Friday, December 19, 2014

Georgia-EU: Has Georgia made the grade?

19.12.2014. The European Parliament yesterday ratified the Association Agreement between the EU and Georgia. 490 deputies voted for the document, 76 were against, 57 deputies abstained. During the vote in the hall of the European Parliament were the current president of Georgia, Giorgi Margvelashvili, and ex-President Mikhail Saakashvili, who has been put on the wanted list in his country.

Economic expert Irakli Lekvinadze said what Georgia expects from the Association except the opening of borders. "This is a very important agreement for us, both politically and, of course, in economic terms. One of the points of the agreement is free trade, and for us this is very important. In the first place, of course, those companies that export their products from Georgia to Europe will benefit: before September 1, they paid customs tariff, from September 1 this tariff does not exist. This will affect those Georgian companies that export wine and various fruit concentrates to the EU, providing additional revenue. This is one of the benefits that we got in Georgia after ratification of the treaty," the expert said.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Georgia to launch e-visa scheme with 102 countries

17.12.2014. Georgia is preparing to launch an electronic visa (e-visa) facility in the near future, allowing tourists from 102 countries the possibility to apply for a Georgian visa in simple steps, say official Tbilisi.

E-visa’s would boost Georgia’s tourism sector and offer hassle-free travel to foreign nationals, in light of the country’s new visa rules which had created "some difficulties” for tourists, believed Giorgi Chogovadze, head of the National Tourism Administration, which is responsible for the tourism sector development in the country.

"The date of the service launch has not yet been defined. However we have to test the traffic of the users that will be able to use the electronic travel authorization scheme,” Chogovadze told industry insiders while presenting his vision and goals for developing the country’s tourism sector.

Chogovadze was confident the government was actively working to correct current deficiencies to simplify issues relating to the new visa regulations, which came into force on September 1, 2014.

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Over 300 executives to meet for aviation event

16.12.2014. A decision by United Airports of Georgia to host the Routes Silk Road event for the second year running is largely due to the success of the 2014 event [read more here] and a number of key routes which were negotiated during Routes Silk Road 2014. Air Arabia and Aeroflot commenced new routes from Tbilisi International Airport in October 2014 (to Sharjah and Moscow respectively). Etihad Airways is due to begin flights from Tbilisi to Abu Dhabi in October 2015. Furthermore, UAG is currently in the process of active negotiations with two airlines to begin routes from Kutaisi International Airport.

Routes Silk Road is the route development forum that connects CIS, Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Asia and was held for the first time earlier this year. The event, which will once again take place in the beautiful and historic capital of Georgia, will offer attendees the perfect platform to do business and improve air transport networks to, from and within the region. Over 300 senior level executives from airlines, airports, tourism authorities and other aviation stakeholders are expected to attend to discuss air service development.

Friday, December 12, 2014

Georgian tourism companies join national airline in protest

12.12.2014 (Hvino News). A rally held by Georgian Airways in protest of the unlimited flow of Russian airlines to Georgia, was joined by Georgian tourism companies on December 11. The companies stated that the country lacks regulations that support the local industry.

Georgian Airways released an eight-point list of demands on December 10, out of which only one was met. Two Russian companies Aeroflot and S7 will be able to carry out 10 flights a week instead of 14.

However, Georgia Airways leadership claims that the decision will not solve the problem and insist that all their demands are fulfilled. These include the rejection of the July 8 decree that allows Russian companies to undertake unlimited flights to the Tbilisi-Moscow-Tbilisi route, restoration of flights between the two countries that existed in 2006, negotiations with Russian representatives in Georgia, separation of the National Aviation Agency from the Ministry of Economy and making it a separate entity, hiring qualified staff for the agency and resuming the status of a flagman to Georgian Airways. Otherwise the company threatens to block the airport.

“Georgia’s airport is owned by a Turkish company, while the sky is going to be possessed by Russian companies. There is no space left for Georgian companies,” General Director of Georgian Airways Iase Zautashvili said.

Georgian Airways strike gains momentum

12.12.2014. One of the country’s top tourism agencies is publicly supporting the Georgian Airways strike as airline officials threaten to "paralyze” Tbilisi International Airport if its demands are not met.

The Georgian Airways protest is gaining momentum and has affected flights in and out of Georgia’s capital city Tbilisi.

The founder of one of the top tourism company "All Tours” Maia Mchedlidze said her company and others were in solidarity with the demands of Georgian Airways, who today pledged to ramp up their strike if their demands remained unanswered.

Mchedlidze noted that local tourism companies operated in harsh conditions as there were no regulations to enable them to compete with foreign companies.

"We make charters through Georgian Airways therefore we are dependent on each other,” she said.

"Our problem is that foreign tourism companies are trying to swallow us. Egyptian and Turkish aviation companies are entering Georgia with very low prices, they decrease their prices and we are forced to do the same, which, due to our limited resources, causes great problems for Georgian tourism companies. Their resources however enable them to act like this,” Mchedlidze said.

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Georgia, World Bank to work out national tourism development strategy

04.12.2014. The Georgian Ministry of Economy and the National Tourism Administration jointly with the World Bank will begin working over the national tourism development strategy until 2025.

The consultations have been actively conducted for several months. The conference at the Expo Georgia exhibition center was dedicated to this topic. The representatives of the public and private sectors, international organizations and NGOs attended the conference.

The First Deputy Economy Minister Dmitry Kumsishvili delivered speech at the conference. He said that the tourism development is one of the priorities of the Georgian government.

"The income obtained from tourism in the country’s trade turnover amounts to $1.700 billion,” Kumsishvili said. “The work over the further document must be completed in March 2015. We must have a clear vision of the tourism development in Georgia until 2025. Afterwards, we will prepare a five-year action plan to be reconsidered."

A Solimar International representative delivered speech at the conference on behalf of the WB. He spoke about global experience in the field of tourism and tourism development strategies.

"The WB and the International Finance Corporation focused on the entrepreneurship development, the availability of funds, improvement of the investment sphere and the development of the tourism development strategy in Georgia."

