- a state in Southwest Asia in the Transcaucasian region. In the west it is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. In the north it borders with Russia, in the east - with Azerbaijan, in the south - with Azerbaijan, Armenia and Turkey. Georgia consists of two autonomous republics(Adzharia and Abkhazia) and the autonomous region of South Ossetia.

The national name is Sakart-velo (Kartvels - "Georgians").

Official name: Republic of Georgia (Sakartvelo).

Capital:

The area of ​​the land: 69.7 thousand sq. km

Total population: 4.4 million people

Administrative division: Georgia consists of 65 regions.

Form of government: Republic.

Head of State: President elected for a term of 5 years.

Composition of the population: 70.1% - Georgians, 8.1% - Armenians, 6.3% - Russians, 5.7% - Azerbaijanis, 3% - Ossetians, 1.8% - Abkhazians, Kurds, Adjarians, Greeks also live.

Official language: Georgian, but many speak Russian.

Religion: 65% are adherents of the Georgian Orthodox Church, 10% - the Russian Orthodox Church, 11% - Islam, 8% - the Armenian Orthodox Church.

Internet domain: .ge

Mains voltage: ~220 V, 50 Hz

Phone country code: +995

Country barcode: 486

Climate

Subtropical in the west, transitional from subtropical to temperate in the east. Throughout the country, the climatic situation is complicated by the influence of mountains, but since most of the ranges run from west to east, even in the most remote areas, the influence of warm Black Sea air masses is noticeable.

In the western regions affected by the Black Sea, summers are humid and warm, with average July temperatures of 22–24°C. Winters are mild, with average January temperatures of 4–7°C. maximum in Adjara (up to 3200 mm). Most of the precipitation falls in the spring.

The Likhi Range intercepts the moisture of air masses moving from west to east. In the eastern regions of Georgia, the climate is formed under the influence of continental air masses. On the plains, summers are longer and hotter, with average July temperatures of 23–25°C. Winters are cool, with an average January temperature of +1 to –2°C. summer.

On the slopes of the mountains of Georgia, the average July temperatures drop to 4–6 ° C, in the highlands, the average January temperatures can reach –10–16 ° C. The average annual precipitation ranges from 1600–2800 mm in the west to 1000–1800 mm in the east of the Greater Caucasus and up to 600–700 mm in the South Georgian Highlands. The weather in the mountains changes quickly. Sudden cold snaps are accompanied by heavy snowfalls, downpours, hail and foehns (strong, warm winds blowing from the mountains to the valleys), causing significant damage to the economy.

Geography

From the West Georgia is washed by the Black Sea. The coastline (308 km) is slightly indented, describes a smooth arc, the coast is devoid of significant bays and peninsulas. Georgia borders on Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, Russia.

The landscape of Georgia is diverse. The high-mountainous region of the Greater Caucasus is characterized by the presence of mountain-forest, black-meadow and non-vald belts, the presence of dark coniferous forests. The Colchis lowland - humid subtropics, the flat-hilly and forest-steppe region of Iberia determines the forest-steppe and steppe nature of the landscape.

In the Middle Mountain region of the Lesser Caucasus, in addition to mountain-forest and mountain-meadow belts, there are areas with dark coniferous forests with abundant moisture and less humid areas. Most high points in Georgia - mountains Shkhara (5068 m), Kazbek (5035 m), Ushba (4700 m). The longest rivers (km) are Alazani (90), Kura (351), Rioni (333); lakes (km²) - Paravani (37.5), Paliostromi (18.2), etc.

The soils are varied. Red soils are distributed mainly in Adzharia and Guria, yellow soils, chernozems, chestnut, brown and gray-brown soils are characteristic of the eastern part of the intermountain depression.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

The vegetation in Georgia is very diverse: there are more than 5,000 species of flowering plants alone. Depending on the climatic features and the absolute height of the area, several zones and vertical belts of vegetation (from steppe to alpine) are distinguished.

Forests are distributed mainly in the mountains and occupy about a third of the country's area. In the west of Georgia, they descend to the very sea, and in the east, their lower border is at altitudes from 600 to 800 m above sea level. The forests of Western Georgia are especially rich and diverse.

Their lower belt (up to 1000–1200 m) is dominated by broad-leaved species (oak, hornbeam, chestnut, maple, beech, etc.) with evergreen undergrowth of Pontic rhododendron, laurel cherry, boxwood, Colchis holly, Colchis needle, Caucasian blueberry. This type of forest, called Colchis, is characterized by an abundance of lianas - ivy, clematis, and obitnik; in places it becomes impassable.

In the swampy forests of the Colchis Lowland, alder predominates and there is almost no undergrowth. In some parts of the coast of Abkhazia, endemic species are found, for example, Pitsunda pine, a relic of the Tertiary Crimean-Caucasian flora. Over the past millennia, grapes and fruit crops have been cultivated in the valleys.

In Western Georgia, above the belt of Colchis forests and up to the upper forest line (1700–1800 m), mixed forests are common, which combine beech and spruce-fir, less often pine stands. At the upper border of the forest there are birch forests with an admixture of mountain ash and thickets of rhododendron.

The forests of Eastern Georgia are floristically less rich. In the upper belt of mountains (up to 2300–2400 m), spruce-fir forest stands are common, occurring west of the river. Ksani, and in the more eastern regions - only pine and pine-birch forests. Below, coniferous forests give way to beech, and then oak-hornbeam.

In the extreme east of the country there are small areas of dry steppes (fescue-feather grass and fescue-bearded with forbs) and xerophytic light forests with species such as carcass, pistachio, pomegranate, hold-tree. Wormwood semi-deserts with cochia and saltwort have an even more limited distribution. In the valleys of the Kura, Alazani, Iori and other rivers, floodplain tugai forests of aspen, willow, silver poplar, oak, dogwood.

Subalpine and alpine meadows in the west of Georgia rise to 2800–3000 m, in the east - up to 3600 m above sea level. The subalpine meadows of Western Georgia are characterized by lush tall grasses with a large proportion of Umbelliferae, Legumes and Labiaceae. Low grass alpine meadows are distributed in fragments, alternating with stone placers, rock outcrops and glaciers.

Animal world

The animal world of Georgia is diverse. It is represented by more than 100 species of mammals, 330 species of birds and 160 species of fish. Many representatives of the fauna are endemic or semi-endemic, for example, the Artvinian lizard and the Kuban tur (whose horns are used in Georgia as vessels for wine).

The fauna of the steppes of Eastern Georgia is very peculiar. Until recently, there was a goitered gazelle, which was preserved only in certain areas of the Shirak steppe. The striped hyena is found in the Gardabani steppe and the Alazani valley. Of the other predators, we note the fox, jackal, reed cat. Wolves are common in livestock areas. Rodents are typical for the steppes: jerboas, voles, hamsters. Among the birds are common sparrow, gray partridge, quail, steppe eagle. The abundance of lizards and turtles, as well as snakes (already ordinary and water, western boa constrictor, yellow-bellied snake) is characteristic. Gyurza is found in the Eldar and Shirak steppes.

The animal world of forests is the richest. In many areas, the Caucasian deer, roe deer, wild boar, hare, squirrel are common, and predators include brown bear, wolf, jackal, lynx, forest cat and fox. The badger causes great harm to agriculture.

The forests of Georgia are famous for the abundance and diversity of birds. Species such as chaffinch, black-headed tit, great tit, greenfinch, blackbird, etc. are common. Of the birds of prey listed in the Red Book of Georgia, there are (mainly in reserves) bearded vulture, golden eagle, griffon vulture, black vulture, etc. In In some areas of Colchis and Kakheti, you can still see a pheasant. Of the reptiles in the forests of Georgia, the most numerous are lizards, marsh turtles and snakes (snake, copperhead, Caucasian viper).

The alpine fauna is better preserved within the Main Caucasian Range. In its western part there is a Kuban tur, in the eastern part - a Dagestan one. Both species descend into the forest belt for the winter. The chamois is almost ubiquitous, and the bezoar goat is found in the east. Of the characteristic birds of the highlands, one can note the Caucasian black grouse, keklik, bearded vulture.

Banks and currency

Lari (GEL) is equal to 100 tetri. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 lari, gold coins in denominations of 500 and 1000 lari, as well as 5, 10, 20 and 50 tetri.

Banks are usually open on weekdays from 9.00-9.30 to 17.30-19.00.

US dollars are widely used, especially in the private sector. In Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Adzharia, rubles are accepted everywhere. Currency exchange can be done in banks and specialized exchange offices located almost everywhere. There is also a private currency exchange market, but using the services of private money changers involves some risk.

In Tbilisi, it is possible to use VISA, Eurocard/Mastercard and Cirrus/Maestro credit cards in large hotels and supermarkets. Major banks accept traveler's checks. In private shops, hotels and in provincial areas, their use is almost impossible.

Useful information for tourists

A large number of tourists are attracted mineral springs(Borjomi, Tskhaltub, Menji, Saimre), as well as seaside climatic (Gagra, Pitsunda, Kobuleti, etc.), mountain climatic (Bakuriani, Bakhmaro, etc.) resorts.

Shops are usually open from 9.00 to 19.00, a large number of shops and supermarkets serve customers around the clock. Fairs and bazaars are open seven days a week.

The export of items of historical and cultural value is prohibited.

About Georgia

Georgia is a unique country with ancient history and culture, friendly people who are famous all over the world for their hospitality. This is a country of majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities and original traditions.

AT Georgia each of us will find something of his own, because in this country, without overcoming long distances, you can see the whole planet - there are mountains, and forests, and valleys, and plains, and rivers, and the sea, and even deserts. This is a country of year-round recreation. In winter, the famous ski resorts of Gudauri and Bakuriani are waiting for us to rest, in summer - the magnificent beaches and resorts of Adjara, spring and autumn - the best time for sightseeing, health, gastronomic and wedding tours! Georgia attracts tourists from all over the world. This mysterious country captivates them with its mysteries, hospitable people, bright and rich cuisine, stunning nature and much more.

Geography. Georgia is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, in the central and western parts of Transcaucasia. In the west it is washed by the Black Sea and borders on Turkey, in the south it borders on Armenia, in the east - on Azerbaijan, and through the Caucasus Range from the north - on Russia. The capital and largest city of the country is Tbilisi.

The territory of Georgia occupies 69,700 sq. km, mostly mountainous, more than a third covered with dense forests. The highest point of the Caucasus Range is Mount Shkhara (5068 m). The Lesser Caucasus Range runs along the south of the country, here the highest points do not exceed 3000 meters.

The capital - Tbilisi - is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Georgia, with almost 1700 years of history and about 1.5 million inhabitants. Translated from the Georgian language, Tbilisi means - Warm.

The official language is Georgian.

State structure- unitary parliamentary-presidential republic.

Climate.H in the west of the country the climate is subtropical, in the east - transitional from subtropical to temperate. Summer is hot and long. The average temperature in August almost throughout the country is +23–26 °C.

Population. The population of the country is about 5 million. The overwhelming majority of the population of Georgia are Orthodox Christians (83.9%).

Visa.G citizens of Belarus and stateless persons permanently residing in the Republic of Belarus do not need a visa to visit Georgia, provided that the duration of the visit does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. Attention!!! If there are marks in the passport about visiting Abkhazia or South Ossetia entry into the territory of Georgia will be denied, up to and including arrest and deportation.

The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Georgia and must contain at least 2 blank pages for stamping.

Time. The time difference with Minsk is plus 1 hour.

