Caucasus Business Week #251

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September 10, 2018 - www.cbw.ge

#251

WEEK

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Interview with Ekaterine Siprashvili, Head of Marketing Department of "Dio"

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Huawei Overtakes Apple in Number of Smartphones Sold

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Hotel Mardi Plaza for Quality Leisure for Family and Business trips

2 September 10, 2018 #251

Georgia and Azerbaijan to Open Joint Enterprises According to the Head of Government, the meetings in Baku discussed joint projects poised to boost the economic relations between Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Japan Financed Shorapani-Argeta Road Section Construction with $ 343 Million The construction of the East-West Express Highway (Japan) will be financed by Japanese financial support.

Georgia Received $1.361 Billion Revenue from International Tourism ADB Named TBC as the Leading Partner Bank in Georgia in Trading Financing TBC Bank has been named as the leading partner bank in Georgia for the fourth time by Asian Development Bank.

In the first half of 2018 Georgia received 1,361 billion USD from international tourism, which is 28.9%, meaning 305 million more than in the first half of 2017.

Negotiations on Visa Liberalization with Japan Started

Passenger traffic at Kutaisi International Airport increased by 44%\ According to Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development’s data of August 2018, the passenger traffic at Kutaisi Davit Aghmashenebeli Airport increased by 44% compared with the same period last year.

40 Million GEL Invested in Ropeway Rehabilitation in Chiatura In Chiatura, the 3428-mile ropeway will be restored. Rehabilitation of ropeway roads has already begun and 40 million GEL will be spent on its works. The project is financed by the Government of Georgia and France.

In the foreseeable future, negotiations on the bilateral investment agreement will be finalized to enable us to attract more high-tech investments from Japan.

Workgroups to Specify Details of Georgia-Israel Free Trade Relations starting 2019 According to Paata Kalandadze, Georgian ambassador to Israel, preparatory works for Georgia-Israel free trade agreement is continued.

Due to the agreement signed in May in Georgia, the Parties will identify their own positions to launch negotiations between technical groups by the end of 2018, he said.

Agriculture Minister: First Unsubsidized Vintage will Pass Successfully Agriculture Minister Levan Davitashvili has attended the vintage process in the village of Samtatskaro, Dedoplistskaro municipality.

Anaklia Seaport and Economic Zone Project Submitted to Business Sector in France At the central head office of Business Confederation of France (MEDEF) Anaklia City executive director Keti Bochorishvili submitted the Anaklia Deep water seaport and economic zone project.

The Editorial Board Follows Press Freedom Principles Publisher: LLC Caucasian Business Week - CBW Director: Levan Beglarishvili WWW.CBW.GE Address: Aleksidze Street 1 Sales: Mob: +995 591 01 39 36 Email: caucasianbusiness@gmail.com Editor: Nutsa Galumashvili. Mobile phone: 595 380382 Copy Editor: Ellie Rambo Reporters: Nina Gomarteli; Mariam Kopaliani; Merab Janiashvili, Economic columnist: Andria Gvidiani; Technical Assistant: Giorgi Kheladze;

3 September 10, 2018 #251

4 September 10, 2018 #251

Competition on Banking Market Shrinks Year to Year The banking sector is the key and biggest segment in Georgian economy. Despite commercial banks are considered as locomotives of the state economy, criticism against crediting institutions has been growing over the past years. Georgian citizens express complaint in many directions, including against expensive credits, high commission fees and fines, enslaving contract conditions and so on. For example, credit or deposit agreements of commercial banks include clauses, under which commercial banks are able to unilaterally revise the approved and signed agreements and their conditions any time in any form. This is alarming situation, when all commercial banks have the same attitude to clients. Consequently, consumers have to accept the enslaving conditions offered by crediting institutions. As a result, we have low competition on the banking market. In practice, two major commercial banks dominate in Georgia’s banking sector and they dictate the terms.

In his last Tv interview ex Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili “fought” against the two major commercial banks again. “Two banks have overeaten the whole country. Our citizens cannot get rid of bank debts.

In this respect, I would say Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank rank first worldwide in terms of profitability.

Maybe, we should be proud, but at the same time, we see that Georgia is leader in terms of excessive debts. Our citizens pay more than one third of their incomes to serve interest rates of commercial banks and this is shameful”, Ivanishvili said in the Tv program of Georgia Public Broadcaster (GPB).

Public criticism, as a rule, mainly hits two major commercial banks.

