Issue #1297 by Georgia Today

Issue no: 1297

• MAY 21 - 27, 2021 • PUBLISHED WEEKLY

FOCUS ON ISRAEL-GEORGIA COOPERATION IN THE MEDICAL FIELD Minister Tikaradze invited Prof. Nadir who invented the anticoronavirus medicine

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In this week’s issue... Corona Updates: Slight Decrease in Georgian Cases NEWS PAGE 2

PAGE 2

Opposition European Georgia Party Refuses to Enter Parliament, UNM’s Melia in Discussions with Saakashvili in Ukraine POLITICS PAGE 4

6 Steps to Tyranny: How Russia Spreads Its Venom POLITICS PAGE 5

Russia, the Middle East and the Changing World Order POLITICS PAGE 6

Georgian PM Launches Int’l Tourism Fair FITUR 2021 with King and Queen of Spain in Madrid

ENKA Representative Responds to Rioni Valley Guardians’ Criticism of Namakhvani HPP Construction INTERVIEW BY ANA DUMBADZE

ollowing months of continuous protest by the local population and environmental activists, the Georgian government announced a 9-12-month moratorium on the construction of the Namakhvani HPP dam body. The Namakhvani HPP is being built in the Tskaltubo and Tsageri municipalities north of Kutaisi by a Turkish-Norwegian company, ENKA Renewables LLC. On the Prime Minister’s instructions, the Ministry of Justice has been mandated to look into the agreement with construction firm ENKA. “A 9-12-month moratorium has been issued on the construction of the dam body, to allow for a review and validation of already conducted environmental, geological, and seismological assessments. “Presently, the company will only continue preparatory infrastructural work under the project’s initial phase, in compliance with the applicable construction permit,” the Georgian government announced in April. Continued on page 4

BUSINESS PAGE 9

Fathers’ Schools Open in Tbilisi and Kutaisi as Part of ‘Men Care’ Campaign SOCIETY PAGE 10

Rehabilitation of State Silk Museum Begins CULTURE PAGE 11 CULTURE PAGE 11 Prepared for Georgia Today Business by

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NEWS

GEORGIA TODAY

MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Minister Tikaradze Invited Prof. Nadir Who Invented The AntiCoronavirus Medicine TRANSLATED BY ANA DUMBADZE

nvited by Ministry of Health, Israeli Prof. Nadir Arber, the inventor of the anti-coronavirus medicine, visited Tbilisi to hold business meetings with representatives of the Georgian government. While here, he also visited several medical institutions. Nadir Arber is a Professor at the Israeli medical giant, world-leading Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov). It is the largest acute care facility in Israel, treating about 400,000 patients and hosting 1.8 million patient visits per year. After the creation of the anti-coronavirus medicine, the clinic was put even more in the global spotlight, receiving more than 10 thousand applications for cooperation. Itsik Moshe, Head of “Israeli House”, contacted and convinced the clinic's management and donors to start business relations with Georgia, as a friend of Israel in the region. "At a time when terrorist missiles were being aimed at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, we were able to bring world-

renowned clinic donors and leading scientists to Georgia. The visit was oneday, but very fruitful", Moshe noted. The creator of the anti-coronavirus medicine met with the management of the Tbilisi Republican Hospital and Head of the Center for Infectious Diseases, AIDS and Clinical Immunology, Prof. Tengiz Tsertsvadze, where the conversation focused on issues of future cooperation. Nadir Arber got acquainted with the vaccination process, inspected the medical equipment, and briefed his Georgian colleagues on the third phase of testing the new medicine. Further, Israeli Prof. Nadir and one of the donors of the Ichilov Clinic, Moshe Carasso were hosted by the Minister of Health Ekaterine Tikaradze. Moshe Carasso is one of the owners of the largest group in Israel and a well-known philanthropist, who supported this cooperation and made this visit possible. The meeting was attended by Deputy Minister Tamar Gabunia and the head of “Israeli House”, Itsik Moshe and George Gadelia one of the organizers. The parties talked about Georgia's cooperation with the clinic and the supply of a guaranteed quantity to the Georgian side after the production of

"Regarding the coronavirus medicine, we want Georgia, as our friend-country, to be a partner of Israel. Georgia has very good medical staff and we believe that this cooperation will be very successful and fruitful." - Prof. Nadir Arber

the medicine. It was also said that the production of the medicine may be tried in Georgia. Itsik Moshe noted that strengthening friendship between the two states is pos-

sible only through action.”Organizing this visit served this purpose and hopefully further enhances collaboration with the world’s leading medical center”. The Minister of Health expressed her

desire for the Ichilov Center to cooperate with the Republican and Infectious Diseases hospitals in Tbilisi, so that the Georgian side can receive the medicine from Israel in the future.

Corona Updates: Slight Decrease in Georgian Cases

BY ANA DUMBADZE

hroughout the week, coronavirus cases in Georgia decreas,ed slightly, with capital Tbilisi and the biggest regions by population Imereti and Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti,

still remaining hot spots in terms of the virus spread. The daily test-positivity rate now stands at 3.8%, while it was 4.39% the past 14 days. Based on a detailed analysis of the epidemiological situation, the Interagency Coordination Council at the beginning of the week decided to alleviate two restrictions: reduce the nightly curfew

hours and let it start at 23:00 (instead of the previous 21:00), and allow eateries to host customers in open spaces on weekends. Georgia reported 504 coronavirus cases, 2038 recoveries, and 27 deaths on Monday, with a total of 11,665 tests conducted. Tbilisi recorded the highest number of 263 Covid-19 cases, followed by the Imereti region with 53 cases and the

Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region with 50 cases. On Tuesday, amid the expanded testing, (29,685 tests in total) the numbers grew significantly and the country recorded 1562 coronavirus cases, 1490 recoveries, and 30 deaths. Tbilisi recorded the highest number of 893 Covid-19 cases, followed by the Imereti region with 136 cases and the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region with 123 cases. The country recorded 1160 coronavirus cases, 1302 recoveries, and 20 deaths on Wednesday, as a result of 29, 209 tests conducted. Tbilisi recorded 588 Covid19 cases, followed by the Imereti region with 113 cases and the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region with 110 cases. On Thursday, 1104 coronavirus cases, 1603 recoveries, and 21 deaths were reported in the country. 29,032 tests were conducted in the 24 hours. Tbilisi recorded the highest number of 607 Covid-19 cases within the last 24 hours, followed by the Samegrelo Zemo Svaneti region with 109 cases and the Imereti region with 103 cases. Presently, the total number of confirmed cases in Georgia since February 2020, has reached 334,705, among which 315,254 people recovered and 4540 died. There are 14,911 active cases of infection in the country. Based on the data for May 20, 101,415 people had received the coronavirus vaccine in Georgia.

GEORGIA KICKS OFF ROLLOUT OF SECOND SINOPHARM JABS Effective May 20, Georgian citizens will be able to register for the second dose of the Sinopharm vaccine, the National

Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) reported on Thursday. Second dose COVID vaccine booking is available at the web platform booking. moh.gov.ge. and by phone 1522. Also effective Thursday, on the special website Provax.ge, citizens can see the number of free places for vaccination. The website Provax.ge was created by the government to raise awareness about vaccinations. Interested persons can get answers to questions about vaccination from Provax.ge. Cognitive videos, statistics on the vaccination process and the national plan for the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine in Georgia are also available on the website. Further, vaccination with “Sinovac” will start in Georgia next week, Tamar Gabunia, Deputy Minister of Health of Georgia, announced. “The vaccination with Sinovac will start next week and will cover the age group above 18 years,” Gabunia said. The Deputy Minister noted the exact date will be announced by the National Center for Disease Control. At the recent government sitting, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili spoke about successful vaccine negotiations, notably the import of additional Pfizer vaccines this summer, expected in June-July. We are negotiating a million doses. I was personally involved in the process and held a number of phone conversations with the President of Pfizer,” he stated. In addition, negotiations are progressing with Sinopharm and Sinovac pharmaceuticals on the supply of additional doses. The same applies to Moderna and Novavax on the procurement of new vaccines.

