Caucasus Business Week #232

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April 2, 2018 #232

April 2, 2018, Issue 232 - www.cbw.ge

Energy sector New HPPs are of Vital Importance for Power Sector Development

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Hotel “MOXY is focused on modern travelers who choose energetic and eclectic brands” Pg. 9

PR person Nata Tsereteli: PR is the art of communication

Pg. 8

One Year of Visa Liberalization

Heidelberg on the Way to Ejecting Competitors and Monopolizing Market HeidelbergCement Georgia is a major cement manufacturing company in Georgia, which owns 3 cement integrated plants, 13 concrete plants, 2 inert materials aggregates, 1 cement terminal and 1 cement-grinding plant. According to spread information, previously, the company was owned by businessman David Bezhuashvili, but he sold 50% stake to Co-Investment Fund and Honeywell Partners. The deal is said to be 115 million EUR. Co-investment Fund and Irakli Rukhadze — New Owners of Heidelberg Here we submit interesting information about new owners of the company. Co-investment Fund is one of the well-known companies for everybody, which was founded

by Bidzina Ivanishvili in 2013. The Fund’s capital is 6 billion USD. Today, its investment portfolio is 2.1 billion USD. As to Honeywell Partners, it is an international company for private capital and assets management, which, along with properties of other investors, manages the Patarkatsishvilis’ assets mainly.

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The Current Cost of Living Index is Deceptive

Pg. 4

According to Geostat, the national statistics service of Georgia, the cost of living for an able-bodied male is 175.30 GEL, while the monthly cost of living for an average family is 294 GEL. As costs are based on family size, the cost of living for onemember family is 155 GEL, for a twomember family it’s 248 GEL and for a three-member family the cost is 279 GEL. According to Geostat, the cost of living for a four-member family is 310 GEL, a five-member family needs 349 GEL to cover living costs and a six-member family needs 413 GEL. These amounts fail to withstand criticism, and the financial estimates cannot satisfy human needs and ensure decent living standards.

In Georgia, the cost of living index is based on the cost of food. According to Geostat’s calculation method, the food budget for an able-bodied male includes the food volume necessary for normal physiological needs and working capability, at a minimum volume of volume and calories. The minimum food basket for an able-bodied male consists of 40 food varieties and equals 2,300 kilo-calories. However, specialists advise that 2,500 kilo-calories are required for daily consumption, and food products should be Pg. 6 more diversified.

Newsroom

2 Government

Georgia develops $40m National Innovation Ecosystem project

Georgia is trying to increase the innovative activities of firms and individuals and their participation in the digital economy by developing the National Innovation Ecosystem (GENIE).

Government to Spend 10 million GEL on Infrastructural Projects in Regions

Highland Regions Development Fund has allocated 20 million GEL, of which 10 million GEL will be spent on implementing infrastructural projects

economy

Georgia and Israel to Increase Trade Turnover up to 1 billion USD

Georgia’s external debt totals $17 billion in fourth quarter of 2017

O

ver 8 million international visitors will arrive in Georgia in 2018, believes Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili.

While summing up the results of 2017 at the newly opened Moxy Hotel in Tbilisi, the PM stated that tourism has become an important locomotive of the country’s economy.

Last year Georgia hosted

7,554,936 international visitors and received $2.7 billion in tourism, showed statistics.

Kvirikashvili stated it is important to further develop tourism infrastructure in Georgia.

Speaking on the importance of proper infrastructure, the PM accented the spatial arrangement plan which is one of the components of the government’s four-point reform plan.

Developing modern infrastruc-

ture in all interesting areas for tourists is one of the most important tasks, which is also important for developing the tourism field in general. We are building highways, developing winter infrastructure and improving services for exactly that reason. The government will continue its efforts in the future and I am sure the positive tendency of tourism growth will be maintained”, Kvirikashvili said.

The Georgian Economy Minister invited Eli Cohen to Georgia.

The Israeli Minster of Economy is expected to visit Georgia on May 10 to attend an inauguration of Georgia-Israel joint company.

Georgia’s external debt totals $17 billion in fourth quarter of 2017

Free Trade Agreement between Georgia and Switzerland to be Launched from May 1

eorgia currently owes $17.2 billion in external debt, and this amount is growing, says the National Bank of Georgia (NBG).

During the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2017, the gross external debt of Georgia increased by $342.9 million. Out of that a $335.7 million increase was due to transactions, and $12.6 and $10.5 million increase was due to price and other changes respectively. Exchange rate changes led to its decrease by $15.9 million.

Despite owing more, Georgia

The document will promote activation of trade relations between the countries. For example, benefits will be launched for such products as Swiss cheese, dairy products and chocolate.

banking

April 2, 2018 #232

Bank of Georgia Attracted 30 MLN USD from BSTDB

Top Management of BGEO Group were awarded with shares as bonuses. The managers received shares of 140 048 with a nominal value, but their market value exceeds 4.938 million GBP as of March 16 (35.26 GBP).

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still has attracted more Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs).

In the same quarter of 2017, the foreign direct investments (FDI) in Georgia amounted to $497.4 million, up 89.1 percent from the same period of the previous year.

As for Georgia’s international investment position (IIP), the IPP amounted to -$22.8 billion for December 31, 2017. Net IIP deteriorated by $647.8 million compared to the previous quarter.

An IIP is a financial statement that explains the value and composition of a country’s

external financial assets and liabilities. A positive IIP value indicates a nation is a creditor nation, while a negative value indicates it is a debtor nation, as is the case for Georgia.

Meanwhile other data from the NBG on the country’s balance of payment indicated how much money entered and left the country. The NBG said Georgia’s current account deficit of balance of payment was $530.9 million in Q4 of 2017.

A negative balance of goods was the major contributor to the current account deficit, explained NBG.

Assets Declined to the Banking Sector

According to the NBG, assets of 16 banks amount to 33.561 billion GEL by March 1 (01.02.2018 – 33.748 billion; 01.03.2017 – 29.302 billion).

Annual growth is declined 2.2 times (01.03.2018 +14.5%Y.Y; 01.03.2017 +32.1%Y.Y).

business

Anaklia City Starts Cooperation with Jordan’s Largest Economic Zone

Anaklia City started partnership with the Special Economic Zone of Akabi, which is considered as one of the most strategic and successful projects of the last years in the region.

Silknet Announces Investment of 500 MLN after the Merger with Geocell

The largest transaction of the communication market has been finished, - the sides have announced about the signed agreement of 153 million between Silknet and Geocell at the press conference.

company

First Terminal of Crypto Currency is Placed in Tbilisi

The Terminal is owned by Company TPC, which enables the clients to buy and sell digital currency through terminals and web pages.

Caspian Energy Forum Tbilisi – Rescheduled for May 8

O

rganized by Caspian Energy Georgia Company, the 5th International Caspian Energy Forum Tbilisi – 2018 has been rescheduled from April 18 to May 8, 2018. The date has been rescheduled due to the numerous requests of companies taking part in events organized in Azerbaijan and beyond the country.

