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Pt.2
Journalist 3 (J3) - Mr Putin and his influence remain a top threat to democracy, not only in the United States, but across the globe. Look no further than the current situation in Georgia to see firsthand the impact it is having on those who are fighting for freedom. Although Bidzina Ivanishvili unexpectedly and quickly resigned as prime minister in 2013, he remains the de facto ruler of the government to this day. The promise made by the Georgian Dream to change the electoral system was a step forward for democracy. However, last autumn the Georgian Dream withdrew its word, which became an excuse for rallies and protests.
J2 - Despite such the heaviest formulations, the rhetoric of the „Dream” remains unchanged. The harsh calls of the US Congressman for the ruling team are still the opinion of one legislator who is a victim of misinformation or is only engaged in lobbying.
Unknown Speaker 1 - Markwayne Mullin, and another 1-2 exceptions may be. They have their own subjective views, some political sympathies, which may be caused by the activities of the lobbying organization, but the main thing for us is that we have an unprecedented, higher assessment of the international community. Despite his skeptical attitude, political sympathy and lobbying, we will continue to work with him and we are confident that sooner or later he will be able to determine the position of the entire international ...
Unknown Speaker 2 - As for the congressman's statement in particular, it is probably dictated by certain political or business interests.
J2 - After such reactions and statements by the government, the open and critical assessments of the partners were not unexpected for the opposition. When a friendly country accuses it of being an ally of the occupier, it is already a verdict for Ivanishvili, ”said members of the political party.
Translation #14 Mtavaria with Mullin, Zaza and others, US$ 30, DUE 06/07
Pt.1
Journalist 1 (J1) - Georgian authorities have received another crushing message. The American Congressman, Markwayne Mullin, openly accuses the Georgian Dream of having ties with the Kremlin. The Republican Congressman focuses primarily on oligarch Ivanishvili. He recalls that the source of his billions is Russia and, along with many other arguments, names him as the emissary of Vladimir Putin. In his analytical letter, the American politician predicts that the Russian government of the Georgian Dream will eventually lead the country to the worst crisis. After the publication of the article, our colleague Natia Gogsadze recorded an exclusive interview with Mullin and she is now joining us live. Natia, what dangers does Georgian billionaire Ivanishvili pose? What is an American congressman talking to you about?
Journalist 2 (J2) - "Putin is constantly aggressive towards his neighbours and is trying to interfere in the elections and influence them," said Markwayne Mullin, noting that it is very dangerous that he has an ally in Georgia at the time, Bidzina Ivanishvili, who became rich in Russia. The US Congressman, who I known for co-authoring of the Sanctions Bill, said it was important for the country to develop democratic processes. "I am a friend of the countries that are fighting for freedom," said Markwayne Mullin, adding that "it is interesting to see how things turn out for the 2020 elections." It is not ruled out that the congressman will arrive in Georgia as well, but it will depend on whether the air traffic between the United States and Georgia will be restored. However, one and the most important thing that worries Georgia's allies and friends is the special, recent attitude towards the Russian government when they see that, for example, by harassing American business and breaking promised deals, Ivanishvili's regime gradually resembles Putin's Russia. Markwayne Mullin also spoke about Bidzina Ivanishvili's and Putin's dangerous connections in an exclusive interview with us. Republican lawmaker has long observed the actions of the Georgian government and its questionable rapprochement with Russia. Markwayne Mullin who was introduced to the Georgian society by the so called "Sanctions Bill", says that "one of the biggest threats to Georgia is Russia, which is being helped by Bidzina Ivanishvili."
MarkWayne Mullin - It is no secret that Ivanishvili has ties to Putin. Its capital is not Georgian. His property is also linked to Russia and Putin. However, no one can deny its influence in the political arena inside Georgia. At the same time, his ties to Putin should be the red flag flying for everyone. In my case, it really is.