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Georgia is the most popular New Year's destination for Russians among post-Soviet countries

03.12.2014. Tour operators, having in their selection proposals for Georgia and the CIS countries, have concluded that the demand for the New Year holidays here, unlike the vast majority of the areas visited, are resisting significant falls, and in some positions show positive dynamics.

Airzena-Georgian Airways operates seven flights and week between Tbilisi and Moscow, and S7 Airlines and Aeroflot operate 14 in total.

In winter, tourists are most interested in the excursion program, spa treatments and skiing. For outdoor enthusiasts, Georgia has a choice of two ski resorts - Gudauri and Bakuriani.

Source


    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Friday, November 28, 2014

Conference of accessible tourism takes place in Georgia

28.11.2014. The Department of Tourism and Resort of Adjara hosted the second annual international conference on the topic of accessible tourism for economical development and social responsibility in Georgia, Batumi on November 21.

The organizers of the conference pointed out the following aspects: First was the promotion of accessible tourism for social inclusion and economical development in the region. Second was the identification of activities on adaptation of the environment. Additionally, both Georgian and international tourism experts explained that in order for tourism to be successful in the area, the social responsibility of the business sector should be significantly enhanced.

“The conference did not only serve the purpose of finding possible ways to develop accessible tourism in the region, but also to increase social responsibility within society, because it is important for us to make both locals and tourists feel comfortable in Batumi,” said Mamuka Berdzenishvili, the Deputy Head of the Department of Tourism and Resort of Adjara.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Georgia’s new visa policy and its consequences for tourism

25.11.2014. New visa regulations entered into force in Georgia from September, under which visa-free regime with some countries was abolished, including those with which visa regime acted but visa could be obtained at the airport, a full visa regime was introduced.

In the years 2005-2014, Georgia has unilaterally decided to introduce a visa-free entry for citizens of all countries whose GDP is more than Georgia’s - it was established for 121 countries, and first of all - the EU and North America.

For other countries a simplified visa regime was introduced when visitors couldpurchase a visa at the airport, without unnecessary procedures. The liberalization of visa regulations is aimed at the development of tourism and promotion of foreign investors.

As a result of this policy, the number of tourists in Georgia has increased dramatically, which contributed to a sharp and rapid growth of the industry.

According to the International Organization UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, Georgia is recognized as a leader in terms of growth in the number of tourists.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Bio monitoring and environmental tourism in Lagodekhi

by Tatia Megeneishvili

31.10.2014. Head of UNDP in Georgia Niels ScottThe Lagodekhi Protected Area presented its new system of biodiversity monitoring and poach trackingMinister of Environment and Natural Resources Protection of Georgia Elguja Khokrishvili and Head of UNDP in Georgia Niels Scott visited  newly opened touristic tracks and souvenir shops The Lagodekhi Protected Area presented its new system of biodiversity monitoring and the tracking of poachers, and first achievements in developing environmental tourism on October 29.

The event was attended by the representatives of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Protection of Georgia, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), local government and environmental organizations, as well as residents of nearby villages.

Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Protection of Georgia Elguja Khokrishvili and Head of UNDP in Georgia Niels Scott, visited the newly opened touristic tracks and souvenir shops. They also met with the residents of the villages Gurgeniani and Ninogori who plan to be involved in touristic activities.

As the start-up assistance to the environmental tourism, Khokrishvili and Scott presented a collection of souvenirs to the local shop and five horse saddles to the local residents interested in launching horse riding tours.

ADB presents Georgia as regional hub and gateway to Europe

31.10.2014. An International Investment Forum “Georgia – Regional Hub and Asia’s Gateway to Europe” took place in Tbilisi on October 29-30, jointly organized by the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The Forum, held at the hotel Radisson Blu Iveria, hosted over 300 guests from diverse sectors and countries, ranging from private, international and domestic companies to large international business associations, including the American Chamber of Commerce in Georgia (AmCham Georgia), the largest international business association in Georgia, with up to 160 members.

Irakli Gharibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia, officially opened the Forum saying “Georgia is a rapidly developing democratic country with one of the world’s most attractive business climates, liberal trade, low taxes and strategic location that have turned thr country into the new regional frontier for investment opportunities.”

The PM, in his speech Why Georgia Matters, emphasized Georgia’s role in the region and the importance of the recently signed Association Agreement with the EU, as well as the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area/Agreement (DCFTA), which “opens vast opportunities” for Georgia while turning it into an increasingly important business center in the region.

Friday, October 24, 2014

Tourism and rural development: The case of Tusheti

by Irakli Kochlamazashvili and Adam Pellillo, ISET

24.10.2014. In Georgia, it’s often said that tavisupleba mxolod mtebshia – freedom is only in the mountains. Indeed, the mountains have long shielded the small Georgian nation from much larger invaders, helping it maintain its freedom, as well as its unique culture, language and faith.

Even today, getting into Georgia’s mountains is no easy task. Separated from the ‘mainland’ by the 3,000m high Abano pass, Tusheti, is an excellent case in point. The sheer ‘outworldliness’ of Tusheti, as well as its well-preserved indigenous traditions and architecture, are a powerful motivator for many Georgians and international visitors alike to undertake the bumpy excursion to Omalo (and beyond).

The number of visitors to Tusheti has been growing quite rapidly in recent years, raising an important policy dilemma: what is the “optimal” level of development for this wild region of Georgia? On the one hand, tourism is strengthening the local economy by providing locals with an additional source of income. On the other hand, the arrival of 21 century invaders (in the shape of tourist ‘armies’) will undoubtedly strain the local infrastructure, requiring significant investment in roads, water supply and other utilities. Too much investment may strip Tusheti of its uniqueness. Too little of it may carry risks for health and the environment.

Monday, October 13, 2014

Inside natural wine’s new Eurasian boomtown

Photo: Krzystof Duda
By Alice Feiring

13.10.2014. Over the last decade, the Republic of Georgia—one of the world's oldest winemaking countries—has become an unlikely darling of the natural wine community. Alice Feiring visits the small hilltop town that's become ground zero for the rebirth of traditional Georgian winemaking.

When I told people that I was traveling to Georgia to learn more about their wine, the response was, invariably, a look of confusion. “Are there vineyards near Atlanta?”

“The country of,” I’d say. Then I’d clarify, “Bordered by the Caucasus mountain range, not the Blue Ridge.”