Money. GEL (GEL). 1 lari = 100 tetri. There are also metal coins and paper banknotes. You can exchange money at bank branches or exchange offices. No commission is charged for currency exchange at Georgian exchange offices. You can pay with a credit card in hotels, large restaurants and shops. In case of unexpected expenses throughout the country, you can receive money through the Western Union system.

Transport. Distributed on the territory of Georgia different kinds public transport: buses, minibuses, taxis, there is a metro in Tbilisi. The country has a well-developed network railways. There are 3 international airports in Batumi, Kutaisi and Tbilisi.

Connection.The dialing code for Georgia is +995.

The shops. Shops are usually open from 9-10 am to 6-7 pm, many modern shops in Tbilisi follow the 12-hour opening hours: from 9 to 21 or 10 to 22, and supermarkets are often open around the clock. Markets and fairs open from 5-6 am and close shortly after noon.

TAX FREE. With the help of the TAX FREE system, foreign citizens are given the opportunity to return the value added tax after leaving Georgia. The goods must be purchased in a store that is entitled to issue a special check for VAT refunds and the delivery of the goods must be subject to VAT. The purchase price must exceed 200 Georgian lari in one check. The export of goods must take place no later than three months after arrival. The goods must be packed in a special sealed plastic bag in which the seller places the goods, the integrity of the seal must be preserved. It is obligatory to have a special check for VAT refund. The goods reflected in the special check for VAT refund must be fully exported from the territory of Georgia.

Story. Georgia is a place of intersection of two greatest cultures - the culture of the West and the culture of the East. Many centuries ago, the primary roads of the Great Silk Road passed here. The first mention of the creation of the Georgian state dates back to the distant 10th century. In these ancient times, several Georgian principalities united into one single state, which, however, did not last very long - only three centuries. The “golden age” of Georgia fell on the period between the beginning of the 11th and beginning of XIII centuries. The peak of prosperity is considered to be the reign of Queen Tamara, nicknamed the Great (1184-1210). In the XVIII century. Georgian principalities were able to unite again, later most of them became part of Russian Empire. Georgia has always been and remains today a multinational, hospitable country.

Attractions. For thousands of years, Georgia has been accumulating its cultural baggage, from time immemorial to the present day, and thanks to traditions and love for its homeland, it has been carefully preserved for posterity. Cyclopean fortresses, ancient cities and temples, breathtaking landscapes that open up for viewing from observation platforms and mountain serpentines, karst caves, dinosaur footprints near Kutaisi, the oldest wine cellars in the world, stylish modern architecture along with twisted Tbilisi balconies - all this will not leave you indifferent not a single tourist.

There are about 150 museums and 12,000 historical monuments in Georgia, of which 3 are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List: Mtskheta - a city-museum, the ancient capital of Georgia; the Gelati architectural complex, which includes a medieval academy, a central temple with unique mosaic frescoes and the tombs of Georgian kings; upper Svaneti with its historical towers.

Kitchen. Georgian cuisine occupies a well-deserved place on the culinary Olympus. Food for Georgians is one of the most important parts of Georgian culture. The basis of the cuisine, contrary to popular belief, is not meat, but a variety of dairy and herbal products, as well as cereals, from which, basically, everyday meals are prepared. Of the meat dishes, the most characteristic are “mtsvadi” shish kebab, peculiar “khinkali” dumplings made from lamb richly seasoned with herbs and spices, “Lori” ham, fried or smoked sausages “kupaty”, lamb “buglama” stewed with spices, boiled meat with spices " khashlama, a hot dish of kuchmachi liver, loin on a spit, chanakhi, various types of pilaf, fried beef fillet basturma, kaurma, offal broth with garlic khashi, kharcho soup, cold soup offal “muzhuzhi” (more like aspic), “bozbashi” with lamb, etc. Everywhere on the table are poultry dishes - the famous “satsivi” of all kinds, poultry broth seasoned with flour, vinegar-egg mixture and onions - “chikhirtma”, the famous “chakhokhbili” and “tabaka” chickens, chicken soup with nuts, scrambled eggs with nuts, chicken stuffed with rice, as well as a variety of fish - with “tsotskhali” sauce, trout with nuts, fish kebab, etc. Well and, of course, greens. This is the basis of the kitchen and its main asset. Without greens and a variety of vegetables, a Georgian table is simply unthinkable.

Georgian cheese deserves special compliments. Cheeses are made in many varieties - "suluguni" from Western Georgia, young cheese with mint "gadazelili" from Imereti, mutton cheese "guda" from Teuleti, tush and kobi cheeses from Javakheti, fried suluguni or cheese soup - all this is just a tiny part of the application. cheese in this country. Greens and cheese are used as an ingredient in almost every Georgian dish!

The national pride of Georgians is, of course, wine! It was in Georgia that the culture of growing grapes and winemaking arose. Even in the VI millennium BC, people who lived in these places produced wine. Georgian wines are something special! These wines are not like the wines of other countries. Unlike France or Italy, in Georgia, wines are aged not in glass bottles, but in special jugs - “qvevri”. Largely due to this, Georgian wines have such a unique, original taste! Here are just some brands of Georgian wines - Kindzmarauli, Manavi, Mukuzani, Napareuli, Alazani Valley, Akhasheni, Khvanchkara, Tsolikouri, Chkhaveri, Argveta, Kardanakhi ”, “Hirsa”, “Psou”, “Samo”, “Yeniseli”, etc.

Rest in Georgia. Thanks to state program development of tourism on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, the ultramodern resort city of Batumi has grown. Once famous for its cargo port, today Batumi has become a mecca for seaside holidays. Modern hotels, entertainment complexes, a huge number of bars, restaurants and beach bungalows are located on the streets of the city and on the seaside boulevard right by the sea, nightclubs and casinos are within walking distance, regardless of where you stay. In addition to Batumi, smaller resorts are also very popular among vacationers - Kobuleti, Ureki, Anaklia, Kvariati, etc. A huge plus of most Georgian resorts is the unison of beauty (the beaches are washed by the sea on one side, framed by mountains on the other) and balneological health opportunities.

Balneological and health resorts of Georgia: Borjomi, Tskaltubo, Sairme, Abastumani. Georgia has long been known for its medical resorts due to the presence of unique mineral waters and a combination of mountain and sea air. There are 22 main sources of mineral waters on the territory of the republic, the most famous of which are Zvare, Sairme, Nabeglavi, Borjomi and others. Georgia supplies its healing mineral water to more than 25 countries of the world.

The oldest health resorts of the times of the Russian Empire and the Soviet period are now experiencing a rebirth. In Borjomi, new sanatoriums and boarding houses are being revived and built, the medical buildings of the famous Tskaltubo again began to conduct health procedures using radon waters, in Abastumani and Bakuriani they continue to be treated with the unique healing properties of the local mountain air.

One of the most popular species vacation in Georgia is, undoubtedly, a vacation in the mountains. The cleanest mountain air and incredible landscapes, rafting on mountain rivers, mountaineering, trekking and hiking, mountain biking from year to year attract outdoor enthusiasts to the Caucasus Mountains. Many marked routes make active tourism in Georgia attractive for everyone.

Winter holidays in Georgia, of course, are primarily associated with skiing and snowboarding. Given that about 70% of the territory is occupied by the mountain systems of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Ranges, the ski resorts of Georgia are among the most popular winter resorts in the CIS. The most famous ski resort in Georgia can be called the village Gudauri located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Range. Many kilometers of slopes, endless opportunities for freeride and off-piste skiing, modern cable cars and cozy chalets attract thousands of skiers and snowboarders every year.

Tours to Georgia are relevant at any time of the year! A flight to Georgia is offered from Minsk or Moscow. There are direct flights from Minsk to Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi.

Souvenirs. From Georgia, you can bring a lot of unique souvenirs and gifts for friends. Of the main: wine; chacha - Georgian grape vodka; Georgian sweets - churchkhela, dried persimmon, marshmallow, baklava, gozinaki, a head of real Georgian suluguni cheese; seasonings or in Georgian - hops-suneli; kubdari, lobiani and khachapuri; horn for wine; dagger, saber, gun; highlander costume, national costume; handmade jewelry with Georgian cloisonne enamel; magnets, key rings, postcards, the flag of Georgia, decorative plates, cups and T-shirts with various national drawings etc. Georgian scarves are often brought from Georgia. Tourists love to buy daggers. But in this case, a document confirming the purchase is required, which is taken immediately in the store.

Welcome to hospitable Georgia!

Georgia - the most detailed information about the country with a photo. Sights, cities of Georgia, climate, geography, population and culture.

Georgia (საქართველო)

Georgia is a state in the southwestern part of the Caucasus. This is a small country in Transcaucasia on the eastern coast of the Black Sea, which is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Georgia borders on Russia in the north and east, Turkey and Armenia in the south, Azerbaijan in the southeast. Geographically, the country belongs to Western Asia and the Middle East, although at present the state is considered as part of Eastern Europe. Georgia is a parliamentary republic. More than 80% of the population professes Orthodoxy.

Despite its small size, Georgia is a country of contrasts and amazing diversity. Here you can see stunning mountain landscapes, visit wonderful ancient cities, monasteries and churches, relax in the resorts of the Black Sea. AT Greek mythology the Golden Fleece was kept on the territory of Georgia, and archaeological finds indicate that it is the oldest wine-growing region (samples of wine dating back to the sixth millennium BC were found). Georgia is an amazingly picturesque country with hospitable people, delicious cuisine, rich history and culture.

Useful information about Georgia

1. The official language is Georgian.
2. Currency - Georgian lari.
3. Visa is not required for up to 360 days.
4. The population is over 3.7 million people.
5. Area - 69,700 sq. km.
6. The capital is Tbilisi.
7. Time zone - UTC +4.
8. There are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Georgia.
9. Georgia is one of the safest countries in the world.

Geography and climate

Georgia is located in Transcaucasia and is washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The northern part of the country is the mountains of the Greater Caucasus. The south of the country is occupied by the lower ranges of the Lesser Caucasus. The highest peaks of Georgia are Shkhara (5068 m) and Kazbek (5033 m) mountains. Closer to the coast, the relief becomes calmer and the Colchis lowland is formed. The Black Sea coast in Georgia has a length of just over 100 km. The largest rivers of Georgia: Kura, Rioni, Inguri.

Due to its position (at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, subtropical, temperate and arid climate types) and altitudinal zoning, Georgia has extremely diverse landscapes (mountain glaciers, alpine meadows, forests and subtropics), nature, flora and fauna. The climate is transitional, from temperate to subtropical.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit Georgia is May-June and September. At this time, the weather is usually excellent, there are not many tourists, and hotel prices are reasonable. In Tbilisi and some other cities, July and August can be quite hot. It is better to go to the Black Sea resorts from July to October.

Story

The first state on the territory of modern Georgia arose in the middle of the first millennium BC. It was the Kingdom of Colchis, which was located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea. Georgian historians believe that Colchis was a fairly developed state. The policies were founded by the local population, and the Greeks founded trading posts.

In the 4th century BC e. The Kingdom of Kartli was founded, and around 300 BC. e. - the state of Iberia with its capital in Mtskheta. In the 1st century BC, Colchis was conquered by the Romans. In the 2nd century AD, Iveria (Kartli) became independent. Christianity became the state religion in the 4th century. In the 4th-5th centuries, Iberia was dependent on Persia. During the reign of Vakhtang I Gorgasala, Iveria gained independence. Vakhtang also founded Tbilisi, where the capital of the kingdom was moved in the 6th century.

