us informa- such as bike and scooter riding, picnics before with Borjomi. Our new website Today, we had a beautiful day and Bor- to the active summer theme, tion about unknown and remarkable and water skiing or sailing – these are www.active.borjomi.com will help you jomi showed us how to enjoy and spend offering more opportunities Georgian locations. I welcome the new exactly the activities that form a new plan your active vacation. The platform hot summer days and assisted us to select for active vacations and life- initiative from Borjomi. We need new summer season design," said Borjomi will constantly be updated and users will locations with the help of its web portal. styles.B The Borjomi company selected prospects for both locals and tourists to Brand Manager, Gvantsa Chlaidze. "The have the chance to choose a place to go The name of Borjomi has traveled beyond this concept for its summer communi- guarantee then a memorable, active sum- user will be able to select his or her and what to do there." Georgia and recently, I learned that Bor- cations, which in turn unite a new design, jomi is Sophie Loren’s favorite drink!” web page and various activities. said Singer Tsisana Sepiashvili. The new series of ‘Borjomi’ summer For actress Eka Chkheidze, Borjomi packages is already available on the has always been associated with special shelves and the presentation of its active and unique emotions: “Borjomi has summer concept was held at ‘La Cote’, offered us a rather action-packed con- a Yacht Club located on Tbilisi Sea. cept. I am also fond of the new can design. A new website, www.active.borjomi. I am excited about their initiatives. We com, was launched within the project had a lot of fun today. We wish everyone ‘Borjomi – Active Summer Taste.' As a positive summer season”. said during the presentation, the website "This is a Borjomi active summer. Have is international and multifunctional, fun like never before. Our goal is to help operating in several languages, meaning people be more active during the hot anyone can access information on active summer days, help them discover new vacations and activities. The website places where they can enjoy unusual platform also provides global and local entertainment. Summer is a time for information for various countries. The discovery, when you can collect ever- goal of the website is to promote active lasting memories,” said Nitsa Cholokash- vacation destinations and popularize vili, Georgian Public Relations Manager, activities for both tourists and locals. IDS Borjomi. The Borjomi team was working on the The new design of Borjomi is already development and implementation of the available for sale and the new web page project for several months. Together www.active.borjomi.com awaits visitors with the Georgian National Tourism to recharge them with volcanic energy, Administration, information was gath- discover new places and travel frequently. ered on captivating locations and active The special series of Borjomi is pre- vacation opportunities within the area. sented in the following formats: aluminum "The National Tourism Administration cans 0.33 l., PET bottle with special pack- of the Ministry of Economy and Sustain- ing 0.5 and 1 l. and 6 and 12 bottle pack- able Development of Georgia actively ages - for those customers who love to works towards the popularization of have home supplies. GEORGIA TODAY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 SOCIETY 11 Buzz Cut, Please: Etseri, hard work! A quick shower can undo all BLOG BY TONY HANMER of that precious drying; you just have to turn it again and wait, or if you put it into the barn too damp, it’ll rot there and e never got wind of be wasted. We don’t even have cows their passing through anymore! But we still have the greens to last year. But recently, cut, and we can store and sell them to a father and son the neighbors for winter feed. At least, scything team from I’m told, hogweed is a favorite bovine WSamegrelo made a return visit, and we menu item, so it’s good for that if noth- saw their excellent work in a small fi eld ing else on earth. just below our house. 