Today, the Georgian banking sector

registers 16 commercial banks and the most part of them hold an insignificant market ratio. There were times with more than 20 commercial banks in Georgia. However, over the past years the amalgamation process continues. For example, over the past two years TBC Bank bought Bank Republic and Constanta and the crediting portfolio of Progress Bank. Meanwhile, in the mentioned period Bank of Georgia absorbed Privatbank and bought micro and small loans portfolio from ProCredit Bank. Bank of Georgia assets rose to 12.6 billion GEL from 9 billion GEL over the past 3 years. As to TBC Bank, its assets increased to 12.9 billion GEL from 6.9 billion GEL, that is the figure has doubled over the past 3 years. As a result, starting 2015, the market ratio of the two biggest commercial banks in total assets rose to 73% from 54%, that is the growth constituted about 20%. As to profits, the ratio of these two commercial banks in total banking sector’s profits exceeds 80%.

When determining the competition level on the banking market, the market concentration is appraised, that is, the ratio of system banks in total assets. For example, in Georgia the market concertation is much higher than in central and eastern European countries. For comparison, the banking service market of Georgia is more concentrated than in Great Britain (CR5 = 33%, HSBC Holdings, Barclays, Lloyds Banking Group, Standard Chartered, Nationwide Building Society), France (CR5=40%, Credit Agricole, BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, Groupe BPCE, Credit Mutuel), Italy (CR5=27%, Intesa Sanpaolo, UBI Banca, Banco Popolare, Mediobanca), Germany (CR5=22%, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, DZ Bank,

Landesbank Berlin Wurttemberg (LBBW), Bayerische Landesbank, Norddeutsche Landesbank (Nord LB), Helaba Bank, Hypo Real Estate Holding, WGZ Bank). As noted above, the ratio of two major commercial banks in Georgia accounts for 75%, while jointly with the third bank – Liberty Bank, this ratio exceeds 80% in case of these three system commercial banks.

Low competition level on the banking market generates a number of problems. Namely, over the past years, profits of commercial banks have been growing in record figures on annual basis. Public discontent also grows. According to National Bank of Georgia (NBG), in 2017 net profits of Georgia-based commercial banks (profits after profits tax) constituted 870 million GEL, that is, a doubled figure compared to 2014 ( 475 million GEL). It is interesting that if we compare the Georgian economy growth paces to the banking sector’s growth paces in 20132017 , the banking sector’s annual growth pace exceeds the state economy growth at least 6 times.

The practice shows that the competition level is low, when the central bank does not take active steps for ensuring healthy processes. Over the past years, NBG-taken steps for protection of the clients’ rights should be appraised as positive, but they are not sufficient and the banking sector supervision policy requires revision. We hope the central bank of Georgia will follow recommendations by International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other international organizations and take efficient steps for ensuring competition on the banking market.

By Merab Janiashvili

5 September 10, 2018 #251

6 September 10, 2018 #251

Business Sector Proposes to Expand Business Ombudsman’s Functions The United National Movement (UNM) political party demands for abolishing the Business Ombudsman’s office. The parliament’s minority has already prepared the due legislative bill.

The bill’s preface reads that the draft law was initiated because of inefficiency of the Business Ombudsman’s institute. This office could not fulfill its functions and duties, the document asserts.

The UNM offers to abolish the Business Ombudsman’s Office and to transmit its functions to the Public Defender’s Office.

Enforcement of the mentioned bill in 2019-2021 will decrease the budget revenue part by about 83.7 thousand GEL a year.

“In the event all 10 specialists employed at the Business Ombudsman’s Office move to the Public Defender’s Office, the budget’s revenue part will increase by about 61 200 GEL a year”, the bill authors say.

The Caucasus Business Week (CBW) has inquired how efficiently the Business Ombudsman’s Office works and whether it is necessary to maintain the Business Ombudsman’s Office in the current form.

Zurab Lalazashvili, managing partner for BDO auditor company, disagrees with the idea of abolishing the Business Ombudsman’s office and integrating it into the Public Defender’s Office. As to its efficiency, Lalazashvili explains that the Business Ombudsman’s Office has resolved many issues very well and efficiently.

The business ombudsman’s office assists the business sector in resolving the protracted issues and cases and its integration into the Public Defender’s Office will make the whole process inefficient, Lalazashvili said.

“Therefore, this office should have the

platform for cooperation with various offices to genuinely and efficiently resolve problems in the business sector.

It should not be only an criticizing and opposing instance only revealing somebody, who inefficiently executes his/her functions. If we talk about the tackling problems in business sector, the current form and platform is the most efficient”, Lalazashvili said.