A large number of participants representing the European, American and Asian continents are expected to attend the forum due to the implementation of a number of large regional energy and transport projects, in which Georgia is an important link, as well as favorable investment and business climate which aroused a high interest of the international business community representatives in the Georgian economy. First Deputy Chairman and CEO of the Caspian

BUSINESS WEEK caucasus

The Editorial Board Follows Press Freedom Principles Publisher: LLC Caucasian Business Week - CBW Address: Aleksidze Street 1 Director: Levan Beglarishvili Sales: Mob: +995 591 01 39 36 WWW.CBW.GE Email: caucasianbusiness@gmail.com

European Club Telman Aliyev stated. He also noted that Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili and the government members, representing the economic bloc of Georgia, are expected to attend the opening ceremony of the event.

The Government of Georgia, the Government of the Azerbaijan Republic and Caspian European Club are providing an official support to the 5th International Caspian Energy Forum Tbilisi – 2018.

As Telman Aliyev said, Caspian Energy Forum is held a few times in the countries of the Caspian-Black Sea and Baltic regions, and serves as a traditional platform creating favorable conditions to activate a business-togovernment dialogue, establish a close contact between the companies of the oil and non-oil sector, arrange meeting between the transnational companies and

small-medium business representatives, as well as investors, experts and analysts interested in global cooperation between businessmen.

From 300 up to 500 delegates will attend the Caspian Energy Forum Tbilisi. Among them there will be heads of public and transnational companies, international financial institutions, leading analytical centers, investment companies and rating agencies of the Caspian-Black Sea and Baltic region states, as well as representatives of diplomatic and international missions accredited in Georgia.

One can view an updated list of speakers and the forum program at the www.caspianenergyforum.com.

Apart from this, the event program provides extra opportunities for participants to work and associate in the course of coffeebreaks and a business lunch.

Editor: Nutsa Galumashvili. Mobile phone: 595 380382 Reporters: Nina Gomarteli; Mariam Kopaliani; Merab Janiashvili Technical Assistant: Giorgi Kheladze;

Source: www.commersant.ge, www.bpi.ge, www.gbc.ge, www.agenda.ge, www.civil.ge

April 2, 2018 #232

publicity

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econo-mix

April 2, 2018 #232

One Year of Visa Liberalization Number of Asylum Applications from Georgia Rose by 35%.

Heidelberg on the Way to Ejecting Competitors and Monopolizing Market

‘‘

Merab Janiashvili Economic Analyst

Statements as if Georgia would be depopulated after visa-free regime introduction or/and number of visa-free regime violations would increase year to year are unreal and ungrounded. It was expected that in the first years of the visa liberalization the migration would increase, but the process will be stabilized in 2-3 years, like it happened in other countries.

‘‘

HeidelbergCement Georgia is a major cement manufacturing company in Georgia, which owns 3 cement integrated plants, 13 concrete plants, 2 inert materials aggregates, 1 cement terminal and 1 cement-grinding plant. According to spread information, previously, the company was owned by businessman David Bezhuashvili, but he sold 50% stake to Co-Investment Fund and Honeywell Partners. The deal is said to be 115 million EUR. Co-investment Fund and Irakli Rukhadze — New Owners of Heidelberg Here we submit interesting information about new owners of the company. Coinvestment Fund is one of the well-known companies for everybody, which was founded by Bidzina Ivanishvili in 2013. The Fund’s capital is 6 billion USD. Today, its investment portfolio is 2.1 billion USD. As to Honeywell Partners, it is an international company for private capital and assets management, which, along with properties of other investors, manages the Patarkatsishvilis’ assets mainly.

In Georgia, Honeywell holds stakes in several major companies, including Liberty Bank, Magticom, Borjomi, TV Imedi, Rustavi Metallurgical Plant. It is evident that Irakli Rukhadze, manager of the Patarkatsishvili’s business, stands behind it.

«Invasion» of Kaspi Mountains Clinker is a necessary component for cement production. Clinker is received through lime processing in Kaspi mountains. It should be noted that only Heidelberg manufactures clinker in Georgia in its own plant. All other volumes are imported from other countries, mostly from Azerbaijan. As to Kaspi mountains, they are fully owned by Heidelberg, despite the company does not mine limestone from all mountains. The company has taken these mountains in leasing for a period of several years to prevent appearance of competitors on the market.

Owner of 70% Market Ratio against Competitors Heidelberg Cement holds 70% market ratio. In 2017, about 2.2 million tons of cement was sold in Georgia, including HeidelbergCement sold 1.6 million tons. Besides the company is an evident market leader, other small competitors also buy clinker from Heidelberg for cement production, because this product is imported in small volumes from abroad. As to the situation in Georgia, we have already described it above.

Without Solutions There is almost no solution, because Kaspi mountains are owned by Heidelberg, despite the company does not need to fully possess them. Government policy should be also mentioned, because the company pays unimportant amount for unused resources, while clinker is produced only by Heidelberg and it sells the product to competitors for much higher price.

Clinker is imported in small volumes and these volumes cannot satisfy the domestic demand. The worst thing is that small cement manufacturing companies say that the financial police frequently deliberately audits them and imposes unreal fines. If we recall who own HeidelbergCement, it is not ruled out that the Government provides much more support to the company and this factor will deteriorate situation on Georgian cement market, as it will be fully monopolized.

One year has passed after Georgian citizens were entitled to travel to EU member countries without entrance visas. VISA-free regime for Georgian citizens came into effect on March 28, 2017.

Owners of Georgian biometric passports are free to stay in the Schengen zone countries for 90 days after 180 days.

After visa-free regime introduction, active discussions were underway on how the number of Georgian migrants has grown in EU and whether this factor may result in visa-free regime suspension. According to EASO statistics, as compared to 2016, in 2017 number of Georgian citizens seeking asylum in EU rose by 35%. Namely, in December 2016, asylum applications were submitted by 625 citizens of Georgia,, while the figure rose to 1570 in December 2017.

According to the agency, in December 2017, asylum applications were rejected in 876 cases and only 13 applicants were granted the status of a refugee.

A total of 706 913 asylum applications were registered in EU countries in 2017,while the figure was 1.3 million in 2016.

«A total of 192 453 citizens of Georgia paid 258 663 visits to EU countries, 1001 persons were not allowed to cross the border. As to noncompliance with deadlines, we do not possess similar statistics. Georgian citizens, who arrive in EU, may move to Turkey or Mexico or other countries and stay there. They may also change the status. Therefore, we do not have precise information on non-compliance with deadlines», Deputy Interior Minister Nino Javakhadze said.

According to Interior Ministry, as of February 16, 2018, a total of 230 944 persons tried to travel to EU from Georgia, including 802 persons were returned back, that is 0.34% in total number.

This statistics reflects only visits performed by airplanes. Therefore, the number of persons who have enjoyed visa-free regime may exceed the mentioned figure of 230 142.

Recently, Government of Georgia has approved a bill on surname change restriction. The bill was introduced by Justice Minister Tea Tsulukiani. According to Justice Ministry, objective of the mentioned bill is to ensure inviolability of visa-free regime with EU. The law will alleviate identification of lawbreaker citizens of Georgia.

According to the bill, Georgian citizens will be entitled to change surname only once, while the current norms do not set restrictions on how many times surnames may be changed. As to the name, in 2014, when Georgia as conducting visa liberalization negotiations with EU, parliament of Georgia adopted the law that allows citizens to change a name only once.