“Really? They make wine there?”

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Analogue to booking.com to be created in Georgia

12.10.2014. In the near future, a website similar to an international tourist web portal booking.com will appear in Georgia, which will give visitors the opportunity to book accommodation before arrival in the country.

This initiative belongs to the recently established Georgian Hotel and Restaurant Federation.

Experts welcome the establishment of such an association and believe that it should play the role of mediator between the government and the tourist industry. According to them, in order tourism business to develop successfully, it is necessary to streamline the tax system and labor laws.

"The government should look at private business as a partner and not an enemy or a cash cow. The Hotel and Restaurants should actively work in this direction, "- experts say.

According to the Federation, its function is to be a bridge between the government and the tourist industry - in particular, in their opinion, a classification of hotels and equal attention is required to large branded hotels as well as to small home-like hotels and hostels.

One of the founders of the Association Shalva Alaverdashvili says that there is a need to improve the quality of services in the tourism sector.

Thursday, October 9, 2014

Georgia improves visa policy

09.10.2014. Georgia has decided to bring some corrections to its newly amended visa policy in an effort to keep the right balance between the European Union's requirements and liberal approaches.

Foreign Minister Maia Panjikidze said the new regulations need some corrections. "Of course, everything new brings certain complications. Not everything can end up as we planned, nevertheless, we know where the weak points are," Panjikidze noted.

The Georgian government has recently amended the law "On the legal status of foreigners and stateless persons", which enacted on September 1. The renewed legislation particularly reduced the period for the foreigners' visa-free stay in the country's territory.

The updated visa regulations enabled Georgia to issue multiple-entry visas with a period of 180 days for the citizens of the countries which apply a visa regime with the South Caucasus country. It also allows the visa holder to stay for a total of 90 days within a period of 180 days in Georgia's territory.

Monday, October 6, 2014

Number of tourists increased by 1% in summer

06.10.2014. This summer (June, July, August), the number of tourists (international travelers staying in Georgia for 24 hours and more) amounted to 892 413 that is 13% (789 958) more than last year's figure. As for international visitors, their number was 1 895 060 in the current year, which is 1% (1 880 515) higher than last summer season (June, July, August) .

In 8 months of 2014, the number of tourists amounted to 1 566 646 (42.5% of the total number, an increase of 12% compared to the same period of the previous year); transit - 698 284 visits (19% of the total number, a 10% decline compared with the previous year's figure); other - 1 420 904 visits (38.5% of the total number, an increase of 0.7% over the same period of the previous year).

In August 2014, the largest number of visitors arrived from Turkey (-5.5%), Azerbaijan (+29%), Armenia (-12,2%), Russia (-7%) and Ukraine (+ 22.9%). Also, the positive trend is maintained in terms of the EU states in January-August, including Lithuania, Poland, Spain, Latvia and the Netherlands (respectively 91%, 40%, 17%, 17%, and 14%), Central Asian countries - Kazakhstan (40%), while fromthe Eastern European countries , for example, Belarus the number of visitors increased by 50%.

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Georgia hosts regional tourism service providers

27.09.2014. Georgia hosted a regional group of tourism service providers and representatives of travel agencies from Armenia, Turkey, Georgia and Bulgaria visiting Georgia in the framework of the EU funded PIRT (Promoting Innovative Rural Tourism) project on Sept 17-22, 2014.

The project is implemented by Heifer Armenia as a lead partner in cooperation with Heifer Georgia, Varna Economic Development Agency (VEDA, Bulgaria), Gumushane National Educational Directorate, a press release said.

The regional group of 37 people consisting of tourism service providers and travel agents were in Georgia on exchange visit to discover the nature and cultural heritage of Georgia, study the potential for further development of rural tourism, as well as learn the specifics of Georgian rural tourism through visiting the sights of in rural areas, including ancient monasteries, museums, eco-cottages, wineries, a horse farm, etc.

Monday, September 22, 2014

Georgia’s tourism potential promoted in Azerbaijan

23.09.2014. Large-scale marketing campaign of Georgia's National Tourism Administration is underway in Azerbaijan.

Ad banners on Georgia have been placed in the central streets of Azerbaijani capital of Baku, and on the trains of Baku Metro. At the same time 30-second videos are being displayed on the monitors throughout the city.

Georgia's sightseeing places are also advertised on the social networking sites.

The marketing campaign in Azerbaijan will continue until December 15. Its goal is to promote Georgia's tourism potential.

Georgia's Tourism Agency told Trend on Sept. 8 that Azerbaijan is one of the priority tourism markets for Georgia.

In recent years, the number of visitors from Azerbaijan has increased significantly. According to stats, during the first eight months of 2014, Georgia was visited by 859,683 visitors from Azerbaijan or 25 percent more than in the same period of 2013.

Azerbaijan ranks second in terms of the number of visitors going to Georgia.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Monday, September 8, 2014

Russian politics causing cancellation of scheduled tours in Georgia

by  Mariam Papidze

08.09.2014. Large numbers of tourists are cancelling pre-booked trips to Georgia due to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel as well as the 3 days of shooting that occurred between Azerbaijan and Armenia. So far about 50 percent of scheduled tours have been cancelled, according to tour operator companies in Georgia. This year less tourists have come to Georgia from Italy, Poland and Israel. Meanwhile, Spanish tourists have been more interested in travelling to Georgia, they say. The economic crisis in Europe, tense situation between Russia and Ukraine, conflict in Israel and shooting between Armenia and Azerbaijan are cited as the main reasons why tourists are avoiding travel to Georgia.

“Last year Italian tourists were very active in this area, but currently, due to the economic crisis in Italy, less Italian tourists are visiting Georgia,” said Albina Iashchenko, MICE and Incoming Department Head at Destination Georgia. “Many tours are being cancelled by Italian tourists. However, Spanish tourists have become more interested in Georgia. The overall number of tourists in Georgia has decreased and this is down to the large number of cancelled tours. At our agency about 50 percent of scheduled tours have been cancelled this year, mostly by Italian tourists. Our partner companies in Italy are trying to create groups of tourists that will visit Georgia as tour packages are cheaper that way. In most cases such groups have not been created as the price of the trips is still considered expensive for tourists. This is why tourists have changed their travel destinations,” she added.