In the 7th century, the territory of Georgia was subjugated by the Arabs, who ruled it until the 9th century. The first mention of the state of Georgia (Kartli) dates back to the 10th century. After the expulsion of the Arabs, feudal states were formed: the Abkhazian kingdom, Kartli, Kakheti, Hereti. Georgia was united under Bagrat III of the Bagratid dynasty. 11-12 centuries - the period of the real heyday of the Georgian state. Georgia reached power under David IV the Builder and Queen Tamara and was one of the strongest powers in the region. In the 12th century, Georgia established strong relations with Russia.

In the 13th century, the country was conquered by the Mongols, who were expelled only a century later. In 1386-1403, Georgia experienced several invasions by Timur. In the 15th century, the Georgian kingdom fell into decay and broke up into several states. The country was later divided between Turkey and Iran. In the 18th century, under Heraclius II, the Turks were expelled, and Georgia accepted the protectorate of the Russian Empire.

In 1800 Georgia became part of Russia. Accession to the Russian Empire saved the Georgian people from genocide and assimilation by the Turks and Persians. After October revolution Georgia declared its independence, but already in 1921 it became part of the USSR. In 1991 (after the collapse of the Soviet Union) the country became an independent state.

Administrative division

In administrative terms, Georgia is divided into 9 territories, two autonomous republics and one city of state significance.

• Abkhazian Autonomous Republic - Sukhumi
• Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti - Zugdidi
• Guria - Ozurgeti
• Adjara Autonomous Republic - Batumi
• Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti - Ambrolauri
• Imereti - Kutaisi
• Samtskhe-Javakheti - Akhaltsikhe
• Shida Kartli - Gori
• Mtskheta-Mtianeti - Mtskheta
• Kvemo Kartli - Rustavi
• Kakheti - Telavi
• Tbilisi

• Kartli is the heart of Georgia, the center of Georgian culture. Ancient cities are located here: Tbilisi, Mtskheta and Gori.
• Rioni is the center of Western Georgia and the territory of ancient Colchis.
• Kakheti is a fertile region with a dry climate, with picturesque valleys, vineyards and beautiful churches.
• Southwestern Georgia - subtropics and resorts of the Black Sea.
• Northwestern Georgia - the ridges of the Greater Caucasus.
• Samtskhe-Javakheti - an area with a lot of Armenian ethnic population and interesting sights.

Population

Over 80% of the population are ethnic Georgians. Enough large diasporas - Armenians and Azerbaijanis. Georgians profess Orthodoxy. They are hospitable, loving and temperamental people. Georgians respect elders, honor traditions, love songs and feasts.

Basic rules of conduct:

• Respect the traditions and history of Georgia.
• Avoid political debates and relations with Russia.
• Avoid parallels with neighboring Islamic cultures.
• Georgians are not that religious, but Orthodoxy is quite conservative here.

Transport

Airports are located in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi. The largest airport in the country is, of course, in the capital. Georgia has regular flights from most major cities Europe, Asia and Russia, including: Moscow, Kyiv, London, Amsterdam, Prague, Istanbul, Riga, Minsk, Vilnius, Warsaw.

Bus service connects Georgia with the cities of Turkey, Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Trains run regularly on the Baku-Tbilisi route.

Cities of Georgia

Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, home to a third of the population. This is ancient city contrasts with charming architecture and several famous ancient sites.

The second largest city and resort capital of Georgia. It is an interesting mix of classic and modern buildings, as well as subtropical vegetation.

Borjomi is a picturesque small town where the famous mineral water is produced.

Kutaisi is the ancient capital of Colchis and the third largest city in Georgia.

The ancient capital of Eastern Georgia and the center of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Telavi is the capital of Kakheti, located near vineyards, ancient churches and monasteries.

Burn - hometown Stalin, near which there is an ancient rocky city.

Attractions

On the territory of Georgia there are three sites that are included in the UNESCO list.

Ancient monuments of Mtskheta:

• Jvari is an ancient monastery of the 6th century, located at the confluence of the Kura. The first UNESCO monument in Georgia.
• Svetitskhoveli is a 12th-century cathedral and the main religious building in Georgia.
• Samtavro is another ancient monastery at the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi.

Gelati Monastery and Bagrat Temple in Kutaisi. Gelati Monastery is a medieval monastery founded by David the Builder. Bagrat Temple - a medieval temple that played important role in the history of Georgia. David IV was crowned here.

Upper Svaneti

Upper Svaneti is a picturesque valley on the Inguri River. It is famous for its medieval buildings: residential towers and ancient stone churches.

Other attractions

Kazbek is one of the largest peaks in Georgia and the Caucasus. It is an extinct volcano and has a height of 5033 meters.

Bakuriani is one of the main ski resorts in Georgia, located on the slopes of the Trialeti Range.

Shatili is a picturesque village on the slopes of the Main Caucasian Range on the border with Russia. It is a unique complex of medieval and early modern fortresses and fortified stone houses.

Uplistsikhe is an ancient cave city founded in the first millennium BC. It was located on the ancient Silk Road. It is located 12 km from the city of Gori. This is one of the oldest settlements in Georgia, which was abandoned in the 19th century.

Vardzia - cave monastery of the 12th century. This is one of the most striking sights of Georgia, located in the south of the country on a rock off the coast of the Kura.

David Gareja is an ancient cave monastery of the 6th century with beautiful frescoes. Located 60 km from Tbilisi right on the border of Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Accommodation

The tourist popularity of Georgia is steadily growing, which contributes to the growth in the number of hotels and tourism infrastructure. Despite the fact that in Tbilisi and Kutaisi hotel prices are often a little overpriced, and service can often be far from high European standards, Georgia is a place where you can find an inexpensive hotel or apartment, as well as feel the cordiality and hospitality of their owners.

Kitchen

Georgian cuisine is delicious, soulful and versatile. It includes a large amount of meat, spices, various sauces. You can eat very inexpensively in Georgia. Popular traditional dishes: khachapuri, khinkali, mtsvadi (barbecue), pkhali, chakapuli, churchkhela, chashushuli.

Of the traditional products, chacha, Georgian wine (Saperavi, Kindzmarauli, Khvanchkara, Tsinandali, Rkatsiteli), Suluguni cheese, mineral water (Borjomi), fruits are popular.

RUSSIAN - GEORGIAN RELATIONS

After the failure of the Georgian aggression against South Ossetia in August 2008 and the recognition by Russia of the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia and the Republic of Abkhazia, Tbilisi severed diplomatic relations with us in September 2008 (since March 2009, sections of the interests of the two countries at the embassies have been working in Tbilisi and Moscow Switzerland). Georgia initiated cases against Russia in the European Court of Human Rights, in the International Criminal Court (in The Hague), the country takes an unfriendly position towards Russia in international organizations. The concept of national security of Georgia notes that Russia is a threat to the existence of "independent democratic Georgia." Tbilisi supports EU anti-Russian sanctions on Crimea. The resumption of diplomatic relations by Tbilisi is determined by the deliberately unacceptable demand that Russia withdraw its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Formed following the results of the October 2012 parliamentary elections, the government of the Georgian Dream alliance, headed by billionaire Prime Minister B. Ivanishvili, announced its intention for a dosed normalization of bilateral relations. His successors in this post, including ex-head of government G. Kvirikashvili, continued this line.

In December 2012, a dialogue channel was opened with Georgia in the format of informal meetings between the Secretary of State - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia G.B. Karasin and the Special Representative of the Prime Minister of Georgia Z. Abashidze. It discusses ways to normalize bilateral relations in certain areas (trade, transport, humanitarian ties). The problem of "territorial integrity" is taken out of the equation.

On March 29, 2018, “out of solidarity with the UK”, the Georgian Foreign Ministry declared an employee of the Russian Interests Section in Tbilisi an “unacceptable person”, demanding that she leave the country within a week.
On April 13, as a retaliatory step, the Georgian side was given a note from the Russian Foreign Ministry on the expulsion of an employee of the Georgian Interests Section in Moscow.

At the same time, a number of concrete positive results have been achieved in the past period.

Trade. After Russia lifted restrictions on the import of Georgian alcoholic and agricultural products, mutual trade increased markedly in 2013-2014. reached $786 million. However, against the background of the global economic crisis, bilateral trade in 2015, according to the Federal Customs Service of Russia, decreased to 697 million US dollars. In 2016, the trade turnover increased by 17% and reached 793 million US dollars. In 2017, the volume of mutual trade increased by about 37% and amounted to 1.084 billion US dollars. In January-June 2018, the trade turnover between Russia and Georgia reached 700 million US dollars (an increase of 46% compared to the same period in 2017).

Russia is the second (after Turkey) foreign trade partner of Georgia and the first importer of Georgian products in terms of volume. The main import items from Georgia are ferroalloys, wine, other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The most important Russian exports to Georgia are oil products, wheat, sunflower oil, cell phones, and coal.

Russia continues to lead in terms of remittances to Georgia. In January-March 2018, 102.4 million US dollars were transferred from Russia to Georgia, i.e. 7.7% more than in the same period last year. In 2017, 455 million US dollars were received from Russia (15% more than in 2016). This is about a third of the total volume of foreign transfers to Georgia (1.4 billion US dollars). At the end of 2016, the amount of money transfers from Russia to Georgia amounted to USD 395 million (34% of the total).

Russia remains the main consumer of Georgian wine. In January-July 2018, 28.6 million bottles were imported. This is 20% more than in the same period last year. In 2017, 36 million liters of wine were supplied from Georgia to Russia (2/3 of the total volume), in 2016 - 20.2 million liters, in 2015 - 14.7 million liters, in 2014 - 31.3 million liters, in 2013 - 15 million liters.

Transport. At the end of 2013, regular bus service was resumed between Russia and Georgia, and since October 2014, air communication. There is also sea communication. Freight traffic volumes and passenger traffic are growing from year to year.

The only ground checkpoint on the Russian-Georgian border, Upper Lars, has been switched to round-the-clock operation, but due to weather conditions it does not work rhythmically.

Humanitarian sphere. Cultural, sports, scientific, religious and business contacts have intensified. In October 2017, the Georgian delegation took part in the XIX World Festival of Youth and Students (Sochi). In May 2018, after a ten-year break, the Russian Orthodox Church sent its priest to serve in Georgia.

In 2017/2018 academic year in Russian educational institutions 1020 citizens of Georgia were trained, 243 of them. within the quota established by the Government of the Russian Federation.

There are contacts between the parliamentarians of the two countries: at the sessions of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Tbilisi (July 2016) and Vienna (February 2017), as well as during the visit to Moscow of representatives of the Georgian Alliance of Patriots party (July and October 2017). .). An agreement was reached on the creation of an informal inter-parliamentary friendship group.

Since December 2015, the visa regime for trips of Georgian citizens to Russia has been significantly liberalized. As a result, the number of visas issued by the Russian Interests Section almost doubled in 2016 to almost 40,000 visas (versus 23,054 visas in 2015). In 2017, almost 50,000 visas were issued.

In 2017, more than 1.4 million Russian tourists visited Georgia (an increase of 34%), in 2016 - 1 million 40 thousand people. (increase 12%).

