PRESIDENT DR. ANTON CARAGEA WELCOMES 2016 TOURISM AMBASSADORS

The World Ambassadors Meeting and Working Lunch on Tourism and Hospitality has taken place on 9^th of February 2016 at the world tourism institution headquarters of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea receives accredited ambassadors for World Ambassadors Meeting and Working Lunch on 9 February 2016. 

 

The first ambassadorial meeting on tourism reunited European members states parliamentarians, representatives of European tourism organizations and members of the diplomatic corps.

The World Ambassadors Working Lunch on Tourism was generously hosted by theEuropean Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT)and has benefited the presence of the ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Bolivarian Ambassador is  expresing his gratitude towards European Council on Tourism and Trade role as a leading world tourism institution (from left to right).

 

The Diplomatic corps gathering, is taken place on an annual basis and is representing a great opportunity for networking and also for keeping the Embassies informed on what theWorld Lectures on Sustainable Development Goals Programs of European Tourism Academywill try to achieve during the year and also to provide an outlook for the coming year 2016 in terms of tourism in Europe and the world.

 

The event received a very high representation of accredited diplomatic corps,  parliament representatives, European Tourism Academy, European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 

On this occasion Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had officially entrusted insignias and diplomas for the representative of the hospitality industry of Europe and recognized ROYAL HOTELS in Bucharest and Constanta as official diplomatic partners and entrusted the HIGH QUALITY PRIZES for the two hotels.

 

Other points of discussions included an update on International and European Tourism trends in 2015 and a presentation of a list of most successfully tourism driven economies in the last year (Ethiopia, Laos) and the latest publications emanating from European Tourism Academy members.

Academician Walter Mzembi-Minister of Tourism of Zimbabwe took the limelight, with his articles and interviews series on combating tourism and mass media manipulation in tourism industry.

 

Ambassadors from United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Syria, Macedonia, Albania, South Africa, Venezuela, Nigeria, Danemark, Sweden  had taken the floor highlighting their countries plans for tourism development and hopes pinned on winning World Best Tourist Destination Award or World Capital of Culture and Tourism designations.

 

The names of the ambassadors who will be invited for Spring 2016 DISCOVER EUROPE  PROGRAM will be announced in March 2016 and the trip will start in April and will showcase Republic of  Moldavia beauties announcedEuropean Council on Tourism and Trade President, Dr. Anton Caragea.

The meeting concluded with an introduction of the main activities of the diplomatic calendar for the first quarter of 2016, a presentation on the upcoming February 2016 Tourism Fair and International food and Beverage Exhibition-Goodwine April 2016.

The photos from World Ambassadors Meeting and Working Lunch on Tourism can be observed here:

PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA SPEECH IN FAVOR OF ZIMBABWE-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

On the occasion of the General Assembly of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea held a key note speech analyzing the efforts of Lao PDR, former receiver of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014 and praising ZIMBABWE the new receiver of the world most important touristic distinction:  WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

The full presentation of the speeches and activities held on this occasion can be read here:

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy presented a report on the 2013 Award for the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos. He stated that the

Republic of Laos had leveraged the award in accordance with rules and regulations, which proved useful for attracting new tourists and investors.

In 2013, Laos PDR recorded the highest increase in the number of incoming tourists in the world with a staggering 8% increase during the 2013/2014, despite the world economic crisis.

An increase in investment, in the country’s tourism potential and the number of foreign visitors were the positive outcomes of the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for Lao PDR, concluded Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea also praised the outstanding commitment and achievements of Laos tourism in 2013. Laos PDR also boosted its international presence, with European companies and tour operators that advertised sites and trips to Laos PDR increasing from 1.500 to 3.200 in less than a year.

On internet, the number of pages promoting Laos biodiversity and tourism facilities increased from 20 million to more than 50 million, an unrivalled increase in the recent history of tourism marketing on internet.

The 8% growth of the tourism industry, during these times of worldwide economic recession, is also unmatched by any other country, said ECTT President-Professor Dr.Anton Caragea.

On the debate for the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presented a report titled: ZIMBABWE: THE PERFECT AFRICAN DESTINATION; A SEVEN-WONDER DESTINATION IN TOURISM AND CULTURAL POTENTIAL.

He proposed ZIMBABWE as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 and as receiver of the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2014.

The report noted that the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 to ZIMBABWE were the following:

 The excellent organization of the 20th Session of the World Tourism Organization General Assembly from 24-30 August 2013. The world gathering brought together tourism experts from more than 120 countries.

 The successful organizing of this world event, inspite of huge logistic and economic challenges, proves without doubt, the capacity of Zimbabwe Government and the tourism industry’s capacity to organize world level events.

Following a magnificent vision and the organisation of a successful world tourism meeting, ZIMBABWE has unequivocally demonstrated that it is a safe, open and perfect tourism destination.