Iva Chkonia, president of Distributors Association explains that the Business Ombudsman’s Office is necessary and this office has performed huge job. Those, who propose to integrate it into the Public Defender’s Office, are incompetent people in this part, because the Public Defender cannot cope with the tasks that the Business Ombudsman does.

Five or six specialists working for the Business Ombudsman’s office cannot burden the state budget, Chkonia noted.

“The Business Ombudsman’s Office has fulfilled huge job, including for our Association. Its support is of crucial importance for us. We have resolved a lot of issues jointly and they perform efficient job.

Naturally, the business ombudsman’s person is very important. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Irakli Lekvinadze and his predecessor Zurab Dznelashvili, who was an acting business ombudsman for a certain period.

Over the past week, as a result of consultation, the technical regulations for delivery of information about food products to consumers, approved under government’s resolution N301 on July 1, 2016 will be enforced on March 1, 2019, instead of September 1, 2018.

This issue was postponed by our request and Mr. Irakli Lekvinadze reacted to our letter immediately.

This issue was approved on the first

government meeting. Otherwise, the counters would be emptied. Irakli is a very competent person and he treats all issued competently. I believe this is a necessary institute”, Iva Chkonia said.

Irakli Iashvili, head of East gate Group supervisory board, noted the Business Ombudsman’s institute is necessary unless resolution of two aspects.

First of all, judicial system should be improved to the level, when business sector will be able to resolve problems in court system or arbitration without spending many years. Another issue is related to the problem of bureaucracy.

Both problems are sharpest in the country. Therefore, the business ombudsman has very clear place and role.

Itsik Moshe, head of Georgia-Israel Chamber of Business explains that the business ombudsman’s functions should be expanded if the country wants to attract investments.

Itsik Moshe, president for IsraelGeorgia Chamber of Business, disapproves the mentioned bill and states the business chamber had two successful cases with the Business Ombudsman’s Office under Giorgi Gakharia and now the Chamber is cooperating with the office on four other issues.

‘We have noted many times that the Business Ombudsman’s functions should be expanded if we want to attract investments to Georgia. The Business Ombudsman should be able to timely react to investors’ needs and problems. The business ombudsman’s support to investors is of crucial importance, because they are afraid of standard bureaucratic processes in a foreign country.

A country is measured by not the volume of investments, but timely and adequate reaction to the problems of investors, who enter this country”, Itsik

Moshe said.

Nino Zambakhidze, head of Georgian Farmers Association says that it is of crucial importance that the Business Ombudsman’s Office exist separately.

“Businessmen find it very difficult to cope with the bureaucracy that exists in the country. The business ombudsman ensures good and efficient communication with various offices”, Zambakhidze noted.

The Business Ombudsman’s functions should be expanded. This office should not be subjected to the Prime Minister and it should be formed as a separate organization, she said.

“The state economy, small and medium business needs serious development and it is impossible that the Public Defender fulfill functions of the Business Ombudsman”, Zambakhidze said.

The current office of the Business Ombudsman is quite efficient and useful, she said.

“I can say from my personal sample and name persons who have applied to the Business Ombudsman and as a result, various problems were resolved.

This office provides special job for business companies in regions. I have sent even a letter of gratitude to the Business Ombudsman. Moreover, I know that various countries have expressed intention to share our experience to their countries. I do not think the developed countries would be interested in useless practice.

Therefore, I disapprove the UNM initiative for abolishing the business ombudsman’s office”, Zambakhidze said.

7 September 10, 2018 #251

One of the Most Expensive Directions of Medical Business – Surrogacy How much does it cost in Georgia and how legitimate it is?!

Official statistics do not exist about children born through “in vitro fertilization” (surrogacy) in Georgia, but if you believe clinics, Georgian and foreign stakeholders often use this service. The cost of surrogate mother service in Georgia starts from $ 10 to $ 15,000.

As the practice demonstrates, the costs for surrogate mothers during pregnancy are added approximately 200 to 300 dollars per month, and the surrogate mother's salary increases in case of birth of twins.

The first surrogate child was born in Georgia in 2004 through “in vitro fertilization” and many children born in Georgia are born in this way. “In vitro fertilization” is mainly used by women who aren’t able to bear a child herself because of the health problems or may have other medical problems that are envisaged by Georgian legislation (Ex: if the risk of transmission of a genetic disease by a wife or husband). The embryo obtained from the biological mother's egg is taken to the surrogate mother's body, which plays the role of a natural incubator. As doctors explain, there is no genetic link between Surrogate mother and child; But many families face problems with the law. Under Article 143 of the Law on Health Care, the surrogate mother is not considered the mother of the child.

