NEWSLETTER October December 2017

Transcription

1 NEWSLETTER October December 2017 NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

2 EUGBC Events CONTENT EUGBC established new Energy Commission 3 ZVIAD CHUMBURIDZE - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SOCIETY OF GEORGIAN UNIVERSITY 4 Joint conference titled Georgia EU Association Objectives 5 EUGBC PARTICIPATED IN INVESTOR COUNCIL S MEETING ON DECEMBER, THE FOURTH BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN THE SCOPE OF MEETING ROOM 6 Regional President of BP Participated in the Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum DCFTA Advisory Group 5th meeting 8 The conference in Tbilisi - V4 COUNTRIES AND GEORGIA 9 Caucasus University hosted Austrian students together with EUGBC 11 Site Visit to newly opened Sarajishvili Distillery factory 12 Meeting with the delegation of the Senate of the Republic of Ireland 13 EUGBC signed Memorandum of Cooperation with Tbilisi State University 13 Meeting with the State Minister of Georgia on European and Euro-Atlantic Integration 14 EUGBC member s news ANDROPOV S EARS - Newly opened Seafood Restaurant 15 Sarajishvili House Presented new product TRILOGY 16 GOLDWAY has joined EUGBC as a new corporate member 17 American Medical Centers Georgia service in Gudauri 18 PASHA Bank continues successful projects 19 BDO Georgia news 21 Exquisite Achievements of Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi 22 Polimeri 1 Successful business of the year 24 Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between MKD and ISET 25 Seminar organized by MKD 26 Oriflame Georgia has a new Director 26 Marriott Tbilisi hotels joined EUGBC team as a corporate member 27 KPMG news 29 New representation of Gebrüder Weiss officially opened in Yerevan 30 Multifunctional space Republic hosts Beka Gochiashvili on January 7 31 NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

3 EUGBC NEWS EUGBC established new Energy Commission On December 21 EU-Georgia Business Council held the presentation of a special Energy Commission established under EUGBC umbrella. The main purpose of the Commission is to attract investments and work on the issue of exporting electricity generated in Georgia to foreign countries. The representatives of EUGBC and energy sector discussed existing situation in the Georgian energy sector, as well as, its perspectives and challenges. More than 30 energy companies representatives attended the meeting. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

4 ZVIAD CHUMBURIDZE WAS ELECTED AS AN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SOCIETY OF GEORGIAN UNIVERSITY On the occasion of restoration of Society of Georgian University after 100 years ceremonial event held at the Tbilisi State University today, on December 15, The meeting was attended by the president of Georgia, Giorgi Margvelashvili and by the Prime-Minister of Georgia, Giorgi Kviriashvili, as well as, Minister of Education of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli participated in the event. The society, which unites graduates of Tbilisi State University and its supporters, aims to care for the development of the university. Ambassador Zviad Chumburidze, Secretary General of the EU- Georgia Business Council was elected as an Executive Director of this society. Society of Georgian University was first created in 1917 and aimed at establishing the first national university in the Caucasus region. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

5 Conference titled Georgia EU Association Objectives The Parliament of Georgia hosted a joint conference titled Georgia EU Association Objectives The conference was attended by EUGBC management and team members. The main topic for discussion was the implementation of the Georgia-EU Association by the sectors. Representatives of EU and Eastern Partnership member countries and senior officials of the executive and legislative authorities of Georgia, member organizations of the National Platform, diplomatic corps accredited in Georgia and media representatives participated in above mentioned conference. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

6 EUGBC PARTICIPATED IN INVESTOR COUNCIL S MEETING ON DECEMBER, 2017 ON DECEMBER 11, 2017 SECRETARY GENERAL OF EU-GEORGIA BUSINESS COUNCIL, ZVIAD CHUMBURIDZE TOOK PART IN THE MEETING OF INVESTOR COUNCIL, CHAIRED BY GEORGIAN PRIME MINISTER GIORGI KVIRIKASHVILI, HELD AT THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE GOVERNMENT. THE MEETING WAS ATTENDED BY THE EUGBC PROJECTS DIRECTOR, GIORGI KACHARAVA. THE FOURTH BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN THE SCOPE OF MEETING ROOM MEMBERS OF EU-GEORGIA BUSINESS COUNCIL ATTENDED THE FOURTH BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN THE SCOPE OF MEETING ROOM WITH THE TOPIC BEING CAPITAL RAISING ALTERNATIVES FOR AGRICULTURAL PROJECTS, HOSTED BY PASHA BANK GEORGIA. MEETING ROOM BROUGHT TOGETHER INTERESTED PARTIES FROM PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS TO DISCUSS MAJOR ISSUES CONCERNING THE AGRICULTURAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN GEORGIA. THE MEETING ROOM COVERED, AMONG OTHERS, THE FOLLOWING TOPICS: OVERVIEW OF THE AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT IN GEORGIA, CAPITAL RAISING OPTIONS, INSURANCE TOOLS FOR THE SECTOR, SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS FOR FINANCING AGRO-PROJECTS ETC. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