The support offered to the promotion of Community Based Tourism, which ensures the survival of sustainable tourism, with its with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species in Southern Africa. Community based ecotourism, promoted by Minister Walter Mzembi, is a perfect way of sharing revenue that supports rural communities’ prosperity through opportunities to market their foodstuffs and handicrafts to the world. The way in which eco-tourism has become the base for local economic development, providing benefits to communities, makes eco-friendly tourism the lesson that the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is offering to the world.

 Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places such as: the unique landscape of Victoria Falls; the National Parks such the Eastern Highlands in Manicaland; the Mana Pools in Mashonaland West; Exfoliated Hills from Matebeland; Chilojo Cliffs in Masvingo and the Matobo Hills near Bulawayo etc. All these regions and national parks, are a model of achieving ecological and green tourism that must be recognized throughout the world.

 The ongoing development and protection of cultural and historical shrines of the Republic of Zimbabwe, the transformation of Harare into a historical and spiritual centre, offering to the visitors a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of Zimbabwe.

 The preservation of outstanding historical and cultural heritage in the form of the former capital of the Shona Kingdom, the Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo, a fortified palatial complex from the 12th Century, offering a rare insight into one of the greatest pre-colonial civilizations of Africa, and a rare window into centuries old traditions.

 Today, Great Zimbabwe Monument also offers tourists an open air museum with a rare collection of historical and archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

 The preservation of cultural and natural sites of world significance and value such as: Great Zimbabwe National Monument (added to UNESCO list in 1986), Khami Ruins National Monument (added to UNESCO list in 1986), Matobo Hills (added to UNESCO list in 2003), Mana Pools National Park, Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas (added to UNESCO list in 1984), Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls and UNESCO candidate regions as: Ziwa National Monuments dating from the Stone Age period, make destination Zimbabwe to offer an incomparable contribution to the world legacy.

 The REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is today a hot spot for adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this special kind of tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to welcome the adventure seeker, its safety and peace, makes the country, one of the world’s top adventure destinations.

 Keeping alive indigenous traditions, allows tourists and visitors to be part of the Zimbabwe people’s social fabric, which offers the possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that make the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE a first class destination.

After hearing the report, Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, from the Romanian Parliament and Director of European Parliamentary Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade expressed the views of all present at the gathering when he declared that the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is the deserving candidate, with a perfect record of promoting eco-friendly tourism, ecological and socially oriented tourism, and that only a unanimous vote in favor of the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, could express the unwavering European tourism and economic communities’ support for such a world model.

Mr. Victor Deleanu, ECTT rapporteur also presented a report titled “ZIMBABWE: A HOT SPOT OF ADVENTURE TOURISM” which praised the country for its safety record, infrastructure and hospitality industry’s achievements that make Zimbabwe an attractive destination in Africa.

Mr. Mihai Prundianu, Chairman of the Trade Mission of the ECTT, also highlighted the importance of the moment as the continent celebrated 50 years of African Unity, it is appropriate for Europe to express its commitment to, and appreciation for, Africa by crowning ZIMBABWE THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.

At the end of the debate, European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 TITLE TO REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE and to declare REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.

The meeting was also presented with the Official Invitation, from the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality of the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, for a delegation of high ranking officials of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Harare, in person, to His Excellency President of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE ROBERT GABRIEL MUGABE, the most outstanding personality in Africa today.

Awarding the highest world tourism prize of the European Council on Tourism and Trade; accepting the invitation for a working visit of high ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade to the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, are all momentous occasions and evidence of the admiration that all tourism experts have for the potential and future of tourism in REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, concluded Professor Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade at the end of the meeting.

PRESIDENT OFFICE OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND

TRADE (ECTT)

 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: A FORCE OF PEACE AND EQUILIBRIUM IN THE MIDDLE EAST

In 2013, United Arab Emirates celebrated in pomp, ceremony and joy the 42 anniversary of National Day.

Forty-two is in the life of men`s a time of reflection and decisions, in time of nations is barely a time of beginnings. United Arab Emirates are having a lot to appreciate and to be proud off in all this short span of time.

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan: the founding father of United Arab Emirates

 

In 1968, when the British empire was living his last hours in the region, the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan was to create a state of equilibrium and a force of moderation in the Arabic Gulf area. Squeezed between the emerging power of Shah`s Iran and of Saudi Arabian Kingdom, the small Gulf states could only envisage a future of moderation and balancing in order to survive.

Today, this policy of moderation and equilibrium carved out by the funding father of UAE-Sheikh Zayed and continued by his successor Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed is reaching a peach of recognition and appreciation worldwide and also is receiving  international plaudit`s as a pillar of security and development in the area.

 

UAE: THE FORCE OF MODERATION AND THE MODERATION OF FORCE.

In 1971, when the flag of United Arab Emirates reach out for the first time to the sky, the country inaugurated what will be a long tradition of moderating tension and avoiding confrontation, in an area where neither one or the other is lacking. United Arab Emirates inaugurated their presence on international stage by repulsing Iran attempts to take advantage of the British withdrawal and saving the region from an all-out conflict.