NEWS

GEORGIA TODAY MAY 21 - 27, 2021

World Bank: Georgia Can Unlock Potential for Green Growth

he World Bank and the Government of Georgia held a virtual event focused on the findings and recommendations of a recent World Bank report, Georgia: Towards Green and Resilient Growth. The report examines the potential for Georgia’s transition to green and resilient growth – a model of economic development that efficiently uses natural resources, minimizes pollution and environmental impacts, and is resilient against climate change impacts. The report estimates losses associated with pollution and degradation of agricultural and forest land and coastal zones. In 2018, air pollution in Georgia contributed to more than 4,000 lives lost, while its economic costs were estimated at $560 million, or 3% of GDP. The cost of agricultural and forest land degradation, which disproportionately impacts the rural poor who derive their livelihoods from land, was estimated at $128 million. Restoring landscapes is projected to reduce the poverty gap by 6%. Climate change will further exacerbate environmental degradation, particularly in Georgia’s coastal zones. In 2018, climate-driven flooding, erosion, waste, and damage to soil were estimated at 5% of coastal zone GDP. The report emphasizes the importance of natural assets for Georgia’s long-term development and outlines how recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic presents an opportunity for the country to build back better, fairer, and greener. “The World Bank Group stands with the Government of Georgia on its green pathway to economic recovery. We are

Source: The World Bank

delighted that our technical expertise and analysis is shaping Georgia’s green transition, addressing natural resource degradation, reducing the vulnerabilities of resource-dependent people, and identifying a green growth strategy that is just and works for all of Georgia – from the coast, plains, and mountains to urban centers,” said Sebastian Molineus, World Bank Regional Director for the South Caucasus. “The Government of Georgia has shown that it is ready to embrace this unique opportunity and we are committed to supporting all of Georgia on this green pathway.”

The World Bank’s global knowledge leadership and support for green growth provide an important contribution to Georgia’s approximation to the European Union. Becoming an EU member state means greening the country’s growth and aligning with the European Green Deal, soon to be a defining feature of the EU’s approach to development. “The Government of Georgia recognizes the green economy opportunities for the country and its potential for sustainable economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction. Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, we

are trying to approximate our legislation with best international practices in green development,” said Ekaterine Mikabadze, First Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. “Considering the significance of the impacts of climate change on economic development, we highly appreciate the assistance of our international partners, including the World Bank, for supporting us throughout our green transition.” Under the 2015 Paris Agreement, Georgia has pledged to enhance sustainable development and to curb global warming through its recently updated Nation-

ally Determined Contribution (NDC), which sets forth specific measures for greenhouse gas emission reductions and climate-change adaptation. As part of its updated NDC, Georgia pledged a 35-percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 as compared to 1990. At the Conference of the Parties (COP) in Glasgow later this year, Georgia and all Paris Agreement signatories will be reporting on progress made towards these targets. “I commend the Government of Georgia for recognizing the importance of the country’s unique coastal and marine resources and emphasizing in its updated NDC climate adaptation measures in its coastal zone. The resilient use of natural resources, including those in coastal areas, and bringing back tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic, are among the priority interventions,” said Steven Schonberger, World Bank Sustainable Development Regional Director. The report emphasizes that the green growth model will require a mix of bold policy actions that strengthen forest and landscape management, develop a climate-resilient coastal zone, manage pollution, and build a multi-sectoral approach to sustainable development. “Looking to the future, the World Bank is supporting the Green Transition Platform that will outline a green growth path for Georgia to achieve its climate targets (NDC). Among the priority actions on this path are implementing policies to enhance efficient resource use, decarbonizing and adapting to climate change, and promoting technological innovation and environmentally friendly industries and jobs,” announced the World Bank.

5 Years Since Murder of Georgian Giga Otkhozoria by Occupation Forces BY ANA DUMBADZE

ive years have passed since the brutal murder of Georgian citizen Giga Otkgozria by occupying forces in the village of Khurcha, near Georgia’s western, Russian-occupied Abkhazia region. Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Garibashvili, responded to this date on social media, stating that “the government is

doing everything possible to punish all those guilty of the murder of Giga Otkhozoria with the full force of the law.” “We are using all legal and international instruments at our disposal to bring those responsible to justice,” Garibashvili said in a May 19 post. Giga Otkhozoria, an IDP from Gali district, who lived in Zugdidi, was shot six times by Abkhaz so-called border guard Rashid Kanjiogli in 2016. Those involved in Otkhozoria’s murder have not been punished. The Georgian side sentenced Rashid

Rashid Kanjiogli to 14 years in prison in absentia and declared him internationally wanted. Kanjiogli was not punished in de facto Abkhazia. He was sentenced to house arrest by a de facto court in Abkhazia in 2017, but the same year the de facto prosecutor’s office terminated the investigation and prosecution due to lack of evidence. The fact of Giga Otkhozoria’s murder is recorded on video. The murder on the occupation line was filmed by a CCTV camera.

Lisi Trail Race to be Held on May 30th Source of photo: Lisi Trail Race Facebook page

Lisi Trail Race to be Held on May 30th BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

Image Source: Odishi News

n May 30, the Lisi Trail Race will be held for both experienced and beginner runners. The race offers the full distance of 19 kilometers (1,000m elevation gain) as well as shorter 10 kilometers (650m elevation gain) and 6.5 kilometers (250m elevation gain) fun distances for those who want to run less. All three distances will start near the Tsodoreti Dry Lake. Routes of the full and short distances follow the trail in the forest up to the top of one of the highest peaks in Tbilisi. Then the route descends to Mskhaldidi Lake, where

participants of the 10km distance race run around the lake and head back to the start/finish location. 19km distance participants continue their way towards Lomis Seri, Bevreti Gorge, and then the finish location. The 6.5-kilometer fun distance route goes into the hills opposite the 19 and 10 km routes. The routes for all three distances will be marked and refreshment points will be available at several points along with it. All the finishers of the full distance will receive ITRA points for qualifying for different international trail races and for competing with their peers. Registration/tickets: https://tkt.ge/ lisi2021

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY

MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Opposition European Georgia Party Refuses to Enter Parliament, UNM’s Melia in Discussions with Saakashvili in Ukraine BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

he opposition European Georgia party announced its final decision on May 18, officially refusing to enter the Parliament of 10th

convocation. The relevant decision was announced by the Secretary General of the party, Akaki Bobokhidze, after the sitting of the Political Council. As he claimed, the Parliament is “illegitimate.” Another big opposition force, the United National Movement, is still discussing the issue of entering the Parliament. The party Chairman Nika Melia stated a few days ago that discussions and consultations around the issue might take several days. “The issue of the UNM’s entering Parliament is being discussed. Consultations are expected to continue. It will take several days to make a final decision. I know for a fact that there are different positions in the party. The decision should be pragmatic and rational,” Melia said. The Chairman of the United National