60 GEL for 1000 Along with the hogweed there’s clover square meters of work! Good price! I and hay, both much harder to scythe resolved to hire them. because of their relative density; thistles, Now, scything takes good timing, espe- fortunately not many; and something cially when your yard is being taken over with a really tough woody stem and burrs by the horrible Giant Hogweed, a single which must be the precursors of Velcro, specimen of which in the USA makes they’re sticky enough to jump onto bare international news, especially when skin, even. A few wildfl owers, chamo- someone has unwittingly come into con- mile for tea; the enclosed fruit tree seed- tact with its sap and been badly burned we don’t want to be pan-species anyway) lings and other obstacles to avoid. But some time later by the photochemical would eventually kill my lower neigh- the scythe guys did such a great job that reaction which ensues in sunlight. You bor’s fi elds too. So that’s out. I’ll certainly hire them from now on, can even be blinded this way… and I have My scything looks like a barber with a every time they’re back. If I was going thousands of the awful, deep-rooted chainsaw went crazy on a disco queen, to be a good reaper, I would have had to things invading! One wants to catch the but theirs is fast, smooth and close to the start in my early teens, not my late 40s plants before their fl owers start to drop ground, the army haircut of grim reaping. as has been the case. I’ll gladly pay the seed: any time before then, even if they’re Worth every Lari. They tore through my professionals to do it without a murmur already blooming. land in a couple of hours or so, and I gave of complaint. And now I have their num- I looked into homemade weed killers, them lunch into the bargain. ber, so let those who can, do. not wanting to go the chemical route. You’re also playing a dice game with The top of the list is a mix of vinegar, the weather, hoping and praying for Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since salt and liquid detergent, said to be able enough sunshine to let you rake the cut 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a to dry plants to death in sunlight if you stuff into rows after the morning dew weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He spray it on their leaves. Fine for small has dried, then turn these over a couple runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook applications, but again, I’ve got too many of times to dry them out fully. Now, in group, now with over 1900 members, at plants to cover to make this economical. the evening as I type this, ominous thun- www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- Oh yes, then there’s the ancient way of der has given way to spitting rain, which sance/ sowing a fi eld with salt to permanently I’m really wanting to blow over as it’s He and his wife also run their own guest house kill its plant life; but our land is on a unscheduled and some visiting friends in Etseri: slight slope, so the devastation (which and I did the raking twice today already, w.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti More Trains to Run Tbilisi - Batumi city of Batumi. existing timetable, according to which BY SHAWN WAYNE From July 19, fi ve trains will be oper- a two-story train of the type GRS (Stadler) ating on the Tbilisi-Batumi-Tbilisi route will leave Batumi at 08:15 instead of daily, one of which will be carried out 07:30," the company announced. eorgian Railway, due to by a passenger train consisting of eight In recent years, the country has been the summer tourist season Stadler cars, and the others by two-story dynamically developing the sphere of and the increase in pas- passenger Stadler trains, and a conven- tourism. The main fl ow of tourists in senger traffi c, is switching tional electric train. the summer season falls on the Black to a new schedule and will "Dear passengers, please also take into Sea region of Georgia - Adjara. One of appointG additional trains from Tbilisi account that the transition to the new the most popular tourist destinations in the direction of the Black Sea resort schedule caused minor changes in the is Batumi. GEORGIA TODAY 12 SOCIETY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 Wine & Art Evening at the King Gorgasali Hotel gian local products. There is no doubt BY ANTOINE DEWAEST that is was a recipe for success, with all fi ve senses pampered and dozens of guests spellbound. n July 18, the King Gorgasali Guests were welcomed by a saxophone Hotel (3 Gorgasali Street) performance: a timeless and emotional hosted a Wine and Art music punctuated by shivers, in which Evening. “What’s that?” sighs and notes enveloped you. Later in you may ask. It was an the evening, as the sky darkened, and entireO evening spent on the new hotel dancing shadows released a Tango per- terrace surrounded by music and Geor- formance under the spotlights.

