Issue #1309

Issue no: 1309

• AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021 • PUBLISHED WEEKLY

PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue...

Georgia Ends Tokyo Olympics with 8 Medals and 33rd Place NEWS PAGE 2

The Economic Roots of Georgia’s “Defection” to the West POLITICS PAGE 4

Service for Citizenship: A Foreign Legion for Georgia POLITICS PAGE 6

FOCUS

ON COVID-19

The cases shot up this week, and NDI reveals that over 50% of Georgians don't even know how to register for vaccination

PAGE 3

Image source: Getty Images

13 Years since August War: Russia Says It's ‘Ready to Restore Relations with Georgia’

BY ANA DUMBADZE

T

his year marks the 13th anniversary of the August 2008 war. Thirteen years ago, the Russian Federation invaded the country and occupied two Georgian regions, Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, so-called South Ossetia.

Since that time, thousands of residents have been displaced, persecuted, and impoverished.

Many have lost their lives. The war lasted for five days (7–12 August).

Today, 20% of Georgian territory remains occupied.

228 civilians, 170 military officers and 14 police officers lost their lives in the war, while 1747 people were wounded. Almost 150,000 people were forced to leave their homes, 30,000 of whom remain as IDPs (internally displaced persons).

Five soldiers also went missing.

Russia recognized the independence of Abkhazia (Georgia’s breakaway region) and “South Ossetia” on 26 August 2008.

Continued on page 7

Some Karabakh-Related Aspects of Georgia’s Regional Positioning. Part 2 POLITICS PAGE 7

New Business Union ‘Business Chamber of Asian & Gulf Countries’ to Support Economic Growth BUSINESS PAGE 8

Hilton Batumi Certified a Great Place to Work® BUSINESS PAGE 8

Avlabari: from the Outskirts to the Center SOCIETY PAGE 9

Helena Bedwell on Making Georgian Cuisine Glutenand Lactose-Free SOCIETY PAGE 10 CULTURE PAGE 11 Prepared for Georgia Today Business by

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2

NEWS

GEORGIA TODAY

AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

Georgia Ends Tokyo Olympics with 8 Medals and 33rd Place

Transgender Woman Attacked in Tbilisi

BY ANA DUMBADZE

T

he Ministry of Internal Affairs reports that two people have been arrested in Tbilisi on charges of intolerance on the grounds of gender identity.

An investigation is underway under Article 126, Part 1, Subparagraph “b” of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which stipulates group violence.

The victim confirms the incident. The transgender woman says the police were called after two people approached her.

Initially, it started with verbal abuse and then escalated into physical abuse.

“The officers of the Patrol Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, asaresultofinvestigativeactivities,detained in Tbilisi A.K. (DoB 1991) and A.M. (DoB: 1988) for violence committed in a group.

“The committed crime envisages up to 2 years of imprisonment.

“The investigation established that on August 9 of this year, in Tbilisi, in the vicinity of the circus, the accused persons on the grounds of gender identity intolerance verbally and physically assaulted J.C. (DoB: 1993).

“The law enforcers detained A.K. and A.M. shortly after the crime took place.

BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

T

he official closing ceremony of the XXXII Summer Olympic Games was held in Tokyo. Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach awarded the marathoners

at the closing ceremony.

Gogita Arkania, the first Georgian world champion in karate, as well as the holder of the European Championship and the bronze medal of the European Games, was the flag bearer of the Georgian Olympic delegation at the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games.

The Georgian Olympic team, consist-

ing of 33 athletes, won 8 medals in Tokyo – 2 gold, 5 silver, and 1 bronze.

Georgia took 33rd place among the 205 countries participating in the Olympics in the official team standings.

Since Georgia competes at the Summer Olympics as an independent country, the Georgian Olympic team has never won as many medals as in the 2020 Olympics.

The Miraculous Didgori Battle

PM: From January 2022, Salaries of Public Servants to Increase

BY TEAM GT

BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

T

he Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Garibashvili, announced before the government session that the salaries of public servants are to increase from January 2022. He also added that it is planned to double the salaries of mayors.

The Prime Minister noted that the salaries of mayors are around 1,800-2,000 GEL and added that this is absolutely inconsistent with the current reality. He

noted the salaries of public servants have not increased over the years.

“As part of our new policy, we will gradually start increasing the salaries of public servants from January 2022. This is necessary because people in the civil service can no longer see the motivation, and we cannot compete with the private sector, so we need to address this issue, which we will do from January 2022. We will also increase the mayors’ salaries, we have decided to practically double them. It is incredible that the mayor works for 2,000 GEL and serves Kutaisi, Batumi, and this issue needs to be resolved in a timely manner,” stated Garibashvili.

A

ugust 12 marks the greatest date in our history: 900 years ago, Georgia, under the leadership of the great King David Agmashenebeli (the Builder) set an example of one of the most remarkable military-strategic successes in world history, - Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Garibashvili, wrote on his Facebook page.

Garibashvili noted that the Didgori battle has become a symbol of the fight for freedom, unity, and devotion to the homeland.

"Even today, in the face of new challenges, the living example of the Didgori battle teaches us that together we can

achieve all goals. I congratulate you on this day and wish our country unity, peace, and development," Garibashvili added.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia, on the occasion of the 900th anniversary of the victory in the Battle of Didgori, announced a competition for a full-length feature film about the work of King David the Builder.

The Ministry notes that film production companies in Georgia will have the opportunity to participate. The making of this film is to be a complex state project likely lasting several years.

The Ministry will pay $20,000 for the script and the project.

The state will own the rights to the film as a customer and financier, while the copyright will belong to the main

creative group of the film.

The Battle of Didgori was fought between the armies of the Kingdom of Georgia and the declining Seljuk Empire at Didgori, 40 km west of Tbilisi on August 12, 1121. The battle resulted in King David IV of Georgia’s victory over a Seljuk army invading under Ilghazi, and the subsequent reconquest of the Muslim-held Tbilisi, which then became the royal capital. The victory at Didgori began the medieval Georgian Golden Age and is celebrated in the Georgian chronicles as a "miraculous victory".

The monument of Didgori can be reached via the Kojori Highway. There, you will find several statues of defeated Seljuks and 49 large swords, one for every 1000 Georgians that apparently took part in the vast battle on this spot.

NEWS

GEORGIA TODAY AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

3

Corona Updates – Close to 5500 New Cases Daily but No Plans to Force Vaccination

BY TEAM GT

R

egistration for the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine opened this week, with vaccines to be offered from August 15. This, alongside Sinovac, Sinopharm and AstraZeneca.

First Deputy Minister of Health Tamar Gabunia says the number of medical teams will be increased across the country, as will the number of spaces where registered persons can get vaccinated.

Minister of Health Ekaterine Tikaradze stated at a briefing that, at this stage, they are not considering enforcing vaccination.