«There are many cases when citizens of Georgia commit crime in EU with one surname, then they return to Georgia, change surname and return to the Schengen Zone with new surnames.

There are no due system at foreign borders to identify persons and they manage to penetrate the EU space, form where they were expelled, or where they have no admission.

There are also many cases, when the same person changes surname several times in a short span of time. For example, in 2016, a total of 58 persons changed surnames twice, and one person changed the surname three times; in 2017, a total of 59 persons changed surnames twice and one person changed surname 4 times», the Justice Ministry officials noted.

Moreover, under the new law, those wishing to change name or surname will have to personally visit due offices (territorial office of state service agency, Georgian diplomatic representations or consulars abroad). Besides the cases of marriage and divorce, verbal hearings will be held at the territorial unit of the agency, where those wishing to change the surname must personally visit the office to substantiate the necessity of changing the surname.

Citizens will not be able to change the surname if: • The statement is not submitted personally by them; • If deported or readmitted to Georgia within 5 years.

Government of Georgia started discussions on restricting the surname changing procedures after one of the German officials requested visa-free regime suspension. After visa liberalization, number of crimes committed by Georgian citizens and the number of asylum applications from Georgian citizens also increased.

Like Georgia, visa-free regime was granted to Moldova 4 years ago. According to Foreign Ministry of Moldova, starting April 28, a total of 2014 577 058 citizens of Moldova paid 1 400 122 visits to Schengen zone countries. All citizens of Moldova with biometric passports, including residents of TransDnestria are entitled to visit EU countries.

According to the indicators of the Border Department, Interior Ministry and Information Technology and Communication Ministry, from May 1, 2014 up to February 29, 2016, a total of 3453 persons were refused to enter the Schengen zone and 6677 persons stayed as illegals. This signifies 3 338 citizens of Moldova have violated visa liberalization regulations and 1 726 persons were not admitted to the Schengen zone.

Comparison of Georgian and Moldavian experiences shows that lower number of Georgian citizens were refused (802) to enter Schengen zone, as compared to citizens of Moldova. Supposedly, number of illegal citizens of Georgia should be lower too. However, EU officials have not launched discussions on visa-free regime suspension. Consequently, we expect that illegal migration will decline from Georgia and number of visa-free regime breakers will also decrease.

Statements as if Georgia would be depopulated after visa-free regime introduction or/and number of visa-free regime violations would increase year to year are unreal and ungrounded.

It was expected that in the first years of the visa liberalization the migration would increase, but the process will be stabilized in 2-3 years, like it happened in other countries.

“I think that political parties act against the legitimate activity of specific companies obstructs business producton process. It is important that RMG is one of the major investors and exporter. I think that such action by political parties is a hindering factor in the company’s activities. Such facts are generally poorly affected by the investment environment, as these processes are seen by other investors”.

Irakli Lekvinadze Business Ombudsman

April 2, 2018 #232

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opinion

April 2, 2018 #232

The Current Cost of Living Index is Deceptive

T

he cost of living index is one of the key parameters reflecting the social-economic development of a country. Research and analysis of the cost of living is relevant for both developing and developed economies.

Andria Gvidiani Association of Young Financiers and Businessmen According to Geostat, the national statistics service of Georgia, the cost of living for an able-bodied male is 175.30 GEL, while the monthly cost of living for an average family is 294 GEL. As costs are based on family size, the cost of living for one-member family is 155 GEL, for a two-member family it’s 248 GEL and for a three-member family the cost is 279 GEL. According to Geostat, the cost of living for a four-member family is 310 GEL, a five-member family needs 349 GEL to cover living costs and a sixmember family needs 413 GEL. These amounts fail to withstand criticism, and the financial estimates cannot satisfy human needs and ensure decent living standards.

In Georgia, the cost of living index is based on the cost of food. According to Geostat’s calculation method, the food budget for an able-bodied male includes the food volume necessary for normal physiological needs and working capability, at a minimum volume of volume and calories. The minimum food basket for an able-bodied male consists of 40 food varieties and equals 2,300 kilo-calories.

However, specialists advise that 2,500 kilo-calories are required for daily consumption, and food products should be more diversified.

Discussions are underway regarding the revision of the cost of living calculation.

Everyone involved agrees that the current methodology is obsolete and harmful, however, resolution of this problem seems to be far off.

It is noteworthy that an unbiased examination of the minimum food basket and cost of living does not depend totally on the financial potential of a country.

Determination of the real cost of living does not imply an urgent revision of social packages. The cost of living implies the benchmark which the government should follow for social policy implementation.

When discussing peculiarities of the cost of living index, it is important to not changes throughout time. The United National Movement declared social equality and the improvement of living conditions top priorities, however, it is not exaggerated to say that the accompanying social policy was a façade, and did not ensure any improvements in the social system.

This is proven by analysis using the cost of living index calculation. From 1997 to 2003, the cost of living grew, and in 2003 it reached a maximum of 130.7 GEL. The next year the minimum declined by 1.6 times after the energy value of food products shrank and expensive products were replaced by cheaper products. The reduced value of the food basket lowered the cost of living for an able-bodied man.

As for calories, it should be noted that before 2003 in Georgia, the daily norm of the food basket was 2,500 kilo calories, while after 2003 the norm declined to 2,300 kilo calories.

Naturally, an actually reduced cost of living would decrease the poverty level.

However, the poverty level was reduced artificially, not because of improved living conditions.

According to the minimum food basket value, the ratio of food expenditures in the cost of living is represented by a 70/30 proportion. 70% of the cost of living goes to food necessities, and 30% covers other needs. These proportions are obsolete, and in many European countries this proportion frequently equals to 60/40 and 50/50.

Naturally, recalculation of the proportions are necessary to determine the real cost of decent life, not base physical existence.

Based on the reality of life in Georgia, it is necessary to replace the current methodology with modern calculation standards, because the real cost of living determination will change social policy.

As a result the benchmark of pensions and minimum social allowances will be higher than today. It is difficult to name specific figures for how much the cost of living should be, but this technical issue requires the involvement of various parties.

We should stress that, based on the gaps in this methodology, the current cost of living index is deceptive. Consequently, we should closely analyze reality to determine the real amount necessary for decent life for our citizens.

Moreover, it is unacceptable to delay the correction of methodological errors. Only political will is required to resolve this problem. Clearly, the authorities are not interested in determining the real cost of living, because current social policy will be turned upside down. Before elections, almost every political party pledges that it will determine the cost of living through new style and methodology.

April 2, 2018 #232

energy sector

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ninna gomarteli

Georgia compensates a lack of natural gas, oil and small reserves of coil through imports, especially during the winter. As for renewable energy resources, the country has predominantly developed its hydro power resources. Recently, discussions have intensified about whether the country needs giant HPPs like Khudoni and Nenskra, and whether the existing renewable energy resources can generate the same volume of energy as the planned HPPs. Economic experts assert that creating an investment-friendly environment in competitive fields is one of the preconditions for Georgian economy development, even more so as this sector is capital intensive and implies a long-term business cycle (that is, it takes at least five years to return investments).