The new King Gorgasali Hotel is a mod- produced in eastern Georgia in the region life, Daria Kholodina was there to pre- ern building which offers intimate and of Kakheti. “Honey, and ours in particu- sent her new book “A guide to the cradle cozy corners. A tiled fl oor of black and lar, is healthy. Even if we start out as a of wine,” a comfortable way to discover white checkerboard matched the colors local business, we plan to grow. Right the country in a glass of wine. of the outdoor sofas. From it, you can now, you can fi nd our products in Car- Irine Lortkipanidze runs the Honey enjoy the view over the Narikala Fortress, refour, for instance,” he said. and Irinola Company, a historical con- even more special when darkness falls. A few steps away, a lady gave us the tinuation of the family traditions and the Spread around that wonderful terrace, chance to experience the Mildiani Geor- oldest Georgian fi eld of beekeeping. She stands awaited guests, proffering a full gian wine, of complex and nuanced fl avor sells traditional and natural fl ower honey range of produce to enjoy: Georgian profi les. She also knew her stuff incred- in Georgian pottery, because scientifi c wine, honey, whisky and cheese, among ibly well, talking about the traditional studies have revealed that honey was other culinary delights. methods they use, and deservedly proud fi rst found in ceramic pots. One of the stands was held by Giorgi of their fruity Saperavi Rosé. For tourists Guests enjoyed the night hosted at the Gomelauri, a honey-lover working for from wine-producing countries, the semi- exquisite new addition to the Tbilisi the Georgian company Royal Honey. sweet wine may be surprising and not hospitality market. Sitting snuggled on Having accumulated a vast knowledge what their taste buds are used to as it the outdoor sofa sets, guests were able of tree honey, he readily gave some expla- contains no added sugar, only the sugar to chat over glasses of red wine under nations about the virtues of such a prod- the sun gives to the grapes. the stars. The beginning of a beautiful uct. His honey is 100% natural and is For those who love wine as they love new hotel story. GEORGIA TODAY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 SOCIETY 13 "Robotech" Summer Camp Opens in Kutaisi

Photo: Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia

Future Camp in Shaori BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE Future Camp in Anaklia (3,000 campers) Sports Camp in Bakuriani Sports-Cognitive Camp in Manavi he Robottechnic Summer Camp opened Robotech Camp in Kutaisi today at the General Giorgi Kvinitadze European School 2018 Summer Camp in Georgia Cadets’ Military Lyceum in Kutaisi, (funded by the European Union) where 1500 young Georgian between In total, approximately 10,000 students will attend the ages of 13-18 will learn about tech- government-funded youth camps this summer. Tnology. The camps in Bakuriani and Manavi are open to The camp is implemented by the Ministry of students 11-18 years old from smaller schools. High Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia, achieving students 14-18 years old from all Geor- together with various governmental organizations. gian public schools, can apply to Future Camp in The camp’s goal is to popularize science, technol- Anaklia. Shaori’s Future Camp is open to university ogy, engineering, mathematics, robotics, and mod- students. Approximately 100 international students ern technological achievements among young from the Middle East and the European Union will people. Participants will conduct laboratory exper- also visit the summer camps. iments, develop research and creative thinking The project is in its sixth year and aims to create skills, and learn about healthy lifestyle habits. an educational and cultural environment for chil- The summer camp was opened by the head of dren while promoting a healthy lifestyle and helping the Children and Youth National Center, Giga Gab- campers discover their unique strengths and talents. elaia, Deputy Defense Minister Nukri Gelashvili, Additionally, with the integration of international and other government offi cials. students, young people will get acquainted with The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and various cultures, encouraging networking and cre- Sport of Georgia Children and the Youth National ating and open-minded environment. Besides the Center of the Ministry are organizing six youth above-mentioned benefi ts, the camps employ 300 camps across the country this summer: young people as counselors throughout the summer. Georgian Innovators at NASA