"At this stage, we are not discussing mandatory vaccination, but there may come a time when vaccination for certain segments, as in other countries, might become part of the general practice. But I am convinced that we can avoid such demands towards our citizens," Tikaradze said, noting that they are largely dependent on the responsibility of the citizens and their willingness to follow the recommendations.

The number of people fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in Georgia is now over 204,000, the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) reported this week.

Around 716,000 vaccinations have been given, with a daily vaccination rate of approximately 26,000.

An NDI Poll released Thursday reported that a majority of citizens (42%) believe that the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic is yet to come. Almost half of Georgians (45%) said that the vaccination process is going badly, while 42% of citizens feel that they do not have enough information about the vaccination process and the lack of information is especially high in rural settlements (47%).

More than half of the population says they don’t know how to register on the

Georgian government’s online vaccination platform, with 71% of rural residents reporting that they are unaware of how to register," reads the report.

Based on the survey, hesitancy towards the coronavirus vaccine is still high. Only 35% would choose to receive a vaccine; 47% said they would not. Vaccine hesitancy is most prevalent among younger demographics, people living outside Tbilisi, and opposition party supporters.

Among those who are hesitant, the main reasons are concerns about the quality of the vaccine (47%) and how those with existing health issues would be affected by the vaccine (20%).

NEW CASES Georgia reported 2236 coronavirus cases, 3146 recoveries, and 44 deaths on Monday, the official figures showed.

23,439 tests were conducted that day, and highlighted that Georgian capital Tbilisi recorded the highest number of 946 Covid-19 cases within 24 hours, followed by the Adjara region with 499 cases, and the Imereti region with 177 cases.

On Wednesday, 5697 new cases of coronavirus were confirmed in Georgia.

The virus that day killed 54.

Georgia reported 5128 coronavirus cases, 3310 recoveries and 49 deaths on Thursday. 49,189 tests were conducted, and the test positivity rate stood at 10.43%.

THE PRESIDENT WITHDRAWS, ADVISES CITIZENS TO GET VACCINATED The Presidential Administration published a statement mid-week noting that due to the deteriorating epidemiological situation, the President of Georgia Salome Zurabishvili will not be participating in large-scale events.

"Due to the deteriorating epidemiological situation, the President of Georgia will not participate in large-scale events and will cancel all large-scale meetings planned in her Administration, including the planned meeting with

Image source: BM.ge

Georgian Olympians.

"The President is urging everyone to take care of each other, to follow Covid regulations, the recommendations of epidemiologists, and to get vaccinated!" the statement read.

NEW REGULATIONS Due to the deteriorating epidemiological situation, the Interagency Coordination Council this week decided that new regulations would enter into force countrywide from August 10.

In open spaces where more than 5 people are gathered, wearing a face mask is mandatory. Violations will incur a fine of 20 GEL. It is mandatory to wear a face mask indoors, on public transport, and in crowded gathering places, at bus stops, and in markets.

Nightclubs, both open and closed, are prohibited, and restaurants cannot work

in the period from 00:00-05:00.

Holding weddings, funerals and similar events is forbidden. Facilities will be fined for the first time to the amount of 10,000 GEL, and in case of repeated violation, will be shut down.

Amiran Gamkrelidze, head of the NCDC, has recommended keeping the number of people participating in festivals to a minimum. In particular, a maximum of 100 people, who should keep a two-meter distance.

Gamkrelidze noted that it is necessary to use a face mask at such events, and all who attend should have been vaccinated twice, and have had a PCR test done in the prior 72 hours, or a rapid antigen test in the last 24 hours.

"Prior to gatherings, people who have not been infected or vaccinated are being tested. We are gradually adopting this culture, and it will be necessary to maintain this behavior during this pandemic,

in all crowded spaces, or in places where a group of people gather: seminars, workshops, conferences, and so on," he stated.

The obligation to wear a face mask in the open was lifted on June 22, while wearing face masks indoors stayed in force.

The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Garibashvili, again called on citizens to get vaccinated at the government session.

"I would like to once again ask our citizens to all understand well, to show high civic responsibility and self-awareness for our country. As I said yesterday, and I want to repeat, one of the main arguments, the opposite of which simply does not exist, is the following: vaccination protects people from death. A vaccinated person may get infected, but their death is completely ruled out, aside from a few examples in the world, if they have been fully vaccinated," Garibashvili said.

NDI Poll: Georgians Name Jobs, Poverty, Rising Prices/Inflation as Top Issues

BY ANA DUMBADZE

B

ased on the results of a survey published on August 12 by the National Democratic Institute and CRRC-Georgia, Georgians remain concerned about the state of the economy and healthcare.

The survey shows that following months of political crisis and the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the public is pessimistic about the direction of their country and the performance of institutions. Looking forward, Georgians expect their elected representatives to prioritize policies that address their pressing economic and social concerns.

“More than a year into the coronavirus pandemic, the state of the country’s economy and the impact of Covid-19 remain at the forefront of citizens’ concerns. Georgians identify jobs, poverty, and rising prices/inflation – all worsened by the pandemic – as the top issues facing them and their families. A majority of citizens (68%) say that they can afford fewer goods, products and services than before the pandemic. Moreover, a quarter of the population reports either hav-

ing lost their job completely (8%) or experiencing salary/income reduction (13%) since the start of the pandemic; a plurality said they remain unemployed.

“Looking ahead, a plurality of citizens (42%) believe that the worst of the Covid19 pandemic is yet to come. Almost half of Georgians (45%) said that the vaccination process is going badly. Critically, 42% of citizens also feel that they do not have enough information about the vaccination process, with the lack of information especially high in rural settlements (47%).

More than half of the population says they don’t know how to register on the Georgian government’s online vaccination platform, with 71% of rural residents reporting that they are unaware of how to register,” reads the report.

Based on the survey, hesitancy towards the coronavirus vaccine is still high. Only 35% would choose to receive a vaccine; 47% said they would not. Vaccine hesitancy is most prevalent among younger demographics, people living outside Tbilisi, and opposition party supporters.

Among those who are hesitant, the main reasons are concerns about the quality of the vaccine (47%) and how those with existing health issues would be affected by the vaccine (20%).

“Ensuring a smooth rollout of the vaccine and making use of trusted medical professionals to provide the public with accurate information will be critical to the government’s effort to safeguard public health. The lack of information can slow down vaccine distribution and prevent citizens from making informed decisions about their health. It is incumbent upon all political leaders, but particularly those in power, to rebuild the public’s trust in the country’s governance.

In order to do so, it is important to demonstrate that the needs and priorities of the public, such as the economy and healthcare, are being met. Public priorities are consistent across political affiliation, signaling opportunities for political parties to work together,” said Alan Gillam, NDI Georgia Country Director.

“The twin challenges of the political crisis and Covid-19 pandemic have contributed to the erosion of trust in the country’s direction and political leaders.

Only a quarter of the public believes that Georgia is going in the right direction (23%), while only a third believe it is a democracy (35%). These represent significant decreases from one year ago in August 2020, where a plurality of Georgians held these beliefs (39% and 48%,

Image source: Report.ge

respectively). A similar trend is visible regarding the performance of the government: only a third of Georgians (36%) positively evaluate the current government’s performance, a decrease from 50% in December 2020.