What is the legal regulation of “in vitro fertilization” as a business activity and which countries are mainly descended for surrogacy in Georgia? Mr. Grigol Mumladze, Partner of GLCC Law Firm talks about these issues. He works on the most cases of legal disputes on surrogacy in law practice.

How flexible is Georgia's legislation for surrogacy for Georgian and foreign citizens?

As far as it is known, “in vitro fertilization” (surrogacy) is not permitted in many countries of the world and at the same time it is not only in the category of low financial value services, and therefore foreigners, who are interested in receiving this service in Georgia, are mostly citizens of the countries, where the fertilization is not allowed and who can pay the relevant financial compensation for this service. Georgian legislation (legal norms) is quite flexible for people willing to enter the child through extracorporeal fertilization (surrogacy), as it concerns both citizens of Georgia and foreign citizens. This indicates that any interested people, if they meet the requirements established by the Georgian legislation, can easily obtain relevant services in Georgia after the agreement with surrogate mother, donor - if necessary, service clinic / doctors etc.).

How often do clients ask for the settlement of the legal part while using surrogacy?

In recent years, the interest in the child's emergence as a result of in vitro fertilization in Georgia is very relevant, although legal problems and disputes have emerged at the initial stage when the emergence of a child as a result of extracorporeal fertilization was innovation for Georgian reality. The scarce legislative base of the time and the impossibility of practical solution to the problem were inadequate to the interested individuals and threatened the normal development of the child. Nowadays, the legislation is being refined by the various types of court precedents, which provides the opportunity for target groups to take advantage of this service more easily, although it is preferable if the competent authorities/officials pay more attention to the problematic aspects of the case, in order the elimination and solution mechanisms to

become more flexible and efficient.

What legal procedures are needed for surrogate?

As mentioned above, any interested people, may initiate various procedures for extracorporeal fertilization, if they meet the requirements set out in Georgian legislation. For example, apply to entities whose declared activities are the selection a surrogate mother, finding the medical clinic / doctor and to communicate with them, as well as other necessary procedures for the implementation of extracorporeal fertilization and stakeholders to achieve the appropriate result. The mandatory rule for the extracorporeal fertilization is to submit the different kind of written documents (basic notary agreement concluded before extracorporeal fertilization, as well as various types of treaties, agreements, etc.). At the given moment, the above mentioned activity is carried out in Georgia by various more or less known private companies / individuals who are offered to the interested persons in exchange for the relevant financial remuneration.

Who has the right to enjoy surrogacy? Under the law, is it necessary to be in an official marriage? Are same-sex couples able to enjoy surrogacy?

The Law of Georgia on Health Care explains the extracorporeal fertilization, in particular: 1. For the prevention of infertility 2. When there is a risk of transmission of genetic disease by a wife or a husband 3. If a woman does not have a womb. As we can see, the law accurately defines the cases when interested persons can initiate procedures for the purpose of extracorporeal fertilization. With

the exact definition of legal norms defined by the Georgian legislation and taking into account existing / established practices, they do not have the right to use services related to extracorporeal fertilization. Also, the couple who are interested in this service should be in an official marriage (since the law is familiar with the wife of a husband and wife), but the practice in this latter case is somewhat different.w As it is known, in France a person who violates a law about surrogacy is fined by 45,000 euros, while in Germany, children born by surrogacy doesn’t have the right to obtain citizenship. Are there any sanctions in Georgia?

There are no sanctions in the present moment in Georgia for violation of the legal norms related to surrogacy in the legislation, but if the violations are of medical character, the liability of such cases is resolved under general rule.

8 September 10, 2018 #251

Ekaterine Siprashvili: "I think I’m lucky to be Paid for My Hobby" Interview with Ekaterine Siprashvili, Head of Marketing Department of "Dio".

Why did you decide to enter this field, and what kind of opportunities does this profession give you?

Daily news, interesting days, non-routine, observation of people, listening to the customer- market research, diverse work environment, all kinds of promotion and diverse profession. I think I’m lucky to be paid for my hobby.

Once a friend told me a little bit of a note - do not look at everything with marketing eyes. I think I'm really looking at almost everything professionally and this helps me find and fix interesting facts.

Perhaps in this era it is interesting to watch the world from marketing perspective, as now it’s the era of communications and commerce.

What is it necessary to hold successful communication with the public?