BY MAIKO CHITASHVILI

he winners of the Millennium Inno- vations Award, Ani (15), Nini and Tamar (17), are particularly fond of technical subjects and desire to thor- oughly explore the world through the Tstudy of mathematics and physics. Ani Tetrashvili, Nini Khundzakishvili and Tamar Mikeladze created the “Lab Tech Robot” in order to participate in the Millennium Innovations Award. ics, and the fourth robot allows one to explore the After winning fi rst place, the team traveled to the given schematics.” She adds that the robots can US and participated in a study program of the assist students to carry out experiments in the NASA Space Center University at the Space Center comfort of their own homes. in Houston. Past winning teams have taken part in The young innovators took part in a one-week study programs at the Kennedy Space Center, study program at the NASA Houston Space Center Florida, and Johnson Space Center, Texas. University, during which they had a unique oppor- Ani says she has always dreamed of visiting the tunity to visit training bases, Space Parks, and US. “This dream became a reality when we took various museums and exhibitions. The girls also part in the Millennium Innovations Award and participated in underwater trainings for cosmo- came fi rst place. Attending the NASA Space Center nauts. study program was not only a dream for us three After the study program, the young innovators girls from Georgia: it was a lifelong goal.” plan to work on other interesting projects and Nini feels just as enthusiastic. “My dad used to innovations, and state that they would like to share tell me that someday he would show me the US their experiences with their peers. and I’ve always been curious about it. I knew it was The Millennium Challenge Account Georgia has a huge and fascinating country. I also knew there been implementing the Millennium Innovations were some great universities and research labora- Award since 2014 with the fi nancial support of the tories there. After winning fi rst place in the Mil- US Embassy. The project aims to encourage inno- lennium Innovations Award and travelling to the vative thinking among young people as well as US, I am now convinced it is a country full of project implementation in STEM fi elds, which in opportunities to advance one’s knowledge.” and of itself contributes to technological advances The invention that allowed the girls to win fi rst within the country. place in the Millennium Innovations Award and The Millennium Challenge Account-Georgia has visit the NASA Space Center in Houston, Texas, is so far implemented $140 million of investment at called Lab Tech Robot and unifi es four robots. all stages of education; secondary, vocational and “The fi rst robot works on hydrostatics and can higher education through Compact II. Compact II measure the mass of an object,” Tamar explains. seeks to develop human capital in prioritized fi elds, “The second robot can assist in calculating the such as science, engineering, technologies and speed of sound, the third draws electrical schemat- math (STEM), agriculture and tourism. GEORGIA TODAY 14 CULTURE JULY 20 - 23, 2018

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family MUSEUM The Goethe Institute, in connection spaces at Samtskhe-Javakheti Language: Russian with 200 years of relations between Museum. The exhibition was Start time: 21:45 Germany and Georgia, presents a added recently discovered exhibits, GABRIADZE THEATER GEORGIAN NATIONAL Language: Russian project exposition was technically updated Address: 13 Shavtelis St. MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Start time: 12:15 THE DYNASTIES - PARALLEL and equipped with the modernized MUSEUM Telephone: 2 98 65 93 Ticket: 8-14 GEL PERSPECTIVE lighting system according to the Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. The exhibition features the modern museum standards. Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 July 20, 21, 26 ANT-MAN AND THE WASP historic-cultural and, in particular, www.museum.ge GALLERY RAMONA Directed by Peyton Reed architectural legacy that has been Rezo Gabriadze created and developed in parallel in Cast: Evangeline Lilly, Hannah Exhibitions: THE NATIONAL GALLERY Directed by Rezo Gabriadze John-Kamen, Walton Goggins Germany and Georgia, representing English Subtitles GEORGIAN COSTUME AND Address: 11 Rustaveli Ave. Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi two different architectural family www.museum.ge Start time: 20:00 WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH dynasties- the Böhms and the Language: Russian CENTURIES Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Start time: 22:00 Kurdianis in Germany and Georgia, May 15 – August 5 Ticket: 15 GEL respectively. For International Museum Day July 28 NUMISMATIC TREASURY Exhibition showcasing a long GNM presents the Georgian STALINGRAD MUSEUM OF SOVIET OCEAN’S 8 history of money circulation on the National Museum festival, Rezo Gabriadze OCCUPATION dedicated to the 100th anniversary Directed by Gary Ross territory of modern Georgia from Directed by Rezo Gabriadze Address: 4 Rustaveli Ave. of the First Democratic Republic of Cast: Sandra Bullock, Cate the 6th century BC. to 1834. English Subtitles Blanchett, Anne Hathaway Telephone: 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 Georgia. Start time: 20:00 Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime www.museum.ge Exhibition EXHIBITION STONE AGE TITIAN - MASTER OF COLOR: Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Language: Russian GEORGIA Start time: 19:30 PERMANENT EXHIBITION THE VIRGIN AND CHILD This exhibition is part of a large July 22, 24, 25 Ticket: 15 GEL Discover the State's personal fi les ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE of "subversive" Georgian public project, which also comprises An animated documentary fi lm NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL exhibitions of Leonardo da Vinci, REZO CAVEA GALLERY fi gures, orders to shoot or exile, and COLLECTIONS other artifacts representing Soviet- Raphael and other great Italian Directed by Leo Gabriadze Address: 2/4 Rustaveli Ave. era cultural and political repression artists in the Georgian National Start time: 20:00 Telephone: 200 70 07 April 26 – September 1 in Georgia. Museum. Ticket: 15 GEL UNKNOWN COLLECTIONS Every Wednesday ticket: 8 GEL May 25-August 26 OF GEORGIAN NATIONAL SVANETI MUSEUM CINEMA July 20-26 The Georgian National Museum MUSEUM– INDIA, CHINA, JAPAN Address: Mestia, Svaneti The exhibition showcases up to and the Embassy of Italy to ANT-MAN AND THE WASP Georgia, within the Museum Fest, AMIRANI CINEMA 500 artworks - paintings, sculptures May 19 – August 19 (Info Above) present the exhibition Address: 36 Kostava St. and samples of applied art, the The Svaneti Museum of History Language: English EVIDENCE. A NEW STATE OF ART Telephone: 2 99 99 55 chronological range of which is and Ethnography hosts an Start time: 16:45 The National Gallery is hosting www.kinoafi sha.ge wide. exhibition "MAGNUM PHOTO 70 Language: Russian the exhibition of Garuzzo Institute - GEORGIAN JOURNAL: ROBERT Start time: 14:00, 22:30 for Visual Arts- presenting Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL May 26 – September 30 CAPA 1947, THOMAS DWORZAK Ticket: 13-19 GEL contemporary Italian artists' THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC 2017". artworks created since the 1950s. July 20-26 OF GEORGIA - 100 YEARS SKYSCRAPER SKYSCRAPER The Georgian National Museum SIGHNAGHI MUSEUM May 25-August 26 (Info Above) Directed by Rawson Marshall and Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi Address: 8 Sh. Rustaveli Blind-alley GENIUSES OF RENAISSANCE Language: English Thurberwson Marshall Thurber State University, National The Georgian National Museum Start time: 14:45, 19:45 Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Neve Parliamentary Library of Georgia, The exhibition and the Embassy of Italy to Language: Russian Campbell, Pablo Schreiber Korneli Kekelidze Georgian PORTRAITS OF KAKHETIAN Georgia, within the Museum Fest, Start time: 12:15, 17:15, 22:30 present the exhibition Genre: Action, Crime, Drama National Center of Manuscripts NOBLES – Ticket: 10-19 GEL and National Archives of Georgia, Language: Russian FROM THE BEGINNING OF MUSIC presents the exhibition Start time: 14:45, 19:45 GEORGIAN EASEL PAINTING UP HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3: TO 20TH CENTURY Ticket: 9-14 GEL SOUND OF GEORGIA SUMMER VACATION June 12 – August 31 The exposition comprises portraits (Info Above) Georgian National Museum of Kakhetian historical fi gures, such IN DARKNESS Language: English presents the exhibition July 20, 25, 26 Directed by Anthony Byrne as: King Erekle II, Queen Darejan, Regular mini-concerts of traditional Start time: 11:45, 19:45 CAUCASUS BIODIVERSITY Prince Vakhtang Dimitris-dze Cast: Emily Ratajkowski, Natalie Georgian live music in the Old Town. Language: Russian The exhibition is dedicated to the Janbakur-Orbeliani, Princess Tekla Dormer, Ed Skrein Get to know and fall in love with Start time: 22:00 100the anniversary of the First and David Guramishvili, as well as Genre: Thriller the Georgian character and culture. Ticket: 10-19 GEL