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Georgia's Caucasian charm lures hikers and hipsters

07.09.2014. A history spanning centuries and civilizations, churches perched atop green mountains and inexpensive food and wine are just a few of the draws of the small Caucasian country of Georgia.

Nestled between Russia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Georgia has emerged from years of conflict to become the go-to travel destination in the Caucasus.

This land served as a battleground under the rule of Persians, Arabs, Mongols and Soviets until it declared independence in 1991. That was followed by years of civil war and economic hardship until the Rose Revolution of 2003, when peaceful protests ousted then-president Eduard Shevardnadze.

The country was rocked by a brief invasion by Russia in 2008 over disputed territory, and tensions still simmer.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Wine tourism prospects in Georgia

26.08.2014. The Economic Prosperity Initiative (EPI) organized a Coffee and Conversation session on wine tourism for media professionals from various TV and Radio stations, newspapers and news agencies on August 20.

The representatives from the Wine Association, Sommelier Association, Incoming Tour Operators' Association and wine producing companies spoke about Georgian wine tourism sector opportunities.

Head of the Marketing Department at the National Wine Agency of Georgia, Irakli Cholobargia, said that the development of wine tourism in the country will promote a lot of small local businesses.

“For example, I know that some small home-type hotels decided to make their own wine in order to attract more people,” stated Cholobargia.

EPI's initiatives in the wine tourism sector (promotional video, wine tourism portal and guide) were promoted among Georgian media representatives. The video has already been uploaded on the internet and serves as a commercial for wine tourism.

Monday, August 11, 2014

Georgian Duty Free: Wine is a big success

11.08.2014 (Hvino News). Turkish operator ATU Duty Free has upgraded its duty free shops at Georgia’s Tbilisi and Batumi international airports. ATU’s decision to upgrade its airport duty free offer in Georgia comes at a time when international business and leisure passenger numbers are growing at airports across the country.

ATU Duty Free opened its Wines of Georgia store in Tbilisi Airport in 2011. The shop offers a wide selection of famous Georgian wines, which passengers buy both for personal consumption as well as gifts for business associates. ATU entered Georgia’s airport duty free market in 2006 when the company won concessions to operate two shops in Tbilisi International Airport and one outlet in Batumi International Airport.

“Opening the wines of Georgia store has been very successful both in financial and sustainability terms to preserve and promote Georgian wine culture,” said ATU Duty Free Deputy General Manager, Pinar Sener-Harput. “It is enjoyed by passengers using Tbilisi Airport."

Friday, August 8, 2014

New Georgia promotion video for worldwide campaign

08.08.2014 (Hvino TOUR News). Georgia has released its latest tourism campaign in the form of a video that will be spread around the globe. A one-minute video showcasing Georgia was released on the internet after it was officially presented by Georgia’s Department of Tourism.



Advertising agency JWT Metro, following a commission from Georgian National Tourism Administration, directed an amazing video, which depicts Georgia’s eye-catching nature and numerous tourist sights.

The video is in English and is aimed at foreign tourists, but it will not leave even locals indifferent. “When you come to Georgia, it’s like being born all over again… Your heart, your mind, the way you think – it starts here to different heartbeats, to an unfamiliar tune, and you can finally say “I know it – this is life.”

Monday, August 4, 2014

Tourism boom continues in Georgia

04.08.2014. In the past year, over 5 million overnight guests-stays came to Georgia - the small country at the Black Sea, which is more than the country's total population of 4.49 million. Further, the need of new hotel beds is growing. Especially mid-class hotels are on demand.

In 2013, the number of foreign guests increased by 21.8 percent in comparison to the previous year. The bulk of visitors (88%) came from the neighbor countries such as Turkey (1,6 Million), Armenia (1,29 Million), Azerbaijan (1,08 Million) and Russia (0,77 Million).

The number of German guests increased to 30,815 in opposite to 26,448 in the same period of time (total number of visitors from EU Countries: 208,754). About 31 percent of the foreign travelers visited Georgia for the first time. More than two fifth of the guests stayed in hotels, and other ten percent in simple guests houses and hostels.

Currently Georgia operates 777 hotels with about 14,400 rooms. In Tiflis, the capital, currently six large and 20 small hotels are in the pipeline. Also in Batumi several large and mid-sized hotels will open their doors within the next years

Friday, August 1, 2014

Giorgi Sigua to resign on August 4

01.08.2014 (Hvino TOUR News). As InterPressNews was notified by the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, head of the National Tourism Administration Giorgi Sigua will leave his post on August 4.

“In relation to the reports having been spread regarding Giorgi Sigua’s dismissal, we would like to inform you that the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development has made a decision on removing Mr. Sigua from his post. Mr. Sigua was informed regarding this decision beforehand and he will bow out from his post on August 4.

© Hvino TOUR News

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Tourists from Ukraine and Russia Prevail in Branded Hotels of Adjara

16.07.2014. Representatives branded hotels located on the Black Sea coast of Georgia say that the citizens of Russia and Ukraine prevail among the guests.

In particular, according to the CEO of "Georgia Palace Hotel" Lela Tsulukidze, among the hotel guests are mostly  citizens of these countries.

"The greatest demand is expected in August and to date almost all the rooms with a few exceptions have been  booked. Compared with last year, in June the number of visitors reduced , but in July - increased. The hotel offers many new services - we have a golf course, swimming pool, the hotel consists of 380 rooms, a room rate  for two people  starts from USD 220. We expect that Kutaisi airport will increase the number of flights and more tourists will be able to arrive in Georgia "- says Lela Tsulukidze.

Tourists from Russia and Ukraine prevail in "Radisson Blu - Batumi" hotel as well.

According to the hotel management, in comparison to the summer of 2013,  weather is better now in Adjara and, accordingly, the number of tourists has increased.