Movement has been in Kyiv, Ukraine, this week with party members Koba Nakopia, Petre Tsiskarishvili, Eka Kherkheulidze, Kakha Okriashvili and Akaki Minashvili. There, they met up with the third president of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, who now heads the Executive Committee of Ukraine’s National Reform Council. The representatives of the largest opposition party in Georgia are expected to discuss the current political processes in the country with the ex-president, in particular, the issue of UNM entering the Parliament of the 10th convocation. Nika Melia noted that he has not seen Saakashvili for more than two years and they had “a lot to discuss.” Saakashvili said he was pleased Melia had come to see him and added that Melia had "big plans." "I'm proud to be his comrade in arms. I admire his courage and the principle he has shown. I think our people can accomplish anything. It cannot be otherwise, for so many years people have been waiting for some relief and progress," he said. "In my opinion, Nika is already a winner, because they could not break him

and he made the fear of prison disappear, the fear of repression and pressure that has existed for so many years. When a person sets such a standard, others are bound to follow his courage and standard. This is a turning point in Georgia's recent history, it has given new strength to all our people," Saakashvili noted. "I'm very glad that we talked about many Important issues," Melia said. "I believe that in the not too distant future, we will meet again, not only in Kyiv but also in Tbilisi, it should be so and it is impossible for it to happen otherwise. For this, it is important to develop a common strategy. We should not make the enemy happy. "When I came out of prison, I faced lots of traps; many people trying to create misunderstanding in the opposition. Rumors are circulating as if I have a tense situation with Misha, but the opposite is true. There are wiser people in the opposition and in the National Movement than certain people think, so we will not allow anyone to provoke us and destroy the foundations of the state. The most important thing is for us, the politicians, is to believe in Georgia; to believe that we can win. If we do not believe in it, how can people believe?" he said.

ENKA Representative Responds to Rioni Valley Guardians’ Criticism of Namakhvani HPP Construction Continued from page 1 Despite declaring a moratorium on the construction of the main element of the HPP construction, locals and environmental activists are still concerned about the continuation of preparatory infrastructural works. On May 6, GEORGIA TODAY offered its readers an exclusive interview with Rioni Valley “Guardian” Mirza Nozadze, one of the organizers of the Rioni Valley resistance movement, who is a friend of the now-renowned Varlam Goletiani and his family, to get them acquainted with the position of the Rioni Valley guardians. “This is the fight of the Georgian people, aiming to challenge the Government of Georgia and the relevant attorneys on their ignorance and negligence, on their signing of a memorandum with a private investor company for a project as complex and important as the Namakhvani HPP,” Mirza Nozadze told us. Now, in order to also hear another side’s position and find out more details about the construction, we spoke to the representative of ENKA, Elene Ghubianuri, Administrative Director of ENKA Renewables.

MIRZA NOZADZE SAID THEIR RESISTANCE STARTED WITH QUESTIONS REGARDING THE HPP’S IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND COUNTRY AS A WHOLE, TO WHICH THEY CLAIMED THEY COULD NOT GET ANSWERS. From the day of winning the international tender (2017), the company launched an active communication campaign with the local population. To this end, community coordination councils were set up, whose members were represented by representatives named by the villages. Informational meetings and discussions were held in the format of these boards with the participation of the company's management, its employees, and invited experts. Information centers were also set up where

NOZADZE FURTHER SAID THAT, “OUR PROTEST IS BASED ON LEGITIMATE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CONTRACT. IF GEORGIA VIOLATES ANY OF THE TERMS, WE OWE A MUCH LARGER PENALTY THAN THE COMPANY UNDER THE CONTRACT.” WHAT WOULD BE YOUR RESPONSE TO THAT? The existing agreement is the result of quite lengthy negotiations, which comprehensively take into account the interests of both parties, as well as the risk, and are based on international best practices for such projects. In addition to highly qualified local law firms, the parties hired reputable international law firms such as White and Case and Shearman and Sterling to prepare the contract. As for the insurance of the risks envisaged in the contract, it is not new that large-scale investment projects cannot be implemented without them, nor that the International Finance Institute becomes a co-financer of the project.

We have repeatedly expressed our readiness to conduct a constructive dialogue and re-answer their questions, but, unfortunately, the protest went beyond the appropriate format - Elene Ghubianuri, Administrative Director of ENKA Renewables

anyone interested could get information on key issues, as well as raise a new issue for further discussion. The focus of the discussion was on dam safety, environmental and social impacts, and compensation policies. The company also discussed the development prospects of the valley and the company plans for projects to improve the well-being of the locals. These include the development of family hotels, winemaking, beekeeping, agriculture and education. At the same time, an inventory of the properties in the project area was started, a compensation scheme was established, and the locals were introduced to them on an individual level. It is noteworthy that the proposed compensation is much higher than the

market price, and the fact that today almost all the necessary private property (265 families satisfied from 274 families) have been fully repurchased, indicates the interest of locals in the implementation of the project. In the process of renewing the environmental permits, the Ministry of Environment organized two public hearings, following the procedures provided by law, where the company still had the opportunity to answer questions and share the position of all parties. Consequently, the claim that the company started its business without communication with the locals is unfounded, although it did not seem to be enough for a certain segment. Given the current situation, we have repeatedly expressed our readiness to

conduct a constructive dialogue and reanswer the questions, but, unfortunately, the protest went beyond the appropriate format and it was claimed by the opponents that we are not addressing their questions.

HOW TRANSPARENT IS THE COMPANY’S CONTRACT WITH THE GOVERNMENT? NOZADZE TOLD US THAT “ON THE 80TH DAY OF THEIR STAY IN THE TENTS, THEY FORCED THE AUTHORITIES TO MAKE THE CONTRACT PUBLIC.” Due to the company's openness and transparency policy, we have never requested confidentiality of the contract. Accordingly, the terms reflected in it are not confidential.

PROTESTERS AGAINST THE CONSTRUCTION ALSO EXPRESS CONCERN REGARDING THE ISSUE OF TRANSFER OF LANDS. According to the rule defined by the legislation, a construction permit is required to obtain a legal right to the necessary land plots. Within this framework, part of the state-owned lands, on the basis of an ordinance of the Government of Georgia, in the form of purchased privatization and some of them the right to build, were transferred under strict conditions: land use is allowed only for project purposes, without the right of alienation. Here, as a condition for the transfer of lands, in addition to the fulfillment of numerous obligations under the agreement with the government, the new 28 km of Namokhvani - Alpana - Mamison road, Namokhvani - Alpana is defined, meaning construction of the section and its transfer to the state free of charge.

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY MAY 21 - 27, 2021

6 Steps to Tyranny: How Russia Spreads Its Venom the flow of information coming in, and out, of the area. This is very visible in Georgia’s occupied territories, where everything from politicians and journalists to medical personnel are virtually barred from accessing Tskhinvali. What little information does make its way out of these areas is bleak. Basic infrastructure is neglected and human services such as medical and social welfare are almost abandoned. Russia doesn't actually have any intention of true “liberation”: their real intention is to use these people as tokens of leverage against both the sovereign state that was invaded, and the West as a whole.

STEP 5: NOT-SOFROZEN CONFLICT

By Nicola Jennings/The Guardian

ANALYSIS BY MICHAEL GODWIN

y now, most have seen how Putin’s ilk oozes into his neighbor's territory, brainwashes the inhabitants, and then creates a frozen conflict to force the oppressed into gridlock. However, not all have closely examined the formula he has created to reclaim old Soviet lands. Close observation of this formula is the first phase of putting a stop to it, and allowing the people to diagnose this spreading “disease” before it takes them. This process has been played out live in front of Georgians, but also in Ukraine, Moldova, and could possibly be brewing in Azerbaijan and Armenia. These 6 steps focus on information warfare and manipulation, sabotage, false flag operations, and even offensive military operations. The foundation of this is the careful manipulation of media sources and propaganda. While the term “fake news” has been used quite a bit in recent times, sometimes erroneously, it is not a mistake to use this to describe the tactics used by the Kremlin.

