The story of potential success and prosperity continues: Sakartvelo has already proven that it is, and will continue to be, a genuine hub of peace and friendship between the peoples of the world. Too bold a statement? Perhaps, but the historical opportunity that has fallen straight into our hands must be nurtured and upheld by the entire nation. In fact, there is no better path for this beautiful land’s survival and success. This remarkable international project, based and accomplished in Sakartvelo, carries a long but very meaningful title: ‘The Multifunctional International Valley of Peace and Friendship for Peoples of the World, Football Stars, Olympic Champions, and World Titleholders.’
March 25 was a significant day in laying the foundation for this project, which was initiated, organized, and led by Nikoloz Makharadze-Patarklishvili, the founder of the Argentina House in Georgia and the United Nations Ambassador for Arts and Literature in the country. Crowds gathered at the site of this future global endeavor, located at the foot of the Man & Sun Monument by Zurab Tsereteli, the world-renowned Georgian artist, sculptor, architect, and UNESCO goodwill ambassador. People came to witness the enthusiastic public support for this outstanding international project, grounded in our national values, ideals, and inspirational standards.
Among the supporters were the founders of the Georgian National Olympic Committee, Tengiz Gachechiladze and Paata Natsvlishvili, Olympic and world champions Nino Salukvadze, Rusudan Khoperia, and Inga Giorgobiani, Givi Abdushelishvili, counselor to the National Academy of Sciences, and many other public figures, including representatives from the arts, culture, sports, the Patriarchy, and the Government. The most vibrant part of the day was the young football players, dressed in their field uniforms and equipped with custom-made soccer balls under their well-trained feet, standing alongside teenage folk dancers, both boys and girls, dressed in colorful Georgian national costumes.
The author of these words was also honored to be present at the event. The foundation of this Valley of Fame is one of the most prominent components of the fruitful cooperation between Georgia and the countries of the well-known Latin American free-trade and cultural union, MERCOSUR. The belief is that the development of upcoming cooperation with the member countries of the alliance will provide a strong impetus to Georgia’s promotion on the international stage as a bridge for peace, friendship, and cooperation – a country positioned at the crossroads of the East and West, North and South.
Our connection with the nations of MERCOSUR envisions the enhancement of multilateral tourism, profitable business deals, meaningful cultural ties, and, to the greatest delight of our football fans, the revival and promotion of Georgian football to world-class standards. Regular air flights between Georgia and Latin America are also planned, which could potentially stimulate both regions’ national economies. The much-discussed Valley will be a harbinger of numerous sporting events, planned by relevant national federations and international associations, including the GNOC, FIFA, and UEFA.
The founders and promoters of the Valley, who symbolically laid its foundation two weeks ago near Tbilisi International Airport, are not alone in their patriotic endeavor. The Government of Georgia is fully involved, prepared to support the actual construction of the Valley. The Tbilisi City Council and the Mayor’s office have been tasked by the Administration to manage the project and ensure its completion. It is certain that leaders from various countries will show interest in helping bring the project to fruition, given the historical, cultural, natural, geographic, climatic, recreational, and other assets Georgia possesses.
In addition to the Georgian government’s support, the active participation of the United Nations, UNESCO, and UNOTA in implementing the project is also anticipated. As the saying goes, the more, the merrier!
Blog by Nugzar B. Ruhadze