J2 - "America must stand by Georgia in the fight for freedom." The Republican Congressman published an article with this title in Hills today. Oklahoma lawmaker wrote in a scathing letter that Russia-raised Ivanishvili, who be
Pt.4 (and final part)
J1 - Mr. Giorgi…
GT - Under the terms of the pandemic, this type of conversation became much more active than, say, 6 months ago, and we are actively involved in this conversation, and we see that if this global initiative materialises, they take concrete steps and there will be many interesting opportunities for Georgia. Also, the second direction I want to tell you. For the past 1.5 years, there has been a growing talk that the United States wants to create an economic development network around the world with countries with which the United States shares: in general, philosophy and the relationship between countries, with what confidence countries need to be equipped and with this confidence what type of investment can be made in countries based on national security interests. That is, the issue that any future partnership and investment and development will not depend only on ... Risks are determined not only by, say, the profitability of any project, and the share of security in this profitability will be much greater, these conversations are much more relevant, and Georgia plays a very active role in these talks and initiatives, and we are actively involved in these talks.
J1 - Finally, I would like to ask you about direct flights to America. What is the situation in this direction? Is there any news?
GT - In this regard, as you know, last year we had a pretty good progress. The Minister of Economy was in the United States. We met with all the airlines, we talked to all the airlines, we talked to some of them about specific dates, specific periods, specific locations, or where these flights could come from from America, and so on. However, even in today's conditions, when all the companies, first of all in America, wether this is the air industry ... and as you also know, the air industry has suffered a huge blow in the United States. Today, talks about the direction of aviation industry is also suspended. We have to wait for the process when this industry will come out of the crisis in America and after the this, of course, we will actively resume the conversation. However, we have not stopped contacting all these companies. We have constant conversations with all these companies and their representatives. We know what the situation is inside and this communication is constant. And as soon as the opportunity arises to go further and take the conversation we even had last year, we will certainly look forward to that conversation.
J1 - Great. Thank you for interesting conversation. Giorgi Tsikolia, the Ambassador of Georgia in USA, answered the questions of the “Business Partner”.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0kTGqyOv1SU&list=UUOpMeFzNjG2EQHtJzkJsgVw
Pt.3
J1 - Another interesting point - in the face of a pandemic, there is constant talk on the part of the government that we should use the crisis as an opportunity. Discussions have intensified that China's American business could be replaced by other locations. How much chance does Georgia have here and if it is considered, in general, to transfer any kind of business to Georgia?
GT - I would like to emphasize once again that it is too early to talk about how this process will develop and how we will get out of this process. In terms of pandemic, the situation in America is very difficult, in which moving from one state to another leads to a 2-week quarantine. Consequently, it is a little premature to talk about what decisions the American corporate world will make in the next few years and how even the supply chain will change, or how companies will develop their business. However, this does not mean that we should look at this process passively, on the contrary, we should be doubly active and take steps in this direction and go as deep as possible and study the direction that can become competitive. To give you an example of how ideas can be updated. Let’s say there are a few initiatives in America that have sounded over the years, however its relevance has been quite low and the probability that these initiatives will materialize has also been quite low. I mean ideas like the creation of a global energy safety network between America and Japan. An initiative initiated by the United States and Japan. Business environment, general philosophy in terms of its economic development, development of their energy industry, as well as visions coincide that in this type of countries closer coordination and cooperation, investment and larger and richer countries also provide various types of financial assistance to involve other countries in this network.
Pt.2
J1 - I wonder what happens if we take this opportunity?
GT - Yes, we are still in the first stage of this whole process. We are not out of the pandemic, but I think we are one of the first to enter into this conversation and talk to both our American partners and private companies.
J1 - In addition to talking, what is needed? What is the main challenge today that prevents further interest in American business in Georgia? What is the first thing to do?
GT - Let's just say that when we talk about American business, we are in a completely different reality today. Historically, if we look at American business, 80% of American businesses have always focused on the domestic market. This country is large, voluminous, rich in opportunities and resources. Only a small portion of this business was focused on international investment, international development, and so on. Under the pandemic, of course, all companies that are active in the international market will once again have to reconsider what type and volume of investment they will make and in which countries and how they will see the development of their companies in the coming years. As I mentioned, we are still in the first stage of this discussion. However, our competitive advantages, which we have been talking about for years, allow us to be one of the first to enter into this conversation with companies. The industries I mentioned, we have the potential to offer American companies in the future those who will be interested in the region, quite interesting conditions. For the country, when we talk about Georgia, the biggest problem was the market size and the scarcity of the economy. I think that in this case, for us it can be much more positive than we ever thought, because getting calculations in such a country, getting much more investment is much simpler and faster than entering the big, complex economy and investing there.