This policy of negotiation and appeasement re-surfaced during Iran-Iraq war, when United Arab Emirates wise and calibrated policies assured the continuing flow of oil by the straits of Hormuz and avoided regional escalation. The support for Kuwait independence in 1990 and the moderation policy in all the tensions of the areas had gained recognition for the country as a force of stability and continuity in foreign policy of the troubled region.

As UAE Foreign Minister stated to the United Nations, the driving force of UAE foreign commitment is build upon “the principles of peaceful coexistence, peaceful resolution of the international disputes and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states”.

These principles insured a high standing of United Arab Emirates in the world and also in the Arab region, during the so called Arab spring.

United Arab Emirates straightforward policy of rejecting internal interference, of supporting human rights and rejecting support for terrorism, had enshrined the name of United Arab Emirates in the heart of every Arab, as a country of stability and order.

A country that is building and not destroying, a country that is protecting and not killing hopes and peoples.

The lesson of United Arab Emirates, that knows how to moderate his force by obeying to the international norms is a golden lesson that makes today UAE a beacon of hope in a troubled region.

UAE: A FORCE FOR HUMANITY.

The Arab convulsions left in tatters a huge region, from North of Africa to the Middle east and millions of people refuges, displaced or victim of hunger in their own countries.

In a time of insecurity and predicament, the United Arab Emirates shared their influence and power to alleviate sufferance`s   across the region.

Hundreds of millions of dollars where directed to the refugees camps in Jordan or Lebanon, in one camp alone 20.000 peoples are regularly protected and all their needs meet by the help of United Arab Emirates.

Lorries loaded with humanitarian aid for Syrian refugees

 

In the troubled hit Egypt, UAE had poured 4.9 USD billion to support economic recovery and to insure the road to economic stability as a precondition for political equilibrium.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, had clearly marked this generous help is conditioned by “a policy of peace, security, tolerance and love” that will insure stability in the country and the world.

The same helping hands can be seen  across the Palestine territory,  supporting the legitimate right of Palestinian state in 1967 borders and Al Quds al Sharif ( Jerusalem) as his capital.

From Pakistan and India to Nepal and Kenya, Morocco and Guinea, UAE is sponsoring projects of education, irrigation, poverty eradication and promoting equality of chances and development of rural communities in celebrated initiatives as: Dress One Million Needy Children, a project destined to provide clothing to one million poor children across the world.

By the size of his humanitarian projects sponsored across the world, related to the population and surface UAE ranks the second in the world in front of countries like United States, Japan or Italy etc.

The most recent disaster stricken country, Philippines, received on the spot 10 million’s dollars to help the authorities cope with the humanitarian crisis.

This long track record of assistance  and donor capacities made Sheikh Khalifa to describe his country as “a state of giving, pace and security”.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan-UAE President wants to create a state of peace, security and generosity

 

UAE: OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

The positive force of UAE is not only reaching far and wide, but is starting from the home build miracle.

In the last two decades United Arab Emirates had succeeded to build a promised land for more than 200 nationalities and developed his economy by a staggering 200 times, comparing with the independence year-1971.

This powerful economic development is shared also with  the communities of expats and foreign workers, that contributed to this economic miracle , most recent a three year plan, envisage to spend 36 USD billion to improve health, educational and material conditions of working force in UAE.

All this having as a goal, to create a society that is “a paradise for citizens and foreigners alike, that are living in peace in a tolerant community and free from segregation and injustice.”

The economic development of UAE is not only building his capacity as a donor for  humanitarian projects, but is also insuring his capacity to develop economic project`s around the world.

Solar powered plants are build today in Mauritania and Morocco, solar technologies are having a hub in the Masdar Institute of Technology and Masdar City and environmental projects are providing a life worth living for millions around the world.

All regional economies are benefiting from continuous economic miracle build by the emirates. This force of reaching and affecting the life`s of everyone gets a new confirmation in the crushing vote in supporting Dubai as host of World Expo 2020.

From Romania in Central Europe to United States in American continent and Arab and African countries, everyone has supported   Dubai role as a hub for new technologies, tourism, and economic development and as center of the new Silk Road, connecting China-Europe and South America via Africa.

After being declared World Best Tourist Destination in 2008, now as a host of World Expo 2020 United Arab Emirates are having a new opportunity to create the future by connecting minds, as the logo of the new world exhibition is proclaiming.

Masdar City-an area of clean , solar energy.

 

LESSONS FROM UAE.

What are the lessons of all this 42 years of this emotion full adventure, that we call United Arab Emirates?

Off course, economists, politicians and cultural experts will draw many conclusion for how to make a nation building, but I will settled for two major conclusion.

The force of UAE is projecting is the force of moderation , a powerful and rich country that is not using his influence in fostering conflicts and confrontation but in building nations, supporting humanitarian causes and promoting world unity and cooperation.

