On
November 12, 2021, Sokhumi State University hosted the unveiling of
"Georgian Paradigm of Peace" by the esteemed Rector and Professor,
Zurab Khonelidze. The event was graced by the presence of notable figures,
including the Minister of Education and Science of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli,
Deputy Minister Nunu Mitskevich, representatives from the diplomatic corps in
Georgia, and esteemed members of the academic society. Noteworthy attendees
included members of the Supreme Council of Abkhazia, as well as the academic
and administrative staff of Sokhumi State University.
The
book's principal editor, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Doctor of
Law Lado Chanturia, and editor-publisher, publicist Zaur Nachkibia, contributed
significantly to the realization of this remarkable work. Renowned figures from
various fields globally served as reviewers, reflecting the diverse scope and
meticulous analysis undertaken by the author.
The
distinguished reviewers include Deborah Winslow Nutter, Ph.D., Professor at
Tufts University (USA), Alan Henrikson, Lee E. Dirk Emeritus Professor of
Diplomatic History (USA), Michael Cowgill, President of the US Chamber of
Commerce in Georgia (USA-Georgia), Giorgi Khubua, Rector of Steinbeis
University of Berlin (Germany-Georgia), Sergey Borisov, Sociologist, Director
of Expert Center "Mepa" (Russia), Hilik Bar, Vice-Speaker of Knesset
(Israel), Ibrahim Tellioglu, Doctor of History (Turkey), Said Muliani, Doctor
of History (Iran), Namik Aliyev, Doctor of Law, Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary (Azerbaijan), Suren Arutinian, Doctor of Philosophy, Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (Armenia), Mykola Ryzhkov, Professor, Doctor
of Political Sciences (Ukraine), Giorgi Anchabadze – Doctor of History,
Professor; Lia Akhaladze – Doctor of History, Professor; Sergo Vardosanidze –
Doctor of History, Professor; Natela Vasadze – Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences,
Academician, Professor; Roin Metrevel – Doctor of History, Academician,
Professor; Guram Nikolaishvili – Lieutenant General; Badri Nachkebia - Doctor
of History, Professor; Jaba Samushia – Doctor of History, Professor; Giorgi
Sosiashvili – Doctor of History, Professor; Valery Chechelashvili – Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor;
Merab Chukhua – Doctor of Philological Sciences, Caucasian Studies, Professor;
Nodar Chitanava - Doctor of Economic Sciences, Academician of the Academy of
Agricultural Sciences of Georgia, Professor.
The
extensive expertise of the reviewers underscores the broad spectrum of issues
covered in the monograph. Rector Khonelidze skillfully addresses and builds his
research upon complex subjects, showcasing a profound understanding of the
intricate relationship between education, diplomacy, and sustainable statehood
development.
In
"Georgian Paradigm of Peace," Rector Khonelidze introduces a
groundbreaking concept - "University Diplomacy," a fusion of
diplomacy and education policy. This novel approach, marking author’s
innovation, draws inspiration from Georgia's rich history, where education and
diplomacy have long been integral in the pursuit of peace and the advancement
of statehood. The work pioneers "University Diplomacy" as a
contemporary instrument for peace-building, a fresh facet of international
relations, and a distinctive form of diplomacy.
The
unconventional idea of "university diplomacy" has garnered widespread
acclaim and support from the international scientific community and diplomatic
circles, with endorsements from the USA, France, Germany, Poland, Czech
Republic, Hungary, Israel, Turkey, Romania, and Ukraine. International
conferences focusing on University Diplomacy are already on the horizon, and
several prestigious universities worldwide have sought Zurab Khonelidze’s expertise
to create specialized curricula on this groundbreaking subject. In response to
this demand, Sokhumi State University has launched the "Diplomacy and
International Politics" Master's program, embodying the essence of
university diplomacy.
In
his own words, Rector Zurab Khonelidze emphasizes that his engagement with
current issues extends beyond a mere response to timely necessities or
political passions. His involvement is rooted in a careful and thorough
analysis of the challenges that Georgia has confronted over the decades. This
analytical approach leads him to reject the prevailing status quo—a nation
temporarily divided, politically weakened, and morally distressed.
Despite
the designation of the 21st century as the epoch of ideas, Georgia has
experienced, rather than a transformative shift, an unwarranted state of
confusion, conformism, and, notably, the persistent hardship faced by the
Georgian people. Survivors of tumultuous times, they now grapple with
unjustifiable poverty, reflecting a poignant reality of victimization.
Over
the past three decades, Georgia finds itself entangled in a circular trajectory
that diverges from its national-state, cultural-civilizational, geo-economic,
and geo-political developmental interests. Instead of embracing a new
organizing idea in line with the dynamic spirit of the 21st century, the nation
is grappling with societal confusion and a conformity that hinders progress.
This divergence raises concerns about the alignment of the country's trajectory
with its inherent interests and potential for development. The need for a
decisive and visionary shift is evident to navigate towards a more prosperous
and harmonious future.
Rather
than dwelling on dramatizing problems, Georgians, known for their intelligence,
should acknowledge that no situation is truly inevitable. The question should
shift from "What's wrong with us?" to a more constructive exploration
of our own thinking patterns, a redefined understanding of the country's role,
and the imperative of acquiring additional functions. The inefficiencies in our
systems, societal structures, state institutions, and the very nature of our
politics, which has regrettably transformed into an anti-political stance, need
to be critically examined. This approach invites a self-reflective process to
identify the primary tasks: "What do we need?" and "What
afflictions do we suffer?" The crux of the matter lies in finding
solutions, a path that hinges on the strategic thinking of the Georgian people
and its authorities. This calls for putting our collective minds in good order,
exercising prudence, and fostering efficiency. The main challenge lies in
charting a course forward that aligns with the nation's best interests and
aspirations.