Listening to them, offering novelties, more videos, more audio, visuals, texts, contents, using all the ways to get to the customers’ brains and in the best case to their hearts that’s the reason of marketers’ insomnia.

What three tips would you offer someone just starting out in PR? 1. Love of the profession.

2. Strategic thinking.

3. Quick adaptation.

What do you wish you would have known before starting your career in PR? Even though I am a GIPA public relations master, studying is a continuous process and we must constantly develop ourselves. In my opinion, like PR, marketing is the field where your knowledge

is not enough. You should be passionate about this profession, having dazzled eyes, and this spark needs to be intensified along with getting experience.

Describe a typical work week.

"Dio" - this is a very interesting company with up to 60 kinds of products. The diversity of products is an important advantage for our company, since the user can act based on ‘’one window’’ principle, and purchase substantially different products, starting from yard’s automatic gate to the interior curtains.

That is why, various activities needs to be done to deliver it all to the audience.

The working week consists of - meetings, brainstorming with marketing team, ongoing issues, next week planning and daily monitoring of the world giants in the field where I work.

How do you go about finding relevant contacts and sources?

Proper time management, strong character, creativity, logical and analytical thinking, easy adaptation and ability to simultaneously deal with several problems. Knowledge of social sciences, flexibility, sense of humor and the ability of independent creative work is essential.

What trait do you value the most in your co-workers?

Responsibility primarily. I am very proud to say that staff at "Dio" choose human values, justice, sincerity, teamwork and respect for colleagues.

What is the best PR practice technology can’t change?

Face-to-face relationships!

How would you go about finding relevant contacts and sources?

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

Networking is important for career success, still a lot of people don’t get the necessity of establishing communication.

Networking simplifies job search process, getting more contacts, finding advisor for the new project. Those who understand and use the meaning of networking are well aware that they are moving forward more than 50%, than those who do not use this approach. I am always glad to have new contacts in informal environment, on different occasions - where it’s events, conferences or bars.

No one could think that digital marketing would be such an actual / effective and would have replaced many communications.

Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is relatively new. The process is constantly ongoing, dynamically progressive, evolving, changing and improving over time.

The main thing is professionals to catch up with novelties. Obsolete technologies often negatively affect the image of the company - so we need professional staff for permanent development.

How would you prioritize and start your work day?

It became my ritual to check e-mails and get acquainted with news.

9 September 10, 2018 #251

Business News Hotel to be Built in Tsikhidziri within 50 Properties for Your Hotel

Future“’s Global Architecture & Design Awards in the category of Urban Design (Built).

The hotel will be built in the village of Tsikhisdziri in Kobuleti. For this purpose, the government sells 3303 square meters on state auction.

8 Month Data of Georgian Wine Export – Number Reaches 52,7 Million Bottles According to LEPL National Wine Agency, in January-August 2018, 52,7million bottles (0,75l) of wine have been exported to 52 countries worldwide, that is 16% higher than the similar data of 2017. Exported wine income amounted to 125,5 million USD, that is 25% higher than the data of the previous year.

companies registered for wine production. One of them is Kadma, which is owned by Lina Slutkin, born in Tbilisi.

Georgian Beard Care Product to Enter to the US Markets

Ekaterine Mikabadze: Second Quarter Registered 25.5 thousand New Job Places Created in Business Sector

Georgian company Beard.ge is planning to enter the US market by the end of 2018, – Irakli Dzaganishvili, the founder the company says.

Darbaiseli-Refreshed Georgian Tradition of Wearing Headdress

Wyndham Grand Hotel Substitutes Rixos in Tbilisi Hotel Wyndham Grand to open in Tbilisi instead of Hotel Rixos. As head of the Israeli Business Chamber of commerce Itsik Moshe says hotel is set to open at the end of the year.

Construction works are at its the final stages.

Keti Jincharadze made headdress for her personal use, that attracted so much attention she decided to build a brand out of it called ”Darbaiseli”. Darbaiseli means a noble woman in Georgian.

The second quarter of 2018 registered 25.2 thousand new job places in business sector as a result of efficient measures carried out by the Government and positive expectation of employers, Ekaterine Mikabadze, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, noted.

Fabrika Takes Second Place at Global Architecture & Design Awards From the 748 submitted projects, Fabrika took the second award in the “Rethinking The

New Georgian Brand Meat Cannery Opens in Kakheti New meat cannery has launched operation in Dedoplistskaro municipality. The plant has been built by LLC GeoNaturals company with as part of Joint AgroProject.