“In the year ahead, the public wants to see the Georgian Parliament focused on the economy, healthcare, and education. Unfortunately, Georgians remain skeptical of the parliament’s willingness to actually address their concerns. More than half of the population (55%) does not believe parliament is passing legislation on issues that matter to them,

while 54% do not believe an MP will take action if citizens tell them about problems in their district. Only a quarter believes that parliament regularly communicates with the public,” reads the information.

NDI says the results reflect data collected between July 13-25, through telephone interviews with a nationwide representative sample of Georgia’s adult population, excluding occupied territories, that included 2,016 completed interviews. The average margin of error is +/- 1.3%. Respondents were selected using the random-digit-dial method.

4

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY

AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

The Economic Roots of Georgia’s “Defection” to the West

Georgian looking West. Source: expathub.ge

ANALYSIS BY EMIL AVDALIANI

A

n important part of a country's foreign policy lies in its economic moves. This is particularly true in the case of large states seeking a bigger role on the international arena.

For example, China has been implementing the 'Belt and Road Initiative' (BRI), while the US during the Cold War

brought in the famous Marshall Plan to help Europe restore its shattered financial strength. Both projects pursue(d) projection of political power through economic means.

Long gone are the days when it was possible to occupy territories solely through military power. Increasingly, as modernity enabled the rise of self-consciousness and nationalism among small states, it has become difficult to rely on repressive measures. A policy of active economic initiatives targeting one ethnic

group inside the country or a separate state has thus gained additional importance.

Looking at the last 30 years of GeorgianRussian relations, there has been almost everything one could imagine: from cordial talks to wars to a full-scale economic embargo. More negative than positive, but well illustrative of the limits of Russia's foreign policy.

True, Georgia has not been economically that important to Moscow as, for example, Ukraine, Kazakhstan or Belarus,

but Russia is always interested in influencing Tbilisi. Still, Georgia is a vital transit corridor between west and east, as well as north and south. Moreover, without Georgia, it will always be difficult for Russia to effectively control the restive North Caucasus in the long run.

The Russian political establishment failed to see that a major reason in Georgia's shift to the West in the early 2000s was a shattered post-Soviet economy and no help from Moscow. Russia was not perceived as an enemy when the Rose Revolution was about to happen in 2003. There were simply no concerted efforts from the Russian side to lure Georgia economically.

True, Russia on its own was experiencing turbulent times and was much selfabsorbed with internal problems when Vladimir Putin came to power in 1999.

Even when Russia became financially stable by the late 2000s, no viable longterm economic vision was offered to the former Soviet countries. The announcement of the creation of the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) did not produce the expected results, nor did it stop Ukraine from drifting away from Russia in 2014.

Again, Russian political thought failed to recognize that Kyiv's choice to move closer to the European Union was based on the latter's economic attractiveness.

As no brotherly relations with Russians could stop Ukrainians' drift to the western economic space, much less surprising is the Georgians' eagerness to join the European market.

Simply put, Russia has not been attractive enough. Even those countries which are economically close to Russia simply have no other alternative. Take, for example, Armenia, a large proportion of which is not enamored of Russia, but is entwined in the Russian economy because there is no other option. The same goes for the Central Asian states, which still prefer the Russian economy to the Chinese

market (though even this trend, based on Central Asia's cultural and historical closeness with Russia, started to shift and the region's economic relations with China now thrive).

When it comes to choosing between Western and Russian economic spaces, even those culturally closest to Russia still choose the West. The roots of this problem for Russia are the country's inability to build powerful state institutions and a thriving economic space with opportunities for peaceful development across the former Soviet territories.

What is troubling is Russia's failure to understand the source of the country's weakness – a need for rapid restructuring of economy to yield higher industrial and technological results. On the rare occasion high level politicians openly discuss this, it usually ends with no specific results.

It can be argued that for the last 30 years, Russia has not pursued a consistent economic policy towards Georgia.

Investments were occasional, while other political decisions only further hampered bilateral relations. The case of Georgia's "defection" to the West well reflects how less attention is paid nowadays in Russia to economic components in the country's foreign policy. There are even hints that Moscow now prefers military moves to economic ones.

Even from a strategic point, one can say that Russia simply has not got a foreign policy towards Georgia, except for militarily preventing the country from joining NATO and the EU. No long-term approach of economic, cultural or other components has been formulated. As a result, by 2003, it was already late to reverse the existing trend in Georgia, while a similar process is now seen in Ukraine. *Emil Avdaliani is a professor at European University and the Director of Middle East Studies at Georgian think-tank, Geocase.

From Russia with Love OP-ED BY NUGZAR B. RUHADZE

R

ight before the 13th anniversary of the 2008 RussoGeorgian war, there came a message from Moscow to Tbilisi, full of kind wishes to restore ties and go back to the erstwhile friendship and mutual cooperation between the two feuding countries, despite the history of intermittent exchanges of love and hatred over the last two hundred years. Does Russia really mean what it suggests? Of course it does! Yet, the genuine stuffing of the declared goodwill is that for such reparation, Russia wants Georgia to put up with the new geopolitical reality, ‘new’ meaning that Abkhazia and South Ossetia remain on the run. Both were unilaterally recognized by Russia as independent states in retaliation to America’s recognizing Kosovo’s independence against the Russian stand.

How regrettable that our miniature Georgia should lose its historical lands as a consequence of muscle flexing between geopolitical giants. This is the way our planet is managed today, of which Georgia happens to be a victim.

The very moment the Russian proposal was reflected in the news, the US Embassy in Tbilisi replied with strong and angry statements that Russia must first withdraw its forces from Georgian territory if it wants to restore relations with Georgia, once again calling on Russia to reverse its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Imagine the level of irritation in the Kremlin at hearing these words! But for us Georgians, not much has changed as a result – the longstanding status quo remains as firm as a rock. The situation is somewhat reminiscent of the caravan that keeps rolling on, nonchalant to the loud warnings of various levels and strength.

Russia, although it has plenty of insurmountable problems of its own, still resorts to cynical comments about Georgia’s attempts to westernize itself and its current geopolitical orientation focused on integration into Euro-Atlantic polit-economical structures. This is seen throughout Russian media, as well as in the comments of Russian officialdom. One could say that Russia wants Georgia back not in prewar form and content, but as it is now – truncated, frustrated and on its knees. Georgia has the full support of the West, but the western shoulder seems to be more ephemeral than real. We are certainly using a lot of western economic help, thanks to which we are not ‘dying of hunger,’ but the essential problem of our territorial integrity remains unsolved, and nobody seems capable of making any forecast about the future. Meanwhile, Russia is not yielding, keeping a rigid grip on the lands she has snatched from us.