Translation#13 Interview about US interests in Georgia, US$40, FREE, DUE 04/07
Pt.1
Journalist (J1) - Georgia and the United States. What does Georgia's business environment look like from America? Which areas are of interest to American business? And what prevents business relationships from deepening? Mr. Giorgi Tsikolia, Ambassador of Georgia in USA, will answer these questions. Mr. Giorgi, welcome and thank you for participating in the show.
Giorgi Tsikolia, Ambassador to USA (GT) - Greetings. Thanks for you invitation.
J1 - Although the volume of investments in Georgia in general has decreased from the states, as it turns out, there is still an increase. What is the interest of American business in Georgia? And, specifically, in what sectors is this interest?
GT - I welcome your TV viewers and, of course, it is very gratifying that against the background of the global pandemic, against the background of the fact that the economies of countries are declining, in general, the volume of investment is declining in virtually every country, the volume of investment in Georgia is increasing. This once again clearly reflects the progress we have made over the years in our relations with the United States and the importance of the ongoing projects in the country in this regard. I would also like to point out that when it comes to the interest in Georgia in the United States, we can take a good look at the industries that have been investing in the United States over the years, and this can be attributed to Georgia's competitive advantage. Of course, we all know these industries well. We know that logistics and transportation are key industries based on our location. We also know that energy is a key industry for us, and against the backdrop of this pandemic, we also see new opportunities emerging that, along with location and the business environment, can inspire new opportunities for our country.
J1 - What do you mean by new opportunities to be specific if you can?
GT - In the new possibilities, which I mean ... If we take a step back, and look at the United States and its trade balance, take a glance what is most important in terms of products, and from which countries what types of products are imported into the United States, and follow its chain, which countries are pharmaceuticals, or industry in general, which exists around pharmaceuticals, or in this case, to take up the mining industry, if we look at these two industries, we will see that the supply chain is a fairly large volume of imports, the final production of which takes place in America, coming from countries that the United States does not consider to be long-term reliable partners. And, here comes the opportunity for us from different angles. How we can use this opportunity, of course, is too early to talk about...
We will use our "25 min credit' so Translations #13 & # 14 will be free and we will only pay US$10.00 for Translation #15.
Our total spend on Translations 1- 12 was US$602.75
Our total spend on Translations 1-15 will be US$612.75
SYSTEM UPDATE 03/07/20
There have been some behind-the-scenes changes as remove to the new direct system. Posting the details of each new project, price, due date as well as the actual translations all stays the same as before.
Old system
- work arranged via open chat room on a website (so anyone could have checked in by joining the chat room)
- translations had to be funded in advance.
- I paid the website, I send the invoice to Puddy, and he repays me.
New system
- work direct with translator via email
- payment will be made on completion of each translation, not in advance.
- translator will raise an invoice, I pay him, send the invoice to Puddy, and he repays me
- Its important that we have a clear audit trail. FSHG will be cc’d on any emails between me and the translator that discuss price. FSHG aren't going to start posting things like “that’s correct” each time they get an email. However they have the email chain just in case any issue or discrepancy crops up.
We need an independent system that works in case someone else joins the project, or if I need to step away due to other commitments etc. I think these checks and balances should cover most eventualities.