According to the Decree of the Government of Georgia No. 255 dated June 5, 2015, citizens of Russia, along with citizens of dozens of other countries, can enter this country without a visa and stay on its territory for one year. At the same time, the “law on occupied territories” of October 23, 2008 continues to operate in Georgia, establishing administrative and criminal (up to 2.5 years in prison) liability for foreigners for entering Abkhazia and South Ossetia “without the permission of the Georgian authorities” .

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GEORGIA

1. General information about the country

The official name of the country- Georgia (until 1995 - the Republic of Georgia).

Geographical position. It occupies the central and western part of Transcaucasia. It borders on Abkhazia in the northwest, Russia and South Ossetia in the north, Azerbaijan in the east and southeast, and Armenia and Turkey in the south. In the west it is washed by the Black Sea.

Territory- 57.2 thousand sq. km.

Capital- Tbilisi (1.11 million inhabitants).

The largest cities are: Kutaisi (186 thousand), Batumi (122 thousand), Rustavi (116 thousand), Poti (47 thousand).

Administratively, it is divided into 66 districts, which make up 9 territories and the autonomous republic - Adjara.

Citizens of more than 120 nationalities live in Georgia, including: Georgians (86.8%), Azerbaijanis (6.3%), Armenians (4.5%), Russians (0.7%). The rest (Jews, Kurds, Greeks, Kists, Poles, Ukrainians, etc.) account for 1.7%.

The majority of believers are Orthodox Christians (84.9%). There are also Muslims (10.9%), adherents of the Armenian Apostolic Church (3.0%), Catholics (0.5%) and representatives of other faiths (0.7%).

Official language- Georgian.

State device. The basic law of the country is the Constitution. For the period from 1995 to 2017. Dozens of amendments have been adopted, the latest - in October 2017. They changed the procedure for electing the president, his powers and the system for electing parliament (from mixed to proportional).

In accordance with the Constitution (adopted on August 24, 1995), the political structure of the Georgian state is a democratic republic.

Head of State - The president elected for a five-year term by universal, direct and secret suffrage. In October 2018, the last elections of the President of Georgia will be held under the "old" scheme. In accordance with the amendments to the Constitution adopted in October 2017, the next head of state for a four-year term will be chosen by a college of 300 electors.

The position of the Secretary of the National Security Council of Georgia is held by David Rakviashvili(appointed in October 2016).

The supreme legislative body Parliament, consisting of 150 deputies (77 elected by proportional system, 73 - by majoritarian system, in 2024 elections will be held only by proportional system). According to the results of the popular vote held in October 2016, the Georgian Dream coalition (GM) received a constitutional majority - 115 seats. The European Georgia coalition (in January 2017 it withdrew from the United National Movement - UNM) is also represented in the parliament - 21 seats, the UNM - 6 seats, the Alliance of Patriots of Georgia - 6 seats, "Industry will save Georgia" - 1st place, independent - 2nd place.

Chairman of the Parliament - Irakli Kobakhidze.

The supreme body of executive power, which conducts internal and foreign policy country, is the Government (June 20, 2018 appointed as the new Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze). The government is accountable only to Parliament.

In January 2014, in parallel with the National Security Council, the Security and Crisis Management Council was established under the Prime Minister of Georgia. Council Secretary - Mindia Janelidze.

Main political parties:

The coalition "Georgian Dream", which united to participate in the parliamentary elections in 2012: "Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia"; "Republican Party of Georgia"; "Conservative Party of Georgia"; "National Forum"; "Industry will save Georgia" and "Free Democrats" (withdrew from the coalition in November 2014).

"European Georgia - movement for freedom";

Coalition "United National Movement" as part of the parties "United National Movement" and "Christian Conservative Party of Georgia";

"Alliance of Patriots of Georgia" (David Tarkhan-Mouravi);

"Democratic Movement - United Georgia" (Nino Burjanadze);

"Christian Democratic Party", "Labor Party of Georgia" and others.

Constitutionalcourt is a judicial body of constitutional control and exercises judicial power in the manner of constitutional proceedings.

Supreme Court supervises legal proceedings in courts of general jurisdiction, considers some cases as a court of first instance.

System local government functions on the basis of the laws “On Local Self-Government” of 1997 and “On Elections to Local Representative Bodies” of 1998. Consists of local self-government bodies (sakrebulo) that have the right to control local executive power (gamgeoba). The last local government elections were held in October 2017.

National holiday– Day of Restoration of State Independence of Georgia (May 26, 1991).

Currency unit– lari (introduced in 1995). The exchange rate of the lari ranges from 2.5 to 3 per 1 US dollar.

2. Historical background

The first state associations of Georgia arose at the end of the 2nd and the beginning of the 1st millennium BC. in the southwestern regions (Diaohi and Kolkha). From the 6th century BC on the territory of Western Georgia, a Western Georgian state is formed - the Kingdom of Colchis. In the 3rd-4th centuries Christianity spread in Georgia and became the state religion. The Georgian state of that era reached its peak by the end of the 12th century. During the reign of George III (1156-1184) and Tamara (1184-1213), the influence of Georgia extended to North Caucasus and Eastern Transcaucasia, Iranian Azerbaijan, Armenia and the Southwestern Black Sea region. Georgia was one of the strongest states in the region. Since the 12th century, ties have been established and strengthened between Georgia and Kievan Rus.

In the second quarter of the 13th century, Georgia was conquered by the Mongol-Tatars. At the end of the 15th century, as a result of civil strife, Georgia broke up into a number of kingdoms: Kartli, Kakheti, Imereti and others. In the 16-18 centuries, Georgia became the arena of the struggle between Iran and Turkey for dominance in the Transcaucasus.

Georgia's relations with Russia, interrupted during the Mongol-Tatar invasion, resumed from the 15th century, and in the 16th-18th centuries they acquired a regular character. Georgian rulers repeatedly appealed to the Russian government with a request to provide military assistance to Georgia; the question of joint actions against Iran and Turkey was also raised. The strengthening of Russian-Georgian relations in the second half of the 18th century led to the conclusion in 1783 in Georgievsk of a friendly treaty-tract (Treaty of Georgievsk) between Russia and the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti, which established a Russian protectorate over Eastern Georgia. In the face of the threat of complete enslavement of Eastern Georgia by Iran, in 1801 it was annexed to Russia. In the 19th century, Western Georgia also gradually became part of the Russian Empire (1803-1864).

After the annexation of Georgia to Russia, the cultural and political ties between the Georgian and Russian peoples were strengthened. Many Georgians served in Russian army. One of the most famous is the hero of the Patriotic War of 1812, General P.I.Bagration.

After the October Revolution of 1917, at the end of February 1918, the Transcaucasian Seim decided to separate Transcaucasia from Russia, and on May 14, 1918, the Georgian National Council decided to ask Germany for protection. On May 26, 1918, the independence of Georgia was proclaimed. In accordance with the Georgian-German agreements, Germany received a monopoly on the exploitation of the country's resources. On June 10, 1918, German troops entered Tiflis.

On June 4, 1918, Georgia signed an agreement with Turkey, according to which, apart from the Kars, Ardagan and Batumi regions, the Akhalkalaki district and part of the Akhaltsikhe district departed from Turkey. After the revolution in Germany in October 1918, its troops were withdrawn from Transcaucasia. However, on December 23, 1918, the British landed in Batumi, and on December 25 they occupied Tiflis.

The withdrawal of foreign troops from the territory of Georgia was carried out in 1920.

On February 25, 1921, Soviet power was established in Georgia. After the establishment of Soviet power in Abkhazia on March 4, 1921, the Abkhaz SSR was formed. In December 1921, the Abkhaz SSR, on the basis of a special union treaty joined the Georgian SSR. In April 1922, the South Ossetian Autonomous Okrug was formed.

In 1922, Georgia, along with other Transcaucasian republics as part of the Transcaucasian Federation (TSFSR), joined the USSR, and after the abolition of the TSFSR in 1936, it became part of the USSR as a union republic.

In the first years of Soviet power, the construction of 20 large industrial enterprises began. In 1926 National economy Georgia has reached the pre-war level. By the end of the 1930s, industrial enterprises, built and completely reconstructed during the years of Soviet power, produced more than 80% of all industrial output. There has been a significant rise in agriculture.

During the Great Patriotic War, the peoples of Georgia, together with all the peoples of the USSR, came to the defense of the country. About 700 thousand people from Georgia participated in the war. During the war, several Georgian divisions were formed, which participated in the battle for the Caucasus, in the fighting in the Crimea and on other fronts. For military exploits, 137 immigrants from Georgia were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, over 240 thousand were awarded orders and medals of the USSR.

By the 80s of the last century in Georgia, along with the development of a planned economy, the "shadow economy" had reached unprecedented proportions.

The Georgian-Abkhazian and Georgian-Ossetian conflicts that flared up were stopped with the mediation of Russia.

On June 24, 1992, the Presidents of Russia and Georgia in Sochi signed an agreement on the principles for settling the Georgian-Ossetian conflict. On May 14, 1994, a basic agreement on a ceasefire and disengagement of forces in the zone of the Georgian-Abkhazian conflict was signed in Moscow. The cessation of bloodshed created the prerequisites for a peaceful settlement of conflicts.

On August 8, 2008, Georgia attacked South Ossetia, killing civilians and Russian peacekeepers. Russia urgently and effectively carried out an operation to protect civilians and peacekeepers in the conflict zone.

On August 26, 2008, the Russian Federation recognized the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia and the Republic of Abkhazia.

3. Socio-economic situation and foreign trade

In 2017, Georgia's GDP grew by 5% compared to 2016 and amounted to USD 15 billion. The volume of foreign direct investment increased to 1.9 billion US dollars (an increase of 16.2% compared to 2016). Main investors: Azerbaijan, Turkey, Great Britain, main areas of investment: transport, communications, construction, energy. The country's public debt reached 42% of GDP. Together with the obligations of the national banking sector, this figure is 57%. The budget deficit rose to 4.1% of GDP. kept in the country high level unemployment - 11.8% (actually - about 30%), more than 20% of the population found themselves below the poverty line. The inflation rate by the end of 2017 was 6.7%. The average salary is about $100.

The main factor in the development of the Georgian economy is receipts from abroad in the form of loans, investments, grants, remittances, growth in exports and tourism.

Among the most important industries are: food - production of tea, wines and cognacs, mineral waters, tobacco, essential oil crops, canned fruits and vegetables; light - silk, wool, cotton, knitwear, clothing and shoe production; ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. Most industrial enterprises are idle or partially loaded.

Suitable for Agriculture the area covers about 16% of the country's territory. Tea and citrus plantations and vineyards are of the greatest economic importance. However, the area of ​​land suitable for efficient agricultural turnover is decreasing due to the decline in cultivation, chronic lack of fertilizers, etc. There is a difficult situation in providing the country with grain. Agrarians can give no more than a third of the volume of consumed bread, which necessitates grain imports.

Transport network: railways (about 1400 km); automobile (about 22 thousand km); seaports: Batumi, Poti; airports: Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Senaki, Batumi. Since the beginning of the 90s, due to the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict railway line linking Georgia with Russia along the Black Sea coast is not functioning.

Georgia has natural resources: manganese, non-ferrous metal ores, coal, bentonite clay, marble, quartz sand and other minerals. There are valuable forest species: boxwood, walnut. Recreational resources are unique - mountain and sea resorts, numerous sources of mineral waters.

In 2017, the volume of Georgia's foreign trade turnover increased by 13.8% compared to the previous year and amounted to USD 10.7 billion. At the same time, exports increased by 29.1% and amounted to 2.7 billion US dollars, while imports increased by 9.4% to 8 billion US dollars. The negative trade balance amounted to $5.3 billion.