7 Regional President of BP Participated in the Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum 2017 Regional President of BP in Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey, R. Gary Jones Participated in the Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum 2017 as one of the key speakers of the Panel discussion titled Energy Trans regional Opportunities (Oil, Gas and Electricity). Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum 2017 opened by the Prime Minister of Georgia, Giorgi Kvirikashvili. High rank officials representing foreign governments and international organization addressed the Forum participants. The Forum implied the high-rank discussions as well as the topical sessions and face-to-face meetings. Tbilisi Belt and Road Forum was first held in 2015 and official delegations from 34 countries as well as business representatives from 50 countries participated in the event. The Forum will be a biannual event since it is a very significant and large-scale event. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

8 DCFTA Advisory Group 5th meeting Projects Director of EU-Georgia Business Council, Giorgi Kacharava took part at the DCFTA Advisory Group meeting held on November 17, The meeting was co-chaired by Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable development, Genady Arveladze. The issues discussed at the following meeting were the DCFTA implementation action plan for , as well as 9-month report and news about DCFTA Information Centers existing in Georgia. The Group is an advisory body under the Ministry of Economy, the main purpose of which is to facilitate the effective implementation of DCFTA and to ensure involvement of civil society in this process. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

9 CONFERENCE ON PROSPECTS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF ECONOMIC COOPERATION BETWEEN V4 COUNTRIES AND GEORGIA, HELD IN TBILISI On November 16, 2017 EU-Georgia Business Council with the support of Embassies of V4 countries (Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia) in Georgia, organized the conference titled V4 countries and Georgia prospects for development of economic cooperation. The aim of the conference was to discuss the perspectives of trade and economic cooperation between Georgia and the abovementioned countries, as well as, to share the economic experience. The event was attended by more than 100 European and Georgian company representatives, as well as members of diplomatic corps and representatives of the government. General Partner of the Conference was the company Kharizma. The conference was followed by Georgian wine tasting. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

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11 CAUCASUS UNIVERSITY HOSTED AUSTRIAN STUDENTS TOGETHER WITH EUGBC On November 14, 2017 Caucasus University hosted EU-Georgia Business Council and students from the Competence Centre for Black Sea Region Studies, University of Applied Sciences BFI Vienna. Within the event, the Austrian students get acquainted with the Caucasus University s educational process and international studying programs.the Secretary General of EU-Georgia Business Council, Zviad Chumburidze informed students about organization s activities and future projects.representatives of the Business Council member companies delivered lectures for Australian and Georgian students on the following issues The existing business environment in Georgia and the country as a Caucasus transport corridor. Within the framework of the event students from the Vienna University had an excursion in a new building of Caucasus University. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

12 Site Visit to newly opened Sarajishvili Distillery factory On November 3, EU-Georgia Business Council organized Site Visit to Sarajishvili Distillery, in village Gremi, Kakheti region of Georgia. EUGBC members, journalists and foreign diplomats took part in the activity. The purpose of the visit was to inform visitors about Sarajishvili s newly opened factory, which can produce high quality products using the classical technology of the wine brand. The Spiral Enterprise is equipped with modern standards, where 150 people are employed approximately. The company produces 500,000 liters of brandy alcohol per year. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