Here is an updated summary 02/07/20
#1 - radio show $110, PAID, POSTED 07/06
https://www.radiotavisupleba.ge/a/????-????????????-?????????-????????????-??-??????????????-??????/30639322.html
#2 - Short Youtube clip $5.15, PAID, POSTED 15/06
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fL97SI8cjzQ
#3 - TV interview 16/06 $41.20,PAID, POSTED 18/06
https://mtavari.tv/ghamis-mtavari/7642
#4 – Interview from early May, $66.95 PAID, POSTED 22/06
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bDj5hEHyEU
#5 – Interview with Zaza & Govt official, 05/06, CANCELLED 29/06 US$87.55
https://palitranews.ge/video/sakme-frontera-vs-sakartvelos-mtavroba
#6 – TV Imedia news 5.23m US$20.60, PAID, POSTED 21/06
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=84RjV2oahC0
#7 – News segment with GOGC from 17/6, US$55.00, PAID, POSTED 27/06
https://www.imedi.ge/ge/video/54942/saertashoriso-skandalshi-gakhveuli-da-skhvadaskhva-qvekanashi-taglitobashi-mkhilebuli-prontera
#8 – Zaza TV interview, 23/06 from 37m mark, US$36.05, PAID, POSTED 26/05
https://www.facebook.com/107065540663565/videos/????-???????-??????-?????/211402503272921/
#9 – News segment via YouTube, 23/06, 5.30m, US$25.75, PAID, POSTED 24/06
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7KRHadw7oY&feature=youtu.be
#10 Zaza interview TV Kavkasia, 25/06, 26m US$72.10, PAID, POSTED 30/06
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhio3tzMsqM&app=desktop
#11 Zaza statement, Formulanews, 25/06, 3m30s, US$15.45, PAID, POSTED 28/06
https://formulanews.ge/News/32135
#12 GSAC long version of #11, 25/06, 21m US$66.95, PAID, POSTED 02/07
https://www.facebook.com/GSAC.GE/videos/270839824170062/
#13 Interview about US interests in Georgia, US$40, NOT PAID, DUE 04/07
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0kTGqyOv1SU&list=UUOpMeFzNjG2EQHtJzkJsgVw
#14 Mtavaria with Mullin, Zaza and others, US$ 30, NOT PAID, DUE 05/07
https://mtavari.tv/news/9192-ivanishvilisa-putinis-sakhipato-kavshirebi-morigi
Total PAID amount = US$602.75 / GBP505.71 (this includes #5, which we will use as in lieu of payment for the next 25-30m video)
Pt.7 (and final part)
Nodar Kharshiladze (Expert) - In short, what we have planned now is that we will be joined by public organizations, businesses, political circles in the future, and we will definitely have an online conference with our American colleagues, including senators and congressmen who join this initiative to make communication right and our goal is not to harm Georgia. I don’t care about “Georgian Dream” because their communication with Americans crossed every line. In order not to harm our country and its interests, internal discussions will be held in order to be planned correctly, because when we have new government we will be able to attract more investment, create more jobs and increase the well-being of every citizen of Georgia, including Mr. Zaza`s as a citizen of Georgia. That is the ultimate goal. It is unfortunate that all of this is being pursued for personal gain today, but these activities, especially with the people who are writing these letters, will help us. We tell them firmly that these parasites are in the minority. The Georgian people support the United States, the American investment, and we must inform our partners about this. Thanks
https://www.facebook.com/GSAC.GE/videos/270839824170062/
Pt.6
Giorgi Vashadze (contd) - Therefore, it is time to come to our senses. Another issue that I would like to emphasize is that our government goes to these arbitrators and loses these arbitrations as if they are going to pay from there own pockets the obligations or compensation for arbitration services. This is also what we have to pay. This is also money to be paid from our budget. How many millions were spent, for example, in a dispute with Frontera, which is covered I farce, as if they have won the dispute. However, in most of the points, we have studied this issue, "Frontera" won, which I am not happy to tell you directly, as a citizen of Georgia, because this damage has to be paid from our budget. And I'm here to agree with Frontera at some point, and to move away from these damages to economic co-operation, investment co-operation, and not to pay from our budget on created problem for such a large company. The same is true of the port of Anaklia. Same goes with Anaklia port. If the same goes on, Iconia Capital will go, complaining about these issues. Who is harmed? We are harmed by the fact that all this is being paid from the budget. Therefore, we must pay special attention to this and I will repeat three main issues: national security, economic development and energy independence. These are the three components of these investments and the issues we all need to address.
Zaza - I would like to add one more thing. Thank you, Mr. George, for your comment. 1 detail - I will say what Georgia has done before, and I am the head of "Frontera" at the moment, but I live here, I am a citizen of this country and, of course, all this has such a big impact on my personal life as a Georgian living in this country. It is also very important in this regard. Now that's what Mr. George said. The Georgian government has paid GEL 42 million for this arbitration service, in an attempt to limit the rights of the investor company in the country. They wasted such amount of money and by the way, this 42 million GEL includes my money as well. Instead of directing this money to creation of more value for the country, more jobs, all of this is going wrong. That is why all our joint efforts should be directed to change these circumstances, as Mr. Nodar pointed out, and it will definitely bring good results in terms of work, investment, unemployment, and so on. thank you very much.
Pt.5
Seth Char (contd) - We only hire Georgian employees and contractors. I am the only foreigner in Iconia Capital LLC in Tbilisi as the CEO. And, the lowest paid person in our company receives the double the average national salary. That`s the lowest paid person. So, we pay good salaries for good people. Alright? But all of that cannot have the chance to continue if we are continually under attack again by corrupt elements that are completely out of control and that the authorities seem to have very little power over. So, thats what I have to say about that.