Achieving a competitive advantage in one or two directions brings positive effects for support industries, too, and creates a positive effect on the whole economy, as compared to only revenues in the field and for employed citizens. Similar investments may emerge in the sector of hydro power stations (HPPs).

The top five HPPs in various regions of Georgia: 1. Khudoni HPP – Georgia’s biggest HPP with 702 megawatts of power and 1.5 billion kw/h generation.

2. Namakhvani HPP – the second biggest HPP with 433 megawatts of power, it is comprised of two waterfalls in the villages of Tvishi and Namakhvani.

3. Nenskra HPP – the third biggest HPP with 280 megawatts of power, comprised of high cascades. The total generation planned is 1.1 billion kw/h. The construction works will cover 300 hectare of space.

4. Oni Cascade – 206 megawatts of power.

The HPP will be built in Upper Racha and it is a derivative HPP. 5. Shuakhevi HPP – HPP with 185 megawatts of power. The total generation will be about 0.5 billion kilowatt/hours. Unlike the abovementioned HPPs, Shuakhevi HPP has already been built. The HPP launched operation in July 2017, but suspended operation in August after a tunnel collapsed and its fate remains unclear.

Caucasus Business Week (CBW) has inquired into how important it is to build huge HPPs and what economic benefits they could bring the country.

Doctor of Economics Rati Abuladze says that the efficient employment of energy resources has strategic, political and economic importance for Georgia, on both regional and international levels. According to him, we should build new HPPs and improve the old infrastructure.

Strategic needs before the country necessitates to build hydro power plants include resolving power supply problems and employing energy potential. These needs can be achieved only in some geographic zones.

“Facts prove that HPP projects pose ecological and social challenges, result in flora and fauna annihilation and damage household economies. At the same time, in an eco-

New HPPs are of Vital Importance for Power Sector Development nomic context it grows its importance, due to huge investments, state energy provision, growth in export potential, growth in budget revenues, creating new jobs, revitalizing the region and intensifying activities (the implementation of infrastructural projects has an indirect influence on activity growth on a regional level).”

“Along with negative effects, we should also mention the economic benefits of constructing HPPs and employing energy resources.

These effects are particularly expressed in low prices. Therefore, along with the construction of HPPs, the electricity tariff burden should be alleviated for our citizens,” Abuladze said.

Andria Gvidiani, an analyst for the Association of Young Financiers and Businessmen (AYFB), says that any new HPP is of vital importance for power sector development.

The construction of new HPPs should be promoted in the country, not hampered, according to Gvidiani.

“The government of Georgia should articulate clearly and firmly positions regarding construction of hydro power plants. Moreover, the current developments against HPPs are categorically unacceptable. Frequently, people blended in environment protection issues create obstacles and they deliberately provoke local residents against HPPs. They follow their own self-interests,” Gvidiani said.

HPP construction paces should be accelerated according to him.

In response to the question of whether the government’s support suffices for sector advancement, Gvidiani explained that the Government does not show an uncompromising approach to this issue.

“Frequently, we see that the Government fails to follow the principle and to ensure construction of HPPs without excesses.

Khudoni HPP is an evident sample to this, where the Government has failed to ensure constructive dialogue and persuade local residents of the crucial importance of HPPs. I believe the authorities should activate efforts and take a more articulated position in this direction.”

“Currently, Georgia’s annual consumption constitutes 12.5 billion kw/h. Taking into account the current pace and plans for a

5% growth in consumption at the expense of economic upturn, in 10 years Georgia’s annual consumption will reach 20 billion kw/h.”

“Consequently, if we do not build new power facilities and fail to balance the demand to come, the country will face serious problems.

We will have to import expensive resources or balance the demand with steam power plants, which are expensive and increase the degree of energy dependence.”

“All these factors increase the chance of political dependence in a direct ratio. As a key objective, we should accumulate necessary reserves ourselves,” Gvidiani said.

Economic expert Paata Sheshelidze, president of New Economic School Georgia, said that today the Georgian energy market is illiberal, because distribution networks are monopolized and there are set prices. Therefore, it is difficult to determine which form of power generation would be more optimal and convenient. Today, we do not have mechanism to assess which kind of power generation would best fit the country’s needs, Sheshelidze noted.

“If we want to have similar evaluation mechanism, we should start with economic aspects, neutralize obstacles that we have today, including fixed prices in energy networks. In this case, real demand-supply logic will show what is better, what brings better results, what is more appropriate. A free market would bring different solutions.

Therefore, there is not direct answer whether huge HPPs should be constructed or not,” Sheshelidze said, pointing out a logical flaw in others’ arguments.

A hydro power plant may be profitable, and HPP projects should also include compensation components. This issue should be negotiable, and political decisions should be made for the resettlement of people in a specific territory, Sheshelidze said. “If we have a reasonable and substantiated project in terms of its economic aspects, then we should calculate expenses, including compensation for these people,” Sheshelidze said.

According to Sheshelidze, if all details are analyzed and harmonized, then the hydro power plants will be fit for construction and they may be profitable.

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PR Person

April 2, 2018 #232

‘PR is the art of communication’ - Why did you decide to enter this field, and what kind of opportunities does this profession give you?

It’s been 12 years that I’ve worked as a marketer, and I love this business. I think jobs in marketing and PR are the most dynamic, interesting and creative jobs one can have. As this field is so dynamic, a person is constantly facing challenges: that’s why this is for someone who’s not afraid of difficulties and always looks ahead.

- What is necessary for successful communication with the public?

- PR is the art of communication. Most importantly, one should understand information thoroughly and share it afterwards. Properly conveying a story is key.

- Three tips you would give to someone who wants to work in this field.

- Based on my personal experience I would say – sincerity, transparency and simplicity of the message are the three poles on which I try to build communication.

- What do you wish you knew before you started your career in PR?

Interview with Goodwill’s head of marketing and PR, Nata Tsereteli

- PR means being ready to be in the spotlight; sometimes it can be annoying, but you should prepare yourself for that.

- Describe a typical work week.

- Busy and interesting. A lot of projects, presentations, meetings and nice people. I demand that every project is perfect, or at least I try. I get a pleasant sense at the end of the week, looking forward to news and new challenges.

- What is the best way of finding relevant contacts and sources?

- I’m open to establishing new connections, attending meetings and events, responding to unknown phone calls.

Isn’t communication the most important part of PR? - What do you prioritize at the start of your work day?

- I start with makeup and looking through my to-do list. It’s good if a person can remember everything, but I prefer to write down everything precisely and follow my plans.

- What are skills a Public Relations Specialist needs?

- Being extroverted, having a mastery of analytics and diligence. I could name

further skills, but if you have those three skills, I think it’s easy to learn other tasks.

- What qualities do you value in a coworker?

- Passion and loyalty to the business. Life is too short to not do what we love, and we should realize that well. Any problem can be solved when you love your job. It’s a great way for self expression and making your professional dreams come true.

- What is the best PR practice that technology can’t replace?

- Technologies take up a lot of space in our lives and this is inevitable. I still think the emotions that personal, human relationships bring can’t be replaced.

- What are some of growing trends in the public relations industry?