13 Meeting with the delegation of the Senate of the Republic of Ireland On October 30, 2017, Secretary General of EU- Georgia Business Council, Mr. Zviad Chumburidze hosted delegation of the Senate of the Republic of Ireland, chaired by Mr. Denis O Donovan, Chairman of the Senate. The meeting was attended by Charge d Affaires, a.i. at the Republic of Ireland, Mr. Gia Zurabashvili, as well as, the First Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of EUGBC, Mr. Badri Japaridze. EUGBC signed Memorandum of Cooperation with Tbilisi State University During the meeting the sides discussed issues related to the existing bilateral co-operation between the two countries and perspectives of implementing future economic projects. Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the EU Georgia Business Council and Tbilisi State University. According to the agreement, students and graduates from TSU s Faculty of Business and Economics will undergo internship courses in EUGBC and will take part in organizing process of present and future projects. Memorandum also foresees bilateral cooperation in educational issues, which involves conducting of thematic lectures on important issues by EUGBC, including trade with Europe. One of the main goals of the memorandum is to encourage young economists, as well as establish effective communication between business sector and young specialists. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

14 MEETING WITH THE STATE MINISTER OF GEORGIA ON EUROPEAN AND EURO-ATLANTIC INTEGRATION On October 9, EU-Georgia Business Council (EUGBC) Board of Directors and representatives of EUGBC member companies met Viktor Dolidze, State Minister of Georgia on European and Euro-Atlantic Integration. At the meeting the State Minister informed representatives of business circles about the ongoing reforms in Georgia for the implementation of the obligations under the Association Agreement. The prospects and other related issues were discussed at the meeting as well. Members of EUGBC introduced Mr. Dolidze the views of the business sector with respect to these reforms and the perspectives of the European market. Attendees emphasized that maximizing communication between the Government and business in this process is of utmost importance. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

15 MEMBER S NEWS ANDROPOV S EARS - Seafood Restaurant Fine dining meets spectacular setting at the top floor of Republic. The menu of the Andropov s Ears Seafood Restaurant is truly special with an extravagant choice of fresh fish ranging from luxe king crabs, fresh oysters, lobster, red prawns and the finest aged prime beef for the biggest beef connoisseurs. Created by Gilles & Boissier, French Interior Design Company, the restaurant s design is a mix of cosmopolitan flair and local elements. The bar with its panoramic views over the city will serve the best classic cocktails and Georgian wines. Restaurant will start operating from mid-january. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

16 Sarajishvili House Presented one of the most distinctive products from the Unique Line of Sarajishvili House - TRILOGY TRILOGY is a result of inspiration based on an idea of uniting past and present. One of the most refined products of Sarajishvili House is a harmonious synthesis of XIX, XX and XXI centuries, three grape types, and three regions of Georgia. Apart from its century-old aging, the secret of TRILOGY lies in special grape varieties selected from three different Georgian micro zones having particular climatic conditions. This unique drink is a harmonic blend of Tsitska from Imereti, Chinuri from Kartli and Rkatsiteli from Kakheti. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

17 International transportation company GOLDWAY has joined EUGBC as a new corporate member. Rapidly growing company GOLDWAY was established in 2011 and it has been successfully operating for the last 7 years. The company offers you fast, reliable and high quality service. In the sphere of International Transportation, one of the most important things is safety and GOLDWAY is ready to take a risk and to cover the loss in case of cargo damage. Services: Inland Transportation Full Truck Load Partial Cargo Transportation Hazardous Cargo Oversized Cargo Air Transportation Brokerage Service Sea Transportation GOLD WAY has three main advantages: Insured Cargo Full responsibility from the pick up point to the final destination The recovery of the loss based on mutual agreement. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

18 American Medical Centers Georgia Can now provide medical assistance in Gudauri NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

19 PASHA Bank partners the first CEO Lunch Tbilisi by Caspian Energy On September 29th Caspian European Club and Caspian American Club hosted the first CEO Lunch Tbilisi within the framework of the official ceremony marking the resumption of activities of Caspian Energy Georgia. The event involves organization of a series of meetings for CEOs of Georgia and Azerbaijani companies and is supported by PASHA Bank. Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili, First Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Finance of Georgia Dimitry Kumsishvili, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia Giorgi Gakharia and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Georgia Dursun Hasanov attended CEO Lunch as honorary guests. Shahin Mammadov, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of PASHA Bank Georgia gave a presentation about the Bank s activities and its financial highlights. He emphasized the significance of the project in regards of bringing together business circles from these two countries. Mr. Giorgi Kvirikashvili awarded PASHA Bank Georgia with a special certificate for joining and supporting the event that will serve the development of Georgia-Azerbaijan trade and economic ties. The Prime Minister of Georgia also thanked the organizers of the meeting. This will boost a birth of new business initiatives, expand contacts not only between businessmen of Georgia and Azerbaijan, but also representatives of other countries, he said. Also Giorgi Kvirikashvili noted that the Government of Georgia spares no effort to facilitate attraction of investments into the country and Georgia is always open for Azerbaijani entrepreneurs. I expect the Georgian businessmen to expand their activities in Azerbaijan, the Prime Minister said. According to First Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Caspian European Club and Caspian American Club, Telman Aliyev, CEO Lunch is a very beneficial tool for networking and is hosted with the aim to create opportunities for CEOs to communicate in an informal environment and establish new contacts. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