Second is the success of the model of inclusiveness.

UAE did not build walls of segregation`s and created an economic miracle for citizens and foreigners alike, a society constructed on solidarity will survive, one build on separation will succumb, this is the lesson that UAE is teaching the world.

Witnessing the 42 anniversary of UAE you might be in awe from the tall Burj Khalifa, or admire the economic productivity of Dubai World or to be inspired by the Dubai winning bid for World Expo 2020, but what I found most inspiring was the multitude of people, coming from all the corners of the world, wearing the T-shirts or signs of funding fathers of UAE in a sign of gratitude for the country that targets to be a paradise for all: United Arab Emirates.

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM LAUNCH A SPECIAL EDITION

On 1 June, 2013 at the headquarters of European Council on Tourism and Trade the latest issue of European Journal of Tourism has being unveiled.

The 8^th edition of the European Journal of Tourism is dedicated to LAOS-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2013.

Laos has being unanimously elected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in 2013 for his fabulous historic and civilization legacy and for his outstanding track record for safety of tourism and for ethical and green tourism.

Benefiting the legacy of Kingdoms of Lan Xang, Luang Prabang, Champasak etc Laos is rich in temples , palaces and historical places that is quasi unique in the world. Also the rich Buddhist heritage is creating the favorable spot for religious and cultural oriented travel.

The latest issue of European journal of Tourism is presenting in extensor the debates hold on the award, the list of competing countries and   the long list of reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD to Laos.

Other high-profile articles are dedicated to: the ceremonies held in Vientiane for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and to the election as member of European Tourism Academy of Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR, Bosengkham Vongdara.

Special highlights of the eight number of European Journal of Tourism are also the visit of the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation in Laos and the agreements reached on fostering touristic and diplomatic relations between Europe and Laos.

Two pages are dedicated to photo chronic`s to showcase the luxurious ceremonies for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2013 held in Laos.

 

European Journal of Tourism is a regular publication of European Council on Tourism and Trade destined to disseminate information`s about World Best Tourist destinations, European tourism statistic, evolution`s, laws, regulations and main event`s.

European Journal of Tourism has an average readership for issue of more than 120.000 professional’s that includes the 180 embassies in Europe as well as all major European government institutions, private corporations and the international community at large. As the flagship newspaper of the European tourism community, we are the only publication in the Europe able to reach the tourism highly targeted and lucrative market.

 

Read on-line the LAOS WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 special issue of EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM ON ISSUE

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM ON SCRIBD

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM ON YOUBLISHER

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM ON CALAMEO

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM ON SLIDESHARE 

LAOS-SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL- BECOMES WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

SPEECH BY H.E. PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA-PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

Vientiane, Lao PDR, 9 May 2013

Your Excellency Mr. Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,

Your Excellency`s distinguish members of Government of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao

Distinguish guests ,

We have all gather here to pay homage to an idea and to a country that embodies this idea.

The idea is encompass in the simple truth that: in XXI century tourism has become a bridge towards  knowledge and friendship between peoples and countries , a way to promote peace and understanding , a road that leads towards a better future.

We have also gather here to express our appreciation for a country and a people  that will embody in 2013 this triumphant spirit of tourism: the people of Lao.

I must re-emphasize that: tourism is in the XXI century, not only a way to enjoy life, to discover new places, new cultures but also a mass phenomenon that combines sightseeing, recreation and health care.

Tourism has become, in the world today, an intrinsic value of human life and experience and what I like to call a natural right of all people: the right to move freely, to express freely and to enjoy a life of adventure and discoveries.

Undoubtedly, for a country tourism is a constant and serious source of revenue, is becoming an important factor to promote development, to build roads, to offer to people a source of income and employment, a source of prosperity.

But, material significance of tourism must not elapse the true value of tourism: as a  way for people`s to build bridges of friendship and tolerance , to discover different cultures, ideas and way`s of life, to embrace the beauty of being different .

We must also clearly mark that: tourism must be based on a set of values such as nature preservation, cultural and historical patrimony conservation for future generation and exactly for this need we have carved WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD  as an international recognition for the country`s that are respecting this values .

I must say what a privilege is for our delegation  to honor a country that is becoming a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

It is also a great pleasure to address our salute to the great people of  Lao, a people that had build throughout centuries a perfect civilization, with hundreds of monuments of historical and civilization relevance ,a people that had offered to humanity countless riches: from religious temple and scriptures to literary texts and historical writings .

Today, Lao had become a cultural and touristic world power and the main credit belongs, without a doubt, to the great people of Laos, that from 1975 onwards is constructing a life of dignity, liberty and tolerance in a free country.

Today, in a world that rarely accepts and tolerates difference, we come to honor a country of TOLERANCE, in a world crowded with pseudo-culture, without a form and substance ,  we come today to honor a TRUE CULTURE , in a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real  TOURISTIC VALUE, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for historical sites  preservation , we come to honor a PARADISE OF HISTORY , we come to honor the People`s Democratic Republic of LAO .