STEP 1: CONVERSION OF THE POPULACE This first phase often happens without the notice of authorities, the government, or even raising serious concerns among the local population under its effect. Months, or even years, before visible signs of encroachment appear, the people are slowly brought to view the world through a “Russified” lense. Western elements and values are ostracized and made to seem perpendicular to the values and customs of the target populace. An example of this still being used today is the subtle weaponization of the Church. It’s lost on few that the Orthodox Church is one of the few cultural similarities between the Eastern European world and the Russo-slavic world. This connection is a strong one, tying the two to a shared sense of cultural values and traditional societal standards. With Georgia, Ukraine, and much of the region becoming more enamored with European inclusion, the Russian propagandists have driven a peculiar wedge in between the two worlds; a distaste for “alternative” lifestyles. The Orthodox Church has been rather open about its disapproval of the LGBT agenda

and the influence this has on the culture. Russian information operations have used this to portray NATO and the EU as violators of religious and cultural tradition, even as opposed to the Orthodox model of family and society. For many, this can be a deal-breaker if it were true. Of course, anyone with experience of living in the West knows the inclusion of others is not the downfall of their society. However, those who have lived their lives in the same small town or village that are told by local authority figures that this will come if they don’t seek the help of the Russian world are easily manipulated.

STEP 2: ASSISTED SEPARATION THROUGH FORCE As the populace becomes more discontent with the way they believe their country is going and the morals and traditions at stake, the resistance begins to form. Soon, armed groups are assuming control over police departments, and local leaders that were democratically elected are being ousted and militant leaders are seizing control of village and town centers. Often these armed groups are not purely composed of local militia members. These groups are bolstered by “volunteers” from neighboring regions or even Russian intelligence and special operations elements themselves. In addition, they are often well armed and funded, more so than any local militia ought to be. In response to this, the regional and national government will react predictably in an effort to restore order and rule of law. Police, State Security Services, and even military forces are deployed to combat this armed insurrection. In Abkhazia, the Georgian security forces had virtually eliminated this resistance force until Russian troops entered the battlefield.

geous position over their opponents. During this, to keep public opinion behind their soldiers, a structured media campaign both at home and in the region in question is pushed at every level. Russian soldiers are portrayed as bringers of peace and stability, and the aggressor, such as Georgians in South Ossetia, are portrayed as an abusive overlord.

STEP 4: OCCUPATION As the nation's security forces are defeated on the field by the Russian “peacekeeping” force, fortifications and occupation bases are constructed. The Kremlin forces the nation to the negotiations table while Putin keeps his tactical positions and strength as heavy leverage. These forces are now transitioned administratively to permanent posting in the captured region. Under this occupation, a complete blackout of free media, free speech, human rights, and freedom of movement is enforced. Knowing that any crack in this facade could spell doom, the occupying forces heavily restrict

STEP 3: DEPLOYMENT OF A “PEACEKEEPING” FORCE Under the guise of peacemaking and protection of an “oppressed” or ethnically Russian people in the region, the Kremlin sends its uniformed regulars to take ground and work bilaterally with irregular units and militias. This force operates with an aggressive operations tempo and utilizes the full spectrum of armaments available to the Russian Battalion Tactical Groups (BTGs). Naturally, Russia’s technology, particularly after the 2008-2009 military reforms, places them in a much more advanta-

By Dave Granlund

Many strategic analysts have coined the term “frozen conflict” to refer to Russian occupation operations in Georgia, Ukraine, and Moldova. However, those that live in those areas, as well as the security forces members that are tasked with containment, would say otherwise. Georgian farmers and police are constantly met with encroaching illegal borderization. Ukrainian soldiers live under constant attack along the occupation line in Donbas. Artillery, sniper, and probing attacks constantly harass the defensive positions Ukraine has held since the war became stagnant, with casualties mounting every month on both sides. This is aimed both as an attempt to slowly erode the confidence of the locals in the government and military, but also as a propaganda tool for the Russians. In addition, any aggressive response by the sovereign nation is seen by the Russians as an attempt to reclaim their land, and the media is called to paint the enemy as a fascist, anti-Russian, and oppressive regime. Because the Kremlin likes to paint any of those that oppose them as neo-Nazis and fascists, as they did with Pro-Ukrainian protests, as well as the Saakashvili administration, they are able to portray themselves as the “good guy” in the conflict.

STEP 6: ABSORPTION The last step is a long process of annexing the occupied territory and bringing

them full circle into the Russian sphere. The population is totally assimilated to become Russian in almost every way. The issuance of passports and legal documents, establishment of an easily manipulated puppet government, and a formal permanent posting of Russian soldiers all culminates in the Kremlin recognizing the occupied region as a free and independent state. Abkhazia and South Ossetia were recognized by Russia as independent states, something almost the entire world denied. Only Nicaragua, Venezuela, Nauru continue to recognize this, though it’s doubtful this will mean anything for the fledgling regions. Residents in these areas, while living in poverty compared to their Georgian brethren, have been offered Russian citizenship in some cases. Meanwhile, in Crimea, the Russians have simply taken a page from the annexation of Austria and Czechoslovakia by Germany in 1938. Crimea is viewed by Russians as simply Russian in the same way as any other oblast. In sum, these steps are not meant to be like a recipe that must be followed strictly, but rather a loose guide the Kremlin has used to spread its influence and control through the former Soviet world, particularly with an aim toward the Black Sea. This should stand as a symptom guide, something that must be avoided, for people living within the reach of the Russian bear paw. Just like any disease or infection, the best remedy is one taken early. When these disinformation campaigns and attempts at driving a wedge between a local populace and their home nation become visible, it is imperative to curb this immediately. Allowing the Russians to create this open wound lets them begin to fester and spread their decay through the host nation's body. State Security Services, government representatives, and even local and regional police members must have this in their training. People living in these areas must be informed and taught how to identify this tactic, and how to stop it before it even begins. Ultimately, it is the duty of every citizen to be the first line of defense against Putin’s spreading pandemic of destruction.

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY

MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Russia, the Middle East and the Changing World Order ANALYSIS BY SOLOMON ALVARES

he latest escalation between Israel and Palestine initially seemed to have a local character: another round of violence. But, increasingly, reactions from major global and regional players says a lot about the changing global order. An important actor in the unfolding crisis would be Moscow, which would fortify its bargaining position to extract concessons from the West in other regions of geopolitical interest. Russia is the player to watch. As rockets were falling on Israel and the latter retaliated, Moscow called on Israel and Hamas to exercise restraint. Russia’s statements not only seemed inconspicous but tended to reflect the thinking of many other states. In reality though, Moscow is a critical player. Putin, in a meeting with government officials, said the latest escalation directly concerns Russia. Following its involvement in Syria and successful operation of its peacekeeping mission in Nagorno-Karabakh, Russia could position itself as a nimble power to manage intractable territorial crises. To this should be added America’s inability, following Trump’s peace plan, to present a long-lasting solution to the Israel-Hamas stalemate. Russia has its own calculus. All moves made by Moscow in the Middle East are aimed at strengthening the Kremlin’s position in the region. Another feature of Russia’s approach to the crisis has been its consistent efforts, despite being a member of the Middle East quartet (along with the EU, US, and United Nations) on settlement to consistently try to undermine the role of the other parties. When the Trump administration proposed a peace plan for the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, Russia (as it had with many other American initiatives) flatly rejected it, citing "one-sidedness".