Georgia's foreign trade turnover with the EU countries in 2017 increased by 2% and amounted to USD 2.8 billion. Georgia's largest trading partners in 2017 were Turkey, Russia and China.

Main export items: cars (re-export), ferroalloys, hazelnuts (hazelnuts), copper ore and concentrates, nitrogen-containing fertilizers, wine, ethyl alcohol and spirits, gold.

The main import nomenclature: oil and oil products, cars, hydrocarbons, medicines, wheat, telephones for cellular and other wireless networks, copper ore and concentrates, cigarettes, computers and blocks for them, trucks.

Russia, which was Georgia's sixth largest partner in 2012, moved to fourth place in 2013 after Moscow opened its markets to Georgian products, and to second place in 2017.

4. Domestic politics

The domestic political situation is characterized by political and social tension. The consequences of the failure of Tbilisi's aggression against South Ossetia in August 2008 are painfully perceived in society.

After the repeated victory in the parliamentary elections in October 2016 by the Georgian Dream coalition, which received a constitutional majority in parliament, the confrontation with the United National Movement party that ruled until 2012, created by former President M. Saakashvili and having some support in society, continues. The success of Georgian Dream in the October 2017 local government elections cemented the dominance of the ruling party.

5. Foreign policy

Georgia's foreign policy priorities are based on the thesis of its "European vocation". The tasks of maximum rapprochement with the EU and speedy integration into NATO are put forward.

Georgia is a member of the UN, OSCE, UNESCO, Council of Europe, Black Sea Economic Cooperation, IMF, IBRD, WTO. Since September 2006, Georgia has been cooperating with NATO in the "intensive dialogue" mode. However, the decision on the transition to the MAP stage - "action plan for membership" has not yet been made by the alliance.

Georgia has been a member of the CIS since April 19, 1994. In August 2008, the Georgian parliament decided to withdraw from the Commonwealth. In accordance with the provisions of the CIS Charter, Georgia's membership in the organization ceased on August 18, 2009. At the same time, Georgia continues to participate in 40 international treaties (with an unlimited subject composition) signed within the Commonwealth.

Tbilisi is playing an initiative role in the regional association ODER-GUAM.

"Restoration of the territorial integrity of the country" was proclaimed as the most important task. This means the return of Abkhazia and South Ossetia to Georgia.

On September 2, 2008, the Georgian side severed diplomatic relations with Russian Federation, established on July 1, 1992. Since March 2009, the Section of Russian Interests has been functioning at the Embassy of Switzerland in Georgia.

Since October 2012, the new government of Georgia, headed by B. Ivanishvili, has embarked on the restoration of trade, economic and cultural ties with Russia. At the same time, the demands for the withdrawal of Russian troops from the "occupied" Abkhazia and South Ossetia remain the same.

6. Armed Forces (AF)

The armed forces of Georgia consist of one type: the ground forces (SV), as well as the national guard (NG), forces special operations(SSO) and bodies (parts) of central subordination.

The combat composition of the ground forces includes: ten brigades (five infantry, two artillery, engineering, aviation and air defense); three separate battalions (communications, RER and EW, medical).

Total staffing personnel The armed forces of Georgia are about 38 thousand people, of which: the Central Office of the Ministry of Defense and the Joint Staff - 0.7 thousand people, the ground forces - 23 thousand people, the National Guard - 2.4 thousand people, the Forces special operations - 2.2 thousand people, bodies (parts) of central subordination - 7.3 thousand people. During the threatened period and wartime, subdivisions of the Department of the Border Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (more than 5 thousand people) are transferred to the operational subordination of the leadership of the Armed Forces of the country.

The total mobilization resource of Georgia is about 320 thousand people, including 128 thousand people on the mobilization register.

General management of the development of the military doctrine of the state, foreign policy activities in the military field and the construction of the Armed Forces is carried out by the Minister of Defense. The operational leadership of the armed forces is entrusted to the chief of the joint staff, and the direct command is entrusted to the commanders of the service of the Armed Forces and the combat arms.

There is a service on conscription, contract, as well as in reserve. All male citizens of the republic aged 18 to 27 are subject to compulsory conscription. The term of compulsory military service is 12 months (for university graduates - 6 months). Persons who, due to their convictions, cannot perform military service are allowed to choose alternative service - 24 months (for university graduates - 18 months). Mandatory conscription before the last parliamentary elections was abolished, but is now being reintroduced.

The leadership of the countries of the North Atlantic Alliance is consistently pursuing a policy of providing Georgia with large-scale military assistance in the interests of increasing the combat capabilities of the national armed forces. The main areas of this activity include: improving the military infrastructure, training personnel, acquiring modern weapons and military equipment and other military products, participating in the development of mobilization documents for the Georgian Armed Forces, and reforming the structures of the country's defense department.

Contracts have been concluded with France for the supply of Crotal anti-aircraft systems and Ground Master ground surveillance radars, and Javelin anti-tank missile systems have been put into service from the United States.

7. Science

The leading scientific institution of the country is the Academy of Sciences of Georgia, separated in 1941 from the Academy of Sciences of the USSR. The structure of the Academy includes departments of mathematics and physics; earth sciences; applied mechanics and mechanical engineering; chemistry and chemical technologies; biology; physiology and experimental medicine; agricultural problems; social sciences; language and literature with 53 institutes and a number of research centers.

The oldest educational institution in the country is the Tbilisi State University. I. Javakhishvili (founded in 1918). Other major universities in the country - Technical University Georgia, Tbilisi State Pedagogical University, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi Academy of Economics and Law, Tbilisi Institute of Asia and Africa, Tbilisi state academy arts, State Institute theater and cinema. Sh. Rustaveli, Tbilisi Conservatory (founded in 1917).

8. Culture

The culture of Georgia is a synthesis of Middle Eastern, European and local traditions.

The earliest surviving Georgian literary monuments date back to the 5th century. AD Many outstanding personalities have contributed to the literary heritage of Georgia. These include the author of the epic poem "The Knight in tiger skin» Shota Rustaveli (12th century); author explanatory dictionary Georgian language (1716) Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani; Ilya Chavchavadze, Alexander Kazbegi, Akaki Tsereteli, Galaktion Tabidze, Konstantin Gamsakhurdia, Niko Lordkipanidze, Mikhail Javakhishvili and Anna Kalandadze (20th century), Vazha Pshavela and others.

There are more than 30 theaters. The most visited of them is the Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. Z.Paliashvili, State Academic Drama Theatre. Sh. Rustaveli, Drama State Academic Drama Theater. K. Mardzhanishvili, State Russian Drama Theater. A.S. Griboyedov, State Musical Theater named after A.S. V. Abashidze, State Armenian Drama Theater named after. P. Adamyan, Tbilisi State Puppet Theatre, State Puppet Theatre. G. Mikeladze.

Cinematography originated in Georgia at the beginning of the 20th century. (the first film was made in 1912). Film directors such as Eldar Shengelaya (film "Shirekilebi"), Georgy Chkheidze ("Pirosmani"), Tengiz Abuladze (trilogy "Prayer", "Tree of Desire", "Repentance"), Otar Ioseliani ("Favorites of the Moon"), Irakli Makharadze (“Riders of the Wild West - Georgian dexterous horsemen”) are winners of awards at international film festivals.

Georgia is known for wall paintings of the 7th-13th centuries, which have been preserved in the Gelati Monastery, Atensky Zion and in the temples in Betania, Kintsvisi and others. Georgian artists Niko Pirosmanishvili (Pirosmani), Gigo Gabashvili, David Kakabadze, Lado Gudiashvili, Cornelius Sanadze have gained wide popularity , Elena Akhvlediani, Sergey Kobuladze, Simon Virsaladze and Ekaterina Baghdavadze. Georgian sculptors Elguja Amashukeli, Irakli Ochiauri and Zurab Tsereteli are world famous.

Georgian folk music is a combination of eastern and western influences. Georgian polyphony is characterized by a special vocal technique and the use of tones close to each other. Usually men sing in Georgia. A typical Georgian song is performed in three voices.

Among the graduates of the Tbilisi Conservatory are pianists Alexander Toradze and Eliso Virsaladze, violinist Leana Isakadze, bassist Paata Burchuladze, singer Nani Bregvadze, pianist and music teacher Manana Doidzhashvili, violinist and music teacher Marina Iashvili. Georgia has a national symphony orchestra.

There are 110 museums, there are more than 20 in Tbilisi.

The National Museum of Georgia was transformed in 1919 from the Caucasian Museum. The Museum of the Soviet Occupation functions in the same building.

Also known: State Museum Arts of Georgia Sh. Amiranashvili, National Art Gallery, State Museum of Modern Fine Arts, State Museum of Folk and Applied Arts, Museum of Georgian Literature, Tbilisi Historical Museum. I. Grishashvili, State Museum of Music, Theater and Cinema, State House-Museum of N. Pirosmani. Kutaisi Historical and Ethnographic Museum. N. Berdzenishvili collected residential buildings from different parts of Georgia.

The largest libraries in Georgia are the National Library, founded in 1846, with a fund of more than 7 million items; Library of Tbilisi state university and Central scientific Library Academy of Sciences of Georgia.

9. Education

The twelve-year system of secondary education in Georgia is divided into three levels: elementary School(6 years), basic school (3 years), secondary school (3 years). At the end of nine years of study, schoolchildren receive a certificate of basic education, and at the end of the twelfth grade, a certificate of complete secondary education. A ten-point grading system has been adopted.

Enrollment in higher educational institutions is based on the results of the Unified National Examination (CNE).

The system of secondary vocational education is 5 cycle.

In Georgia, there are the following types of secondary vocational educational institutions: Vocational college and Community college.

4 cycles in Georgia higher education: Diploma (bachelor of the first stage), Bachelor, Master, Doctorate.

Medical education is a special case. In the field of medicine, the following qualifications are accepted: Certified Medical Doctor, Certified Dentist and Certified Veterinarian.

The following types of institutions implement higher education programs: College, Teaching University, University.

Foreign educational documents issued in Georgia do not require legalization today.

10. Media

The leading Georgian media are represented by the State Television and Radio Broadcasting Corporation, news agencies Sakinform, BS-Press, Iprinda, Prime News, private TV companies Rustavi-2, Imedi, Mze, Pirveli Arkhi, Adzharia, Kavkasia, Maestro, Meore Arkhi, Real TV. TV channels have the largest audience. Internet resources are gaining popularity.

The largest (by local standards) newspapers: Kviris Palitra, Asavaldasavali, Aliya, Khronika, Rezonansi, 24 Saati, Akhali Taoba, Versia, Georgian Taimsi . Russian-language newspapers are published in a small circulation: the newspaper "Evening Tbilisi" and the weekly "Tbilisskaya Nedelya".

In the southeast and Russia in the east and north. The territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia are not controlled by the Georgian government and are regarded by it and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the European Commission as parts of Georgia occupied by Russia.

Flag of Georgia

The current flag was adopted in 2004 by a special "Flag Law". On the second page of this law, a diagram of the flag is given, indicating its proportions. The ratio of length to width is 3:2. The width of the cross is equal to 1/5 of the width of the cloth.

The coat of arms of Georgia is the state symbol of Georgia. The modern coat of arms was adopted on October 1, 2004. It is a red shield depicting a silver figure of the patron saint of Georgia - St. George on a horse slaying a dragon with a spear. The shield is crowned with a golden crown and is held by two golden lions. Under the shield is a ribbon with the motto "Strength in Unity". Partially, the coat of arms is based on the medieval coat of arms of the Georgian royal house of Bagrations (Bagrationi).