- Content remains important, and it’s understandable. You should reach customers with an interesting story, and have deep insight into them in this world of flowing information and advertisements. Creative visuals and messaging will make this story an unforgettable experience.

hotel

April 2, 2018 #232

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“MOXY is focused on modern travelers who choose energetic and eclectic brands” Subtle design, relaxed service, affordable price, extraordinary rooms – this is MOXY, the stateof-the-art, innovative boutique hotel recently opened in Tbilisi under the umbrella of Marriott International.

Newly built MOXY Hotel first hosted media representatives, who got acquainted with the brands new concept, dramatically different from the other brands currently represented in Tbilisi.

We have talked with Cameron McNeillie, Multi property General Manager of Tbilisi Marriott, Courtyard Marriott and MOXY Tbilisi.

- Tell us about the meaning of MOXY opening in Georgia and entering Eastern European market through our country.

- Georgia is constantly evolving and expanding as a serious player within the world of Tourism,

and Moxy Brand is a concept that fits well within the current and future markets of Georgia.

Moxy offers travelers something a bit different, with its chic urban design complemented by non-intrusive service.

- Describe one day Atthemoxy, what differentiates MOXY from other hotels?

- No day is ever the same!, Moxy exudes FUN, and our guests are encouraged to enjoy their time in the hotel but to explore the great city of Tbilisi. Moxy offers fantastic design elements of boutique hotels but at affordable prices.

- What was the incentive of including Georgian accents in MOXY Hotel Design?

- Whilst Moxy is modern design, there is a nod to elements of Georgia within the likes to the art work, it creates a great talking point with guests as well as

displaying the exceptional local graphic designers.

- What are the main assets of MOXY, ( extraordinary, creative, price versus quality?)

- Design lead hotel at an affordable price point, great location, FUN environment that offers great bedrooms, free wifi and great showers!

- Is it planned to open MOXY in any other city? At present we cannot comment, but this Brand is very exciting so watch this space….

- How do you think, Georgian clientele will percept MOXY and if they are ready for the hotel of such concept? YES, they are ready…. So far, the feedback has been incredible. People have commented on the wonderful design, the service, location and keep telling us….

This is what Tbilisi has been waiting for… let’s see what the future brings!

business

10 The Namakhvani HPP Project Will Reduce Carbon Emissions by 700,000 Tons Per Year Construction of the Namakhvani Hydropower Plant (HPP) cascade project will result in an estimated 700,000-ton reduction in carbon emissions every year in Georgia or a reduction of approximately 7% in the CO2 emissions in the country.

If the electricity generated from the Namakhvani project was replaced with coal fired power, this would increase the CO2 emissions in Georgia by approximately 14%. The Namakhvani project makes it easier to meet Georgia’s pledges in the Paris Accords signed in 2015. The flexibility the project provides to the energy system in Georgia will make it easier to integrate solar and wind power into the Georgian grid further reducing the CO2 emissions in the country. Namakhvani HPP will be constructed in compliance with the environmental and social standards of the international institutions financing the project. The project will be implemented by a professional team of Georgian and foreign specialists. The project’s technical consultant is the Swiss-based firm Stucky, and its environmental and social advisor is the French company SLR. The Namakhvani HPP being built by Clean Energy Group Georgia (CEGG) LLC is a strategically important project for Georgia’s pursuit of energy independence. CEGG has been awarded the right to develop, build, own, and operate the 400 MW Namakhvani project. The award is the result of a transparent and competitive tender process in which 26 companies took part.

Aldagi Profits Account for 80% in Insurance Sector’s Total Profits Aldagi insurance company ranks first in terms of net profits. According to Insurance Supervision Service, in 2017 Aldagi’s net profits made yup 16 457 056 GE, which is 80% in the sector’s total profits. GPI Holding ranks second with 6 713 074 GEL, and Ardi ranks third with 2 186 986 GEL. The private sector representatives assert that there is unhealthy situation on the insurance market.

Representatives of Unison insurance company assert that corresponding offices should explore the existing tendencies.

“In general, the insurance sector’s profits are very low, as compared to other industries.

At the same time, net profits of total insurance sector is concentrated in one single company, which generates more than 80% of net profits and I think corresponding structures should pay attention to this factor to ensure healthy competition and insurance market development”, Vasil Akhrakhadze said.

The market leader Aldagi says there is unhealthy situation on the market. The company director Giorgi Baratashvil noted that, like all other insurance companies, Aldagi also wants to receive higher profits.

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First Craft Beer Space Opens in Georgia On March 28, the first craft beer space opened in Tbilisi – 9 MTA. Georgian craft beer “9 MTA” is a unique product and it is made by hand. “9 MTA” was specially developed for Georgian consumers in Norway.

Norway’s number one craft brewing specialist has taken part in preparing a special recipe of “9 MTA” beers – Jikium Kjetil.

Objective of the brand is to refine Georgia’s beer world, make iy diverse and shape craft beer culture.

It is said that there are the world’s happiest people in Norway. The new beer’s concept comprises emotions of a happy human. This beer has been developed for sharp feelings, discoveries, trips and novelties.

“9 MTA” has special taste properties that make it different form all other beer products.

The brand of “9 MTA” opened its beer bar at G. Tabidze Street N10 in Tbilisi on March 28. The bar offers 24 varieties of craft beer, various cuisines. Developers of “9 MTA” beer believe that all persons deserve to find the taste of genuine craft beer, because each craft beer that you will taste in “9 MTA” is brewed with special love.

Natakhtari Became a Licensed Producer of Staropramen Beer Natakhtari Brewery organized a presentation of Staropramen, Global Czech Brand. A brewing tour was offered to guests.

After the information tour Cuneyt Arat, CEO of Natakhtari Company, Tomas Pernitsky, Ambassador of Czech Republic, Nino Beneta, Director of Molson & Coors for Eastern Europe, Exports and Licensed Brands and Nikoloz Khundzakishvili, Corporate Director of Natakhtari addressed the audience. „I am delighted to be in Georgia. Presentation held at Natakhtari Brewery is really distinguished. Staropramen was established 150 years ago and since then it has been refining. I am sure that this beer produced by Natakhtari will be exactly the same as in Czech Republic,” – said Nino Beneta.

Following the official part of the event, Czech cuisine and Staropramen Beer were tasted to create Prague atmosphere.

“Staropramen Beer is a global brand of Czech origin. It was extremely important for us to obtain license for its produc-

tion, in fact, Natakhtari was recognized as a company, which produces highest quality beer. The licensing process took one year. We made investments both in infrastructure and quality control improvement. As a result, we became one of the best producers in the world” – said Nikoloz Khundzakishvili.

Staropramen Beer is quite popular among Georgian beer fans. They know the value of this brand. It is important that Natakhtari started production of such brand locally. In my opinion, it is a good opportunity for beer fans to have locally produced Staropramen - highlighted the Business Ombudsman Natakhtari’s success.

Natakhtari Company offers its consumers 10 beer brands and Staropramen is one of them.

It is among the most popular brands in Czech Republic and has been produced since 1869. Staropramen is being exported to 37 countries mainly to Europe and North America.

EBA Discusses Georgia’s Investment Opportunities and the Business Environment in Frankfurt The European Business Association spoke about investment opportunities and the business environment in Georgia at the Investment Management Exhibition, which was held on March 20-21 in Frankfurt, Germany.