"The hotel offers a varied menu, cooked by  guest chefs, the hotel has indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel has 168 rooms, the cost of a double room starts from  USD 195"-  the hotel representative reported.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Successful Routes Silk Road draws 300 in Tbilisi

10.07.2014. The first ever Routes Silk Road event, hosted by United Airports of Georgia in Tbilisi saw attendance from 300 senior aviation professionals from across the CIS, Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Asia regions, opened with the Routes Silk Road Strategy Summit earlier this week. The event included a special gathering of the United Nations World Tourism Organization Silk Road Task Force.

It was clear from the engaging addresses, presentations and discussion sessions that Georgia and other countries in the region certainly have ambitions to grow their share of international air services and this country is at the forefront of developments as it seeks to maximise its geographical position and historic significance to develop a new Silk Road of air services between Europe in the west to Asia in the east.

“Although the Silk Road has been serving us for centuries there is still much to be discovered and developed in the modern era. Governments have strong supportive roles to play in facilitating accessibility and trade,” explained former banker Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia and the country’s Vice Prime Minister who opened the Summit.

These presentations provided an enlightening introduction to the local aviation market and the first panel session on ‘Finding the right balance – How will different airline operating models bring success to the region?’ brought the views of some of the region’s prominent airlines and airport operators together for a discussion moderated by Yuliya Crane, Senior Consultant, ASM, the world route development consultants, who highlighted Georgia as “a proactive and progressive aviation authority.”

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Government to turn Anaklia into "Georgian Las Vegas”

08.07.2014. In the backdrop of the former authorities' failure to turn Tsqaltubo into “Georgian Las Vegas ", the new government plans to do the same this time in Anaklia. Director of the Georgian National Investment Agency (GNIA) talks of the American company's plans in Anaklia.

According to George Pertaia, there is a company that is interested in construction of a very large city like Las Vegas and now it is being researched how profitable it will be. The Agency expects concrete steps at the end of the current or in the beginning of the next year.

Deputy Economy Minister Keti Bochorishvili explained that the Ministry of Economy is working on the project, which includes the opening of casinos in Anaklia.

Bochorishvili does not name the investor, saying that the company is asking for privacy talks. In her words, an interest in Anaklia is huge and talks about the project are expected to complete by October. Bochorishvili does not specify the amount of investments at this stage, but adds that the project consists of two phases, and the substantial amount of money will be spent.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Friday, July 4, 2014

Routes Silk Road opens in Tbilisi

04.07.2014. Leading Airlines and Airports Meet to Expand Air Services Between Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

The first Routes Silk Road, the route development forum which connects Asia, the CIS, Central and Eastern Europe and the Middle East will open this weekend in Tbilisi, Georgia. The event will bring together leading airports, airlines, tourism authorities, policy-makers and aviation stakeholders to develop new air services to, from and within the region, which is home to around two thirds of the world's population.

Hosted by United Airports of Georgia and supported by the Georgian National Tourism Administration, Routes Silk Road will take place in the Georgian capital on 6 - 8 July 2014. Over 250 delegates are expected to attend Routes Silk Road, representing over 45 airports and 35 leading airlines which connect the region, including Etihad, Air China, China Southern, Turkish Airlines, Aeroflot, AirAsia X, easyJet, Air Astana, Air Baltic, Czech Airlines, Air Arabia, Wizz Air and Atlasjet.

Monday, June 30, 2014

Georgia, Turkey to intensify cooperation in medical tourism

30.06.2014. A workshop was held in Tbilisi under the auspices of the International Association for Medical Services. The representatives of the health care system and the leading clinics of Turkey attended it. Visitturkeyforhealthcare Platform was the organizer of the workshop.

The representatives of the Ministries of Health of Georgia and Adjara, Medical University, leading central and regional clinics attended the workshop. Turkish doctors have presented their health care system and the reforms undertaken in this area over the last ten years.

A group of Turkish doctors will arrive in Georgia in the near future as part of the project, director of the platform, Dr. Dursun Aydin said.

He also said that the Turkish language courses will open for the Georgian doctors who do not have jobs. This is an opportunity for them to get a job in Turkish private hospitals.

Turkey has improved its medical system to a level equal to Europe and the USA over the last ten years. Some 3,700 Georgian citizens were treated in Turkey in 2012. Their number reached 6,000 in 2013.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Friday, June 27, 2014

Interest about Georgia increases among Latvian tourists

27.06.2014. From 6th to 13th June 2014 delegation from Latvian and Lithuanian representatives from Touristic agencies, media and PR companies went to information tour to Georgia. They were invited by Georgian National Tourism Administration in cooperation with Georgian Ministry of Economy.

Georgian National Tourism Administration in cooperation with the Georgian Ministry of Economy invited to visit Georgia different tourism agencies, heads of PR companies and media group representatives from Latvia and Lithuania.

Mr. Siko Gegiadze, representative of National Tourism Administration, while meeting delegation in Tbilisi said, “I am truly glad that interest from Baltic States only increases.” Specially noting that Georgian government is now devoting increased attention to development of tourism infrastructure, for example, renovation of medical facilities, building modern hotels, and small business development and raising the quality of services provided to tourists.

“We are ready to accept tourists from Latvia and Lithuania in any time of the year. As for recreation in Batumi beach by Black sea, as well as healing spa centers with magnetic therapeutic sand, and Caucasus mountains in winter. In Georgia you will feel the hospitality of its nation, the taste of national cuisine and wine. We have this saying, “Every guest is God's envoy.” And we follow this principle every day.” about Georgia said  Mr. Gegiadze. Emphasizing that this info tour has made these already friendly nations Latvia, Lithuania and Georgia even closer.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Ukrainian YanAir launches direct flights to Tbilisi, Batumi

26.06.2014. Ukrainian airline YanAir is launching a new regular flight service from Kiev to two cities in Georgia. The destination ports are the Georgian capital Tbilisi and Batumi, Georgia’s Black Sea resort town.

The first flight will depart from Kiev’s Zhulyany airport to Batumi this Saturday and to Tbilisi on July 1.

Flights from Kiev to Tbilisi will be scheduled three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Passengers travelling between Kiev and Batumi will be able to fly twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Passengers on these flights will enjoy the comforts of Airbus-320 and Saab 340 planes.

The Georgian National Tourism Administration, a Governmental body responsible for developing tourism, negotiated with YanAir’s officials to create the new flight service.