During the existence of the Georgian Democratic Republic, the coat of arms was a seven-pointed star framed with a golden ornament. In the center was a Georgian shield depicting St. George on a white horse with golden hooves. AT right hand he holds a golden spear with a silver tip ready for battle, and in the left - a shield (on the elbow, on the left side of the horse). Directly above the head of St. George shines an eight-pointed golden star; to the left of the star is the month, and to the right is the sun. Below the moon and the sun are two more eight-pointed stars. The horse rests its hind legs on a mountain peak. The author of the coat of arms is the famous Russian artist Yevgeny Lansere (since 1922 - professor at the Academy of Arts of Georgia). After the restoration of independence in 1991, the coat of arms of 1918 was adopted again. After the entry of the Red Army into Georgia on February 28, 1922, a new coat of arms was adopted by decree of the Revolutionary Committee of the GSSR. The coat of arms of the Georgian SSR consisted of a round red field, in the upper part of which there is a luminous five-pointed star with rays stretching across the entire field. Below is a blue snowy ridge. On the right side are golden ears of corn and on the left are golden vines with bunches of grapes. The ends of the ears and vines are intertwined at the base of the ridge in the lower part of the field. Most of the middle is occupied by the image of a golden hammer and sickle, which rest against a luminous star, below - at the top of the ridge, and on the sides - against ears and vines. Around the field there is an inscription in Georgian, Abkhazian and Russian: "Proletarians of all countries, unite!". The coat of arms of the GSSR was bordered with a pattern of ornaments in the Georgian style.

Anthem of Georgia

The music of the Georgian anthem is taken from two operas by Zakharia Paliashvili (1871-1933) - “Daisi” (“Twilight”) and “Abesalom and Eteri”, the author of the text is the modern Georgian poet David Magradze, who used quotes from the poems of Georgian classical poets - Akaki Tsereteli , Vazha Pshavela, Grigol Orbeliani and Galaktion Tabidze.

History of Georgia, chronology of historical events

BC

• 1.8-1.6 Ma. BC e. Homo erectus georgicus lived on the territory of present-day Georgia - one of the subspecies of the extinct species Homo erectus, Homo erectus georgicus was not an ancestor of modern people.
• XII-VIII centuries BC. e. Diaohi and Colchis (Kolkha), the first state formations on the territory of modern Georgia, were created.
• 6th century BC e. The Colchis state was formed on the territory of present-day western Georgia (it existed until the 4th century BC).
• 4th-3rd centuries BC e. The Iberian kingdom (Kartli) was formed on the territory of present-day eastern Georgia (existed until the 6th century AD).
• 229 BC e. The beginning of the reign of the royal dynasties of Iberia, who ruled from 299 BC. e. to 580 AD e.
• 95 to 55 AD e. Georgia as part of Greater Armenia
• 65 BC e. The Roman general Pompey invaded the Iberian kingdom with an army.

Early AD

• 35 year. The army of Kartli invaded Armenia. The brother of King Farsman of Kartli, Mithridates, reigned on the Armenian throne.
• 63 years old Colchis became part of the Roman Empire.
• 326 year. By the labors of St. Nina, Christianity was declared the state religion of Iberia.
• 4th-6th centuries The Kingdom of Lazes was founded on the territory of present-day Western Georgia.
• 482-484. King Vakhtang I Gorgasal (canonized as a saint) rebelled against the Sassanids.
• 542 year. The beginning of the "Great War" between Iran and Byzantium.
• 562 year. The end of the "Great War" between Iran and Byzantium.
• 608 year. There was a church schism between the Georgian and Armenian churches.
• 627 year. Byzantine Emperor Heraclius began the siege of Tbilisi.
• 628 year. Tbilisi is taken by the Khazars.
• 654 year. An agreement was signed with the Arab Caliphate - "Certificate of Safeguarding".
• 735 year. The Arab commander Marvan II ibn Muhammad (Marvan the Deaf) attacked Georgia.
• 853 year. Tbilisi is captured by Arab troops led by Bug-Turk.
• 914 year. Emir Abul-Kasim invaded southern and eastern Georgia.
• 979 year. With the help of David Kuropalat, the uprising of Barda Skliros against Basil II was suppressed.
• 1010 year. Bagrat III annexed Kakheti and Hereti.
• 1021 year. George II fought at Shirimni with Emperor Basil II.
• 1023 year. A peace treaty was signed between Georgia and Byzantium.
• 1028 year. Byzantine attack on Georgia.
• 1032 year. Tbilisi Emir Jafar is captured.
• 1064 year. The first campaign of the Seljuks against Georgia.
• 1068 year. The second campaign of the Seljuks against Georgia.
• 1073 year. The uprising of the feudal lords against George II.
• 1083 year. George II began to pay tribute to the Seljuks.
• 1099 year. David IV the Builder stopped paying tribute to the Seljuks.
• 1104 year. David IV the Builder convened the Ruiz-Urbnis Cathedral.
• 1106 year. The construction of the Gelati Monastery began.
• 1110 year. Samshvilde was liberated from the Seljuk Turks.
• 1115 year. Rustavi is liberated from the Seljuk Turks.
• 1117 year. Gishi is liberated from the Seljuk Turks.
• 1118 year. Lore is liberated from the Seljuk Turks.
• August 12, 1121. The Seljuk army was defeated by the Georgians in the Battle of Didgori.
• 1122 year. Tbilisi was liberated from the Seljuk Turks.
• 1123 year. Dmanisi was liberated from the Seljuk Turks.
• 1185 year. Queen Tamara married Yuri Bogolyubsky, who was later expelled from Georgia.
• 1188 year. Queen Tamara married David Soslan.
• 1210 year. Georgia undertook a military campaign in Northern Iran.
• 1220 year. The first Mongol invasion of Georgia.
• 1226 year. Tbilisi is taken by Jalal ad-Din.
• 1266. The principality of Samtskhe separated from united Georgia.
• 1386-1403. Tamerlane undertook eight devastating campaigns against Georgia.

15th century

• 1403. Tamerlane and George VII signed a peace agreement.
• 1416. Kara-Yusuf's attack on Samtskhe.
• 1462. Eristav Bagrat of Imereti rebelled against George VIII.

16th century

• 1520 year. Shah Ismail's invasion of Kartli.
• 1535. Victory in the Murdzhakheti battle over the Turks.
• 1578. Division of the Caucasus between Turks and Persians.
• 1597. Shah Abbas expels the Turks from Georgia and the Caucasus.
• 1599. Liberation of the Gori fortress from the Ottomans.

17th century

• 1625.03.25. Iranian troops defeated Georgian troops led by Giorgi Saakadze.
• 1626-1629. Nikifor Cholokashvili headed the embassy to Europe.
• 1629. The first Georgian book was published in Europe.
• 1639. The Kakhetian king Teimuraz I took an oath of allegiance to the Russian Tsar.
• 1660. Bidzina Cholokashvili and the Ksani eristavs Shalva and Elizbar revolted in Kakheti.

18th century

• 1709. The first printing house was opened in Georgia.
• 1714-1716. Embassy of Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani sent to Europe.
• 1752. The Persians were defeated by King Heraclius at Yerevan.
• 1757. In the battle of Chresil, Solomon I defeated the army of the Ottoman Empire.
• 1758. Teimuraz II, Heraclius II and Solomon I signed the treaty.
• 1765. The feudal conspiracy against Erekle II is exposed.
• 1770. Heraclius II defeated the Turks at the Battle of Aspindza.
• 1774. The Kyuchuk-Kainarji peace treaty was signed between Russia and Ottoman Empire, according to which Imereti and Guria are liberated from Turkish troops.
• 1774. Heraclius II created the first regular army - "morige".
• 1783. Erekle II signed the Treaty of Georgievsky.
• 1795 The Battle of Krtsanisi took place: the troops of Heraclius II and the King of Imereti Solomon II fought against the Persian army of Agha Mohammed Khan.

19th century

• 1801. Alexander I wrote a manifesto, according to which the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti was abolished.
• 1809 The Russian army occupied Poti and Kutaisi.
• 1811. The Russian army occupied Akhalkalaki. The autocephaly of the Georgian Church was abolished.
• 1819. Uprising against Russia in Imereti.
• 1819. The first Georgian newspaper “Sakartvelos Gazeti” (Georgian Newspaper) began to appear.
• 1832. Solomon Dodashvili published the journal "Literary Part" of "Tiflis Vedomosti".
• 1854 Victory in the clash of the Russian army and Georgian militias against the Turkish army near the Choloka River.
• 1863 Ilya Chavchavadze founded the magazine "Sakartvelos moambe" (Bulletin of Georgia).
• 1870 Serfdom was abolished in Abkhazia.
• 1871. Serfdom was abolished in Svaneti.
• 1876 Iakob Gogebashvili published the textbook "Deda Ena" (Native Speech).
• 1877 The Iveria newspaper was founded by Ilya Chavchavadze.
• 1878 Russian army and the Georgian militia occupied Batumi.
• 1885 By decision of the government, the newspaper "Droyeba" was closed down.
• 1892 Noy Zhordania held the first meeting of the Social Democratic group "Mesame-dasi" ("Third Group").

20th century

• 1905 A peaceful rally was dispersed on Rustaveli Square in Tbilisi.
• 1907 Ilya Chavchavadze was killed near the village of Tsitsamuri.
• 1912 The first Georgian film was shot - "Journey of Akaki Tsereteli to Racha-Lechkhumi". Directed by Vasily Amashukeli.
• 1917 The People's Guard of Georgia was created.
• 1917 Kirion II was elected Catholicos-Patriarch of all Georgia.
• 1917 The Writers' Union of Georgia and the Tbilisi Conservatory were founded.
• 1918 Petre Melikishvili was elected the first rector of the established Tbilisi University.
• 1918 (April 9 according to the Julian calendar) The creation of the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic was proclaimed.
• 1918 The creation of the Georgian Democratic Republic was announced. Government members: Noe Ramishvili - Chairman and Minister of Internal Affairs; Akaki Chkhenkeli - Minister of Foreign Affairs; Grigol Giorgadze - Minister of War; Giorgi Zhuruli - Minister of Finance, Trade and Industry; Giorgi Lakhishvili - Minister of Education; Noe Khomeriki - Minister of Agriculture and Labor; Shalva Meskhishvili - Minister of Justice; Ivane Lordkipanidze - Minister of Railways.
• 1918 British troops landed in Poti.
• 1920 The Supreme Council of the Entente announced the recognition of the independence of Georgia.
• 1921 Sovietization of Georgia.
• 1924 Kakutsa Cholokashvili started an uprising against the Soviet regime.
• 1977 Ilia II was elected Catholicos of All Georgia.
• 1978 After mass demonstrations, the Georgian language acquired the status of the state language.
• 1989 Bloody dispersal of the 9 April rally.
• 1991 Zviad Gamsakhurdia became the President of Georgia.
• 1992 Georgia's entry into the UN.
• 1992-1993 year. Georgian-Abkhaz war.
• 1993 Zviad Gamsakhurdia is found dead.
• 1995 Eduard Shevardnadze was elected President of Georgia (he was re-elected in 2000).