Image source: hurriyetdailynews.com

Russia increasingly sees itself as a potential arbiter in Middle East peace negotiations. But what is more important here, Russian efforts reflect the changing world order, where the collective West is no longer seen as a primary, decisive actor in the resolution of crucial crises around the globe. For instance, Putin urged Israel and the Arabs to cease fighting during a call with his Turkish colleague, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "Serious concern was expressed about the continuing clashes and the growing number of people killed and wounded," the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that Putin had "called on the parties to de-escalate tensions and peacefully resolve the emerging issues." The Turkish President mentioned the need to have a peacekeeping mission sent to

the place to prevent further violence. Erdogan asked Putin to support this initiative, drawing attention to the commonality of views of Moscow and Ankara in the context of the emerging crisis. The fact that the positions of the two countries are close was proven by the statements from the Russian side on adherence to the UN Security Council resolutions, which relate to the illegality of the expropriation of Palestinian lands, as well as support for the two-state principle, Erdogan said in a conversation with Putin. It is not the first time that statements regarding sending a peacekeeping mission to the Gaza Strip have been floated by the Turkish leadership. Erdogan expressed the idea in 2018 at the summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, when confrontation erupted between Israelis and Palestinians fol-

lowing the opening of the American Embassy in Jerusalem. The underlying trend is clear: Regional powers working together to squeeze out the collective West. In many cases, in Nagorno-Karabakh, for instance, it was successful. In Israel-Hamas, the case will be tougher, but the efforts by the outside, non-Western powers to act, is nevertheless symptomatic of the extreme fluidity of the international system. Moscow pursues the formation of such a system of international relations, where the “great powers” have more rights and can dictate their decisions to weaker participants in world politics. Crises create opportunities, and Moscow expects that the more violent the conflict gets between Israelis and Arabs, the more the US will have to be involved in the process and seek Russia’s benev-

olence. This, in turn, could be used for extracting geopolitical benefits on the Ukrainian front or elsewhere. Indeed, Russia enjoys a peculiar position in the Israeli-Arab conflict. Moscow historically has nurtured close ties with Hamas. First, Hamas, an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood organization banned in the Russian Federation, has not been banned itself. This is all the more interesting as Hamas, according to various unconfirmed sources circulating in the Russian media, allegedly participated in the preparation of the terrorist attacks in Russia during the war in Chechnya. There is even suspicion that when fighting between Hamas and Israel breaks out, the Russian position has tended to be balanced, signaling that Moscow’s behavior is motivated by a larger geopolitical calculus. Russia’s close ties with Hamas were often a source of friction between Russia and Israel. Even during the latest escalation, Russian deputy FM Mikhail Bogdanov held a telephone conversation with the Deputy Chairman of the Hamas Politburo Moussa Abu Marzouk. As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia stated, the dialogue took place on the initiative of the Palestinians. This causes concerns in Israel and at times affects its ties with Russia. Unfolding tensions between Israel and Hamas will not change Moscow's position: it will keep friendly ties with both sides of the conflict, hoping to strengthen its bargaining position vis-à-vis Israel and the US in particular. Russia will try to increase its influence via cooperating with regional powers which are interested in sidelining the collective West from the conflict resolution. What is crucial is that the unfolding crisis reflects the transformation of the world order and how old norms, bargains and the prestige of the collective West is in trouble, ushering in an area of greater competition from illiberal states with alternative mechanisms for solving vital territorial conflicts.

Georgia’s Future is European: Op-ed by Salome Zurabishvili and Charles Michel Source: Euronews

uronews has published a joint op-ed by Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili and European Council President Charles Michel, entitled ‘Georgia’s Future is European.’ On 19 April, Georgia’s political leaders signed a major political agreement following weeks of mediation by the European Union. The following op-ed is penned by those that initiated and supported this mediation – the President of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili and the President of the European Council, Charles Michel. Together, they look ahead at what this agreement means for Georgia, for the EU and for EU-Georgia relations. Opinions expressed in View articles are solely those of the authors. As it recovered its independence 30 years ago, Georgia renewed its historic aspiration to rejoin the European family. Since 2004, the European Union responded by opening a steady process which has brought Georgia closer to Europe from the European Neighborhood (2004) to the Eastern Partnership

(2009). In the past decade, the movement accelerated with the signing of the Association Agreement of 2014, which also included a free trade area; and in 2017, visa liberalization was concluded allowing Georgians to travel to the EU without visas for short-term stays. Connections between Georgia and the EU are far more profound than ever before, an achievement which no one could have contemplated when the country broke free from Soviet rule in 1991. Yet in early 2021, Georgia faced a political deadlock. Latent polarisation pitted the ruling and opposition parties against each other. Despite facilitation efforts by the EU and US envoys, tensions morphed into a political crisis. With the region’s stability challenged by the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan reigniting in Autumn 2020, it became essential to consolidate Georgia’s democracy and stability. With the full backing of the President of Georgia, the President of the European Council offered EU mediation in the political dialogue relaunched during his 1 March visit to Georgia.

We, the President of Georgia and the President of the European Council, want to express our deep satisfaction in seeing this deal agreed and signed by the ruling and opposition parties. This agreement puts an end to a crisis that could have disrupted the democratic advancement achieved over the past decades and weakened Georgia’s progress along its European path. Through dialogue, leadership and compromise, Georgian political leaders put differences aside for the greater good of the country. This was done in a truly European spirit reviving Georgia’s image as a democratic anchor in the region. The political crisis is over, constructive political engagement needs to be sustained. We call on each and everyone to live up to their commitments. This agreement is a win for Georgia, its people and the European Union.

A WIN FOR ROBUST DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS IN GEORGIA With European support, this Agreement will deepen the reforms of the country’s institutions. The electoral process will meet the highest standard and reforms of the judicial system should end any perceived politicization of justice. Power-sharing procedures will make the Georgian Parliament one of the most plu-

ralistic. These changes will not only make Georgian democracy more vibrant, it will ensure that reforms are inclusive and viable.

A WIN FOR THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA Away from partisan feuds, the focus will move to meeting the pressing issues which face the country: dealing with the pandemic as well as its economic and social consequences; maintaining stability; investing in the future. Georgians have seen they were not alone to overcome the crisis. To this day, the EU has been Georgia’s largest donor with over 200 concrete ongoing projects and a total budget of 500 million euros. The European Investment Bank has invested some 1.85 billion Euros in economic development, agriculture, education and infrastructure to name a few. More tangible support from Europe will follow. The agreement – entitled “A way ahead for Georgia” – paves the way for closer cooperation with the EU; financial support to soften the blow of the post-COVID recovery; enhanced participation in the EU’s programmes; and a renewed focus on physical and digital infrastructure projects that can increase connectivity of Georgia and the Caucasus and Black Sea regions with Europe, with the potential to further increase growth.

A WIN FOR THE EUROPEAN UNION The EU can count on a stable, fiercely pro-European partner in a region essential to Europe’s values, security and connectivity. At a time when the regional landscape is being reshaped, Georgia matters more than ever. With mutual interests at stake, the EU and Georgia now need to further deepen the implementation of the Association Agreement and further strengthen their cooperation. In addition to bilateral agendas, we will continue to work for a renewed and deepened Eastern Partnership that expands areas for cooperation, increases EU support and extends the links between our peoples. In parallel, to mark the special relationship between the EU and its Associated partners in the Eastern Partnership, we propose to hold, in the coming months, a leaders’ meeting, with the Presidents of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. At a time of increased geopolitical pressures in the region, there is no better answer than the demonstration just given by Europe and Georgia. On the one hand, decisive European political support to a small but vibrant democracy and to avoid any form of destabilization. On the other hand, Georgia’s determination to continue undeterred on its chosen path towards its Euro-Atlantic future.

