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.