Incidentally, some wicked thoughts pop up at times in my confused head: what was grabbed by force must be taken back by force. But Georgia cannot afford anything of that sort. We are totally in the hands of big players in the game. If, against any odds, they clash to establish

Georgia has gotten tired of being a loser, but the impetus it needs to reinvent itself as a productive builder is not even on the horizon. Source: fpri.org

justice, the confrontation will take place on our territory, so we will once again be victimized for no good reason.

Georgia has gotten tired of being a loser. Georgia needs impetus to reinvent itself as a productive builder, but the incentive is not even looming on the horizon. Georgians are gradually getting used to the fact that our long-suffering lands have been devoured by post-soviet

shakes and quakes, and the way to get them back is hopelessly blurred. We cannot depend on Russia’s will to reconstruct our country, unless we turn our back on the West and embrace Russia’s recent offer. If we want to continue with our western friends and allies, they will have to immediately marry us into their rich and mellow family before we get gobbled up by some unexpected geopo-

litical vicissitude and the grown appetites of those who still have an eye on our beautiful lands. None of these is happening, and Georgia remains clenched between the relentless jaws of that horrible status quo, which already accounts for several generations, coming and going, and becoming ever more insensitive towards our territorial pain in the neck.

IWG plc, Level 4, 2 Leonidze str. Tbilisi, Georgia | +995 32 290 039

6

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY

AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

Service for Citizenship: A Foreign Legion for Georgia Organizational command would fall under the Ministry of Defense as a separate Georgian Legion Command. Their budget would need to be separate, and possibly less than standard units initially.

A 12-year pilot program would gauge the effectiveness of the unit and determine if further investment is necessary. Should it warrant the investment, a new branch of the Georgian ground forces would be permanently established.

This type of organization and the added benefits of foreign recruitment would be an immense growth point for Georgia.

Being a country that those who favor the rigors of the outdoors as well as the culture and lifestyle are gravitating to more and more, it would provide an honorable and duty-driven pathway for those willing to commit to the nation to become contributing members of Georgian society. Georgian hospitality is renowned as the most accepting and warm in all of Europe and Asia. Embracing those willing to sacrifice everything for their new home is only a natural addition to this unique cultural phenomenon.

By LOIC VENANCE/AFP/Getty Images

ANALYSIS BY MICHAEL GODWIN

W

hile many military forces are composed solely of the respective nations' citizens, there exist examples of when particular units broke this mold.

Whether by an influx of foreign expats or by refugees seeking asylum and subsequent permanent residency, some nations in history have offered the prospect of citizenship contingent on service in its armed forces. This model is focused on the idea that one willing to make sacrifices, and potentially the ultimate sacrifice, would be able to earn their place in society.

This concept has shown to be beneficial, not just for national defense purposes, but as an inclusive and prideful means to produce new citizens, and as such a larger workforce and tax base.

Georgia has been a haven for adventurers for years, and due to its food, culture, hiking trails, and ease of living, it has attracted many of those who have decided to make it home. However, the path to citizenship for those hopefuls wishing to stay long term is tedious and ridden with administrative problems.

As such, it stands to be that Georgia could benefit from raising the banner of their own military unit of foreign volunteers. The mold used to create this type of unit is already available. In recent history there are two units that provide the perfect template: South Africa’s 32 Battalion, and the French Foreign Legion.

After the fall of Angola to the communist forces of the Movimento Popular de Libertação de Angola (MPLA), many of the remaining resistance groups fled to South West Africa (now Namibia) and South Africa. These experienced men were quickly gathered into a specialist

light infantry force originally known as Bravo Group, but soon relabeled as 32 Battalion. While it’s composition was primarily the refugees from Angola, its ranks quickly swelled with Australians, Portugese, Rhodesians, and Americans, among others.

Acting as a buffer force ahead of the regular South African Defense Force, they fought asymmetric and counterinsurgency warfare against an agile and numerically superior enemy. After their excellent performance in the South African Border Wars, being one of the most highly decorated units in the army, many of their members either settled in South Africa or simply continued their service into retirement. Their honorable mark in the minds of defense analysts and military history researchers is secured for eternity.

France’s Foreign Legion grew from similar roots. In the 1830s, France had begun to receive an influx of immigrants and veterans from recently disbanded German regiments. King Louis Philippe, seeing a use for these new potential recruits, drafted a decree creating a Foreign Legion for these men. Since this decree, the Legion has been involved, often in the thickest of the fighting, of every French conflict, including colonial expeditions.

In the modern Legion, they are often the first to serve on NATO and UN missions, particularly ones that possess a significant risk to the security forces involved. Contrary to the legendary 32 Battalion, the Foreign Legion is still an active part of the French military today.

Recruits are required to sign a 5-year contract, but after 3 years of honorable service they are eligible to file for French citizenship. Alternatively, those that receive wounds while deployed on a combat mission on behalf of a French operation are able to automatically receive citizenship through a special program known as “Français par le sang versé,”

or “French by spilled blood.”

These hallowed organizations have become legendary in their own right due to the passion their members have for their prospective new homeland.

Their ferocity in battle, technical and tactical prowess, and dedication to completing their mission regardless of the obstacles have more than earned the admiration of their government and new countrymen. This reinvigorated new immigrant population is something Georgia can only benefit from. However, the construction of this force should follow the example of both military units.

Initially, a pair of rifle companies, under the direct leadership of Georgian officers, would need to be established. A minimum contract term, potentially 3 or 4 years’ service, would need to be mandatory and only upon completion of this would full citizenship be granted.

Expats and immigrants seeking service would be eligible but only accepted upon passing initial entry training.

This training should be modeled to educate individuals ignorant of even the most elementary of military matters to become proficient soldiers. In addition, constant Georgian language, culture, and history classes would periodically break up the intense training regimen. The minimum requirement for completion of initial training would not be far from that of some special operations forces.

As this unit will have much demanded of it, it will be required to operate in a wide variety of environments and earn its own honor.

In order to distinguish them from regular army units, a distinctive insignia would be required to inspire esprit de corps and encourage continued cohesion. Discipline and regulation may be stricter for this unit of foreigners, as many may come from civilian or even troubled backgrounds, seeking reformation. In fact, the unit may even warrant

its own barracks and sector of military installation, separate from the main Georgian military. For the foreigners enlisted in the unit, relationships or marriage cannot be an option during their service.

For deployments, just like 32 Battalion and the Foreign Legion, they would be the tip of the spear alongside Georgia’s SOF elements. Operating as a light and highly maneuverable infantry unit, they would have immense operational and tactical bandwidth on the ground. Working with Georgian and NATO combat support units, they would provide a 24-hour rapid response unit for both international and domestic missions.

Should individuals decide to remain in service after their initial contract, they may be eligible for transfer to the regular Georgian army of SOF units.