20 PASHA Bank Supported the Silk Road Regional Trade Finance Forum November 30th, 2017, Tbilisi Marriott Hotel - The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC- Georgia) in cooperation with ICC China will hold the Silk Road Regional Trade Finance Forum. PASHA Bank being the sponsor of the event was also represented on the trade finance panel discussion. PASHA Bank is a Baku-based financial institution operating in Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, providing corporate and investment banking services to large and medium-sized enterprises. As a regional financial institution we ve joined this conversation to discuss the major issues regarding trade finance operations and share our experience. said Otar Tabutsadze, Senior Trade Finance Expert of PASHA Bank. PASHA Bank became member of Georgia s Pro Bono Network Business Café meets up for the 13th time On November 27th, 2017 the current year s last and Business Café s 13th meeting overall took place in Rooms hotel. The meeting was hosted by Mr. Osman Turan, a technology expert and former General Manager of Geocell. He spoke about leadership that drives to success. The year s last meeting of Business Café turned out to be very interesting and interactive just like all the others. To witnessing success and raising popularity of this project delights us greatly, as PASHA Bank is the partner of Business Cafe from day one. We look forward to continue this tradition in the years to come, - said Anano Korkia, Head of PR and Marketing Department at PASHA Bank. Georgia s Pro Bono Network is an informal union of Georgian and international companies operating in Georgia that are willing to use their expertise and professional resources for the benefit of the society. The goal of the network is to make the expertise of the private sector available to the organizations working to improve society. Pro Bono is both a form of support for communities as well as a part of corporate volunteering programs. On November 1st, second meeting of Georgia s Pro Bono Network was held. The meeting was attended by the existing members of the network as well as its partnering organizations.the meeting covered the activities that were realized during the year by Pro Bono Network. Representatives of various organizations made presented the projects that they have fulfilled together with Pro Bono Network in NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

21 BDO AWARDED ACCA S APPROVED EMPLOYER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT STATUS SAP BUSINESS ONE POWERED BY BDO, SPECIALLY FOR CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has recently awarded BDO with Approved Employer Professional Development status. This approval indicates ACCA s recognition of employers who provide learning opportunities for ACCA members to support their continuing professional development (CPD). BDO is now fully accredited in both streams of approval to pursue with ACCA, out of which the trainee development platinum status has been for years now acknowledging the continuing support BDO provides to ACCA trainees on their way towards membership. The recent recognition professional development is the second ultimate accreditation to be awarded to an employer by ACCA. Granting of this status ensures that ACCA members who participate in BDO s development scheme automatically meet ACCA s CPD requirements. BDO presents a specialized technological solution for construction & development industry. We adapted SAP Business One to completely fit the business needs of the abovementioned industry. Construction is a fast developing sector and the companies that operate in the industry, need a complete, intelligent software to automate all the major processes and manage them effectively. We decided to make a strategic focus on the construction industry and develop SAP Business One to meet all the requirements and challenges the industry holds says Givi Dzamashvili, Partner at BDO. BDO client portfolio already claims successfully completed Anaklia Development Consortium project and has several ongoing projects with major construction organizations. BDO will maintain the approved employer professional development status for the coming three years until the due renewal. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