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Image source: hearingreview.com

Learning to Communicate OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE

he western way of thinking did not stop where Socrates, Plato and Aristotle left off. Tens of other great philosophers have embarked on the genesis of their philosophical legacy, having finally ushered us into the 21st-century type of thinking, their prolific pens now being held in even more powerful hands to continue helping Mankind to find the most reasonable ways to live. Some of those contemporary geniuses are telling us that civilizations clash and defy each other; some maintain that the economy is not what we see on the surface, but that the truth is buried in certain freaky findings. Yet others say that modern and post-modern human behavior is being substituted by meta-modern

political philosophy. The gist of the matter is that their logic seems to be ironstrong and is as precious as gold. Only, we the rank-and-file have to look better and deeper into their unconventional thinking and make conclusions thereof, presumably, in our own favor. It is certainly impossible to read every single book written by Man throughout history, including the ones that come to light today, but we can at least make some rational choices for self-development, or listen to those who have somehow managed to acquire a workable knowledge in subjects that we tend to perceive, so that we make not only good speakers of ourselves but good listeners too. In a word, we have to learn how to listen to each other, otherwise, the communication that is indispensable for all of us to survive might become impossible. Why such a lengthy prologue to a matter that is very simple to understand

and even simpler to adopt as a way of action? Because we are growing as we live (in the best case scenario of course), and this article is meant for those politicians of ours who want to grow and become more effective. I never fret over crises, be they political, relational or entrepreneurial, because I take a crisis as an impetus for further development. What has lately happened and is still happening in the Georgian political arena is an obvious token of development to the better, certainly, the only regrettable thing being the fact that we have recently fallen so flagrantly as an independently managing nation that we were compelled to use external help to put ourselves together, even though we think of ourselves as among the smartest and the most talented people in the world. Talented we might be, but I doubt the ‘smart’ part, because the political savvy would probably mean the capability to

solve problems independently in the minimum of time with the least amount of sweat, and with the best outcome for the nation. What I have happily noticed is that our current constellation of politicians is clearly tending to answer to that particular standard of action and interaction: healthy and fruitful communication within our political spectrum, on the one hand, and beyond the spectrum, on the other. I feel and see that our sharp, but often stubborn and cocky, political animals have found time and zeal for reading into the wisdom of those modern philosophical gurus who are dictating the world to communicate in a more extensive and comprehensible fashion. As a result, the politicians of almost every ilk, except the ones who want to continue their street-wise political activity with an asinine obstinacy, have joined the legislative debates of the country, thus making it as meaningful as one could

dream of at this very moment of shattered parliamentary life. All of us are tired to death, the electorate and the elected, poised to let our European guardian angels know that we have heard them and will hear them in the future too, if need be. And the final piece of the opinion that bothers almost anybody who wants either to vote or to be voted for: the face-saving pains! This is what keeps many of the politicians from decidedly knocking at the door of Georgia’s legislative body. Those who once thoughtlessly sabotaged and categorically refused to take their due seats in Parliament are now looking for some good reason to start functioning as law-makers, but saving face at this moment seems to be more important than any vested interest of the country. To help themselves out, they will have to pick the minds of those wise authors who know very well the price of healthy communication: to listen first.

BUSINESS

Borjomi Workers Strike for Better Pay BY TEAM GT

p to 350 workers of the Borjomi Mineral Water Bottling Factories No 1 and 2 went on strike on May 18. Prior to this, there was a 21-day mediation between the company, employees and Trade Union of Agriculture, Trade and Industry, which ended without an agreement, after which the employees went on a legal strike. They say they are fighting for decent working conditions, their main demands being a salary increase, the right to rest and have breaks, and better working conditions in general. Employer company 'IDS Borjomi Georgia' released a statement regarding the strike of its employees, saying that even during the pandemic, 100% of the employees were retained and the salary fund was increased by 10%. However, the company added, while they are ready to consider increasing salaries again, the demand of the striking employees is a 50% increase, which is why no agreement had been reached. The protesters claim that their salaries were reduced by 200-250 GEL during one year. Further, they could not take a break due to lack of staff and were paid only a small amount for overtime work.

The organizer of the strike is the Trade Union of Agriculture, Trade and Industry, which fully shares the strikers' demands and complaints. Police are mobilized outside the Borjomi factory to prevent any incidents. On May 19, Acting Mayor of Borjomi Davit Zaalishvili arrived at the rally being held outside the factory and announced his intention to meet with their employer. The next day, the striking employees of Borjomi Mineral Water Bottling Factories No 1 and 2 held a protest march, which was also joined by the local population. "The company is not communicating with its striking employees. No negotiations have taken place between the company and the employees. They wanted the talks to happen without the involvement of the trade unions, but the strikers do not agree. We are continuing the protest today and will continue until the demands of the employees are met,” Giorgi Diasamidze, Chairman of the Trade Union of Agriculture, Trade and Industry, told BM. ge. "During the two days of the strike, the company discriminated against employees through direct intimidation and threats from the administration for participating in a legal strike and appearing on television," the trade union claimed.

IDS Borjomi Georgia notes that as a result of the strike on Wednesday, the company temporarily suspended the work of both factories. The administration explains that the company is fully

prepared to resume the work of the factories at any time. "In recent days, a significant number of employees have continued to work and are still willing to do so, but the

illegal blocking of trucks and other vehicles by a number of strikers poses a serious threat to our employees, transport company owners and the strikers themselves," they said.

BUSINESS

GEORGIA TODAY

MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Gov’t Signs EUR 85,000,000 Agreement with World Bank for MSMEs

n May 17, the Georgian government signed an agreement with the World Bank within the scope of which 85,000,000 Euros will be allocated to the country as a postpandemic support of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) The Prime Minister noted that the project envisages new, innovative systems to be established for express payments, thus benefiting enterprises by effectively gaining greater access to cash upon its implementation by the National Bank of Georgia (NBG). “The Referred Agreement on Financial Assistance has resulted from successful negotiations between the World Bank and Ministry of Finance of Georgia. The

Gov’t Signs EUR 85,000,000 Agreement with World Bank for MSMEs

Executive Board of the World Bank made the decision on May 11. Minister of Economy – Natia Turnava – was also actively engaged in the process. “We receive very significant support from our donor countries and agencies to benefit the enterprises affected by the pandemic. I wish to express my gratitude to the World Bank and its Regional Director for South Caucasus for supporting the project. “Enterprise Georgia – a legal entity of public law (LEPL) will be carrying out the oversight of the referred project. “Development of small and medium enterprises (SME) is one of our key priorities and we will be designing other additional incentives to be presented in the near future,” PM Garibashvili stated.

USAID and Gazelle Finance Launch Program to Support SMEs, Economic Recovery in Georgia

SAID and Gazelle Finance announced a three-year program to provide technical assistance and COVID resiliency support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Georgia. The Program will enhance the capacity and financial performance of more than 30 SMEs in high-potential economic sectors, helping them attract the private sector investment needed to return to growth in the pandemic and post-pandemic economic environment. The Program will target its support toward a group of high-potential SMEs, helping them attract private sector financing, expand their businesses and generate employment opportunities in their communities. The Program will help beneficiary businesses secure access to new export markets, effectively compete with imports, strengthen their management, and improve environmental, social, and governance performance. Ultimately, this assistance will support the development of these companies into leaders in the Georgian economy, creating jobs and setting an example for other dynamic firms to follow. “The pandemic has really strained

Georgia’s small and medium-sized businesses. As we begin to look toward a post-COVID recovery, it’s crucial that businesses get the financing they need to return to growth, and to develop innovative products and services that can drive Georgia’s smart, long-term economic development,” said USAID/Georgia Mission Director Peter Wiebler. “Our new partnership with Gazelle Finance is another great example of how USAID/Georgia is transforming the way we work with the private sector, helping forward-looking companies grow and contribute to the country’s development goals – including creating greater employment opportunities for Georgians across the country. ” “This program is targeted to support over 30 SMEs, result in creating over 1,677 new jobs, and catalyze more than $15 million in foreign direct investment in the country of Georgia,” said the CEO of Gazelle Finance, Jeffrey Liebert. “This blended finance approach, a combination of know-how transfer and investment capital, is the key ingredient to create long-term sustainable businesses, which are currently underserved by the local capital markets.