By Sam van den Berg

Georgian hospitality is renowned as the most accepting and warm in all of Europe and Asia. Embracing those willing to sacrifice everything for their new home is only a natural addition to this unique cultural phenomenon

POLITICS

GEORGIA TODAY AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

7

Some Karabakh-Related Aspects of Georgia’s Regional Positioning. Part 2 ANALYSIS BY VICTOR KIPIANI, GEOCASE CHAIRMAN

O

bviously, the first interesting question is Russia’s and Turkey’s roles in the Karabakh conflict, and the Russian factor, in this case, is a very specific one. Since Russia and Armenia maintain close relations through various agreements, whereas Moscow’s links to Azerbaijan follow a more cooperational format, Russia was obliged to maintain a very delicate balance between the two. Basically, neither of the parties to the conflict was “hostile” towards Russia, and Moscow’s actions should therefore have been more weighed and complex compared to other conflicts and wars in the post-Soviet space. It was this specific factor that supposedly defined a certain number of “flexible” formulations that were included in the ceasefire agreement and were mentioned above.

Another defining and extremely important aspect should also be mentioned: the dyophysite or perhaps even "triphysite" factor of Moscow’s involvement in the conflict. What is implied here is the general background of Russia-Turkey relations which intersect not only in the South Caucasus but in other points around the world as well.

Despite Moscow’s tactical interests in cooperating with Ankara, Russia did its best to limit Turkey’s role in the postconflict period. For example, the agreement of the 10th of November 2020 tries to limit Turkey’s military element in monitoring the ceasefire agreement.

Russia also tried hard to neutralize Turkey’s attempts to widen its role in the Minsk format (as well as those of Azerbaijan).

And let us now use Georgia’s point of view in order to briefly discuss what

Caspian Sea, along with the South Caucasus lying in between, are being established as an important regional center of this new world order.

To complete this analysis, I would name the South Caucasus and the Middle East as closely linked issues. Despite differences on the surface, it is a fact that a number of measurable factors are leading these two regions’ geopolitics to increasingly merge.

Of course, the above mentioned questions imply several subsidiary questions and a certain depth of inquiry. We only mentioned those basic lines of thought that will become fields for endless research by analysts over the coming years and will become routine responses for policy makers.

attitude Turkey can have towards this issue. Firstly, Turkey is one of Georgia’s main partners. Secondly, Ankara plays a significant role in issues of regional safety and consistently and openly supports Georgia’s NATO membership ambitions.

What is also defined in the context of this issue is the presumed specificity of Georgia-Turkey relations with regards to limiting the spread of Russia’s influence in the South Caucasus. Here, we should also mention Ankara's desire to further deepen the country's partnership with Azerbaijan, as well as Turkey’s practical interests in stabilizing relations with Yerevan.

THE SOUTH CAUCASUS AS A TRILATERAL FORMAT? It is not even worth asking what benefits any format of trilateral cooperation would bring to the countries of the South Caucasus. Besides questions of peace and safety, such a partnership within the framework of the emerging new world order would give the Caucasus qualitatively different characteristics and would make the region more interesting and appealing to investments. Unfortunately, the reality of the current situation in the short and medium term does not give much cause for optimism. Overall, the paradigm of the South Caucasus is mostly limited to bilateral relations between Georgia and Armenia and Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Based on that, the quality of cooperation among the South Caucasian triangle is in the foreseeable future defined by the quality of cooperation between Tbilisi and Yerevan and Tbilisi and Baku.

We must at this stage repeat that this is the current state of the region’s "real politics" and that there seems to be little chance of this reality changing any time soon. These conditions underline Georgia’s most important role as a potential pillar of the South Caucasus’ overall

THE FACT IS THAT.. economic space. Consequently, the results of the country’s internal reforms are becoming as important as the quality of Georgia’s integration with international civilized society.

THE ISSUES IN PERSPECTIVE To discuss processes in the region in the near and medium term, many key issues are being accumulated. The answers to some questions are slowly taking shape with more or less clarity, and some might be made the subject of hypothetical modeling, at this stage, at any rate, and taking existing conditions into consideration.

For example, the quality and durability of Russia and Turkey’s current geopolitical cohabitation in the South Caucasus is questionable, particularly as the two countries come into contact in other parts of the world as well. We cannot exclude that in the so-called arrangement of priorities, the South Caucasus might turn into an essential component of modern mutual compromises.

The basic challenge of the overall task remains the role of the West in the South

Caucasus and the projection of Western interests. An unequivocal answer must be found to this question at this stage, especially given the noticeable deficit of clear geopolitical Western lines with regard to the Black Sea region, one of whose natural components we believe the South Caucasus to be. The most compelling factor of the overall Western vector is the United States of America, whereas globally Washington’s recent zig-zag geopolitical signature unintentionally helps to create the above mentioned problem.

Another very important issue is the overall framework of the new world order that is currently being formed. We believe that there are two fundamental trends that define its basic nature: the first of these is the counterweight parameter between the US and China, as well as how it is reflected in different geopolitical geographies. Second, in our opinion, the novel understanding of this new world order’s multilateral characteristics, as well as bringing regionalism to the fore. From this point of view, the geopolitical geography of the Black Sea and

…the South Caucasus is once again at the center of global attention, while the modern structure of relationships between the countries of the region has evolved over the past few years from a bilateral model to a more complex multilayered system. In any case, the collapse of the Soviet Union left a legacy that the three countries of the region are still trying to overcome. Also, it is important to note that the so-called "ethnic conflicts" are primarily related to the shifting sands of geopolitics in the region.

The latter point is especially true when speaking about the conflicts in Georgia, whose reduction to the category of "ethnicity" reflects either a lack of knowledge or an attempt to distort their essence.

As a result, the Caucasian puzzle raises more questions than it provides answers for, which is hardly surprising since the region's importance goes beyond its boundaries and since the diversity of the Caucasus is truly a contributor to the grand design of Eurasian security. In addition to a general toolkit, the South Caucasus is a region that also requires a very tailor-made approach.

13 Years since August War: Russia Says It's ‘Ready to Restore Relations with Georgia’ Continued from page 1 On August 28, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed a decree recognizing South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent states. In response, the Georgian government severed diplomatic relations with Russia. Russia only partially fulfilled its obligations defined by the 6-point ceasefire agreement, and its forces remained in the village of Perevi until October 18, 2010.

On October 23, 2008, the Georgian government passed the Law on Occupied Territories, giving the areas the status of occupied territories of Georgia by Russia.

Two Georgian regions, Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, remain occupied by Russia today, and Russia continues discrimination and violence against ethnic Georgians, restrictions on the right of education in the native language, the right to property, and even the right to life.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of IDPs and refugees are prevented from returning to their homes.

Several days before the 13th anniversary of this tragic date in modern Georgian history, Official Moscow released a statement, pointing at the necessity to “make relations between the two countries warmer and friendlier.” Namely, Deputy Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Alexander Bikantov, said at a briefing on August 5 that Moscow is ready to restore relations with Georgia to the level "at which the Georgian side will be ready."

Commenting on the 13th anniversary of the Russo-Georgian War of August 2008, Bikantov expressed hopes that “common sense will prevail in Tbilisi, and our Georgian partners will begin to build relations with neighbors, taking into account the balance of interests.”