Here, we have all gather to show our support for the  values of  humanity, of educational and cultural tourism . We are all here in the search for a country that offer to tourists a complete experience , a country that educates spirit, elevates soul and gives everybody a lesson in history and culture.

We all have found in LAO the perfect teacher in tourism, offering to all the tourist`s of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening tourist experience.

Among the reasons leading to awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS our report had taken under consideration:

–  The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 12th century, the remarkable site from Plain of Jars, offering an insight into Neolithic civilization and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

A name that needs no introduction:  the UNESCO heritage site of Luang Prabang, with the gems of Haw Kham and Vat Xieng Toung monastery.

I could continue for hours this list of treasures, but I will enumerate just in  Vientiane- Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple of the city and the world famous That Luang complex.

Today, Lao is offering an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

– The preservation of religious sites of world significance and value such as: Wat Xieng Thong,  one of the most important of world Buddhism monasteries and remains a significant place for the spirit of religion and traditional art. Other sites that must be mentioned such as: Wat Phu ( UNESCO heritage site) and Champasak Cultural Landscape ( under UNESCO recognition).

Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the Lao people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO in a spiritual destination of first hand.

–                      Promoting a new concept of  community based tourism, friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

Community based ecotourism is a way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting there foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make the base for an economic local development.                  Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering a social tourism it is a lesson that Lao is offering to the world.

Supporting Lao community tourism project as a way to spread wealth, it is a duty for everybody and one of the main reason for portraying Laos as a world example of democratic tourism , a tourism that is not only offering benefits to the rich, but to all people. Lao example must be appreciated and supported , and all tourist that are going to Lao must know that an investment in Lao tourism is an investment in the future of Lao people.

–                      Offering to tourists not only a historical and outstanding cultural experience but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: Nam Ngum reservoir , Bolaven plateau, Mekong river islands , Mekong river boat trip , Tad Kouangsi  waterfall , the cave of de Ting . All this are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized .

–                      The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO, the transformation of Vientiane  in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of  peoples of Lao.

For all this reasons, among many others, European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS and to declare PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2013.

This title is an international recognition of  Your work for Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO  until today, in the service of history and civilization, tourism and culture , in the service of the people of  LAO,  but is also a challenge because now we are expecting your services in the future benefit of the world culture and tourism.

May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO , for a sustainable tourism  and development and in a base for further success for SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL – Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO .

 

Is my privileged to award Your Excellency, as representative of tourism of PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS  the award  for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 .

 

We congratulate You and people of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO for this outstanding   achievements.

 

DUBAI WILL HOST WORLD EXPO 2020, DECLARES PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA, MA, FINS, EDA

On 4 April 2013, in the luxurious and impressive surroundings of Palace of Parliament, the Official Opening of the Exhibition DUBAI-CAPITAL OF WORLD EXPO 2020 took place.

Yacoub Yousif Al Hosani – UAE Ambassador sharing the Welcome ( Marhaba)  Coffee with president of Chamber of Deputies-Valeriu Zgonea.

The exhibition organized by Embassy of United Arab Emirates in Romania and Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation is destined to express Romania’s cultural and political elite support for Dubai candidature to host WORLD EXPO 2020 International exhibition.

The opening ceremony was held in the presence of President of Chamber of Deputies-Valeriu Stefan Zgonea.

Present on the venue where also : members of European Council on Tourism,  representatives of Romanian Parliament and Romanian Government, members of  Diplomatic Corp accredited to Romania and countless Romanian and foreign diplomat’s, academicians, personalities of culture and art etc.

Professor dr.Anton Caragea MA,FINS opening the support exhibition for Dubai`s bid for WORLD EXPO 2020.

In the opening speech, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, Director of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation (IRICE) had underlined that DUBAI-CAPITAL OF WORLD EXPO 2020 Art Exhibition is destined to offer the   official support of Parliament and Government of Romania to the bilateral relationship between Romania and United Arab Emirates, viewed as a strategic relationship for the future of both nations.

″Dubai must and will be the host of EXPO 2020 as it  have received more than 51 millions visitors last year and more than 10 million long-term visitors have stayed in the city in 2012 alone. Also Dubai is the most dynamic city in the Arabic Golf, encompassing more than 200 nationalities and hosting over 200 events yearly.  Dubai is the driving force of the region in term of economic development and is the symbol of geopolitical shift towards Asia as the main engine of economic growth. Dubai had also allocated the most generous resources for the venue of 2020 WORLD EXPO and is the natural center of the trade roads connecting South Asia, Europe and South America via Africa, in what is today called the XXI Century New Silk Road.

Electing Dubai is the practical thing to do for Romania and the world, is what the common sense dictate and the most successful choice″, concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

President of Chamber of Deputies-Valeriu Stefan Zgonea express his staunch support for a strategic relations: Romania-United Arab Emirates. 