As we begin to look toward a post-COVID recovery, it’s crucial that businesses get the financing they need to return to growth, and to develop innovative products and services that can drive Georgia’s smart, long-term economic development. Source: itu.int

Georgia Received $1.9 billion from Int’l Partners during Pandemic BY ANA DUMBADZE

eorgia received $1.9 billion from international partners during the pandemic, the main part of which is a loan, while the country received 100 million Euros in grants, Deputy Minister of Finance Giorgi

Kakauridze told journalists Wednesday. “Mainly, it was a loan, the grant is a small part, about 100 million Euros, the rest is a loan resource. The total amount given due to the pandemic was about $1.9 billion, most of which has already been transferred. “Some of the programs, such as the World Bank’s program, were for health expenditures, including a vaccine component, and additional resources can be allocated from the World Bank,” Kakauridze said.

BUSINESS

GEORGIA TODAY MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Georgian PM Launches Int’l Tourism Fair FITUR 2021 with King and Queen of Spain in Madrid

BY ANA DUMBADZE

rakli Garibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia, started his visit to the Kingdom of Spain on May 19. He toured the International Tourism Exhibition ‘FITUR 2021’, hosted by the IFEMA Exhibition Center, together with King Felipe VI of Spain and Queen Letizia, where Georgia is participating as a partner country. They also attended a performance by the Georgian Folk Dance Academy "Georgia", founded by the Diaspora in Spain.

The President of the FITUR International Committee and the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Exhibition Center addressed the participants at the opening ceremony. The visiting delegation led by the Prime Minister of Georgia, included David Zalkaliani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia; Natia Turnava, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia; and Levan Davitashvili, Minister of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia. Almost 100 countries are participating in the international exhibition this year. Georgia is represented there with a

showcase stand, a designated space that allows international tour operators, travel agencies and media representatives to get more information about Georgia's tourism attractions and travel destinations. The fair's main video-screen shows visitors videos about Georgia, giving them a chance to learn more about Georgia's tourism products. Banners displaying Georgia's tourism potential adorn the international fair's entrance and exit areas, while informative banners are installed on every sidewalk. PM Garibashvili, accompanied by the World Tourism Organization's SecretaryGeneral Zurab Pololikashvili and members of the country's executive and legislative branches, familiarized himself with the Georgian tourism stand. “This international tourism fair is effectively a message heralding the world's gradual return to normal life, and we, among others, must be ready to host tourists actively,” the Georgian PM stated. He noted that vaccination, management of the epidemiological situation, and citizens' responsible attitude are key in this direction. "It is a great honor to be featured in Spain, at the FITUR fair. As you know, the event showcases about 100 countries, including us in a prominent spot. This event is a message heralding the world's gradual return to a normal life, and we, among others, must be ready to host

tourists actively. Of course, vaccination, management of the epidemiological situation and control, and our citizens' responsible attitude are key in this direction. We are very optimistic, and the whole world is motivated to return to life as usual, and we will all be ready to host tourists in Georgia together," Garibashvili said. As part of his official visit, the Prime Minister of Georgia met Meritxell Batet, President of the Congress of Deputies. Relations between the two nations in various areas, including that of the legislative authorities, were among the key topics discussed during the meeting. It was noted that Georgia has close and productive cooperation with the Kingdom of Spain and that it is essential to deepen this. Prospects of future steps towards parliamentary diplomacy were reviewed at the meeting, and the organization of a joint parliamentary forum of economic committees between Spain and Georgia was initiated towards this end. It is intended to establish a format tailored to the discussion of crucial issues. The significance of the support dem-

onstrated by the Kingdom of Spain towards Georgia in every parliamentary assembly, related to the occupied territories and integration into the European and Euro-Atlantic institutions, was highlighted. Attention was focused at the meeting on the role played by Georgia in the region and future steps to be made towards facilitating and intensifying the economic cooperation between the two countries, as well as towards advancing the people-to-people and cultural connections. The meeting held at the Congress of Deputies in Spain was attended by David Zalkaliani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia; MP David Songhulashvili, Chairman of the Sectoral Economy and Economic Policy Committee at the Parliament of Georgia; and H.E. Ilia Giorgadze, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to the Kingdom of Spain. The Head of Government of Georgia made a keynote entry into the Book of Honorary Guests deposited at the Congress of Deputies in the Kingdom of Spain.

Employment Agency on Georgian Workers in Germany: Concrete Measures Have Been Taken to Improve their Conditions BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

he Georgian Trade Union Confederation this week published a statement, reporting that the 24 citizens who left Georgia for Germany for seasonal work are in “difficult working conditions.” The GTUC notes in the statement that the employed citizens are not receiving the promised remuneration, with their given salary being 3 Euros instead of the promised 9 Euros per hour. They claim the unbearable living conditions in which the Georgian citizens are expected to live are even more alarming. “The union requests the German Ambassador study the issue, and the Minister of Labor and Health of Georgia Ekaterine Tikradze take an immediate interest in the situation of the Georgian citizens because the Employment Promotion Agency of the Ministry of Labor was the organizer of their trip to Germany. “The Labor Inspectorate of Georgia

Source of photo: bpn.ge

should also get acquainted with the current situation, as it concerns citizens of Georgia. The unions will, in turn, provide the information received to the partner German trade unions in response,” the statement read. The State Employment Promotion Agency responded to the GTUC statement regarding the difficult conditions of citizens who left Georgia for employment in seasonal jobs. The Employment Agency noted that

they share the concern expressed by one of the groups that traveled to the Federal Republic of Germany within the framework of the Georgian Labor Force Employment Agreement. The agency stated that separate issues should be resolved with the German side. “We confirm that there was dissatisfaction on the part of the representatives of one group due to the violation of the conditions offered by the employer in the job description. Regarding this, the

first contact with the German side was made by the State Employment Promotion Agency upon receiving the information. The Georgian side has already received information from the Employment Agency of the Federal Republic of Germany that specific measures have been taken to improve the conditions of a particular group, which is obviously the result of the active work of the Georgian side. Most importantly, based on the agreement between Germany and Georgia and the terms of the job offer, the employer agreed to pay the correct, agreed-upon hourly wages to employees from Georgia. If the given conditions are not met, the Georgian side demands the redistribution of members of this particular group to other employers,” the statement reads. The German Ambassador to Georgia, Hubert Knirsch, also responded to the statement issued by the Georgian Trade Union Confederation, assuring them that all conditions stipulated in the agreement have been met.

"After the spread of information by the Georgian media, referring to a group employed for seasonal work on a strawberry farm, I talked to the German authorities about this issue. In accordance with the rules, the agencies have ensured that all the conditions stipulated in the contract are met, including the provision of suitable housing. In Germany, a minimum wage of 9.5 Euros is guaranteed. Problems can occur everywhere. The main thing is to solve them quickly. It is good that information about this case was spread in the media. I hope that the successful implementation of the program will be covered with the same attention," said the German Ambassador. At the beginning of April, it was announced that 5000 citizens of Georgia would be able to be legally employed in seasonal work in Germany’s Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture from May. The decision was made due to the high interest of Georgian citizens. By April 2, more than 97 thousand Georgians had expressed their desire to work in Germany.