XXI Century

• 2003 After prolonged protest rallies in connection with the falsification of the parliamentary elections, President Shevardnadze resigns (later called the "Rose Revolution").
• 2004 Mikheil Saakashvili wins by an absolute majority of votes (~95%) in early presidential elections.
• 2005 year. Complication of political relations with the Russian Federation (consequence - trade embargo).
• 2008 Early presidential elections in Georgia were held on January 5, 2008. According to their results, Mikheil Saakashvili won with a score of 53.47% of the votes.
• 2008 Georgia's loss of control over the territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as a result of the armed conflict in South Ossetia.
• year 2013. Presidential elections in Georgia were held on October 27. Giorgi Margvelashvili received an absolute majority of votes (62%) in the first round and became the new president of Georgia.

Political history of modern Georgia

Restoration of independence

On October 28, 1990, the first multi-party parliamentary elections in the USSR were held in Georgia, in which national-political organizations belonging to the Mrgvali Magida - Tavisupali Sakartvelo bloc (Round Table - Free Georgia) won a landslide victory (leader - former dissident Zviad Gamsakhurdia As a result of the elections, the Supreme Council of the Republic of Georgia was formed, headed by Zviad Gamsakhurdia.The Parliament proclaimed the creation of the Republic of Georgia, changed all the former state attributes of the Georgian SSR (Hymn, State Flag and Emblem).

On March 31, 1991, a referendum was held in Georgia on the issue of restoring the state independence of Georgia on the basis of the Act of Independence of May 26, 1918, which in fact was a decision to withdraw from the USSR. 90.5% of voters took part in the referendum, of which 98.93% voted for state independence. Two regions of the republic - Abkhazia and South Ossetia - declared their special position, declaring their desire to secede from Georgia. On April 9, 1991, the Supreme Council adopted the "law on the Declaration of Independence of the State". On the same day, the US Congress recognized the legitimacy of the March 31 referendum by the Emergency Resolution, which is the de facto recognition of independence from the USSR.

After the collapse of the USSR and the transformation of the Georgian SSR into modern Georgia, as a result of a series of armed conflicts (the South Ossetian war (1991-1992), the War in Abkhazia (1992-1993)) two unrecognized states were formed that were not controlled by the Tbilisi government - Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which claimed the territory former Abkhaz ASSR and South Ossetian Autonomous Okrug respectively. Georgia received international legal recognition of most countries of the world in 1992, while Abkhazia and South Ossetia remained unrecognized for a long time. After the 2008 armed conflict between Georgia and South Ossetia (in which Abkhazia and Russia also sided with South Ossetia), Russia and several other countries recognized Abkhazia and South Ossetia as sovereign independent states. From the point of view of some representatives of the world community, the territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia not controlled by the Georgian government are occupied by Russia.

military coup

On May 26, 1991, the first presidential elections were held, in which Zviad Gamsakhurdia won. On December 22, 1991, units of the Georgian National Guard led by Tengiz Kitovani rebelled, subsequently supported by the Mkhedrioni armed formations of Jaba Ioseliani. On January 6, 1992, Gamsakhurdia and members of the government were forced to leave Georgia.

In March 1992, the former USSR Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze was elected chairman of the State Council of Georgia - the governing body created by the victorious opposition.

On September 24, 1993, Zviad Gamsakhurdia returned to the country (he arrived in Zugdidi from the Chechen capital) and tried to regain power, initiating a short but fierce civil war. Shevardnadze was forced to call for help Russian troops. Gamsakhurdia was killed under unclear circumstances in December 1993. in exchange for Russian military aid Georgia agreed to join the CIS.

Rose Revolution

High corruption, low living standards, and accusations of falsifying the results of the 2003 parliamentary elections led to a revolution and the resignation of Eduard Shevardnadze on November 23, 2003.

State structure

Constitution of Georgia

The current constitution of Georgia was adopted on August 24, 1995. It is based on the thousand-year-old statehood of Georgia and the main principles of the country's constitution, adopted in 1921. According to the fundamental law of the state, the President of Georgia is elected on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot for a period of 5 years, one person is allowed to be elected to this post for no more than two consecutive terms. In mid-October 2010, the country's parliament adopted a draft law "On Amendments and Additions to the Constitution of Georgia", approved by the head of state in early November of the same year. Currently, the country is undergoing a gradual transition to a new fundamental law that limits the full power of the president while expanding the powers of parliament and government. It is planned that the main provisions of the new constitution will take effect after the 2013 presidential elections.

executive power

Executive power is concentrated in the hands of the President, who, in accordance with the Constitution of Georgia, is the head of state, executive power, Supreme Commander armed forces Georgia, the highest representative of Georgia in foreign relations; directs the domestic and foreign policy of the country, ensures its unity and integrity, the work of state and all other bodies. The current head of state is Giorgi Margvelashvili. Many figures in the current government of Georgia, formed after the Rose Revolution, were educated abroad.

Parliament of Georgia

The legislative power of the country is represented by the unicameral Parliament of Georgia. Parliament is the highest legislative body and consists of 150 deputies. 77 deputies are elected by lists, 73 - from single-mandate constituencies. All deputies are elected for a term of 4 years by popular vote.

The legislative power of the parliament, according to the constitution of Georgia, is limited by the legislative power of the parliaments of the autonomous republics - Abkhazia and Adzharia.

The first multi-party elections were held on October 28, 1990, and Zviad Gamsakhurdia, later President of Georgia, was elected chairman. In 1991-1992, there was a conflict between Gamsakhurdia and the parliament, which escalated into an armed clash. The state was headed by Eduard Shevardnadze, and until 1995 the state council of Georgia performed the functions of the parliament, then general elections were held.

Currently (2010) the Parliament of Georgia is convened for two sessions: spring (February-June) and autumn (September-December). Weeks alternate plenary meetings and committee work.

Armed Forces of Georgia

The armed forces of Georgia consist of ground forces, forces special purpose, air force, national guard and military police.

The strength of the Georgian Armed Forces in 2009 is 36,553 people, including 21 generals, 6,166 officers and sub-officers, 28,477 privates, 125 cadets and 388 civil servants.

The budget of the Ministry of Defense for 2010 amounted to 750 million lari (2009 - 897 million; 2008 - 1.545 billion lari);

Administrative-territorial division of Georgia

In administrative terms, the territory of Georgia de jure includes 2 autonomous republics (Georgian ავტონომიური რესპუბლიკა avtonomiuri resp’ublik’a): Abkhazia and Adjara, and 10 territories (Georgian მხა). The territory of the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia, as well as part of the territory of the territories of Shida Kartli, Mtskheta-Mtianeti, Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti and Imereti, are controlled by the de facto independent republics of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, respectively. The krais and autonomous republics are subdivided into 55 municipalities (Georgian მუნიციპალიტეტი).

Physical and geographical characteristics

Geography of Georgia

Georgia is located in the central and western part of Transcaucasia, between 41°07′ and 43°05′ north latitude and 40°05′ and 46°44′ east longitude - at the junction of the semi-humid Mediterranean, the arid Aral-Caspian depression and the continental highlands of Western Asia, what caused the diversity natural conditions, richness of flora and fauna .
The area of ​​Georgia is 69,700 km². The Black Sea coast of the country has a length of 308 km; the coastline is slightly indented. The north of Georgia is occupied by the Greater Caucasus Range. On its southern slope are the Gagra, Bzyb, Kodori, Svaneti, Kharul, Lamis, Gudis, Kartli and Kakheti ranges; in the north - Khokhsky, Shavana, Kidegansky, Khevsuretsky and Pirikitsky ridges. Glaciers played the main role in the creation of nival landforms in the high-mountainous north of Georgia. In the east of the Greater Caucasus there are volcanic formations that belong to the historical era. In the south, in the intermountain depression, there are the Iberian and Colchis lowlands, separated by the Dzirul massif. Most of them are occupied by alluvial plains. The Inner Kartli, Lower Kartli and Alazani plains are also composed of alluvium. To the south of the Colchis region, at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level, rise the Meskheti, Shavsheti, Trialeti and Lok ridges. The South Georgian Volcanic Highlands, whose peak is Mount Didi Abuli, occupies the southern zone of Georgia.

The natural conditions of Georgia are very diverse. Over the course of historical time, they did not undergo drastic changes and did not cause decisive changes in the social and economic life of the population, however, the natural disasters of the Ice Age significantly affected the life of the Stone Age people who lived on the territory of modern Georgia. The diversity of landscapes, hydrological conditions, soil cover, flora and fauna is ultimately the result of neotectonic uplifts and subsidences. The geographical position and climatic features of Georgia, apparently, also played a certain role in the formation of the state. The low prevalence of navigation and seafaring in ancient and medieval Georgia is explained by the absence of any significant bays, as well as islands and peninsulas along the entire Black Sea coast of Georgia.

Relief

The territory of Georgia combines high-mountain, mid-mountain, hilly, low-plain, plateau and plateau-like relief.
The highest geographic point of the country is located in the Greater Caucasus - the peak of Shkhara (5068 m). In the north of Georgia is the southern slope of the Greater Caucasus Range. Ranges of the southern slope of the Caucasus Range - Gagra, Bzybsky, Kodorsky, Svanetsky, Kharulsky, Lamissky, Gudissky, Kartli, Kakhetsky; northern - Khokhsky, Shavana, Kidegansky, Khevsuretsky and Pirikitsky. Mountain-erosion, mountain-glacial and nival landforms are clearly pronounced in the high-mountainous zone of the country, in the creation of which glaciers played the main role.

Soils and natural complexes

Different types of soils are represented in Georgia: from gray-brown and saline semi-desert soils of dry steppes to brown forest soils of moderately humid forests, red soils and podzolic soils of the humid subtropical zone and mountain-meadow high-mountain ones. On the territory of Georgia, there are also semi-deserts and deserts, which are located mainly in the east of the country. Characterized by altitudinal zonality.

Minerals

Georgia has a wide range of minerals. The mineral resource potential of the country is represented by 450 mineral deposits of 27 types, the main of which are: high-quality manganese ores (Chiatura, reserves - 200 million tons, annual production - up to 6 million tons), hard coal (Tkibuli; reserves - 400 million tons) , copper ores(Marneuli, reserves - 250 thousand tons), oil (Samgori, Patardzeuli, Ninotsminda, industrial reserves - 30 million tons).

Georgia has significant reserves of building materials: bentonite clay (17 million tons), dolomites, limestone (200 million tons), clay for the production of cement (75 million tons) and bricks (47 million m³), ​​gypsum, talc, foundry sand.

About 2 thousand sources are registered on the territory of Georgia fresh water with a total annual debit of 250 billion liters, 22 deposits of mineral waters, including medicinal ones - Borjomi, Sairme, Nabeglavi, Zvare and others, with a total debit of about 40 billion liters / year. Currently, fresh and mineral waters are exported to 24 countries of the world.

The total forest area is 3 million hectares. Timber reserves are estimated at 434 million cubic meters. The territory of the country is a rich raw material base for the pharmaceutical industry.

Unique in their characteristics are the country's recreational resources - mountain and sea resorts.

Climate

The west of Georgia is influenced by the subtropical climate, while the east is influenced by the Mediterranean climate. The Greater Caucasus Range serves as a barrier to cold northern winds. Along the Black Sea coast, from Abkhazia to the Turkish border, as well as in the area known as the Colchis Lowland, a subtropical climate dominates with high humidity and heavy rainfall (from 1000 to 2000 mm per year, and in the Black Sea port of Batumi even 2500 mm per year) . Several varieties of palm trees grow in this region. In January-February, the average temperature is 5 °C, and in July-August - +24 °C.