In the past few months, more than ten new flights have connected Ukraine cities with cities across Georgia.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

"Aeroflot" to Resume Regular Flights to Georgia

12.06.2014. According to the materials on the website of the Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviaciya), JSC "Aeroflot" was granted permission by the Russian aviation authorities to perform scheduled air transportation in Tbilisi.

"To grant permission after receiving the response note of the Georgian Foreign Ministry on the resumption of regular air traffic," – it is said in a statement.

Air traffic between Russia and Georgia was interrupted in August 2008 due to the Russia-Georgia war. Flights were resumed in August 2010.

Currently the Russian airline "Siberia" is performing flights in Georgia.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

A number of new flights to open from Georgia in summer

05.06.2014. A number of new scheduled and charter flights from Georgia are open in summer of 2014, head of the Georgian National Tourism Administration, Giorgi Sigua told the Azerbaijani journalists.

"A number of new scheduled flights from Russia, European countries are being opened this year. From June 14, Ukraine International Airlines from Lvov, Kharkov, Kiev start flying to Batumi. They will have 10-11 weekly flights. Also, "Dniproavia" will fly from Dnepropetrovsk. WizzAir Airlines increases number of flights from Kutaisi to Kiev," he said.

Furthermore, it is planned a lot of scheduled flights from Moscow, Israel, the Arab states in summer, according to the administration head.

At present, negotiations are held with the Hungarian WizzAir company on making the Kutaisi airport as a base airport for this company, according to Sigua.

Saturday, May 31, 2014

Study of untapped tourist areas started in Georgia

30.05.2014. Ecotourism Development Center explores the untapped tourism zones of Georgia. Mr. Zaza Gagua, head of the Center, noted that the projects are implemented under the order of the National Tourism Administration.  He mentioned that at this stage specialists are studying the agro-tourist potential in the surroundings of Tbilisi. Study of adventure tourism destinations is also underway in Dedoplistskaro municipality.

According to Mr. Gagua, a survey will be completed by the end of June , but it is known that there is a possibility of arranging 2 pedestrian lanes, 2 bicycle lanes and two-day jeep tours in Dedoplistskaro. In his words, after the completion of the study, the Tourism Administration will start marking directions and promoting routes. Hiking and horseback riding routes are being studied in Samegrelo and Svaneti regions.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Batumi tourist season to be opened on May 31

21.05.2014. The tourist season in Adjara will be officially opened on May 31, according to Mamuka Berdzenishvili, Deputy Director of Tourism Department of Adjara. According to him, the season opening  in Batumi will be celebrated with various sporting and musical events that  will last until  the late evening while during the summer several important festivals are planned (including the Jazz festival) organized by a private sector.

As for this year's novelties, Berdzenishvili notes that online marketing operates in the Department, which includes social networks which will allow spreading advertising information in nine target countries adjacent to Georgia.

A representative of Adjara Tourism Department expects a 15% increase in the number of tourists in comparison with last year. In his words, last year more than 400 thousand tourists arrived in Adjara.

Berdzenishvili notes that only competitive environment can influence on prices. He adds that by 2016 it is planned to increase the number of rooms at the hotel to  3 500 as well as to open new catering facilities that will increase the competition.

A total of 3 million GEL will be allocated from the budget of Adjara Tourism Department for targeted events  and services development.

Source

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      
 To add this Search Box to your website,  click  here. Many designs are available.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Mestia airport among 10 most beautiful airports in the world – BBC

16.05.2014 (Hvino TOUR News). Most airports are purely functional, but these are architectural wonders. BBC’s  Jonathan Glancey shows where flying becomes a work of art.

Georgian Queen Tamar Airport of Mestia is on the list of ten most beautiful airports in the world along with the airports of Hong Kong, Uruguay, Venice, California, Scotland, Japan, France, Saudi Arabia and Jeddah. 

“Mestia is a small ski town, 1,500m up in the Caucasus mountains in northwest Georgia and its churches and forts form a Unesco World Heritage site. The bizarre new airport terminal – in the guise of an extruded square steel and glass section bent into three improbable directions – is the work of the German artist and architect Jurgen Mayer-Hermann. The black and white structure has been designed to attract the curious and to help put Mestia on the map of the modern world,” BBC informs.

© Hvino TOUR News

Tour operators do not expect a boom of Ukrainian tourists in Georgia

15.05.2014. Ukrainian tour operators have not confirmed assumptions about the growing interest of Ukrainian citizens to travel to Georgia, and do not see the trend of doubling of demand.

Will the flow of Ukrainian tourists grow on the coast of Georgia at the expense of the citizens of Ukraine who spent their vacation in the Crimea until the annexation of the peninsula by Russia?

"Commersant" was told by manager of "Calypso-Ukraine" Irina Gurenko that Ukrainian tourists always showed a great interest to Georgia, but a significant growth had not been observed in recent time - especially based on the situation which is now evolving in the country.

"We hope for the best. Georgia is a great alternative to the Crimea. We have different categories of tourists, and each product has its buyer. It will be very good if the prices of tourist services in Georgia decrease," - she says.

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Panorama Tbilisi development project discussed

30.04.2014. On April 24, Tbilisi City Hall released a statement that they rejected the project offered by Panorama Tbilisi on March 27, 2014. Georgian billionaire and former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili is one of the major investors in the project.

Panorama Tbilisi’s four multi-functional areas with a total investment of $500 million will be fully funded by the $6 billion USD Georgian Co-Investment Fund (GCF), which is a private equity fund.

The projects range across a variety of sectors totaling $1.3 billion USD including tourism and real estate, which will be allocated on half of the initial budget of half a billion USD. In addition, more than $770 million will be invested in two energy projects and $59.3 million USD will go towards developing Georgia’s agricultural industry with dairy farms and greenhouse projects.

Monday, April 21, 2014

Hospitality industry booms in Georgia

21.04.2014. There is an unprecedented boom happening in the hospitality industry in emerging markets worldwide, including Georgia, according to Jeffrey Catrett from the Institut Paul Bocuse, MSc in International Hospitality Management at EMLYON business school. He lists the blossoming Georgian wine tourism industry as one specific example and says that, as investment increases in both the leisure and business hospitality sectors, emerging markets such as Georgia must invest in training the managerial talent to keep pace with the expansion.

The BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - will be at the centre of growth for the hospitality industry in the next decade, according to Catrett.

“We have primarily been seeing growth in the hotel industry. There are two types of hotel - business and resorts. Business hotels in the emerging markets have benefitted from a more stable economic environment. These types of hotels rely on foreign investment into emerging markets that leads business and trade delegations to visit - and they need places to stay! Local people’s increased wealth has led them to invest in hotels to meet this need. And finally, big companies are expanding into new (emerging) markets to maintain growth and this has led also to an increase in business visitors,” said Jeffrey Catrett.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Katie Melua’s Tbilisi: My kind of town

Interview by York Membery

14.04.2014. Katie Melua, the singer, reveals her favourite hotels, bars and restaurants in Tbilisi, the Georgian capital and her childhood home

Why Tbilisi?

It’s where I spent most of my childhood up to the age of nine, before my family and I moved to Britain. Being the capital of Georgia, it’s the country’s cultural centre. It’s also steeped in history – the Old Town, with its twisting alleys, is particularly fascinating – and has some beautiful churches dating back hundreds of years. Unlike London, it’s a very hilly city with the advantage being you can enjoy the most fabulous views from certain points. It’s a city that’s very much off the beaten track. Not many tourists have been there, which makes it all the more worth visiting.

Anything special I should pack?

Probably headache pills and a hangover cure. The Georgians will treat you like royalty, and the odds are you’ll do a lot of eating, drinking and toasting. Being so hilly, good walking shoes are a must. It’s hot and muggy in the summer but very cold in the winter, so pack accordingly. Late spring is a good time to go.

Saturday, April 12, 2014

National tourism administration conducts ad campaigns only in five countries

12.04.2014. Marketing campaigns will be conducted only in Germany, Azerbaijan, the Netherlands, Austria and Poland this year. At this time it’s unknown whether or not ad campaigns will be conducted in Ukraine due to the current developments there. The total annual budget that will be spent on Georgia’s promotion in the world market amounts to 8 million 900 thousand GEL.

As early as last December, the head of the Administration said that in 2014 Ukraine, Russia and Azerbaijan would be among the leaders of the target groups. The Baltic states, Germany, Hungary, Poland, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Israel were considered as the interesting markets as well.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Georgia, WTO discuss cooperation prospects

09.04.2014. Georgia and World Tourism Organization discussed the prospects of cooperation, in particular the creation of joint tourist products.

Georgian Prime Minister met with Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization (WTO). Irakli Garibashvili thanked Taleb Rifai for his visit to Tbilisi and expressed the hope that mutual cooperation will soon enter a new phase, Georgian Prime Minister's office told Trend on April 7. "This is very important for Georgia," he added.

The parties discussed the tendencies of tourism development in Georgia and reforms implemented in this area.

Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the Georgian economy and its development is a priority for the authorities.

The prospects of cooperation, the creation of common tourism products and technical cooperation issues that the organization offers its members were discussed during the meeting.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Tbilisi International Airport among the best ten airports in Eastern Europe

01.04.2014. Tbilisi International Airport has been named as one of the best airports in Eastern Europe by Skytrax World Airport Awards, the most prestigious accolades for the world airport industry.

Result of a survey of air travelers revealed Tbilisi International Airport was ranked as one of the best ten airports in Eastern Europe of 2014.

The other top nine international airports were: Budapest Ferenc Liszt, Borispol (Kiev), Tallinn, Riga, Bratislava, Belgrade, Sofia, Varna and Burgas.

TAV general manager Mete Erkal believed under the operation of TAV Georgia, Tbilisi International Airport had turned into "one of the most important hubs in Eastern Europe in a very short time”.

"Tbilisi International Airport provides services to more than 1.4 million passengers a year. It was in the result of passenger surveys that Tbilisi International Airport was named as one of the best airports in Eastern Europe,” Erkal said.

Friday, March 28, 2014

IWINETC Day 1 round up: Excitement increases for Georgian wines & tourism

28.03.2014. After a very tense and dangerous bus ride less than two miles from the hotel, only to have to walk the last 100 meters of the way on a side street, our first official visit was to the only wine bar in Tbilisi called Vino Underground Wine Bar & Shop. As its name suggests, this is an underground cellar that was converted into not only a wine bar, but also a small and delightful wine shop that brings to Tbilisi some of the best natural wines of Georgia.

Owned and operated by seven small Georgian wineries, here one can find a wide variety of wines representing the different wine regions of Georgia. The vast majority of wineries of Georgia are very small. But there is a movement for some of these wineries to work together to improve wine quality and awareness.

From traditional Georgian qvevri to western stainless steel styled wines, from fresh and light whites to fuller bodied and savory orange (or amber) wines, our host, John Wurderman and a few of his fellow Georgian wine makers gave us a most well rounded introduction with a very well prepared tasting of Georgian wines to be discovered during the International Wine Tourism Conference in Tbilisi this weekend.

Saturday, March 22, 2014

Israeli businessman to build agro-tourism center in Kakheti

22.03.2014 (Hvino TOUR News). Israeli businessman will be engaged in agro-tourism development in Georgia  Abram Tetruashvili stated to Commersant radio that he intends to invest one million USD in agro-tourism development project that will be implemented in the region of Kakheti.

He says that the purchase of farms, hotels and visitors' center construction, production of agricultural products at the site are planned in the region.

Tetruashvili adds they plan to purchase the land where wheat and other crops will be grown. The necessary equipment will be brought from Israel in order to increase production while produced products will be exported . In his words, the agro-tourism center will be deigned mostly for Russian and Israeli tourists. The businessman plans to implement the project in the spring.

© Hvino TOUR News

    Georgian Wine Catalogue      

Friday, March 14, 2014

Georgian Tourism Administration postpones marketing campaign in Russia

14.03.2014. The Georgian Tourism Administration has postponed a marketing campaign scheduled for March in Russia for an indefinite period. Georgia's marketing campaign was to start in Russia in March.
The promotional clips about Georgia were to be shown in Moscow's cinemas.