Speaker 4
Giorgi Vashadze - I will say a few more words by the end. By the way, the statement of the Georgian Ambassador to the United States was very interesting, that more than half of them do not know what they signed and this was immediately followed by a very strong reaction from the United States. So we can't build a state. I want to tell this to the Georgian society. We will never be able to put the country back on its feet, and during our 29 years of independence we have not really had such a precedent that the country has been in such a problematic and deadlocked situation. I would also like to say that our Western partners will do their best for Georgia to continue on its own path of development. The notion of a strategic partner for America, the notion of an associate member for the EU are not just words. It is the specific content and schedule with which we act and collaborate with them. Therefore, they will, of course, do their best to support Georgian democracy so that we can continue to develop normally. But, I want to tell every citizen that everything is still in our hands. Neither America nor Europe will be able to make electoral decisions for us or change the government or do anything else in the country. This is our decision and we must do it. This is our sovereign choice. And, unfortunately, I want to say that after 29 years, we are again faced with this great choice - the West or the North? EU or Russia? NATO and the United States or any development in the Eurasian Union in some incomprehensible direction? Here, we are faced with this choice again, and these months, and the subsequent period, are crucial in this direction. Either developed Georgia (a leading country in the world) or slow-paced Georgia, a poor country ruled by oligarchic clans. We are constantly impoverished, or the country is being depopulated. Retirees will be left alone, children at some point. The labor force has already been reduced by 100,000 in the last 3-4 years alone. People have gone to the EU and we will be in the worst situation.
Pt.4
Zaza - Thank you very much. I would like to add a few more details, to what I said a few minutes ago. In addition, a huge investment has been made and a big step has been taken towards Georgia's energy independence, which means that the country's natural gas or crude oil potential will fully meet the country's demand for energy in the future. In addition, it means that along with the economic strength of the country, not only economic but also political strength will increase. You can see what kind of environment we are in and our neighbors are using energy against us as a mechanism and a weapon to achieve various political goals. So that in both sides, economically and politically, it is very profitable and it is necessary for Georgia to be economically and energetically independent. It is in this regard that our work is underway and we have excellent results. It is because of these remarkable results that we are in a situation where our efforts against us have been particularly intensified by our government. We are two companies presented here, but there are some other American companies that have similar problems and I would like to draw your attention to one thing - even yesterday, the Minister of Economy continued and spread false information that 300 American companies are operating in Georgia, which is not true. A company that has an office in the United States and invests in Georgia probably does not exceed 10. They are trying to mislead the public with these means. With such false information, they are trying to mislead the administration and the Congress in Washington, as if our strategic relationship between America and Georgia is developing perfectly. All this must end and everything must be called by its name, because it is better to see the picture that Georgia is facing today, the companies working in Georgia, in order to create a better future by working together. Thank you very much
Seth Char -So, as mentioned before, the Georgian government has to take care of issues of corruption and rogue judges. These two issues are ongoing and have been excessively applied to many investors, including ourselves. Our company have come to Georgia where no political aspirations… In fact, the only reason I am here speaking, is to protect our investors back home and make sure that we can finish the investments we have started in Georgia. We are not just about to give up and walk away and lose the huge amount of money. Because some of our investors, have invested part of their life savings in Georgia and that is amount of faith that my people have had in the country of Georgia. Investing part or large amount of their savings into Georgia to create Georgian jobs, to create original high quality projects, as I have mentioned before, 100% of our workforce is Georgian.
Pt.3
Giorgi Vashadze (contd) - The case of Iconia Capital is a very interesting case, when the real estate market, which again and again has a monopoly in their hands, they want powerful ... We must confront all forces together. My team and I, along with other opposition colleagues, will do our best to make Georgia a paradise for Western investment. Because this is the way revive the country's economy fast ...