He also spoke about the 13th anniversary of the August war, calling the government of former President Mikheil Saakashvili a "criminal regime."

"Russia has never identified the Geor-

gian people with Mikheil Saakashvili's criminal regime," he added.

In response, regarding the resumption of relations between the two countries, the Georgian Foreign Ministry said that the future of good neighborly relations between the two countries goes beyond the de-occupation of Georgian territories and Russia's respect for Georgia's sovereignty and internationally recognized borders.

“A few days before the 13th anniversary of Russia's large-scale military aggression against Georgia, the representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry made an attempt to create another piece of disinformation and propaganda narrative on the so-called new reality and the 2008 August war,” the Ministry announced.

“We would like to remind Russia that there is no parallel reality. The international community and international law are uniform in countering Russia’s aggressive activities, occupation and de-facto annexation. The European Court of Human Rights gave its name to the August 2008 war and established that in effective control of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Russia is responsible for grave human rights violations during the war and following the occupation. The Strasbourg Court held

the Russian Federation responsible for ethnic cleansing, putting an accent on Moscow’s failure to comply with the ceasefire agreement.

“Against such a background, the comment of the Russian Foreign Ministry regarding the anniversary of the 1783 Treaty of Georgievsk is cynical and absolutely unacceptable as it is in breach of this very treaty that Russia started annexation of Georgian territories and capturing lands in the South Caucasus.

It is unfortunate that annexing territories of other countries remains Russia’s goal after centuries.

“In the present-day world, which is based on the norms and principles of international law, no-one is going to tolerate Russia’s attempts to undermine the rules-based international order and to forcefully redraw the borders of sovereign states in Europe, nor will they tolerate Moscow’s defiance of international obligations under the Ceasefire Agreement.

“If something goes against equal and good-neighborly relations between Russia and Georgia, it is Russia’s aggressive policy, its unlawful occupation of Georgian territories, violation of Georgia’s territorial integrity and breach of inviolability of internationally recognized state

borders. A route to the good-neighborly relations between Georgia and Russia lies through de-occupation of Georgian territories and Russia’s respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country,” stated the Georgian MFA. Also in response to the Russian Foreign Ministry, US Ambassador Kelly Degnan said that if Russia wants its statement taken seriously, Russia must first withdraw its troops from the territory of Georgia.

The US Ambassador noted that there is a format in the Geneva Talks for dialogue with Russia.

"Georgians have heard such messages from Russia before, but in order for Georgia to take this statement seriously, it is important that Russia, first of all, withdraw its troops from the territories of Georgia. It is important that Russia withdraws its troops from Georgian territory, withdraws recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and opens humanitarian corridors in these regions,” the Ambassador said.

On the 13th anniversary of the August War, President of Georgia Salome Zurabishvili, along with members of the government, paid tribute to the heroes who died in the war, at the Mukhatgverdi Brothers Cemetery, noting that August 8 should be a day of hope, not of mourning.

“We will all see the unification of Georgia. I want this day to be the day of the heroes whose devotion was a devotion to hope,” stated the President.

Local authorities and Georgia’s foreign partners publicly responded to the anniversary, condemning the Russian occupation and calling on the Russian federation to withdraw its troops from Georgian territories.

“August 7 marks 13 years since Russia’s military aggression against Georgia, and the occupation of Georgian regions. Russia must fulfill the ceasefire agreement,” Georgian Foreign Minister Davit Zalkaliani wrote on Twitter.

“Recently, the European Court of Human Rights ruled its verdict on the Russia-

Georgia conflict and found the Russian Federation exercising effective control responsible for human rights violations in the August 2008 War. Russia must fulfill the ceasefire agreement,” he added.

“Unfortunately, the Russian Federation’s occupation of Georgian territories, and aggressive and destructive policy still continues,” said First Deputy Foreign Minister Lasha Darsalia in the village of Gegutiantkari, near the occupation line, where he met with civil society representatives, local NGOs and non-governmental organizations.

The Deputy FM noted that the Government of Georgia has set up a government commission on de-occupation and the peaceful settlement of the conflict, with the aim of establishing a common national approach and a unified national vision.

“13 years since Russia’s military aggression against Georgia, 20% of Georgia is occupied,” MEP Viola von Cramon wrote on Twitter.

“Russia is now spreading anti-Georgia & anti-EU disinformation. The European Union is committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia and stands with its people until full de-occupation,” she added.

The EU Delegation to Georgia also reiterated its condemnation of Russia’s recognition of and continued military presence in Abkhazia and South Ossetia in violation of both international law and of its commitments under the 12 August 2008 agreement.

Latvia firmly supports Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Latvian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The US Embassy in Georgia once again condemned the Russian occupation and “borderization.”

In his video address dedicated to the 13th anniversary of the Russian invasion of Georgia, spokesperson of the US Department of State, Ned Price said, “We stand in solidarity with the people of Georgia and look forward to the day when they will be reunited.”

8

BUSINESS

GEORGIA TODAY

AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

Hilton Batumi Certified a Great Place to Work®

T

he employees have spoken!

Despite an incredibly difficult year for businesses all over the world, Hilton Batumi was able to sustain its award-winning culture, ultimately being certified as Great Place to Work® in June 2021-2022. Hilton Batumi is recognized by its employees as an organization that promotes a healthy and diverse workplace culture through trust, pride and camaraderie, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hilton has ranked as a Great Place to Work in more than 20 countries around the world.

Understanding the perspective of employees is key to building a successful workplace environment. Being recognized worldwide by Great Place to Work® is an honor and a great source of pride for Hilton Batumi Team Members.

The data from the Trust Index survey helps provide additional insight into the team member experience.

Geno Dzidziguri, Director of Human Resources at Hilton Batumi, could not hold his feelings back: “After finding out about the certification results, I could not be happier and prouder. This recognition is even more important considering all the past pandemic experiences we all went through together. Now, reflecting on all these tough times, it is very heart-warming to see Hilton recognized as a Great Place to Work® It is important to say we are the first ones in Georgia leading by example to other companies in all industries! That’s who

we are, that’s how we work: for our team members, for our guests and for our communities.”

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,600 properties and more than 1 million rooms, in 119 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, earned a top spot on the 2020 World’s Best Workplaces list, and was named the 2020 Global Industry Leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. In 2020, Hilton CleanStay was introduced, bringing an industry-defining standard of cleanliness to hotels worldwide. Through the awardwinning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 118 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed over 100 million employees globally and have used those deep insights to define what ele-

ment makes a great workplace: Trust.

Great Place to Work® helps organizations quantify their culture and produce better business results by creating a hightrust work experience for all employees.

Their unparalleled benchmark data is used to recognize Great Place to WorkCertified™ organizations. Everything they do is driven by the mission to build a better world by helping every organization become a truly ‘great place to work’.