Taking the floor, President of Chamber of Deputies-Valeriu Stefan Zgonea had outlined the main reasons of support: ″ United Arab Emirates are the natural gateway for Romanian products, funds and people to the open gates of Asia and reciprocally Romania is via Constanta Harbour the natural gate for UAE products and investment towards Europe. This is creating the background of a long-term and strategic relations between our countries ″ concluded in thunderous applause the President of Chamber of Deputies.

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei express the firm and unwavering support for Dubai:Host of WORLD EXPO 2020.

 

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei had conveyed a full hearted message of support: ″Romania’s decision to support the candidacy for EXPO 2020 of Dubai city is just one episode of this collaboration and friendship.

Between Romania and the United Arab Emirates there is a long tradition of over 25 years of diplomatic cooperation and there is a noteworthy decision to mutually support their applications and all international initiatives and international organizations.

Therefore the Romania’s decision to support the candidacy of Dubai city for EXPO 2020 was a natural decision, inscribed in the mutual agreements and part of the long tradition of diplomatic cooperation between the two countries.

Here we are united in support of the UAE, our strategic partner in the Arabian Gulf, both the government and the opposition support together Romanian’s national interest to cooperate with the United Arab Emirates.

Finally I want to wish every success in his mission to bring the two countries, to His Excellency Yacoub Yousif Al Hosani, and UAE Ambassador to Romania and appreciate the contribution of Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, director of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation in making this special event and exhibition″

The speech of former. President of Romania Mr.Emil Constantinescu expressed the fact that: ″ it is no surprise that Dubai has won the support of Romania, a natural choice since Romania is interested in all three major objectives which Dubai Expo has proposed: sustainable development, energy and water saving, support the mobility of people, goods and ideas in what Dubai has called: The New Silk Road of the XXI   century and the discovery of new economic opportunities and new development models.

Therefore I can only congratulate the Government and Parliament of Romania for the decision to support Dubai in achieving its ambitious goals for the World Expo. I also congratulate the UAE Embassy for their success ″.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu express the European view: only Dubai can host WORLD EXPO 2020.

 

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director in European Council on Tourism stated that: our institution and the European Tourism Academy are restating the same unconditional support for the bid of Dubai, to become the host of the World Expo 2020, and to confirm the idea that “Nothing shapes the world like the imagination.”

All the political declaration that followed underlined the fact that there is a general sense of unity among opposition and power alike in the Parliament in supporting the strategic relationship Romania-United Arab Emirates.

The speakers recalled that last year after Romanian announce of support for Astana (capital of Kazakhstan bid to WORLD EXPO 2017) the city of Astana won the bid to host the world expo. Everybody express the hope that, after today’s support for Dubai, and the city of Dubai will win WORLD EXPO 2020 bid.

UAE Ambassador – Yacoub Yousif Al Hosani states his appreciation for the Romanian support for Dubai-WORLD EXPO 2020 host.

In an emotion charged speech, UAE Ambassador – Yacoub Yousif Al Hosani took the stand and expresses his appreciation for the showered praises and feelings of support express toward his country. This solidarity and the desire of building an improved connection is a guarantee that the present day perfect political bilateral relation and economic investments of United Arab Emirates in Romania are just the beginning of a developing relation.

Mahmood Al Bastaki, CEO of Dubai Trade Center outlined Dubai preparations to host EXPO 2020.

 

In the end Mr. Mahmood Al Bastaki, CEO of Dubai Trade Center had presented a short movie about Dubai preparations to host EXPO 2020 and stated that the WORLD EXPO 2020 in Dubai will be a universally shared success.

The final moments of the ceremony were dedicated to a stroll along 36 huge photos of today’s Dubai landmarks, observed traditional UAE handcrafts and then the guests enjoyed a huge cake named in honor of DUBAI-HOST OF WORLD EXPO 2020

The Exhibition DUBAI-CAPITAL OF WORLD EXPO 2020 was broadcasted by 6 Romanian televisions’ (, Realitatea TV, B1TV,  TVR 1, National TV, N24 Plus and Travel Mix) and receives dozens of favourable reviews in the press supplementary emphasizing the strong impression left by United Arab Emirates  to Romanian public.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea receives a symbol of United Arab Emirates from Ambassador Yacoub Yousif Al Hosani.

 

The Exhibition DUBAI-CAPITAL OF WORLD EXPO 2020 was registered as a sign of Romanian determination to re-candle a traditional connection with the Arab world and was highly appreciated by all Arab diplomatic corp present to the event.

The Exhibition DUBAI-CAPITAL OF WORLD EXPO 2020  had being transformed in a powerful landmark in the bilateral relation, a prefect moment to boost Romania-UAE friendship and to insure for Romania a place along side the winner of WORLD EXPO 2020: DUBAI.

Coffee making.

United Arab Emirates traditions

Visitors crowding the Palace of Parliament to see Dubai Exhibition.