22 Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi is honored to be recognized by some of the most reputable industry groups and respected juries in the world for excellence in Business hospitality and not only. These awards reflect the commitment of a five star property to setting the high standards for Business Category Hotel and providing the ultimate guest experience. This autumn the 5 star property has become a winner hotel in Georgia at one of the most important events of the hospitality business throughout the globe World Luxury Hotel Award. On the official Awarding ceremony of World Luxury Hotel Awards held in Switzerland, the 5 star Hotel was honored to win three different categories - Luxury Wedding Destination, Luxury Business Hotel and Luxury Hotel and Conference Center. One of the most prestigious and objective global organization - World Luxury Hotel Award is recognized to be a Second Oscar, choosing luxury hotels for their service excellences and facilities by the worldwide famous jury experts in hospitality industry. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

23 The second big success of Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi was becoming a Georgia s Leading Business Hotel at the 24th annual Awarding ceremony of World Travel Awards, held in St. Petersburg. During the 2 years of the successful operation in Georgian market, Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi has been admitted as one of the leading business hotels of hosting big MICE groups and business travelers. Having the largest ballroom in Tbilisi, six additional conference halls and 5 VIP meeting rooms is a big advantage and privilege for the big companies searching for the outstanding venues. Besides the conferences, the grand ballroom of the property has hosted many Luxurious Weddings, perfectly matching the marvelous atmosphere and services of Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi. On December 2017 Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi got another well-reserved trophy from French Restaurant Guide Gault&Millau, firstly presented in Georgia. This year Gault&Millau expert inspectors anonymously assessed all the leading Food & Beverage objects in Georgia for Catalogue After a very long procedure, the worldwide known experts and gourmets has rated Western Restaurant Be CHIC of Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi with the highest scores among the five star hotels in Tbilisi. Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi is constantly working on enhancing their services and is looking forward to future success. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

24 The company Polimeri 1 was awarded As a Successful business of the year By the Business Government Contact 2017 NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

25 Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between MKD and ISET On December 5, 2017, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between Mgaloblishvili Kipiani Dzidziguri - MKD and ISET - International School of Economics. The cooperation comprises implementing educational programs, organizing workshops, lectures and other similar events as well as promoting students internships and employment prospective. The Memorandum of Cooperation was signed by Victor Kipiani, partner at MKD, and Eric Livny, president of ISET Policy Institute. Apart of attending the signing ceremony students and invited guests had the opportunity to hear an open lecture delivered by Victor Kipiani on Georgia s reunification perspective analysis from a geopolitical and geo-economic point of view based on comparison with Cyprus. The lecture was finalized by interactive discussions moderated by Eric Livny. Co-operation between Mgaloblishvili Kipiani Dzidziguri (MKD) and International School of Economics at TSU (ISET) aims to support young generation to deepen their knowledge and improve professional skills to achieve respective goals and expectations. It is noteworthy that this kind of partnership with higher education institutions is not a new practice for MKD as it has been almost a decade that the firm successfully co-operates with Faculty of Law at Tbilisi State University and underlines MKD s corporate social responsibility agenda. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

26 MGALOBLISHVILI KIPIANI DZIDZIGURI (MKD) HAD A SEMINAR ON GEORGIAN COMPETITION REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT AND PRACTICES A seminar on various regulatory and practical aspects of unfair and restrictive competition was held at Mgaloblishvili Kipiani Dzidziguri (MKD) on October 11. Baqar Palavandishvili lawyer at MKD, led the presentation exploring some recent trend under the local law in conjunction with EU law implications. Some EU court precedents were also given as highlights to explore where the local law stands in terms of challenging unfair competition and restrictive practices (such covering price fixing, market sharing and limitation, discriminatory, supplementary conditions and collusive tendering, in particular). Competition law and practices are among core services provided by MKD to its clients and the firm has accumulated a rather distinguished track record of advising various high-profile clients, both local and international. Oriflame Georgia has a new Director Our congratulations to Ms. Nana Eliava and we wish her every success in new duties! NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

27 Marriott Tbilisi hotels joined EUGBC team as a corporate member Courtyard Marriott Courtyard by Marriott Tbilisi is perfectly located in Freedom Square in the heart of the city centre, and is within walking distance of the Georgian National Museum, Rustaveli Theatre and the State Opera House. Hotel offers modern and comfortable accommodation features. Additional hotel perks include a fitness center and whirlpool, as well as a heated indoor pool. Pay a visit to hotel s restaurant, Brasserie Freedom, for delicious all-day dining and stunning Freedom Square views. Or plan a catered event for up to 400 guests in one of Hotel s venue spaces, some of which feature natural daylight. And you ll enjoy the convenience of having Old Tbilisi and other city sights at your doorstep. For business or leisure, the Courtyard Tbilisi is the ideal choice! Hotel Features: 118 Rooms 7 Meeting Rooms Health Club Massage room Indoor swimming pool Brasserie Freedom Restaurant 24 hour indoor shop NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