A detailed presentation about the current exciting investment opportunities in Georgia was delivered by Mariam Kuchuloria, the Deputy CEO of EBA Georgia.

Focusing on the uniquely favorable business environment for foreign direct investments in Georgia, EBA presented different projects and explained the role the country will take in the Belt and Road initiative.

The International Management Exhibition (IME) is an international event, which serves as a matchmaking platform for connecting investors with public and private investment project opportunities in Energy, Infrastructure, Logistics, Industry, Mining, IT and Public Private Partnerships (PPPs). The focus is Central Europe, South Eastern Europe, Eastern Partnership Countries

and Central Asia.

This year, IME was mainly concentrated on the investment opportunities in the region between Germany and China along the ancient central Silk Road via the Caucasus and Central Asia.

IME believes that the Belt and Road Concept could facilitate significant improvement of the Eurasian Continent, if the international investors’ community and the governmental authorities of the region work closely together in the coming years.

EBA Georgia is in full agreement.

The basic concept of IME in Frankfurt 2018 was to build on the success of the 13 Central and Southern European member states and benchmark, network and coordinate the investment and economic development both of FDI and SME development.

The Exhibition was opened by the President and CEO of The Region of Frankfurt Rhein Main Mr. Eric Menges, Founder of IME Mr. Bekim Xhafa and Consulate of Chinese People Republic in Germany Mr. Wang Shunqing.

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This is the story of the strong and successful Lia Tabatadze, the chairman of the Georgian Down Syndrome Association and Director of Babale. She shared with us about her personal experiences, her own family and the goal of changing similar families’ lives for the better.

The Joy of Raising a Child with Down Syndrome - Tell us about your family.

- I have two children, 9-year-old Datuna and 8-year-old Teodora, who was born with Down syndrome. My parents help me raise them. Teodora is now in the first grade and is a happy pupil, very diligent, she loves her classmates a lot, who give her love and attention. As their mother is very busy, they are raised practically without a parent on a daily basis, but that small amount of time I spend with them is very productive and belongs fully to them. I’m worried every single second they spend without me, and I think about it often: maybe I’ve chosen the wrong way and they would prefer to have a housewife mom, but they respond with the opposite verbally, as well as in action. They both study very well, they are independent, brave and like their active, hard-working mother. I’m a role model to them and I find my character in my children.

They are good friends, feel good when they are together and support each other. Teodora has learned a lot from her brother, and Datuna has gained qualities from her.

- What has changed in your life since Teodora’s birth, and what skills have you developed?

- My life changed from the day I became the mother of my first child. I thought I had information about the peculiarities of child development, as I was a gutsy and active mother who observed every stage of my child’s development precisely.

The birth of my second child also changed my life, since it turned out that everything I knew was a drop in the sea and I found myself in a vacuum, as I knew nothing about Down syndrome.

Since the day her diagnosis was confirmed, I have kept learning and growing with my children. I do

“

My life changed from the day I became the mother of my first child. I thought I had information about the peculiarities of child development, as I was a gutsy and active mother who observed every stage of my child’s development precisely.

my best not just for my child, but to support other people with a Down syndrome diagnosis at every stage of their lives by empowering their families and protecting their rights.

Nowadays I’m a leader of Georgian Down Syndrome Association and the director of the social enterprise Babale. All this is the result of diligence and tireless days. I am a strong woman today, empowered with information and almost impossible to scare with challenges. I’ve solved hard tasks successfully, because I have a huge amount of motivation and faith that everything will change in Georgia and that our children will be ordinary citizens in regard to their rights and possibilities. I’ve dedicated myself to achieving this aim, and seeing small or large results gives me more motivation to not stop before achieving the final goal. Most importantly, I’m not alone, as the association’s founders and member parents have created a big and powerful team who share these views and have begun an irreversible process.

This surely is a very important process.

Tell us more about your daughter’s character, what is Teodora’s favorite activity?

Teodora loves to paint and does it really well.

I gave her a brush and pencil from 5-6 months old and used to help her draw lines, in order to develop her motor skills. It became a part of her life; she draws everything, especially the spaces where she spends her time. The main topics of her art are school, classmates and family.

- What do you learn from her on a daily basis?

- I learn unconditional love at every stage of personal development. It’s like I was born and raised with her, since I learned how hard it is to start walking, use the bathroom, brush her teeth and every skill she has already developed. We

have to go through all these with effort, as if I am a whole new person and every single success she has is also my own.

Most importantly, she taught me how diverse the universe is: there are no similar leaves, there are no similar people, we are all significant.

Although this is normal, we should receive every person the way she is and never try to change her, as we can only change the environment and adjust to her if necessary.

- What advice would you give to other people who have a loved one with Down syndrome? What would you like people to know about your child?

- To every person who has a child with Down syndrome, I would advise to accept the way that child is and confess her condition to herself first.

Be open to speaking about your child and Down syndrome to everyone who’s interested in this information, as it is authentic and real to hear it from a parent, and this can decrease the spread of myths about the syndrome. It will help family members communicate with their surroundings, and what’s most important: this communication can simplify the process of helping a child find acceptance from the public.

It is important for families to communicate with one another and exchange information, strategies and feelings, as no friend can offer this support. Parents should never give up, should believe in their child’s possibilities and help her develop, starting from the first hours of birth in a positive environment. The results will come soon, as a child who was at first stressful will bring numerous happy and unforgettable moments. Each family will find out that they are chosen to receive such happiness, as special families.

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Romantic Musical Evening with Georgian Pianist Luka Okros at Tbilisi State Conservatoire Georgian talented pianist Luka Okros gives his recital at the Grand Hall of the Tbilisi State Conservatoire on Friday April 13, 2018 – Tbilisi State Conservatoire.

Luka has graduated from the London Royal College of Music (2016) and the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory (2013). He made Carnegie Hall debut at the age of 18, gave recitals at lots of famous venues and by now has performed in more than 30 countries. During the last three years Luka has won eight 1st prizes at international piano competitions.

CBW had an interview with a pianist: - What’s better place to start than from the beginning. When and how did your journey with the piano begin?

- Everything started in 1994-1995, at the age of about 3 or 4. We had a piano at home, it was a gift from my grandfather to my mom, when she was a kid. As it was very common thing to have a piano that time in Georgia. It started like a game for me. But later it become just part of my life. We often had guests and I was performing for them.

- Were there any musicians who influenced you early on?

- Since childhood I adored Rachmaninov. His music, his personality influenced me a lot through all my life.

There were other musicians, who helped me

to find my way, like Vladimir Spivakov – a great Russian violinist and conductor. He took a great role of giving me an opportunity to study in Moscow.

- On 13th of April You will perform in Tbilisi. How did you choose the programme?

What should we know in advance regarding this event?

- This going to be a total romantic music evening. For long time, I wanted to do all Chopin ballades. In Georgia there is a very special love to Chopin. Also I couldn’t miss chance of playing my favourite composer – Rachmaninov. His music is connected a lot to Caucasus and East. He visited Georgia several times and even there is his piano in Tbilisi. So it’s very special for me to bring his music back to Tbilisi as well as early work of Prokofiev – Piano Sonata no.3 which is one of my favourite piano works.