New Business Union ‘Business Chamber of Asian & Gulf Countries’ to Support Economic Growth

BY ANA DUMBADZE

O

n August 10, in the conference hall of the Biltmore Hotel, a presentation of the new business union “Business Chamber of

Asian & Gulf Countries” was held, attended by representatives of the Georgian government, private and diplomatic corps, as well as foreign investors and individuals interested in Georgia’s investment environment.

During the presentation, the founders, including BCAGC President Darpan Prasher, and Vice Presidents Davit Tsir-

dava and Giorgi Otaridze, discussed how the spirit of BCAGC had emerged, what created the need for such a union, and how they achieved their goals. They explained the essence of the concept and the vision and mission of the Chamber to clearly outline the future role of the Union in the advancement of the economy. They also touched upon the advantages of membership in the Business Chamber of Asian & Gulf Countries (Counseling Center, Mediation Center, Field Training Center, a constantly growing database of industry specialists), which makes BCAGC a unique association/organization.

The event highlighted the great importance of the Business Chamber of Asian

& Gulf Countries in shaping the business climate in both the local (Georgian) and global (Caucasus, Asia) arenas.

During the event, a memorandum of cooperation was signed between BCAGC and the Georgian National University to jointly promote the development of young people, the organization of student projects and, most importantly, their employment.

The Chamber of Commerce makes a significant contribution to business development by formulating an effective global vision, and identifying existing challenges and opportunities. The Association promotes foreign investment, the establishment of international ties, and the strengthening of existing business relations,

alongside the formation of youth exchange projects such as a “knowledge exporter” and “trade corridor” of Georgia.

During the presentation, two projects were announced – “Educated Young People for Successful Business” and “Spring on the Silk Road.” Representatives of the government sector expressed their full readiness to support both.

Notably, in July, with the establishment of the Business Chamber of Asian & Gulf Countries, an agreement was signed with successful Indian organization GOPIO. With the active support of the Government of India, the Business Chamber of Asian & Gulf Countries and GOPIO will host an exhibition in autumn 2021 featuring 150 Indian companies.

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

9

Avlabari: from the Outskirts to the Center

BY EMIL AVDALIANI

A

vlabari is a historical district located on the left bank of the Mtkvari River. It is famous today for its churches and the heritage belonging to many nationalities living in Tbilisi.

For centuries, it was firmly outside the city, cut off from the ancient neighborhoods by the river. It was known for its Arab prison and, for a time, was called Soghdebili (სოღდებილი), which is believed to be a reference to an ethnic group that settled in the area when Tbilisi was part of the Persian Empire.

The first mention of its modern name dates back to the 14th century when it is mentioned as a suburb of Tbilisi. The name, a mixture of the Arabic "Havl" (field) and the Persian "Bare" (fence or rampart), seems to underline the idea that it territory was considered out of the city – the space beyond the barrier.

It was also at times known as Isani (fortress in Arabic), but should not be confused with the current Isani, which is a large district to the east of Avlabari.

Controlling Avlabari was essential to keeping Tbilisi safe and secure from external pressure. Serving as one of the entrances to the walls of the medieval capital, it must have been a territory where military contingents were present. In the age of intensive trade, when

Image by Gerhard Huber for global-geography.org

Tbilisi was an active participant on the Silk Road, the road through Avlabari served as a causeway which led to the eastern part of the unified Georgian Kingdom.

In the early 19th century, Avlabari hosted Russian military barracks, and Russian Governor-General Paskevich designed a plan to turn it into a district of the capital in 1831. A map of the area dating back to that period shows it divided into small quarters and blocks for officers and soldiers.

Paskevich's plan was eventually dropped, however, and instead Avlabari expanded under a slow spread of streets and standardized building façade. It became famous for its markets, which hosted merchants from neighboring cities.

Even though Avlabari has never been the heart of the city, it is full of sites that reflect Tbilisi's multi-cultured and multiethnic past.

Historically, Avlabari has been home to Tbilisi’s large Armenian population, one that has traditionally been concentrated around the Echmiadzin Cathedral (Ketevan Tsamebuli Square). Other prominent churches are also located in the district, including the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, commonly known as Sameba (სამების ლავრა), which means “trinity.”

Constructed between 1995 and 2004, Sameba is the third-tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the world and one of the largest religious buildings in the world by total area.

Avlabari also hosts an old clandestine printing house that was set up by Joseph Stalin in 1900 on what is now Kaspi

Avlabari district in Tbilisi. Photo by Marko Anastasov

Street. He believed that the compiling, publishing and disseminating of illegal literature was an important aspect of the nascent revolutionary movement. Stalin’s pupil and friend Mikho Bochoridze was assigned to organize the printing house.

The printing press produced newspapers and proclamations in the Russian, Georgian, Azeri and Armenian languages.

Not far from the Avlabari metro station, a beautiful palace, known as Queen Darejan's Palace, overlooks the Mtkvari River, on Vine Rise near Europe Square.

Darejan was the wife of the famous Georgian King Erekle II, who eventually became one of the figures of opposition to Russian rule in Georgia. Not far from the palace, the famous historic neighborhood of Metekhi is perched on the cliffs, overlooking the Mtkvari River. The

neighborhood is home to the eponymous Metekhi Church of Assumption.

Today, Avlabari has become a hub for tourists and home to some of the city's newest architectural sites: the Bridge of Peace, which connects Avlabari and the Old City; Rike Park, an open and green recreational area that serves as a gateway to the historic Narikala Fortress and Botanical Gardens via a ropeway; and the new presidential palace, located between Tsutskiridze and Abdushelishvili streets.

But Avalabari’s potential as a tourist space is not yet fully grasped. Large scale renovation of the entire district is necessary, as is the laying out plans how the territory could fit into the concept of Tbilisi as an emerging tourist destination center.

10

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY

AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

Helena Bedwell on Making Georgian Cuisine Gluten- and Lactose-Free INTERVIEW BY KATIE RUTH DAVIES

W

hen, for medical reasons, I was told to try gluten and lactosefree options, it began quite a journey for me. Gluten- and Lactose-free dishes can be found all over the world, but I asked myself, what about in Georgia? – Helena Bedwell, a veteran journalist and genius in the kitchen, tells us.

“I began experimenting in my kitchen, trying to adapt the wonderful Georgian cuisine to be gluten and lactose-free,” she says. “I’m not a professional chef. I never graduated from a cookery school, nor have I owned a café-restaurant. Yes, I have taught a few cooking classes, but my knowledge comes from the simple fact that I am Georgian and grew up seeing mum, dad, aunts, uncles and grandparents cooking, presenting, setting tables all year round to celebrate the seasons, special events or simply anyone coming through the door!”

She notes that Georgian food is hearty, and can be both sophisticated and yet simple.

“Being at the Georgian table is a family tradition, a celebration of a birth, marriage, death, christening, or simply a guest popping round for no particular reason. As such, Georgian cuisine is for everyone, and that is why my books are also for everyone: family-friendly and easy to follow.”