Israel to Produce Wine by Georgian Qvevri Method In Israel, where there have been many successes in wine within the past 20 years, there are about 125

Georgian Graphic Designer at Australian Design Studio Nick Ghortlishvili is a graphic designer of Communications Agency Advertwise for the second year. Recently, Nick joined the Australian design studio Liam Richards’ Outsourced team. Marketer had an interview with him about his expectations and how he got in the company:

10 September 10, 2018 #251

Huawei Overtakes Apple in Number of Smartphones Sold

The International Data Corporation (IDC) published the business success of the first half of 2018, according to which Huawei’s global supply of smartphones has grown significantly to more than 95 million.

According to IDC data, HUAWEI has overtaken Apple in the number of smartphones sold in the second quarter and has achieved second position. In the past three months, HUAWEI has sold 54.2 million smartphones, which accounts for 15.8% of the company's market share. As for Apple's AprilJune period, the smartphones sold amounted to 41.3 million.

According to the report, Samsung takes first place with an amount of 71.5 million smartphones sold, taking up 20.9% of the market share. "The growth of HUAWEI's market share is impressive and highlights its desire to make a place for itself in the markets where the brand is not so well known,” said IDC Program Vice President Ryan Reight. “Samsung, Huawei and Apple are considered to be competitors, which in my opinion, will not change.”

“The last six months have been successful for HUAWEI CBG, with growth of business observed in every market. The main reason for our success is the company's dedication to innovation and most importantly, the loyalty of our consumers. HUAWEI's focus is on improving the products,” said Richard Yoo, Executive Director of HUAWEI's consumer business group.

HUAWEI products and services are

available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world's population. According to 2015 data, the smartphone market is the third largest in the world. 16 Research and Development Centers operate in the US, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of the three business units in Huawei, one of the main destinations for smartphones, personal computers, tablets and smart services. HUAWEI's global network is based on 20 years’ experience in telecommunications and produces innovative technologies for consumers worldwide.

HUAWEI Company Introduces EMUI 9.0 Newest Operating System on Android Basis to IFA 2018 At IFA 2018, the Consumers Business Group (CBG) of HUAWEI company introudced Android-based EMUI 9.0 operating system. It is important that EMUI 9.0 is one of the first personalized systems with intuitive interface and diverse functions to satisfy demands of even the most ambitious consumers.

We remind you that Berlin has hosted the 10th exhibition and sales of IFA 2018, where the same space assembled innovative products of the world’s most popular brands.

Special attention was paid to Androidbased EMIU 9.0 operating system.

It should be noted the HUAWEI’s newest personalized operating system is much more advanced software compared to its predecessor – 12.9% faster in operation and switching to applications. Combination of EMUI 9.0 and the recently introduced KIRIN 980 promises special experience to the consumers in the series of HUAWEU Mate 20.

As part of IFA 2018, a lot of news conferences and presentations were held for delivering more detailed information to consumers and media.

“Today’s smartphones are overloaded by various characteristics that the consumers do not need in everyday life and sometimes they are very misleading applications. All these factors cause general discontent.

This very factor has inspired us to develop EMUI 9.0. The system was to be pleasant, consecutive and simple.

Moreover, having introduced EMUI 9.0, HUAWEI has become one of the first smartphones manufacturing companies, which has offered a personalized operating system on basis of Android Pie. We believe this is a confirmation of close relations between Google and our company”, HUAWEI software engineering department president Wang Chenglu said.

EMUI 9.0 also comprises GPU Turbo 2.0 with expanded support for gamers. One more important function – HiVision that enables camera to perceive famous sighs, pictures and deliver information about them to the user. It is very simple to use this application: “Turn the smartphone to the subject of interest and you will receive full information starting from history ending with interesting facts”, the company explains.

HUAWEI products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by one third of the world population. Sixteen research and development centers operate worldwide: the USA, Sweden, Russia, India and China.

HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of the business units of HUAWEI with scope on production of smartphones, personal computers, tablets and cloud services. HUAWEI’s global network is based on 20-year experience in telecommunication business, which offers innovative technologies to consumers all over the world.