Since last year, I usually present works I perform, so even you don’t know anything about them, I’ll introduce the stories behind composers and their pieces during the recital.

- What are you most looking forward to in 2018? What are your future plans?

“I wish there were any kind of formula for success, I’m afraid there is not. However, hard work, love to what are you doing and good luck are in priority for any profession”

- I’m looking forward to my debut in one of the best halls in the world – the Het Concertgebouw of Amsterdam in June.

Really excited to perform in Chopin’s birthplace in Summer. It’s my first visit to Poland and very special to see, where this genius was born.

I am happy to be back to the Palau de la Musica of Valencia, Hong Kong City Hall and of course to perform in Singapore’s beautiful Victoria Hall.

Also it’s planned a recording of my new CD. So it’s going to be a busy year and I’m very much looking for it.

- Can you give some suggestion to young students who are trying to make a career as classical musicians and pianists?

- I wish there were any kind of formula for success, I’m afraid there is not. However, hard work, love to what are you doing and good luck are in priority for any profession.

In case of young musicians, I’d suggest to read books, see art exhibitions, go to theatres, ballet and opera, play lots of chamber music with friends, get more life experience.

Think wider, going beyond chosen profession, not be afraid to feel more and go deep.

We are poets and artists, we have to speak via music. So make sure you have something to say.

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Embassy United States of America Embassy 11 Balanchivadze St., Dighomi Dstr., Tbilisi Tel: 27-70-00, 53-23-34 E-mail: tbilisivisa@state.gov; askconsultbilisi@state.gov United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Embassy 51 Krtsanisi Str., Tbilisi, Tel: 227-47-47 E-mail: british.embassy.tbilisi@fco.gov.uk Republic of France Embassy 49, Krtsanisi Str. Tbilisi, Tel: 272 14 90 E-mail: ambafrance@access.sanet.ge Web-site: www.ambafrance-ge.org Federal Republic of Germany Embassy 20 Telavi St. Tbilisi Tel: 44 73 00, Fax: 44 73 64 Italian RepublicEmbassy 3a Chitadze St, Tbilisi, Tel: 299-64-18, 292-14-62, 292-18-54 E-mail: embassy.tbilisi@esteri.it Republic of Estonia Embassy 4 Likhauri St., Tbilisi, Tel: 236-51-40 E-mail: tbilisisaatkond@mfa.ee Republic of Lithuania Embassy 25 Tengiz Abuladze St, Tbilisi Tel: 291-29-33 E-mail: amb.ge@urm.lt Republic of Latvia Embassy 16 Akhmeta Str., Avlabari, 0144 Tbilisi.

E-mail: embassy.georgia@mfa.gov.lv Greece Republic Embassy 37. Tabidze St. Tbilisi Tel: 91 49 70, 91 49 71, 91 49 72 Czech RepublicEmbassy 37 Chavchavadze St. Tbilisi ;Tel: 291-67-40/41/42 E-mail: czechembassy@gol.ge Web-sait: www.mzv.cz Japan Embassy 7 Krtsanisi St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2 75 21 11, Fax: +995 32 2 75 21 20 Kingdom of Sweden Embassy 15 Kipshidze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2 55 03 20 , Fax: +995 32 2 22 48 90 Kingdom of the Netherlands Embassy Pixel Center, 34, Ilia Chavchavadze Ave. 3rd floor Tel: +995 32 227 62 00 People’s Republic of China Embassy 52 Barnov St. Tbilisi Tel: 225-22-86, 225-21-75, 225-26-70 E-mail: zhangling@access.sanet.ge Republic of Bulgaria Embassy 15 Gorgasali Exit, 0105 Tbilisi, Georgia Tel: +995 32 291 01 94; +995 32 291 01 95 Fax: +99 532 291 02 70 Republic of Hungary Embassy 83 Lvovi Street, Tbilisi Tel: 39 90 08; E-mail: hunembtbs@gmail.com State of Israel Embassy 61 Agmashenebeli Ave. Tbilisi Tel: 95 17 09, 94 27 05 Embassy of Swiss Confederation’s Russian Federation Interests Section Embassy 51 Chavchavadze Av., Tbilisi Tel: 291-26-45, 291-24-06, 225-28-03 E-mail: RussianEmbassy@Caucasus.net Ukraine Embassy 76-g Chavchavadze Ave., Tbilisi Tel: 231-11-61, 231-14-54 E-mail: emb_ge@mfa.gov.ua Consular Agency: 71, Melikishvili St., Batumi Tel: (8-88-222) 3-16-00/ 3-14-78 Republic of Turkey Embassy 35 Chavchavadze Ave., Tbilisi Tel: 225-20-72/73/74/76 embassy.tbilisi@mfa.gov.tr Consulate General in Batumi 9 Ninoshvili Street, Batumi Tel: 422 25 58 00 consulate.batumi@mfa.gov.tr Republic of Azerbaijan Embassy Kipshidze II-bl . N1., Tbilisi Tel: 225-26-39, 225-35-26/27/28 E-mail: tbilisi@mission.mfa.gov.az Address: Dumbadze str. 14, Batumi Tel: 222-7-67-00; Fax: 222-7-34-43 Republic of Armenia Embassy 4 Tetelashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: 95-94-43, 95-17-23, 95-44-08 Kingdom of Spain Embassy Rustaveli Ave. 24, I floor, Tbilisi Tel: 230-54-64 E-mail: emb.tiflis@maec.esRomania Embassy 7 Kushitashvili St., Tbilisi Tel: 38-53-10; 25-00-98/97 E-mail: ambasada@caucasus.net Republic of Poland Embassy

Tbilisi Guide Oniashvili str. 24, Tbilisi Tel.: +995322 920398; Fax: +995322 920397 Email:tbilisi.amb.sekretariat@msz.gov.pl Web-site: www.tbilisi.polemb.net Republic of Iraq Embassy Kobuleti str. 16, Tbilisi Tel: 291 35 96; 229 07 93 E-mail: iraqiageoemb@yahoo.com Federative Republic of Brazil Embassy Chanturia street 6/2, Tbilisi Tel.: +995-32-293-2419 Fax.: +995-32-293-2416 Islamic Republic of Iran Embassy 80, I.Chavchavadze St. Tbilisi, Tel: 291-36-56, 291-36-58, 291-36-59, 291-36-60; Fax: 291-36-28 E-mail: iranemb@geo.net.ge United Nations Office Address: 9 Eristavi St. Tbilisi Tel: 225-11-26/28, 225-11-29/31 Fax: 225-02-71/72 E-mail: registry.geo@undp.org Web-site: www.undp.org International Monetary Fund Office Address : 4 Freedom Sq., GMT Plaza, Tbilisi Tel: 292-04-32/33/34 E-mail: kdanelia@imf.org Web-site: www.imf.ge Asian Development Bank Georgian Resident Mission Address: 1, G. Tabidze Street