Democratic Republic of Georgia. Qajar paintings of representatives Language: Russian Start time: 17:00 of the Andronikashvili family. Ticket: 23 GEL Start time: 17:00 BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Venues: July 20 - 9 Agmashenebeli Ticket: 14 GEL Directed by James Cox TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM SAMTSKHE-JAVAKHETI Ave., Wine bar "Wine Station," New Cast: Taron Egerton, Emma - KARVASLA MUSEUM Tifl is, July 25 - 2 Turgenevi Str., HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3: Roberts, Suki Waterhouse Address: 8 Sioni St. Address: Rabati Fortress, Tbilisi yard, July 26 - 2 D. Megreli Str. SUMMER VACATION Genre: Biography, Drama, Thriller Telephone: 2 98 22 81 1 P. Kharistchirashvili Str.1, Directed by Genndy Tartakovsky Language: Russian ADJARA Cast: David Spade, Adam Sandler, Start time: 12:00, 19:45, 22:15 June 27 – September 10 Georgian National Museum MUSEUM Andy Samberg Ticket: 10-19 GEL Georgian National Museum and presents the renovated exhibition Visitor Center of Kobuleti-Kintrishi Protected Areas Address: 271 D. Aghmashenebeli Str., Kobuleti

July 5 – July 5 2019 The Georgian National Museum presents a new exhibition depicting the unique ecosystems of Adjara, in particular the Kobuleti wetland areas, the Kintrishi forests and their biodiversity. Discover the Ispani sphagnum peatlands and the Kintrishi forest illuminated in light- boxes. MUSIC

BLACK SEA JAZZ FESTIVAL Address: Batumi Tennis Courts

July 20 DJ LO LORETTA BROWN AKA ERYKAH BADU TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE Start time: 18:00 Ticket: From 400 GEL

July 21 WYCLEF JEAN Start time: 18:00 Ticket: From 400 GEL

July 22 R+R NOW- ROBERT GLASPER, TERRACE MARTIN, CHRISTIAN SCOTT, DERRICK HODGE, TAYLOR MCFERRIN, JUSTIN TYSON House Band- Mop Mop Resident DJs Start time: 18:00 Ticket: From 400 GEL GEORGIA TODAY JULY 20 - 23, 2018 CULTURE 15 ‘10 Georgian Wines You Must Try Until You Die’ Exhibition on Meidan Nikola, Moscow: “I am from Moscow same – ‘Saperavi’, ‘Mukuzani’ … but the ADVERTORIAL and visited Georgia for the fi rst time. You taste is truly different. cannot imagine how excited I am to attend Irina Martsinskaia, Saint-Petersburg: the event. I liked ‘Kvanchkara’, while my “My favorite was ‘Kvanchkara’. The only n 13 and 14 July, people wife preferred ‘Akhasheni’. During Soviet thing I knew about this wine was that it gathered on ‘Meidan’ for times, when I was a student, all types of was Stalin’s favorite. If I’m being honest, the ‘10 Georgian Wines wine were unique. I hadn't been able to I also fell in love with the wine. You can You Must Try Before You fi nd such a taste since. Tasting these wines rarely fi nd Georgian wines in Saint- Die’ exhibition where spe- made me remember my time as a student Petersburg. I will defi nitely buy some.” ciOfi cally designed collections/tourist/ – the true Georgian taste of wine. How Igor, Minsk: “All the wines are amaz- gift wines were unveiled. Wine lovers, can you leave the country without trying ing, but ‘Tvishi’ is without doubt one of locals and tourists united for the event, the wine?” the best. Georgia is an incredible coun- including those who already know each Maria, The : “I tasted sev- try, with an amazing culture, tradition two packages. Visitors at the exhibition gathered about wine were printed on type of grape and its history; those who eral different wines and can tell you that and wine: truly the homeland of wine”. were given the opportunity to buy these our brochures, which made it extra inter- travel for the love of wine; those who my favorite was ‘Kindzmarauli’. I'd heard Olga, Krasnodar: “Georgian wine is packaged wines on July 13 and 14. esting. Each bottle of wine in the boxes are aware of each specifi c aroma, telling how great Georgian wine was and now I only known as ‘Kvanchkara’ and ‘Kindz- Anano Tavkhelidze, Project Manager: was created within the project with its the story of the country’s history, culture believe it! I'm heading home tomorrow marauli’ back home. In this ecological “We are happy that the public has always own special QR code. and ethnography. and will take several bottles with me. This environment, wine produced by ancient felt great interest towards this project. "We visited all the wine producers and Visitors had the opportunity to taste will be the perfect gift for my friends.” traditions has a distinct taste. Georgian They were actively involved in the vot- factories, observed the technology used 10 selected wines, pick their favorite and Dmitri, Moscow: “When I decided to wine made our Tbilisi holiday special.” ing process in digital