‘Gluten-Free and Lacto-Free Recipes from Helena’ is Helena Bedwell’s third book after ‘Eat Georgian, Feel Good: Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes from Helena’ and

‘Georgian Flavours from Helena.’

We spoke to her to find out more about her latest cookbook, and the challenges she faced turning Georgian cuisine gluten- and lactose-free.

WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE WHILE ADAPTING GEORGIAN RECIPES? DID YOU USE LOCAL INGREDIENTS? The biggest challenge was the price of the ingredients and very low and narrow knowledge of these particular diets among shop assistants and owners. Many shops don’t even know what they’re selling, but then again, many Georgians don’t know they have gluten intolerance or lactose issues!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST/LEAST ABOUT GEORGIAN CUISINE? I love how rustic it is, how homely and tasty. It’s like your momma or grandma made it for you and you are there sitting in the kitchen waiting for your food to be heated up or cooked. I love how simple it is, and yet so ingenious. And I love the tradition of serving different dishes at certain events, with some dishes made just for funerals or weddings or simple gatherings. And I love how vegetarian or vegan dishes can be so filling that you would never miss meat. And just like a good quality item, you can dress it up or down to fit your requirements in that moment. However, I’m still upset that during the Soviet Union, many wonderful tricks or methods were lost and it took us some time to regain our culinary strength.

YOU MAKE A SPECIAL MENTION

OF GEORGIAN TEA IN YOUR BOOK. TELL US ABOUT IT. The Gurieli tea producers are wonderful friends of mine. They always liked my idea to have Georgian cuisine presented in a modern and affordable way for readers. I remember as a child driving with my dad to the Black Sea and seeing the vast tea plantations. So beautiful, and there’s a great story behind it! [From the Gurieli webpage]: Prince Mamia V Gurieli (1809-1826), last ruler of the Guria principality in western Georgia, took great interest in transforming and developing the agricultural sector. Following the advice of French botanists Andre Michaux and his son Francois, who were the first to bring the tea plant to the United States in 1799, the Prince ordered the first Tea - Camellia Sinensis samples.

These were brought to his botanical garden by Scotsman Jacob Montague Marr, together with other exotic plants.

Cultivation of this once unknown plant laid the grounds for the development of what in the following decades became one of the biggest agricultural industries in Georgia.

WHAT STARTED YOU WRITING THIS COOKBOOK? HOW LONG DID IT TAKE TO PREPARE? This is my third cookbook. I originally

started cooking as a hobby, cooking for my friends and relatives. Then, when the questions came asking how to do this or that, I said, “here, read it and do it yourself.” I take around six months to create a book. My inspiration is simply to share the joy of cooking. I cook very fast, never taking more than 30 minutes to make a dish- I can whip up something very quickly! I cooked all of my dishes in my book, and the photographer took the pictures right there in my kitchen.

Then we shared the food with my neighbors and those who needed food.

WHO'S THE PHOTOGRAPHER? The photographer is Nino Kankava for the food pics and Goga Chanadiri for the cover. These two wonderfully complimented my character and temperament, and I thank both of them for understanding what I needed. Nino wonderfully captured the spirit of my cooking and Goga did a great job of seeing me as I am!

SOCIETY

GEORGIA TODAY AUGUST 13 - 19, 2021

11

What I Owe Russia

BLOG BY TONY HANMER

I

f I had not discovered the USSR via the writings of Solzhenitsyn, visited the USSR in the summer of 1991 and seen the coup against Gorbachev (see next week), moved

to St Petersburg a year later and started ethnographic studies there as a hobby, I likely would not have discovered Svaneti.

The internet didn’t exist widely then, and research was much harder to do, mainly on paper from scant English and much wider Russian sources.

Yes, I was a Slavophile for a while, eagerly absorbing Russian culture, lit-

Far East, all things I still hope to do. But those years hold thousands of precious memories for me.

The acculturation I picked up from former Soviet countries helped me adjust to early 2000s Georgia, although of course there is much here that is unique. Russian language fluency was both a help, starting out here, and a hindrance to learning better Georgian. I have made the switch, but my Georgian is still not as strong as it should or could be. As for Svan: not happening; each additional language before me is harder yet!

Now, seeing the other side of the Caucasus coin, the side of the southern republics, I have different views from those I had from the side of the Northern Neighbor. I’m still seeking balance, still trying not to be prejudiced or judgmental. Georgia has captured my heart in a

It does seem that my “fate” (partly chosen, partly seemingly imposed) is tied to this little country and its far northern and western province, high in the Caucasus. I have made it known that my grave should be in a certain part of Etseri, next to the parents of my blood brother, whether I die here or not (as long as this happens in Georgia!).

Here, too, my wife and I remain foreigners, although with a reputation for engaging in the activities and yearly events of the village and region. This otherness may never change, even if we learn Svan fluently. But we seem to have found a comfortable compromise, with some challenges remaining that we muddle through as best we can. I will never be a heavy drinker, have no desire to get drunk at all, though I do make my own liqueurs.

way that is deeper, though, than Russia did, although my many 1990s photographs, friendships and experiences remain strong. I can’t hide those years and don’t feel I need to. They remain an important part of who I am and how I got here.

I suppose that viewing things through a Russian lens, though as a foreigner to the whole region, does color them in other ways than those for someone who came here straight from the West or elsewhere. But I can’t change that: it just is what it is; I just want to be self-aware and consider why I think or believe as I do, what my worldview is and how it formed.

If not for Russia… Georgia, and Svaneti, might never have clicked into place for me at all; there’s no saying, only speculating. But that’s how I see it. Spasibo (“thank you” in Russian, from roots meaning “may God save you”)!

erature, art and so on. I stayed in Petersburg for 7 years and was able to travel widely as well. The train was my main conveyor: Murmansk 3 times, Moscow many times, though I’m glad I didn’t live there, around the Urals, as far east as Novosibirsk. I never got to see Lake Baikal, which is still a bucket list item, or visit a relic prison camp, or reach the

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

CULTURE

International Documentary Film Festival CinéDOC-Tbilisi to Open on August 15 tion section of Focus Caucasus.

Every day, from Monday to Friday, the Public Broadcaster will show the 11 best films of CinéDOC-Tbilisi in the festival TV hall, and on weekends, viewers will have the opportunity to visit the festival website and in virtual movie theaters, watch the 10 latest documentaries from the competition section of Focus Caucasus, which includes films from the Caucasus region – Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.

In parallel, there will be special screenings, including films from the CinéDOCYoung section, which are aimed at a relatively young, teenage audience.

The Georgian National Film Center is a partner of the festival.

BY KETEVAN SKHIRTLADZE

T

his year’s edition of the CinéDOC-Tbilisi International Documentary Film Festival is to be held in a hybrid format from August 15 to September 15.

CinéDOC-Tbilisi will kick off at 23:30 on the Public Broadcaster with the film “Sunny” by Georgian film director Katie Machavariani.

The film festival will offer the audience both a special film collection and the latest documentaries from the competi-

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