...
It is crucial to grasp the profound significance of the current and future
potential opportunities inherent in Sokhumi State University, particularly in
its principal avenue of focus— "university diplomacy." Through
collaborative endeavors involving the Georgian state and the international
community, there is an imperative to establish a new liberated
"space." This space should serve as an environment where the exchange
of ideas and spoken language is not antagonistic but rather academic and
diplomatic, perpetually vibrant and distinguished by unique features.
The
present moment beckons the minds of Georgians and Abkhazians (as well as
Ossetians) to develop a heightened understanding that:
-
The
government's stance toward Sokhumi State University serves as the most
transparent gauge of the entire Georgian society's disposition toward the
issues in Abkhazia. The approach taken regarding the challenges in Abkhazia,
including the situation in the so-called South Ossetia, essentially reflects
the collective sentiment toward the unified Georgian state. Consequently, it
becomes evident that the prosperity and achievements of the university directly
correlate with the success of the Georgian state as a whole.
-
The
two state universities of Abkhazia and Sokhumi, originating from a shared
foundation, represent unique centers of strategic importance. Their independent
functioning, divorced from each other, is inherently suboptimal. We aspire to
collaboratively formulate a strategic, worldview, and environmental joint
action plan for these universities. This isn't a transaction but an opportunity
to harness the untapped potential of our shared resources. This initiative
aligns with both Georgian and Abkhaz national-state interests, fostering a
peaceful and irreversible process of coexistence. The solution is tangible and
not concealed. If any “well-wisher” envisions otherwise, we may fall short of
meeting their expectations.
-
In
alignment with the European choice, the most practical and direct path to serve
our homeland, preserve its unity, and safeguard the national identity of both
Georgians and Abkhazians (as well as Ossetians) is to create an additional
imperative for our university and country—Georgia. This can be achieved through
the practice of "University Diplomacy," focusing on establishing
principles, with Sokhumi State University playing a pivotal role as one of its
main implementers. This approach not only fosters diplomatic endeavors but also
contributes to the broader goals of unity, understanding, and the shared
progress of our diverse communities.
I
hold the belief that Sokhumi State University, in conjunction with the
University of Abkhazia, serves as a center that inherently integrates the past,
present, and future. It embodies a commitment to responsibility, heeding the
voice of the motherland, acknowledging a debt to it, and standing ready to, on
the basis of a unique national dedication, prepare the Georgian-Abkhazian (also
Georgian-Ossetian) society for unity in our relationships. With this vision,
the universities aim to act and contribute towards creating a model that
fosters a profound understanding of peace, continual self-renewal, conflict
resolution, and the establishment of universal peace. The objective is to pave
the way for a shared future built on cooperation and harmony.
The Minister of Education and Science,
Mikheil Chkhenkeli, extended his congratulations to Professor Zurab Khonelidze
on the publication of his new monograph. During his visit to Sokhumi State
University, he expressed deep appreciation for the institution as an
educational and scientific research center with a rich tradition. Minister
Chkhenkeli highlighted the university's unique mission, emphasizing its crucial
role in fostering positive relations between Georgians and Abkhazians through
the avenue of university diplomacy. He sees Sokhumi University as a potential
center for conflict research in the region. The Minister commended Professor
Khonelidze's latest work, "The Georgian Paradigm of Peace," for its
analysis of the modern higher education system's role in addressing key public
life issues. Drawing from the European Union's new action platform, the
monograph introduces the concept of university diplomacy as a novel approach to
international relations and diplomacy. It also explores Georgia's geopolitical,
geoeconomic, and cultural-civilizational resources, proposing that these can
serve as unifying factors for the region. Minister Chkhenkeli expressed
confidence that the book will be met with significant interest from society and
contribute to the processes of self-renewal, conflict resolution, and the
establishment of universal peace. The Minister's remarks underscore the
importance of Sokhumi State University's role in shaping positive relations and
fostering academic approaches to conflict resolution in the region.
The Honorary Doctor of Sokhumi State
University, Academician Roin Metrevel, expressed the utmost significance of
Professor Zurab Khonelidze's new book, "Georgian Paradigm of Peace."
Acknowledging the wealth of diplomatic and academic expertise wielded by the
author, Metrevel underscored the book's paramount importance, noting that it
fearlessly addresses acute and relevant issues facing the country. He went on
to describe the book as a guide for governance. Metrevel emphasized the
centrality of university diplomacy in the book, seeing it as synonymous with
high-quality education, which, in turn, ensures a promising future for the
country. Expressing pride in having Professor Zurab Khonelidze in Georgia,
Academician Roin Metrevel lauded the existence of the book, "Georgian
Paradigm of Peace," as a valuable contribution to both academia and
governance. The acknowledgment highlights the dual role of the book as a source
of academic insight and a practical guide for those in positions of leadership.
"I will do everything to ensure that
Sokhumi State University takes its rightful place in the university space.
Here, where intellectual work takes place, where the new generation acquires
professions and relevant skills, effective results can be achieved. That is why
we chose the words: 'Knowledge-builder' as the slogan of our university. There
is no doubt that the success of the university is a prerequisite for the
success of the Georgian state," declared Mr. Zurab Khonelidze.
In response to this commitment and the
publication of his significant work, the academic and administrative staff of
Sokhumi State University extend their congratulations to Rector Zurab
Khonelidze. They express their collective well-wishes for success in both his
university and diplomatic endeavors. This recognition emphasizes the importance
of his leadership and the university's pivotal role as a knowledge-builder in
shaping the future generation and contributing to the success of the Georgian
state.