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY

MAY 21 - 27, 2021

12 Years Later: Latali, Svaneti

BLOG BY TONY HANMER

ime once again for that yearly ritual enacted in various ways all over the world: the celebratory ending of school studies for a class of pupils, usually at the end of their 12th or 13th year of such. Who of

us knew, entering Grade 1, what lay ahead?! Several of the Grade 12 pupils from Latali school, 10 km before Mestia, recently called and asked if I would be available as photographer for their school-end extravaganza. It would be in two parts: the school event, and a banquet two days later in a Mestia restaurant. We agreed on terms (they found my fee agreeably low) including petrol

as I would be driving myself on both days. A nice change was the lessening of the nationwide curfew, now starting at 11 pm instead of 9, making evening travel much easier for all of us. Did I have a drone to incorporate? No, sorry, not yet, but it’s on my wish list. What about shooting video for them too? I also declined this one, stating that stills and video must be handled by at least two separate people, allowing each

to focus on their task without distraction from other activities. Anyway, they can always use the many videos being shot from multiple cell phones of fellow pupils, parents and teachers! I am not yet well versed in videography, but photography has been a specialty of mine since I was 11, so let it be that. I actually got the first event’s date wrong, and showed up at Latali school a day early. This is easily done when you mis-hear 18th instead of 19th (very similar in Georgian) on the phone in your 4th language! My attempt to clarify using the word “zeg” (day after tomorrow) in the phone call had not helped, leading me to place most of the blame on the other party. But better early than late, anyway. The next day I appeared again, an hour early as requested so that I could familiarize myself with the situation at this big, three-story school of 116 pupils. Meeting a few of the teachers in their common room, I found myself being asked to find husbands for several of the unmarried ladies… No promises, but we’ll see! Eventually, the raucous graduating group of eight girls and two boys appeared in two cars. They each had a long-sleeved white shirt on, as the tradition in this country is to have as many people sign their best wishes on these in felt marker as possible. Once the signing was over, the bell was rung for the last time. Then they were announced one at a time into the nice, balloonfestooned little school auditorium, where the whole school and some parents were waiting for them with wild cheers and applause.

Followed a hilarious program of entertainment, with the few glitches from uncooperative tech, such as laptopprojector connection, quickly sorted out. These are your photos from when you were much younger, and projections by AI of how each of you will look at retirement! Other video clips of you over the years! Skits, jokes, speeches from teachers and grads, a gymnastics number, some Georgian dancing. All the while, I snapped nearly 200 frames on my digital camera, delighted to no longer be attempting such a thing using 36-rolls of 35mm film and manual focus like I used to until 2008. Now, at least, I can see instantly what it is I’ve shot and how it is turning out. If there is a failure or flaw, I can address it straight away and continue: so much less stress! Once the indoor program was over, we jaunted back outside for some more group shots, and this part concluded. Tomorrow is the banquet in Mestia, which I will also cover. Then the rest of these people’s young lives will begin, a new step, with all the hopes, wishes and dreams of the unwritten future ahead of them. Success and the meeting of those dreams I wish you all, as you take this giant step forward. Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a weekly writer and photographer for GT since early 2011. He runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook group, now with nearly 2000 members, at www.facebook. com/groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ He and his wife also run their own guest house in Etseri: www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti

Fathers’ Schools Open in Tbilisi and Kutaisi as Part of ‘Men Care’ Campaign

Photo Credit: Demetre Datiashvili/MenCare Georgia

athers’ Schools have opened in Georgia for the first time as part of the Men Care Campaign, at the initiative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Georgia Country Office and the NGO “Care Together”. The goal of the program is to promote acquisition and utilization of the skills and behaviors among men, which will help them become more engaged and caring fathers and partners. The Fathers’ School program will also help them learn more about gender equality, as well as about stereotypes and harmful social norms that prevent them from achieving genuine equality. Men who are planning to become fathers in the near future, expectant fathers, or fathers of children under the age of three, form the target audience of the program. Training is free, and interested fathers will be able to participate through online registration.

The training course offered by Fathers’ School consists of eight 2-hour sessions. With the help of a specially designed module, fathers will be able to gain knowledge and information on important topics, such as: Choosing the right time to have a child; Supporting your partner during pregnancy and childbirth; Sharing household chores; Choosing methods of raising children; Protecting a child from violence; Maintaining healthy family relationships; Importance of equal partnership. In addition, online meetings with specialists actively involved in the process of raising children are planned within the framework of the Fathers’ School program. Fathers participating in the program will have the opportunity to ask questions to paediatricians, gynaecologists, child psychologists, and other relevant specialists.

“The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Georgia Country Office has been actively working for years and has put much effort in ensuring that as many fathers as possible are actively involved in the upbringing of their children, in our country. It is extremely important that men share the responsibilities for childcare and household chores equally with women, because such changes – changes that free people from harmful social norms and stereotypes – form the basis for building a healthy society.” – Lela Bakradze, Head of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Georgia Country Office. Gagua Clinic is one of the first partners of the Fathers’ School program in Tbilisi. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the UNFPA and the Clinic on May 15, 2021. “Our experience has clearly shown us the positive impact of fathers’ involvement in antenatal care and childbirth and how it decreased likelihood of childbirth complications. Gagua Clinic has become a partner in this project, which intends to increase the involvement of fathers, promote social changes and make it easier for families to get through this important stage of life.” – David Gagua, Director General of Gagua Clinic. The benefits of fathers’ active involvement in childcare and upbringing have been proven by numerous studies: the children are much happier, distinguished by physical and mental health, have high academic achievements, better social skills, higher self-esteem, fewer behavioral problems, and increased stress resistance. “I think establishing Fathers’ School is a very important step forward made by Georgia, as there has been no such initiative before; therefore, I think the schools will help fathers to take even more care of their partners during their

pregnancy and also be more prepared for the birth of a child.” – Mirian Jugheli, co-founder of the “Men Care” Campaign. Fathers’ School was established within the framework of the “EU 4 Gender

Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence” program, funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA.

CULTURE

GEORGIA TODAY MAY 21 - 27, 2021

Rehabilitation of State Silk Museum Begins

among them China, Japan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Turkey, Greece, Syria, Sri Lanka, Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Italy. The Silk Museum has its own library which keeps various literature about

Source of photo: tbilisiarchitecture.net

BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

he Mayor of Tbilisi, Kakha Kaladze, announced at a meeting of the Tbilisi government this week that the Tbilisi Development Fund has started the long-awaited and welldeserved rehabilitation of the cultural heritage monument, the State Silk Museum. “The project is co-financed by the International Association of Mayors, and Heads of Franco-Capitals and Metropolises. The project will renovate the exte-

rior and interior of the building, and the yard will be landscaped. The works should be completed by December 2022,” Kaladze noted. “The collections preserved in this museum are unique and give us an idea of the production and use of silk fabric in the Caucasus and around the world. There are a lot of samples and exhibits with a lot of information, and I think the rehabilitation of the museum shows not only the importance of the building, which is a cultural heritage site, but of the exhibits in general.” The State Silk Museum of is one of the oldest museums in Georgia. It was established in 1887 and was a part of The

natural sciences in several languages, and works of station staff members in the 19th century. The budget of the restoration-rehabilitation project of the State Silk Museum is set to be around 3 million 300 thousand GEL.

Caucasian Sericulture Station. The complex of the station was located in Mushtaid Park and worked on the basis of the European model, including practical and educational activities. The building of the museum was constructed in 1892 by the architect Alexander Szymkiewicz. Inside, are various collections, including cocoons from different countries, industrial and handcrafted textiles, a collection about the mulberry tree and its bi-products, natural and chemical dyes, the biology of the silkworm, and a collection of old photographs about sericulture. These collections include local as well as exported exhibits from 61 different countries,

Tbilisi Cinema Premieres “Fast & Furious 9” BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

Source of photo: 1tv.ge

he premiere of the film “Fast and Furious 9,” partly shot in Tbilisi, was shown at Cavea City Mall. The shooting of the blockbuster in Georgia was carried out within the framework of the “Film in Georgia” program. The movie of the Hollywood film company Universal Pictures shows footage of Tbilisi and Rustavi, in particular, the Rustaveli and Vazha-Pshavela avenues, Freedom Square, Pushkin, Besarion Zhgenti, Avto Varaz, and University streets, as well as the Market area in Rustavi. The American company spent 32 million GEL on filming the movie in Georgia. The premiere of the film was held in Georgia one month before the American premiere.

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