2016-08-11
Abundance of visitors is noticeable near Keselo towers today - Omalo is hosting traditional holiday - "Tushetoba". Prime Minister of Georgia attended the public celebrations. Giorgi Kvirikashvili congratulated Tushetian shepherds and local residents on "Tushetoba" holiday.
"I welcome the most gorgeous region of Georgia. Without undue modesty let me emphasize that this region is gem of the country, the most renowned artifact of Georgia's historical and cultural heritage. I am glad to be celebrating Tushetoba together with you. First and foremost, I would like to thank local residents for preserving this gorgeous region. I am glad to see so many young people participating in these celebrations. Firstly, I would like to congratulate Tushetian shepherds. Congratulations are due since they contributed greatly to the fact that the region remains inhabited. This is a heroic endeavor and each of you, each of the Tushetian resident here is a shield of Georgia performing the function of border guard of the country's North Eastern border. Your heroism preserved this culture for us - beautiful culture that we can observe here today and that we are rightfully proud of," - Prime Minister noted.
According to him, the Government pays particular attention to development of Tusheti that has large tourism potential. Pursuant to Giorgi Kvirikashvili, a tender on projecting Tusheti road has already been announced.
"This road will be constructed by all means and this modern route of European standards will join capital of Georgia and Tusheti, to ensure that tourists cover the distance as swiftly and safely as possibly. Routes joining mountainous regions are also important. We are working on this project, since otherwise it will be impossible to preserve this region and this culture for future generations. This road will be multifunctional in the sense of tourism development, to ensure higher income for local residents and foster their motivation to establish more small hotels and develop local crafting traditions. The road will also have security function, since this is our borderline region, hence, ensuring that it remains inhabited is crucial. It will definitely serve the purpose of preserving cultural heritage as well, since this task will be rendered unattainable without road, communication and relevant infrastructure," - Prime Minister noted.
Within the frames of the celebrations, head of the Government conducted a meeting with Tushetian shepherds and explored their everyday problems. He thanked Tushetian shepherds and emphasized importance of their efforts.
"You do not only work here, you protect Georgian soil and our border." - Prime Minister noted in his conversation with Tushetian shepherds. He tasked Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Dimitri Kumsishvili to study problems of shepherds and provide maximum support to them.
Within the frames of "Tushetoba 2016", Prime Minister visited Center of the Visitors of protected Areas and exhibition of Tushetian handmade items; he tasted Tushetian dishes, attended celebratory concert, archery competitions and other traditional martial arts games.
"Tushetoba" celebrations are closely related to the ancient profession of local population - sheep breeding and, is market every August starting from last century.
Prime Minister's Press Office