Nodar Kharshiladze (Expert) - Recently, the government launched a campaign that "how well everything is with America", there were several meetings. There were also several articles that they met with the leadership of "Frontera", sorted out the topics, informed Washington, met with the ambassador and had a wonderful meeting, and then we find out that it is the lie. Here is director of “Frontera” claiming that nobody held a meeting with him. We also asked this question in America and situation even worse there ... we were talked about sanctions directly from there. This also shows that we are not only doing badly, this government does not realize that we are doing badly and is lying and trying to get out of the situation with lies. At the same time, there are topics about which they are trying to spread the words in Washington through lobbyists, which is a great shame. Georgia often had lobbyists only to help us organize and not to communicate. We are not a country that needs lobbyists in its relations with Washington. They communicate with us perfectly, but Bidzina Ivanishvili needs all this. This is due to his personal lobbying, primarily because he is afraid of sanctions and is in fear, especially given the recent period. And, therefore, these lies have covered everything we want to focus on. Nothing good is happening with American capital. On the contrary, the situation is getting worse. This is just another cascade of lies that have a very short lifespan and will be found out very soon. We saw this, unfortunately, after the statement of our ambassador, when the American Congressman came out directly and said on Twitter that "this is a lie." This is a very shameful and very unprofitable position for Georgia. Again, the situation of the Georgian Dream with the Americans is less worrying for us, unlike the image of the country, which is also suffering, unfortunately. Here we are united. That our image is not damaged and Georgia is not deprived of anything. Therefore, our goal is to work as hard as we can to make it all better. First of all, to bring in more capital, and secondly, to call everything by its own name.
Pt.2
Seth Char - Thank you, Zaza. Gamarjoba. Mu name is Seth Char and I am CEO of Iconia Capital LLC. We are 100% American owned financed real estate developer. And we are from sunny state of Hawaii. Now over the past 5 years, has been under the constant threat and attack by rogue elements in the Georgian government and in the Georgian court system. So, it is our hope today that we are having an opportunity to share our story to identify the parties involved against us and make a call to Georgian authorities that they have an obligation under both local laws and international laws to protect American investors and their businesses in this country. It is my hope that with coordination with authorities in Georgia that we will be able to develop Georgia into the shiny star and positive example for the world. And, glowing example of US-Georgian partnership with regards to teen care of American investors of the country.
Speaker 4
Giorgi Vashadze (Opposition Leader) - Hello. Today we are talking about a very important issue. Georgia has made its geopolitical choice to integrate into the West since independence. EU integration, NATO integration means opening Georgia to American and Western investment. First of all, this is the starting point for our national security and very important. Second, it is important for economic development. To bring in the greatest resources in the country to create jobs, to be energy independent. And third, in this particular case, it is a path to energy independence. And, we need a government that does not hinder Western investment, but rather helps, encourages and brings in Western investment from the United States and the European Union. But, we are facing a sad reality, here are the representatives of two companies here and Western investments have a problem, and everything is open for Russian investments. Western capital has limitations in the country. We argue with them in international arbitration, Russian capital has everything open. The Gazprom agreement, which was extended and signed in the near future, indicates that, unfortunately, the letters from the United States are based on specific evidence. The Georgian government has decided to close our country to Western investment. I want to tell every citizen - this means, first of all, the destruction of the national security of the country, it means constant hunger, doom for Georgia's permanent problems, and it means bringing Georgia into the Russian orbit. Therefore, we must all unite to protect our national interests, and our national interests today include more American, more European, more Western investment, especially in the face of this dire economic situation. In addition to these two companies, we are aware of the Anaklia Port issue and we know a number of topics where businessmen are still unable to speak out on these issues.
Translation #12, long version of #11, 25/06, 21m US$66.95, POSTED 02/07
Pt.1 (This first part is identical to #11)
Journalist 1- A briefing is being organized by the Georgian Strategic Center and we are offering it live
Nodar Kharshiladze (Expert) - Hello everyone. Today we gathered representatives of public organizations, businesses and political circles. Our goal is to launch a new campaign on US-Georgia relations. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, our relations have never been at such a low point, when, practically every week, the critical letters of our government come from the United States, which is very shameful for Georgia. Here is a very famous letter from Ted Cruz, who personally blames Bidzina Ivanishvili. There are many different reasons for this, including political. But one of the main reasons is also the oppression of American business in Georgia, the oppression of American capital, which is very bad and very unfortunate and which causes 2 problems. One is the political dimension, which is politically damaging to Georgia and hurts our image in the United States. And, secondly, there is, of course, economic damage, which prevents the entry of American capital, which is so necessary in times of economic hardship, and the well-being of Georgian citizens. I ask my friends and colleagues to expand these topics. Please, Mr. Zaza.