Dubai exhibition in the Palace of Parliament

Romanian support for Dubai-Host of World Expo 2020

The Huge Cake honoring DUBAI-CAPITAL OF WORLD EXPO 2020

Ambassadors of Palestine, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia and Albania cutting the Huge Cake dedicated to Dubai World Expo 

PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA MA, FINS, EDA- PRESIDENT OF EUROPE-ASIA CONFERENCE

OUTSTANDING DIPLOMATIC SUCCESS: THE CONFERENCE PLATFORM FOR PEACE AND SECURITY IN EUROPE AND ASIA

ROMANIAN SUPPORT FOR PRESIDENT NURSULTAN NAZARBAYEV INITIATIVE FOR PEACE IN XXI CENTURY

Romania had hosted, with an unprecedented success, the Conference in support of the PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA. The Bucharest Conference was the most important strategic and analytic conference in 2012, related to Europe-Asia relation.

The debate was held in the presence of the diplomatic corps accredited to Romania and  of academic corps from Romania and Europe.

The main focus on the conference agenda was the analysis of the Kazakhstan Presidency global drive for peace, an initiative launched in September 2012 at the CICA Assembly ( Conference for Confidence Building Measures in Central Asia) in Astana.

During the academic and diplomatic debates the rostrum was occupied by lofty personalities of romanian and international public life such as: Romanian President Mr. Emil Constantinescu, President of Romanian Parliament-Valeriu Zgonea, Professor dr. Anton Caragea-Director of International Relations and Economic Cooperation Institute , President of Grampet Group and Chairman of Romania-Kazakhstan Business Council – Mr. Gruia Stoica, Director of European Diplomatic Academy Mr. Mircea Constantinescu, H.E. Kazakhstan Ambassador Mr. Talgat Kaliyev, representatives on behalf of Romanian Government etc.

In the opening speech of the conference, the President of Romanian Parliament Mr. Valeriu Zgonea had underlined the full support and backing of Romania towards Kazakhstan peace initiative and specially the Romanian side appreciation towards President Nursultan Nazarbayev, the architect of an ambitious plan destined to insure peace in XXI century.

President Valeriu Zgonea had declared that: ″I wish to remark and appreciate the initiative of Kazakhstan Presidency, especially President Nursultan Nazarbayev to generate a global debate on the construction of the platform of euro-atlantic security and Eurasia security based on the tremendous success of Kazakhstan OSCE Chairmanship.

I will also thank the Kazakhstan Presidency , Romania`s strategic partner, for the important role offered to Bucharest Conference in the overall strategy to coagulate the PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AN ASIA.

The former Romanian President Mr. Emil Constantinescu had stated  on behalf of a dozen of Romanian and European civic and academic organization that ″the great contribution of such initiatives as the  PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA, build by President Nursultan Nazarbayev, to the architecture of security in Europe and the world, will undoubtedly be the wars that will never take place , because constructing such democratic and dialogue based organizations and  fostering of cooperation with civil society and strengthening of preventive diplomacy.

Do we still need peace initiative`s concluded president Emil Constantinescu? Yes. What for? For a safer world. For whom ? For us all! ″

His Excellency Talgat Kaliyev, Kazakhstan Charge d`affairs took the floor presenting the main features of the PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA. The new organization will have as main pillars to insure stability and cooperation in Eurasia, to insure that collective action by way of consensus and diplomatic measures and to enforce the respect of international law principles.    

Professor dr. Anton Caragea , Director of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation of Romania, had based his key note speech on the admiration of Romanian and European academic and diplomatic community on the impressive achievements of Kazakhstan in international arena as such: relinquishing nuclear weapons arsenal, building a developed economy, creating a safe area in Central Asia and the successful chairmanship of prestigious organization as : Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe  ( OSCE) and Organization of Islamic Conference.

In the final note of his central address to the conference, Professor dr. Anton Caragea emphasize that: ″after offering to the world the example of a modern nation building, a nation that efficiently strives to contribute to the world debates on crucial issues as: nuclear safety, resolving global economic crisis, the new proposal tabled by President Nursultan Nazarbayev promises to offer the solution to avoid a new global conflict in XXI century.

The Romanian replay to Kazakhstan initiative can be only one: a strong Yes, keeping in mind the long tradition of Romanian efforts towards global disarmament and the creation of a global security system.

The voice of Romania must stand shoulder to shoulder to Kazakhstan, in creating a   PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA as the only feasible solution towards insuring not only our national security but also to bring our contribution and voice to the great debate of XXI century″.

In his allocution, the President of Romania-Kazakhstan Business Council-Mr. Gruia Stoica had presented the economic interest of building such a PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA stating that only peace and global security, promised by Nazarbayev plan for XXI century, can insure the global prosperity and offer the medium for solving the global economic crisis.

Without peace, prosperity is just a dream, had wisely concluded President Gruia Stoica.