The tender was announced on January 31, 2013 to conduct a campaign in Russia, the administration said on March 13. Two Russian companies, namely, Uralska and Initiative participated, but a winner was not determined. "We felt it inappropriate to show promo movies in Moscow's cinemas because of the worsening of the political situation and current events," the administration said. "A decision was taken to suspend the advertising activity and to cancel the campaign. But we assume that this year's certain advertising campaign will be carried out in Russia."

Source

Thursday, March 13, 2014

Georgia, Spain sign memorandum on cooperation in tourism sector

13.03.2014. Georgia's Vice Prime Minister - Economy and Sustainable Development Minister, Giorgi Kvirikashvili and Spanish Industry, Energy and Tourism Minister, Jose Manuel Soria discussed cooperation in tourism and renewable energy sectors, during Kvirikashvili's visit to Spain.

The parties signed a memorandum of understanding in the tourism area, Georgian Economy and Sustainable Development Ministry said.

"We agreed that a delegation, including Spanish government's and private sector's representatives, will make an official visit to Georgia, during which the strategic cooperation in the tourism sector will be discussed. Spain has very great experience in this area. I believe that our future cooperation will be very interesting," Kvirikashvili said.

Jose Manuel Soria, in turn, said the two countries have plenty room to deepen relations and cooperation.
"This applies to tourism, energy and infrastructure. Today we have formalized a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in tourism. At the same time, together with the Foreign Minister, we are working on an official visit to Georgia. It will include many Spanish companies," Soria added.

Source

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Number of Passengers Travelling to Ukraine from Georgia Increased by 34.5% in 2014

11.03.2014. A total of 44,148 passengers departed to Ukraine from Georgia during January-February 2014. The number is 34.5% more than it was during the same period of last year. Ukraine remains the top fifth country in terms of number of arrivals in Georgia. In January 2014, 8,212 international visitors arrived in Georgia, which is 72% more than the data of the previous year.

Monthly comparative figures have shown that the largest number of Georgian passengers travelled to Ukraine in November 2013. The figure was 27,819. In December the number dropped to 25,972. In January 2014, 23,382 passengers travelled to Ukraine and in February - 20,766.

“The number of departures to Ukraine will not decrease in 2014 in comparison to 2013,” said Alexander Gachechiladze, Head of the Transportation Department at the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency (GCAA).

According to Gachechiladze, the total number of flights from Georgia to Ukraine was 26 per week. “1,500 flights will be carried out in the direction of Ukraine during the current year,” said Gachechiladze.

Ukraine International Airlines (MAU) remained the single airline offering Tbilisi -Kiev direct flights, since Aerosvit left the Georgian market more than a year ago. Currently the ticket price for a Tbilisi -Kiev round trip is USD 326, while it is USD 185 for one way.

Monday, March 10, 2014

Georgia features in world leading travel expo

10.03.2014. Georgia’s unique tourism is being showcased alongside 188 other countries at the world’s largest travel and trade fair – the ITB Berlin.

Georgian Tourism industry insiders are eyeing the ITB Berlin 2014 as the opportunity to raise awareness surrounding Georgia’s tourism potential and attracting more international visitors.

The five day high-caliber program featured international tourism industry experts and government representatives, who discussed concepts, best practice examples, and the potential profitability of sustainable tourism.

The Georgian delegation is being led by the head of Georgia’s National Tourism Administration, Giorgi Sigua, who believed this event granted Georgia exclusive rights to present the country through unique guidebooks and brochures.

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Armenia, Georgia, Turkey and Bulgaria to create integrated tourism network

27.02.2014. Heifer International Armenia presented today an international program designed to promote innovative rural tourism in the Black Sea basin region. The 700,000 euro worth project supported by the European Union embraces Armenia, Georgia, Turkey and Bulgaria. The program that started in November 2013 will last for 18 months.

"The project will build effective and replicable networks of capable local service providers in rural tourism, as well as will help travel agencies to co-develop market and sell a new unique tourist product that encourages interflows of visitors intra-regionally. It will contribute to unprecedented cooperation between national authorities in the region aimed ultimately to sustaining the cross-border impacts of rural tourism," said Anahit Ghazanchyan, director of the Armenian branch of Heifer Project International.

She explained that a network of travel agencies and other companies will be set up in Armenia that will establish links with similar agencies in the other three countries. The network in Armenia will develop and implement a unique tourist product  called "One tour package for regional visitors ," which will be part of  the  regional tourism product.

Mekhak Apresyan, head of an economy ministry department overseeing tourism industry, said the program will be actively supported by the government."We have potential to develop agro-tourism, when tourists are in agricultural work,’ he said.

Heifer Project International, founded in 1944, aims at reducing global poverty.

Source

ICC Georgia holds 5th Consultative Board

27.02.2014. Yesterday, 26 February 2014, the National Committee of ICC Georgia held its 5th Consultative Board meeting at The Holiday Inn in Tbilisi.  Mr. Fady Asly, Chairman of ICC, welcomed the members of the ICC Executive, ICC Youth, Consultative boards and special guests.  The program featured a presentation of DCFTA Implementation by Mr. Nikoloz Khundzakishvili, Chairman of the DCFTA Implementation Commission, and included an overview of the economy and investment climate from the perspectives of ICC (Mr. Fady Asly), Business Association Georgia (Dr. Soso Pkhakadze), American Chamber of Commerce in Georgia (Ms. Sarah Williamson), and the Georgian Bar Association (Mr. Zaza Bibliashvili).  Ms. Teona Lavrelashvili, Chairwoman of the Youth Parliament and ex officio, ICC board member, remarked on the highlights of her trip to the United Nations in New York and US State Department and Congress in Washington, D.C., partially organized by ICC Georgia. Following the presentations, the Consultative Board had the opportunity for questions and remarks.

Afterwards, a reception in honor of the Consultative Board was held with attendees including ICC youth members, partners from the business sector, distinguished guests and the diplomatic corps. The reception was opened by the Honorable Bruno Balvanera, Regional Director of the EBRD, who provided a summary of the ICC’s Consultative Board Meeting.  Mr. Fady Asly, Chairman of ICC Georgia introduced the newest Consultative Board member, H.E. Mr. Z. Levent Gümrükçü, Ambassador of Turkey.