Water resources

The river network is unevenly developed. It is most dense in Western Georgia.

The rivers of Georgia belong to two basins - the Black Sea (75% of the flow) and the Caspian. Almost the entire runoff of the Caspian basin is carried out by the Kura River, on which the Mingechevir reservoir is located. The rivers of the Black Sea basin (Western Georgia) do not form a single system, flowing into the sea on their own. The main one is the Rioni, which flows in the lower section along the Colchis lowland. Inguri and others are also significant.

Most of the rivers originating in the mountains have a maximum flow in the spring, when the snow melts (flood). Rivers, fed mainly from glaciers, carry most of the water in summer and at this time have a pronounced daily flow rate with a maximum in the evening and a minimum before dawn. With a fast current, mountain rivers rarely freeze. They flow in deep gorges, having a significant number of rapids. In the limestone zone of the Greater Caucasus and the volcanic rocks of the Javakheti highland, the underground runoff exceeds the surface one. Georgia is rich in hydropower resources. Cascades of hydroelectric power stations have been built on many mountain rivers, reservoirs have been built. total length irrigation systems exceeds 1000 km.

There are few lakes in Georgia, mainly in the Javakheti Highlands. The largest of them is Lake Paravani.

Flora and fauna of Georgia

very rich vegetable world. According to botanists' estimates, the number of species of flowering plants is over 4500. The relative stability of the climate in the past contributed to the preservation of ancient flora elements, relict and endemic plants (rhododendrons, boxwood, cherry laurel, persimmon, etc.).

The fauna of Georgia is quite diverse. Over 11,000 species of invertebrates live on the territory of Georgia, including almost 9,150 arthropods (over 8,230 of which are insects). 84 species of freshwater fish were recorded, as well as 6 introduced species. Amphibians are represented by 12 species. The 52 species belonging to the class of reptiles include 3 species of turtles, 27 species of lizards and 23 species of snakes (of which 3 species of snakes and 12 lizards are endemic to the Caucasus). There are 109 species of mammals on the territory of Georgia.

For the ecosystems of Georgia, such large mammals as bear, wolf, fox, red deer, roe deer, wild boar are common. On the verge of extinction is the leopard, which was considered an extinct species in the Caucasus and was rediscovered by Georgian zoologists in 2001. The striped hyena and goitered gazelle are also critically endangered. In the 20th century, the Black Sea monk seal and the Turanian tiger finally disappeared, but new species appeared (were introduced), such as the North American striped raccoon and the Far Eastern raccoon dog, as well as a subspecies of the common squirrel - the teleut squirrel.

The alpine and subalpine belts are characterized by two types of turs: Dagestan and Caucasian, which are found in the highlands of the Greater Caucasus and are endemic to the Caucasus.

Near the Black Sea coast of Georgia, among mammals, there are 3 species of dolphins - common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin and porpoise. In addition, in 1939, a white-bellied seal was observed near Batumi. Of the marine fish found among others: sharks, rays, beluga, Russian and Atlantic sturgeon, Black Sea salmon, anchovy, herring, blennies, flounders, needle fish, seahorses and others.

Protected areas

In 1912, the first nature reserve in Georgia, Lagodekhi, was created. Today there are 14 state reserves, 8 national parks, 12 protected areas, 14 natural monuments and 2 protected landscapes. They make up 7% of the area of ​​Georgia (384,684 ha). About 75% of specially protected natural areas are occupied by forests.

Population of Georgia

The estimate of the total population of Georgia according to the National Statistical Service as of January 1, 2013 is 4,483,800 people (excluding the population of Abkhazia and South Ossetia); according to the US CIA as of July 1, 2012 - 4,570,934 people. According to the 2002 Georgian census (4,369,579 inhabitants), the following national groups lived in the country:

• Georgians (83.7%),
• Azerbaijanis (6.5%),
• Armenians (5.7%),
• Russians (1.5%),
• Ossetians (0.9%),
• Yezidis (0.5%),
• Greeks (0.3%),
• Chechens and Kists (0.2%),
• Ukrainians (0.2%),
• Assyrians, Avars, Abkhazians and others.

According to the State Minister for Diaspora Affairs Mirza Davitaya, more than 1.6 million Georgians (25.7%) live outside of Georgia. Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II called the sad fact that many compatriots went abroad: “I did not expect that Georgians in such numbers would go abroad so easily. I know that they were forced by need, but it is better to live in need, but in their homeland,” the patriarch said, calling on the emigrants to return to their homeland.

Economy of Georgia

In 2012, according to the World Bank, Georgia's GDP per capita (purchasing power parity) was $5,902. In 2007, according to the IMF, the GDP growth rate was 12.4%, in 2008 - 2.4%. External financing has played a significant role in ensuring economic growth in last years, as well as in the formation of the state economic policy and sectoral structure of the economy. In 2009, according to the CIA, GDP fell by 7%. The unemployment rate in 2010 was 16.9%; the proportion of the population living below the poverty line is 31% (2006). According to the data for the II quarter of 2011, Georgia's total external debt was $10.5 billion, which is $1.8 billion more than the same indicator of the previous year.

Industry of Georgia

Currently, most industrial enterprises in Georgia are either idle or partially loaded. In recent years, the main growth of industry has been provided by the food industry, the extraction of metal ores (mainly manganese), as well as the production of metal and non-metal products. The total share of these industries in the structure of industrial production (excluding energy) in 2005 was 76%.

The leading industries of Georgia are: food industry (production of tea, wines and cognacs, tobacco products, essential oil crops, canned vegetables and fruits, mineral waters, hazelnuts), light industry (silk, woolen, cotton, shoe, knitwear, clothing production), mechanical engineering (production of electric locomotives, automobiles, machine tools in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi), ferrous metallurgy (metallurgical plant in Rustavi, Zestafon ferroalloy plant, Chiaturmarganets plant), non-ferrous metallurgy (Madneuli plant), chemical (production of nitrogen fertilizers, chemical fibers, paints, household chemicals- in Rustavi). In 2007, cement exports amounted to $64 million compared to $28.8 million in 2006.

Agriculture of Georgia

Most of the agricultural products in Georgia are produced on household plots and in farms. Most agricultural holdings are small and rely mainly on manual labor. The productivity of Georgian agriculture is extremely low: concentrating more than 50% of the employed population, it provides only 12% of GDP.

Areas suitable for agriculture make up 16% of the total territory of the country. The area of ​​land suitable for efficient agricultural rotation is shrinking due to chronic lack of fertilizers, the decline in tillage, etc. In 2003, the sown area of ​​agricultural crops in Georgia amounted to 562,000 hectares, in 2008 - 329,000 hectares.

Georgia grows wheat, barley, corn, beans, tobacco, sunflower, soybeans, potatoes, vegetables, melons, fodder crops, tea, grapes, fruits, citrus fruits.

Georgian agrarians are able to produce no more than a third of the volume of bread consumed in Georgia, which results in the need for significant grain imports into the country.

From 2003 to 2008, the index of the physical volume of agricultural production in Georgia decreased by 26%, crop production - by 24%, livestock - by 28%. In 2008, Georgia's agricultural output amounted to 2.42 billion lari, of which 998 million lari fell to crop production, 1.35 billion lari to animal husbandry, and 65 million lari to agricultural services.

In Georgia, in 2006, a World Bank project was launched, the main purpose of which was the reconstruction and construction of processing industry enterprises in the country. The total cost of this project, which involved other international financial institutions, as well as the government of Georgia, was $34.7 million.

The main tasks that were set within the framework of the concept are the full development of the agricultural potential of Georgia, improving the quality of products and its competitiveness, reconstructing the agricultural infrastructure, updating equipment, and developing the processing industry. The concept also provides for ensuring the country's food security, increasing the export potential of Georgian agricultural products, strengthening positions in traditional and new markets. In addition, much attention is paid to the reconstruction of the melioration system. It was planned that by 2009 $50 million would be spent for these purposes, after which the area of ​​irrigated land in Georgia would be 300,000 hectares.

Main agricultural crops: grapes, cereals, sugar beets, sunflowers, potatoes. Meat and dairy and meat and wool animal husbandry, poultry farming.

Transport and communications

The length of railways is more than 1600 km. Rail transportation is dominated by transportation of petroleum products.

The largest seaports of Georgia: Batumi, Poti, Supsa. They are mainly engaged in transshipment of oil and oil products.

The main oil and gas pipelines Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, Baku-Supsa, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum and Vladikavkaz-Kazbegi-Red Bridge pass through Georgia.

Race track "Rustavi"

Race track "Rustavi" is located 20 km in a straight line from the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi. named after a nearby locality- Rustavi. In 2011-2012 completely reconstructed according to FIA Category 2 standards and became the first professional circuit built in the Transcaucasus region. On April 29, 2012, President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili took part in the opening ceremony of the renovated track, driving a Formula 3 car.

Energy

In 2007, electricity generation was 8.34 billion kWh and consumption was 8.15 billion kWh. In 2008, Georgia exported 680 million kWh of electricity (including 216 million kWh to Turkey), imported 758 million kWh (including 669 million kWh from Russia).

Hydroelectric power plants generate over 80% of electricity in Georgia. The largest power plants are the Tbilisi State District Power Plant, hydroelectric power plants on the rivers Inguri, Rioni, Khrami, Abash and others.

The Vartsikhe cascade of four HPPs (178 MW) was built on the Rioni River: the Lajanur HPP (112 MW), the Gumat HPPs (66.5 MW) and the Rioni HPP (48 MW), the Namakhvani HPP project (480 MW) has existed since Soviet times. Zhinvali HPP (130 MW) was built on the Aragvi River, Khramskaya-1 (113 MW) and Khramskaya-2 HPP (110 MW) on the Khrami River, Tkibuli HPP (80 MW) on the Tkibuli River.

Currently, Georgia's energy sector is fully privatized. The only exception is the Inguri HPP, which is operated jointly with Abkhazia (at the same time, there are no signed legal documents regulating this cooperation: according to an unspoken agreement, 60% of the generated electricity is transferred to Georgia, 40% to Abkhazia). The dam of this station is located in Georgia, and the main units are in Abkhazia. In December 2008, the Ministry of Energy of Georgia and the Russian company Inter RAO UES signed a memorandum on the joint management of the Inguri HPP.

The official currency in Georgia is the lari. Currency code according to ISO 4217: GEL. Introduced in 1995 during the reign of Eduard Shevardnadze. 1 lari = 100 tetri (white). Currently, there are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 tetri, 1 lari, 2 lari and 10 lari and banknotes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 lari. The National Bank of Georgia also issues commemorative (dedicated to memorable dates) and investment coins of various denominations.

From April 5, 1993 to October 2, 1995, the Georgian currency was the lari coupon, which became the only legal tender on the territory of Georgia from August 20, 1993. The course was initially equated to the ruble, which this currency replaced. Only banknotes were issued, in denominations from 1 to 1,000,000 coupons (including the rather unusual 3, 3,000, 30,000 and 150,000 coupons). The lari coupon was subject to hyperinflation (678.4% in 1995) and was replaced by a new national currency, the Georgian lari, with a ratio of 1,000,000:1.

Foreign economic relations

Georgia's foreign trade is characterized by a negative trade balance, imports are several times higher than exports.

In 2011, exports from Georgia amounted to $2.2 billion, imports - $7.1 billion.

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