Zaza - Thank you very much. I am Zaza Mamulaishvili, President and Chief Executive Officer of “Frontera Resources”. Our company has been working in Georgia for 23 years. Today it is the largest American investor in the country. It has created tremendous value for Georgia as a result of our work, but we face incredible resistance from the Georgian government because of the discriminatory attitude towards our and American businesses. Due to this deteriorating investment environment, we express our concern and are very grateful to NGOs, Mr. Giorgi Vashadze, and others who have grasped the importance of this issue and will work with us to create better conditions for American companies and American investment in the country, especially in the conditions of such a ruined economy. Now I would like to give a word to my colleague. Please.
Translation #11 Zaza statement, Formulanews, 25/06, 3m30s, US$15.45 POSTED 28/06
"J1 - A briefing is being organized by the Georgian Strategic Center and we are offering it live
Nodar Kharshiladze (G.S.A.C.) Hello everyone. Today we gathered representatives of public organizations, businesses and political circles. Our goal is to launch a new campaign on US-Georgia relations. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, our relations have never been at such a low point, when, practically every week, the critical letters of our government come from the United States, which is very shameful for Georgia. Here is a very famous letter from Ted Cruz, who personally blames Bidzina Ivanishvili. There are many different reasons for this, including political. But one of the main reasons is also the oppression of American business in Georgia, the oppression of American capital, which is very bad and very unfortunate and which causes 2 problems. One is the political dimension, which is politically damaging to Georgia and hurts our image in the United States. And, secondly, there is, of course, economic damage, which prevents the entry of American capital, which is so necessary in times of economic hardship, and the well-being of Georgian citizens. I ask my friends and colleagues to expand these topics. Please, Mr. Zaza.
Zaza -Thank you very much. I am Zaza Mamulaishvili, President and Chief Executive Officer of “Frontera Resources”. Our company has been working in Georgia for 23 years. Today it is the largest American investor in the country. It has created tremendous value for Georgia as a result of our work, but we face incredible resistance from the Georgian government because of the discriminatory attitude towards our and American businesses. Due to this deteriorating investment environment, we express our concern and are very grateful to NGOs, Mr. Giorgi Vashadze, and others who have grasped the importance of this issue and will work with us to create better conditions for American companies and American investment in the country, especially in the conditions of such a ruined economy. Now I would like to give a word to my colleague.
Thank you, Zaza. My name is Seth Char and I am CEO of Iconia Capital LLC. We are 100% American owned financed real estate developer. And we are from sunny state of Hawaii. Now over the past 5 years, has been under the constant threat and attack by rogue elements in the Georgian government and in the Georgian court system. So, it is our hope today that we are having an opportunity to share our story to identify the parties involved against us and make a call to Georgian authorities that they have an obligation under both local laws and international laws to protect American investors and their businesses in this country. It is my hope that with coordination with authorities in Georgia that we will be able to develop Georgia into the shiny star"
https://formulanews.ge/News/
#10, Pt. 8
Journalist - Maybe this is exactly the fault of the fact that the Ministry of Economy has expressed its readiness to continue working with you and find a compromise.
Zaza - It is possible. However, there is a second law as well. It is called the Magnitsky Global Act, by which all those individuals, as well as current or former members of the state, who are involved in enriching their mineral resources, corruption, or the use of other American companies for various purposes, may even face sanctions. How else can you explain the fact that as a result of this half a billion investment, when a huge wealth has been created for the country, this company is hindered ...
However, I have to say that you have a dispute with the state and it says there is not that much volume. They question the volume of investment, they say that it`s much less than $ 500 million.
Yes sir. We are the only company in the whole of Georgia that has a state audit every year. And, by the way, according to this state audit, we have made so many investments. This is documented and ...
However, you and the state read this differently.
Here is the story of understanding again. As you mentioned at the beginning.
I don't know how to read the audit report differently, as well as the court decision.
Exactly
In short, are you ready to sit down at the negotiating table with the Ministry of Economy?
We are always ready. However, I do not believe this farce, to be honest. No matter what format they use, how they report it, and how they continue to misinform, even at this moment, it is hard to believe that they have any serious intentions at the moment.
Yes sir. Thank you so much for participating in the show. lets see. We are always ready to invite you and talk about these topics - how to develop a relationship with the Ministry of Economy and the government. Zaza Mamulaishvili, President of Frontera, was our guest.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhio3tzMsqM&app=desktop
Edits - Pt.5 should end with "15 Congressmen and Pt.6 ends with "last few years"
#10, Pt.7 Journalist - That is, it all started then. However, it was not widely publicized at the time.