11 September August 10, 6, 2018 2018#249 #251

14, 15, 16 September THE NEW RIGA THEATRE / BARYSHNIKOV PRODUCTIONS Based on the poems of Joseph Brodsky BRODSKY/BARYSHNIKOV Drama/one man show Directed by Alvis Hermanis Venue: Kote Marjanishvili State Drama theatre Duration: 90 min. without intermission 20:00 16 September The Staatstheater Karlsruhe, Germany / Royal District Theatre, Georgia Davit Gabunia TIGER AND LION Directed by Data Tavadze Venue: Royal District Theatre Duration: 100 minutes, without intermission 20:00 17, 18 September Cieque Eloize, Canada Dave St-Pierre and Jeannot Painchaud CIRKOPOLIS Directed by Dave St-Pierre and Jeannot Painchaud Venue: Griboedov theatre Duration: 85 minutes, without intermission 20:00

Brodsky/Baryshnikov 14,15,16 . 09. 2018 ..In the space of this performance, two artists make Brodsky’s words physical—connecting poem to sound and sensation and action and reaction. Reverent, quixotic, “Brodsky/Baryshnikov” is a genteel meditation on what and who a writer’s life leaves behind, and what they can forge in his memory.”

Jennifer Krasinski “Big Words” Tiger and Lion 14,15,16.09.2018 The eloquent author, whose first novel "Colors of the Night" will be

Edgar Allan Poe's Haunted Palace featuring The Tiger Lillies 20.09.2018 “Just brilliant and utterly fantastic!!

You’ll never hear more perverse and twisted as well as haunting and sorrowful songs” Marc Almond Das achte Leben (For Brilka) 23.09.2018 „You can literally touch the inexorability of the 20th century.

This is only possible through this ensemble beyond comparison.“ (NDR 90,3)

20 September The Tiger Lillies, UK EDGAR ALLAN POE’S HAUNTED PALACE FEATURING THE TIGER LILLIES Directed by Paul Golub Venue: Kote Marjanishvili State Drama theatre Duration: 90 min. without intermission 20:00 23 September Thalia Theater, Germany Nino Kharatishvili THE EIGHTH LIFE (FOR BRILKA) Directed by Jette Steckel Venue: Shota Rustaveli State Drama Theatre Duration: 295 with 2 intermissions 19:00 26 September ZhaoLiangART MARTIAL ART IN DANCE Directed by Zhao Liang Venue: Griboedov theatre Duration: 70 minutes, without intermission 20:00 26 September SthlmsMusikTeater SMT, Sweden Text and music by Jan Erik Saaf FREUDS CIGAR THE ONE MAN MUSICAL ABOUT SIGMUND FREUD Directed by Andrias Boonstra Venue: Kote Marjanishvili State Drama theatre, small stage Duration:90 without intermission 20:00 30 September Hands Percussion, Malaisya South East Asia Music, Contemporary Percussion DIALOGUE IN SKIN Artistic Director Bernard Goh Venue: Kote Marjanishvili State Drama theatre Duration: 85 with 1 intermission 20:00

published by Rowohlt in Berlin in August, has written a commission for the Staatstheater Karlsruhe in cooperation with the Royal District Theater in Tbilisi, which is intended to document more than just the past.

Cirkopolis 17,18.09.2018 “Extraordinary! Theres the circus, and then there’s Cirque Éloize.

These guys are on a whole other level.

The New York Post

Martial Art in Dance 26.09.2018 Man and woman was as elegant as a duet. Martial arts often bring inspirations to dancers, even become an indispensable part in daily practice of dancers, for the purpose of shaping the limbs, body and ways of expression.“ Jiefang Daily Dialogue in Skin 30.09.2918

World News

13 September 10, 2018 #251

Amazon hits Market Value of $1,000,000,000,000 Amazon boss Jeff Bezos in likely a step closer to becoming a Bond-esque supervillain should he wish, as Amazon is now worth a $1 trillion.

Trump threatens to withdraw from World Trade Organization

Acer Presents New Products in Berlin The tech giant unveiled a bevy of laptops, including the world’s lightest 15-inch laptop and a metal-clad budget Chromebook.

If the World Trade Organization doesn't "shape up," President Donald Trump told Bloomberg he would pull the United States out. In a Thursday interview with Bloomberg, Trump again criticized the international trading group's treatment of the United States. He told Bloomberg, "If they don't shape up, I would withdraw from the WTO."

Erdogan: BTK Railway is Modern Silk Road The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway, which was built jointly with Azerbaijan, is a modern Silk Road, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at the 6th Summit of the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States in Kyrgyzstan, Turkish media reported Sept. 3.

Investments in Azerbaijan’s oil & gas sector reach $95B The total investments in Azerbaijan’s oil and gas sector amount to $95 billion, Azerbaijani Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at the Azerbaijan Competitiveness Forum Sept. 7.