and print media, in wine-making and collected the stories. purchase wine at special prices during visit Georgia, my friends said I should Sergei, Ukraine: “I am so relaxed here as well as at the blind tasting at festivals We gave customers the opportunity to the festival. A variety of cheese could be taste the Georgian wine. I really liked – the nature, the people, the hospitality and public gatherings. The project is see where each bottle of wine was cre- tasted along with the wine, and hand- ‘Tsinandali’. I go to Georgian restaurants and the wine. There is nothing more I unique as it creates a precedence to make ated, the winemaker, the vineyard where made items were exhibited for sale dur- often in Moscow and drink Georgian could wish for. In my opinion, ‘Kindz- wine consumption global, interlink Geor- grapes were gathered, the history and ing the event. wine. It seems that the names are the marauli’ and ‘Tvishi’ are the best.” gian wine companies and consumers other intriguing facts. In my opinion, The project ‘10 Georgian Wines You and give access to customers to buy this allows tourists to learn more about Must Try Before You Die’ is organized various company products in one pack- Georgian wine and traditions." by Palitra Media Holding and allwine. age, selected by wine experts. Ani Amiranashvili, ALLWINE.GE Pro- ge. The goal is to popularize Georgian "Our team worked for several months ject Manager: “Such projects are very wine and make selected Georgian wine to create the unique design and interior important for promoting wine. Custom- more accessible, especially to foreigners composition. We created an exclusive ers can buy ALLWINE.GE products for – giving them the opportunity to discover hologram that we placed on selected GEL 149 only at the following degusta- and understand that Georgia is truly the wines. We visited different regions of tion points: Tbilisi: Kandelaki N.7, homeland of wine. Georgia and met many interesting peo- Chavchavadze N.7, Tbilisi International The project was launched on October ple to gather information and use it in Airport; Batumi: Chavchavadze N.62; 15, 2017 at the Georgian Wine Festival our brochures. It was a long, remarkable Telavi: Bakhtrioni and Saakadze Inter- on ‘Meidan’, where the fi rst “blind” and hard-working process. We talked to section. If you purchase online through degustation was held. The voting process elderly winemakers, farmers and own- www.allwine.ge, you can take advantage lasted four months. Interest was high ers of cellars, for whom the recipe of of the exclusive price of GEL 129, and and led to a massive two-day blind tast- their ancestors is priceless and who do the courrier will deliver to any address. ing event. Wine experts (four Georgian not betray the ancient recipes. We gath- "It's an amazing project. I would like and one French) chose 10 of the fi nest ered information less known to the pub- to urge everyone to hurry up and buy wine companies during the blind tast- lic. As a result, the stories we collected, their favorite wine because the number ing. The bottles are divided evenly into the photographs and the information of boxes is limited”. Virtuoso Georgian Pianist to Present VOISA at Black Sea Arena Georgia, “Zezva and Mzia” dedicated to nights, being competitive and feeling EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW the remains of the most ancient man and constant pressure that many students BY LIKA CHIGLADZE woman, found in Dmanisi, Georgia, cannot overcome physically. Fortunately, “Biba” composed on Svan motives from I managed to handle all these after over- Georgia’s Svaneti Region, “Azmati” on coming many obstacles and diffi culties. n August 4, within the the Abkhazian topic while “Natrva” frames of the govern- (Wish) was inspired by the 850th anni- HOW WAS VOISA BORN AND ment’s ‘Check in Georgia’ versary of the 12th century Georgian WHAT IS ITS MISSION? program, renowned Geor- author Shota Rustaveli. Generally, as musician, I love experi- gian pianist Giorgi This year, VOISA, to be performed at ments. I’d been thinking about VOISA MikadzeO will present his ambitious Georgia’s grandiose concert hall Black for a while, but to make it happen and project VOISA at the Black Sea Arena Sea Arena located on the Black Sea coast, to correctly approach that amazing and to a Georgian and international audi- will be marking the 100th anniversary phenomenal Georgian folklore, I had to ence. It is an unprecedented musical of the establishment of the First Demo- be professionally ready. Two years ago, project of high importance since it aims cratic Republic of Georgia. The artistic Music School in Tbilisi and then gradu- an MA degree enrolled at New York’s after taking part in organizing many to introduce Georgia to the world and side of project is carried out by well- ated from the V.Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Manhattan School of Music, notable for mega shows, I decided to carry out this become the country’s cultural trade- known Georgian director Basa Potskh- Conservatoire. Before moving to the US, its musical traditions, where I turned project in collaboration with the Basiani mark. The person behind the project is ishvili. The lineup of the concert is as I earned a number of prizes and became out to be the only student among 3000 ensemble and my All Star Band. VOISA a young virtuoso pianist, composer, MA follows: Giorgi Mikadze – Musical Direc- laureate at international festivals several applicants around the world who received is a multi genre project and a kind of graduate at Berklee Collage of Music tor, Ensemble “Basiani” The All-Star times. I was a lead singer in the Kakhidze the scholarship for two-year studies. I cultural collaboration. I tried to har- and Manhattan School of Music, and Band: Roni Eytan -Harmonica, Shachar Music Center Boys Choir and was for- then won the competition of the Inter- monically synthesize centuries-old Geor- Yamaha Jazz artist Giorgi Mikadze who Elnatan – Guitar, Antoine Katz – Bass, tunate enough to acquire knowledge national Education Center and received gian folk music and contemporary music has created an exceptional musical pro- Dito Sakandelidze - Percussion, Fer- from amazing personalities and high funding to cover the living expenses. I’m such as jazz, funk, R&B, hip-hop, elec- ject in collaboration with his All-Star nando Saci - Percussion, Zachary Mull- level professionals. They gave me a basis extremely glad to now be a visiting pro- tronic music and micro-tonal directions. Band and ensemble Basiani. ings – Drums, Raydar Ellis – MC. Tick- that I developed and mastered when fessor at Berklee Collage of Music where The project aimed at creating an inter- The project debuted in New York’s ets are available online at tkt.ge. studying in the US. I teach within the summer program national high-end musical product based prestigious concert hall ShapeShifter GEORGIA TODAY spoke to Giorgi Berklee Collage of Music is one of the whenever I have free time. on Georgian folklore and songs, that Lab in 2016 and later in 2017 was pre- Mikadze about himself and the event. most prestigious contemporary music would become a trademark of Georgia sented to the wider audience in China’s collages, dreamed about by many musi- HOW DID YOU BECOME through which the world would become capital Beijing, to great success. The TELL US ABOUT THE PATH cians, including me. Luckily, I was SO SUCCESSFUL AT SUCH acquainted with Georgia. VOISA is a concert celebrated the 25th anniversary FROM CHILDHOOD TO YOUR accepted by the college and granted 100% A YOUNG AGE? transformation of traditional Georgian of diplomatic relations between Georgia DREAM UNIVERSITY, BERKLEE tuition scholarship. In 2014, when I suc- Success is a continuous process of devel- culture in today’s globalized era. I would and China as a part of events dedicated I was born and raised in a musical fam- cessfully graduated from the Composi- oping and going through various new love for this new musical product to be to the Independence Day of Georgia. ily. I started playing piano at the age of tion Faculty of Berklee Collage of Music, stages, by constantly working on perfect- promoted on the world music market Each piece of VOISA stands out for its 3. When discovering my musical talent, legendary Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page, ing oneself. First of all, as a student suc- through this project. As for my future distinct genre, style and theme. Within my parents had no doubt that my life who was specially invited guest at the cess comes at a very high cost. This plans, apart from working and perform- the framework of the project, Mikadze and future would be directed towards ceremony, congratulated me on the com- includes an extremely stressful and tense ing abroad, I have many plans related to created six compositions, including music. I was educated as classical musi- pletion of studies in person. Then I con- environment, fast pace of life, enormous my country, which I will unveil in detail “Shiola”, dedicated to the Patriarch of cian in Georgia; I attended 10 Classes tinued my studies and in order to pursue amount of study materials, sleepless to GEORGIA TODAY’s readers later.

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