Zaza - Not publicized. Because then they tried and kept it confidential. In 2018, the United States Legislation even recorded for the first time in the history of Georgia-US relations, I will try to quote, „hostility to American investment is growing, especially in the oil and gas sector, which opposes Georgia's energy independence and promotes Russia's interests“. That’s what I’m telling you about.
I understand that the Georgian government has only recently managed to create such an image for Frontera, since you work in such a field that you do not have a customer like any other company can have. They are virtually unfamiliar with your business and have recently started talking about it. It is good to speak about your problems in public. However, I would like to take the time to ask you how you can imagine continuing this situation. You often talk about context and you don't have to worry about putting something in context. In this context, let us ask you: We remember the statements of the US government regarding the Port of Anaklia - experts, various groups called on the Georgian authorities not to turn down the Anaklia Port project, but they did eventually. In your case, how do you see the sequel? This is also a very important political context for all this, the elections, Ivanishvili's prospects, etc. In this context, please tell us how you and the Georgian government are imagining the struggle and we must end our conversation.
It is no coincidence that a year ago, a bill was introduced in the United States called the Sanctions Act for Fair Business Practice in Georgia. When it comes to Anaklia, whether it's „Frontera“, „Iconia Capital“ or various companies who have a problem, all the American investment that is under this pressure and operates in an unfair environment, members of the current or former government who are violating these agreements, will be those objects that could potentially be sanctioned.
For example, what scale figures could these be? You know. Could he be, for example, Deputy Minister of Economy? Could it be a higher rank person or Bidzina Ivanishvili personally?
The legislation of the United States defines all this in such a way that it can be the former Prime Minister, the current Deputy Minister, and so on. This bill applies to members of current and former members of any position.
Those are persons who have caused problems for American companies.
Yes. Day by day this resolution became bipartisan. And the number of people joining this resolution is growing day by day.
#10, Pt.6
Journalist - And your company has followed this vector change in your perception, as I see it. Because here you are also pointing out that the preferred conditions for gas imports that were given to Gazprom and SOCAR. And the Georgian government was negotiating with the Iranian government over gas imports. Interestingly, here’s the spirit of this letter very much echoing the spirit of the report and the letter that you have now mentioned. Are you the first source of this information or, conversely, are the sources those letters and reports that exist in America? That’s what I wanted to clarify. In this letter, you also talk about Gakharia's speech at the Georgia-Iran Business Forum in Tbilisi in 2017, where he said that Iranian investments have increased by 657%. Because of this, the topic has already been opened that Gakharia is also referred to as the lobbist of Iranian business in Georgia, which is not good for him at all, not only in the eyes of Americans. That is why they often accuse the Frontera of lobbying for certain topics, leading it to the US Congress in such a way. Let's explain this mechanism. What is the source of your allegations? Your impression, your feeling, your information or American sources?
Zaza - Here is this last letter, a letter from Senators Cruz and Cornyn, where we were cited as one of the largest American investors in the country. And, for that very reason, we were quoted in this letter. Members of the Georgian government have begun to speak out against the fact that "Frontera" is behind this letter, as well as behind other letters.
But is there a dose of truth here? If you just give them this information and then they check, naturally, you won't believe it, will you?
First of all, as far as information is concerned, since 1997, when we started working and investing in Georgia, we have been constantly meeting with the United States government in Washington, and not just in Washington. Since this was one of the large-scale projects, it started in 1997 and continues to this day because the potential that we have found and what we have discovered is very large for the country. Therefore, our work has always been closely monitored, but for some reason everyone forgot that in 2016, in this context, as mentioned in this letter, for example, Mr. Ivanishvili's relations with Russia and their interest in Georgia, Congressman Steve Russell addressed the Congress in 2016 with exactly the same context. So that then neither the "Frontera"`s arbitration ...
Remind me if you can in detail what you mean by "same context"?
It was an absolutely identical context that Ivanishvili is in close contact with the Russian government and, in the interest of the Russian government, is trying to influence the institutions, strengthen his government and destabilize the country. This was happening 4 years ago, in 2016. In 2017, the Prime Minister, Kvirikashvili, had a lot of communication. Some letters were signed by 1