The founder of Lululemon is now one of the 500 richest people in the world Lululemon founder Chip Wilson has been named among the 500 richest people in the world. 62-year-old Wilson, who founded Lululemon Athletica Inc. in Vancouver, Canada in 1998, has the activeware brand's successful second quarter and a 15% surge in company shares to thank for his $3.9 billion fortune, according to Bloomberg.

ADB Issues Inaugural Armenian Dram Linked Bonds The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has raised AMD2.66 billion (about $5.4 million) from a new issue of offshore Armenian dram-linked bonds. The transaction was structured as a 5-year fixed rate bond maturing in April 2023.

Ukraine raises interest rates as scrambles for more IMF cash The hike to 18 percent from 17.5 percent coincided with the arrival of an International Monetary Fund mission, with time fast running out for Kiev to secure more money under a $17.5 billion assistance programme that expires in 2019 but has been frozen since last year.

Senegal is building a $2 billion futuristic city to help cut down on overcrowding in Dakar Senegalese leaders have long dreamed of building a new urban center amid mounting congestion and overcrowding in the capital city of Dakar. With a population that exceeds three million, the city plays host to skyrocketing housing costs and visibly high levels of unemployment.

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This is for you! Chance to be recognized as the leader in tourism and hospitality industry!

Due to a lot of requests from the tourism & hospitality market representatives, Registration within the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards competition 2018 is Prolonged till 24 September!!!

Do not miss a chance to fight for an affirmation on the market, to stand out from the crowd, to develop together with us and most importantly to be rewarded for a successful work and achievements.

This is your chance!

Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards invites hotels, restaurants, wineries, touristically attractive festivals

• Because you are ready for future development and aren't afraid of competition!

And what is main, the Project gives you an opportunity to express yourself and to be highly appreciated!

For more information about Project, please visit our official website, keep an eye on our social network and be aware of the Project news.

and major events, tour agencies, tour operators and other companies working in the tourism and hospitality industry to participate in the annual competition. This is place where the best representatives of the field are struggling to be named The best!

Why enter?

• Because your contribution in tourism and hospitality industry must get recognition!

• Because your teams' successful work must be appreciated!

• Because everyone should know about your company!

Welcome to Georgia!

National Tourism Awards Team wishes you good luck and hope to see you at the award ceremony.

Hotel Mardi Plaza for Quality Leisure for Family and Business Trips In the Summer time most of the people go on vacation to the Sea, however Georgian Sea resort Batumi offers quality leisure and entertainment for those who are currently planning their holidays. September

is called Velvet Season for sunbathing lovers and is the best time for spending family and business holidays for affordable accommodation, among which is Mardi Plaza Hotel located in the heart of Batumi and offering variety of services.

The Mardi Plaza Hotel has become a reference point for the Batumi residents and tourists, because of its central location and high traffic.It is a unique

combination of retail trade as well as residential and office premises. In the building you can find: commercial center, sports club, Olympic swimming pool and fitness center, brand equipment and cloth stores and other services.Thus, the hotel guests can get the necessary services all at one location.

The four-star hotel, which offers the best service at affordable prices for locals as well as for foreign guests, is constantly oriented on customer comfort.

"For the whole staff and I, the customer, his/her needs and

wishes are the main guide of theworking strategy," said Sophia Popkhadze, the Hotel GM.

Hotel Mardi Plaza offers a discount on corporate and long term cooperation for tourist companies, small groups and individual customers. It is the best place for athletic and cultural tours serving 100 customers at a time.

The hotel providesall-inclusive service for additional 20 GEL. The swimming pool with Olympic standards makes this offer even more lucrative since it is free for the hotel tenants.

This pool is special, because it has a rolling roof that opens and closes appropriately to the weather conditions.During swimming, guests can enjoy the view of the Batumi sky, which is quite impressive. Moreover,

the Georgian and international championships of Synchronized swimming and water polo are often held here.

Here you can also find fitness club that offers a wide range of services, including: a modern gym, aqua aerobics, sauna and Jacuzzi (additional services: massage, fitness instructor, swimming lessons).And last, but not least, one can get a sunbath on the open veranda of Plaza and simultaneously enjoy the views of historic Batumi.

The Mardi Plaza promises many more innovative services to its customers, including alternative services such as: contactanimated rooms, conference halls equipped with latest technologies.Choose Mardi Plaza Hotel for individual or group visits, relax, be healthy and enjoy.

Tel: +995 0422 22 29 29 Mob: +995 568 30 42 02 E-mal: hotel@batumiplaza.ge

15 September 10, 2018 #251 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: 29167-40/41/42 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 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, 291-2689/59 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, 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 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

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