28 Tbilisi Marriott With a city center location and modern amenities, the Tbilisi Marriott Hotel is an ideal destination for business travel and family vacations. Hotel has 100 year old building and stunning atrium-style lobby, with its twinkling crystal chandeliers, design of the hotel was kept original during the restauration. Rooms and suites are peaceful and cozy, both offer deluxe bedding, a marble bathroom and modern technology. Parnas Café and Majestic Lounge & Bar offer local and international cuisine. Fitness routine can be maintained anytime at 24-hour gym. Those hosting an event in central Tbilisi can learn more about Marriott stylish venue spaces, the largest of which can accommodate 230 guests. You can easily reach main sightseeing and attractions including Narikala Fortress, Freedom Square and the Parliament of Georgia, by foot. Hotel features: 127 Rooms and Suited 9 Meeting Rooms Fitness Center High Speed Internet 24 Hour Concierge and bellboy Services NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

29 Welcome to the updated -> Crane index 4Q 2017, prepared by KPMG Georgia. The first edition of the Tbilisi Crane Index was published earlier in 2017 based on the survey carried out in the first quarter of 2017 and was very well received. KPMG received many comments on the first edition from business associations, real estate developers, large business groups, members of the Government and from the Diplomatic Corps, which encouraged the KPMG team to update the findings. The Q4 report shows a 9.3% increase in the number of cranes in Tbilisi to an amazing 117 cranes with most of the increase coming in the residential segment. Vake becomes the leading district in Tbilisi (over-taking Saburtalo) with all but one districts showing an increase. On 1st October 2017, KPMG Georgia promoted Irina Gevorgyan to Partner. Irina has been heading up the Advisory practice in Georgia since 2013 and has overseen the growth in the Advisory team from 2 to 13 people. Irina joined KPMG in 2003 and has worked in Armenia, Georgia and the UK. Irina is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in the UK and holds an MBA from the prestigious IE Business School in Madrid. Irina is also a Registered Auditor in Georgia.. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

30 New representation of Gebrüder Weiss officially opened in Yerevan The international transport and logistics company Gebrüder Weiss officially opened its new representation in Yerevan, Armenia, on November 3, During a ceremony at the Grand Hotel Yerevan, Alexander Kharlamov (Managing Director of Gebrüder Weiss Georgia and Armenia) emphasized the significance of the new location for the network of Gebrüder Weiss: From Yerevan, not only do we serve destinations in Iran and Russia for our customers, but Armenia is also a key stop along the Silk Road an important hub between Europe and Asia. In front of some 150 guests, Mr. Kharlamov underscored the high potential of the region and explained how Gebrüder Weiss is able to support export-oriented companies when entering the Armenian market. Groupage freight transports from Germany, Austria, and Italy The representation office in the center of Yerevan, a city with over a million inhabitants, already began its work at the beginning of April and, since this time, has set up a weekly groupage freight transport from Italy. The logistics expert also offers twice-weekly groupage freight transports from Austria (Vienna) and Germany (Hanau) via Georgia (Tbilisi) to Armenia. By opening up the new location, we are further expanding our local presence in Central Asia and taking another important step when it comes to entering the former Silk Road overland. As a result, our customers also benefit from our high European quality standards in Armenia, says Thomas Moser, Director and Regional Manager South- East/CIS at Gebrüder Weiss. Air and sea freight are also included in the service portfolio alongside land transports. In the medium term, it is planned to expand the local range of services and to evaluate the opening of further offices in the region. The logistics processes are managed through the Georgian Gebrüder Weiss hub in Tbilisi, to which Yerevan has a direct connection. NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

31 Be the first to attend event series created by Silk Road Group and Club Iveria at newly opened multifunctional space Republic. This Christmas, on January 7th Republic hosts funky concert creating lasting memories that will keep you feeling good throughout the season! Come enjoy some of magic tunes in a swinging style only Beka Gochiashvili can deliver together with his American Band! NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - DECEMBER,

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