Freedom Square 0114 Tbilisi, Georgia Tel: +995 32 225 06 19 e-mail: adbgrm@adb.org; Web-site: www.adb.org World Bank Office Address : 5a Chavchavadze Av., lane-I, Tbilisi, Georgia ; Tel: 291-30-96, 291-26-89/59 Web-site: www.worldbank.org.ge Regional Office of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Address: 6 Marjanishvili St. Tbilisi Tel: 244 74 00, 292 05 13, 292 05 14 Web-site: www.ebrd.com Representation of the Council of Europe in Georgia Address : 26 Br. Kakabadze, Tbilisi Tel: 995 32 291 38 70/71/72/73 Fax: 995 32 291 38 74 Web-site: www.coe.ge Embassy of the Slovak Republic Address: Chancery: 85 Irakli Abashidze St. Tbilisi, 0162 Georgia Consular Office: 38 Nino Chkheidze St. Tbilisi, 0102 Georgia Phone: 2 222 4437, 2 296 1913 e-mail: emb.tbilisi@mzv.sk European Investment Bank Regional Representation for the South Caucasus Address: 1,G.Tabidze Street, Freedom Square Phone: +995 322 006284 Embassy of The Republic of Korea 12, Titsian Tabidze Str. Tbilisi 0179, Geogia Tel: (995 32) 297 03 18; 297 03 20; Fax: (995 32) 242 74 40; Email: georgia@mofa.go.kr

Hotels in Georgia TBILISI MARRIOTT Tbilisi , 13 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 77 92 00, www.marriott.com COURTYARD MARRIOTT Tbilisi , 4 Freedom Sq. Tel: 77 91 00 www.marriott.com RADISSON BLU HOTEL, TBILISI Rose Revolution Square 1 0108, Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 402200 radissonblu.com/hotel-tbilisi RADISSON BLU HOTEL, BATUMI Ninoshvili Str. 1, 6000 Bat’umi, Georgia Tel: 8 422255555 http://radissonblu.com/hotel-batumi SHERATON METECHI PALACE Tbilisi , 20 Telavi St. Tel: 77 20 20, www.starwoodhotels.com Holiday Inn Tbilisi Business hotel Addr: 1, 26 May Square Tel: +995 32 230 00 99 E-mail: info@hi-tbilisi.com Website: http://www.hi-tbilisi.com River Side Hotel With incredible service and views Addr: Mari Brosse street turn, Old Tbilisi.

Tel: +995 32 2242244; +995 32 2242288 Fax: +995 32 2 242277 Email: info@riverside.ge Website: www.riverside.ge

Restaurants Corner House Tbilisi, I. Chavchavadze ave. 10, Tel: 0322 47 00 49; Email: contact@cornerhouse.ge Restaurant Barakoni Restaurant with healthy food.

Georgian-European Cuisine Agmashenebeli Alley 13th Phone: 555 77 33 77 www.barakoni.com CHARDIN 12 Tbilisi , 12 Chardin St. , Tel: 92 32 38 Cafe 78 Best of the East and the West Lado Asatiani 33, SOLOLAKI 032 2305785; 574736290 BREAD HOUSE Tbilisi , 7 Gorgasali St. , Tel: 30 30 30 BUFETTI - ITALIAN RESTAURANT Tbilisi , 31 I. Abashidze St. , Tel: 22 49 61 DZVELI SAKHLI Tbilisi , 3 Right embankment , Tel: 92 34 97, 36 53 65, Fax: 98 27 81 IN THE SHADOW OF METEKHI Tbilisi , 29a Tsamebuli Ave. , Tel: 77 93 83, Fax: 77 93 83 SAKURA - JAPANESE RESTAURANT Tbilisi , 29 I. Abashidze St. , Tel: 29 31 08, Fax: 29 31 08 SIANGAN - CHINESE RESTAURANT Tbilisi , 41 Peking St , Tel: 37 96 88 VERA STEAK HOUSE Tbilisi , 37a Kostava St , Tel: 98 37 67 BELLE DE JOUR 29 I. Abashidze str, Tbilisi; Tel: (+995 32) 230 30 30 VONG 31 I. Abashidze str, Tbilisi Tel: (+995 32) 230 30 30 BRASSERIE L’EXPRESS 14 Chardin str, Tbilisi Tel: (+995 32) 230 30 30 TWO SIDE PARTY CLUB 7 Bambis Rigi, Tbilisi Tel: (+995 32) 230 30 30

Cinemas AKHMETELI Tbilisi. “Akhmeteli” Subway Station Tel: 58 66 69 AMIRANI Tbilisi. 36 Kostava St. Tel: 99 99 55, RUSTAVELI Tbilisi. 5 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 92 03 57, 92 02 85, SAKARTVELO Tbilisi. 2/9 Guramishvili Ave. Tel: 8 322308080,

15 SH. RUSTAVELI STATE THEATRE Tbilisi. 17 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 93 65 83, Fax: 99 63 73 TBILISI STATE MARIONETTE THEATRE Tbilisi. 26 Shavteli St. Tel: 98 65 89, Fax: 98 65 89 Z. PALIASHVILI TBILISI STATE THEATRE OF OPERA AND BALLET Tbilisi. 25 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 98 32 49, Fax: 98 32 50

Galleries ART GALLERY LINE Tbilisi. 44 Leselidze St. BAIA GALLERY Tbilisi. 10 Chardin St. Tel: 75 45 10 GALLERY Tbilisi. 12 Erekle II St. Tel: 93 12 89

75 Agmashenebeli Ave. Tbilisi Tel: 577 18 27 87 Email: hostelmtevnebi@yahoo.com

GSS Car rental offers a convenient service for those who are interested in renting car in Georgia. Rental fleet mainly consist of Japanese made SUV’s, the company has various models of cars including sedans and minivans which are in good technical condition.

Contact information: Email: info@gsservices.ge.

Address: Shalva Dadiani 10

Limelight Travel info Center Address: 13 Sioni Street, 0105, Tbilisi (at the end of Shardeni Street) Phone: +995 322 999 123 E-mail: info@limelight.ge Web-page: www.limelight.ge Facebook page: www.facebook.com/limelight.ge

Theatres A. GRIBOEDOV RUSSIAN STATE DRAMA THEATRE Tbilisi. 2 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 93 58 11, Fax: 93 31 15 INDEPENDENT THEATRE Tbilisi. 2 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 98 58 21, Fax: 93 31 15 K. MARJANISHVILI STATE ACADEMIC THEATRE Tbilisi. 8 Marjanishvili St. Tel: 95 35 82, Fax: 95 40 01 M. TUMANISHVILI CINEMA ACTORS THEATRE Tbilisi. 164 Agmashenebeli Ave. Tel: 35 31 52, 34 28 99, Fax: 35 01 94 METEKHI – THEATRE OF GEORGIAN NATIONAL BALLET Tbilisi. 69 Balanchivadze St. Tel: (99) 20 22 10 MUSIC AND DRAMATIC STATE THEATRE Tbilisi. 182 Agmashenebeli Ave. Tel: 34 80 90, Fax: 34 80 90 NABADI - GEORGIAN FOLKLORE THEATRE Tbilisi. 19 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 98 99 91 S. AKHMETELI STATE DRAMATIC THEATRE Tbilisi. 8 I. Vekua St. Tel: 62 59 73

The Best Georgian Honey of chestnuts,acacia and lime flowers from the very hart of Adjara Matchakhela gorge in the network of Goodwill, Nikora and smart

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