The Director of European Diplomatic Academy, Professor Mircea Constantinescu had underlined on behalf of European diplomatic community that: ″President Nazarbayev proposal to create a PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA is extremely timely, and is also a present day chart of the global and regional situation and also a risk factors analysis, risk factors that are putting in danger the economic stability, peace and world security″.

The tremendous diplomatic and academic success of the Conference on PLATFORM FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE AND ASIA was in itself a proof, not only of the strong interest showed by Romania and Europe towards the initiative launched by Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev for peace and cooperation in XXI century, but also showcase the exemplary capacity of Romania to outstanding mobilize and became a speaker for Europe in the support of the great plan for security in Eurasia.

ROMANIA-KAZAKHSTAN: 20 YEARS OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS

KAZAKHSTAN-ROMANIA : A STRATEGIC RELATION by professor dr. Anton Caragea MA, FINS, EDA

 

We have gathered here today in order to discuss about the remarkable achievements of the past 20 years of diplomatic relations, and above all, about the Romania- Kazakhstan friendship.

I shall not repeat all that has been discussed with so many details here: the extraordinary role of Kazakhstani investments in the Romanian energy sector, the amount of 3 billion $ speaks for itself about the essential role of these investments in the Romanian economy; therefore I do not aim to reiterate the extraordinary role of the Kazakhstani-Romanian cultural relations which will be enshrined by signing a new complete and broad bilateral agreement.

I wish to focus on a phrase found in the previous speeches and which calls upon the name of a current manifestation: Romania – Kazakhstan, a strategic partnership.
Very well, indeed, Romania has known how to be faithful to this concept and how to build a strategic partnership, for which I truly hope that will be applied not only for Central Asian countries but also for other states worldwide.
President Ion Iliescu and President Emil Constantinescu have described both clearly and with numerous details the importance and sometimes the difficulties of this strategic partnership in which both countries have known how to prove their friendship and interest in collaboration.

I shall mention only a few episodes of the past years showing the utility and the importance of this strategic partnership. In 2010, Kazakhstan was in charge of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Presidency in a tense environment in which the Russian and American concepts over the role and even of the organization’s utility were exacerbated, the last high level Summit of OSCE had taken place in 1999 at Istanbul and no compromise for any new summit was to be found.
It appeared impossible for young Kazakhstan, with its energetic but still young diplomacy to succeed this stunt.
Since the very first hours of the new presidency, Romania showed its availability to support Kazakhstani OSCE reformation and organizational reactivation concepts by means of a new high level summit. Romania had the wisdom along with Kazakhstani diplomacy to proceed in the best possible way : a summit of the wise held in Bucharest in which with calm, diplomacy and especially with strong arguments, the European intellectual elites and not only, were convinced of the OSCE reform necessity and of the organization’s future preservation through a new summit.
High ranked Romanian intellectual personalities such as President Ion Iliescu and President Emil Constantinescu took over the OSCE ideas’ flame and hence supported the OSCE reform. There was a clear test of how the strategic relations Romania – Kazakhstan functioned not only for the bilateral relation’s sake, but for the guardianship benefit of an organization with a notorious past, fallen in the shadows.
I was proud when the planted ideas in Bucharest, February of 2010 blossomed in Astana, December of 2010. It was more than Romania’s voice: it was the voice of Kazakhstan and of a functioning bilateral relation. When the world was wondering whether the Kazakhstan presidency would be a success, Romania gave an intellectual and resounding answer: YES.
Furthermore, at the Conference dedicated to 20 years of Kazakhstan independence in November 2011, the intellectual and academic Romanian elite under the guidance of natural leaders: President Emil Constantinescu and President Ion Iliescu knew how to place the conference’s importance on the 2nd position after Washington’s conference. These were other proofs of a working partnership. Moreover, on April 24th of 2012 Romania demonstrated once more its support for Kazakhstan, organizing the Candidacy support Exhibition for Astana at EXPO 2017. Thus, Romania was the first European country to do such a gesture, followed afterwards by Germany; I wish to highlight that Romania was the first country to support Astana for EXPO 2017.
My intention was just to list some of the past months’ moments in which Romania was faithful to its decision of building a strategic relation with Kazakhstan, a relation in which Romania’s voice is heard. Supporting Kazakhstan at OSCE, Romania supported the reform of a European organization which threatens to lose its importance; by supporting the 20 years celebration of Kazakhstan’s independence, Romania rang a bell for the model of democracy, development and security offered by Kazakhstan and President Nursultan Nazarbaev to the region and the rest of the world; assisting Astana for capital at EXPO 2017, Romania gives a signal of advancing, backing and not being afraid of 21st century’s transformations and Asian growth. Perhaps this is the secret of the strategic relation Romania – Kazakhstan, its benefits going beyond these two countries, the fruits of this friendship being directed worldwide.
May the strategic relation Romania – Kazakhstan further continue with the same great results!

PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA ON NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT SUMMIT

The Seoul Summit had just concluded, but his reverberation will be long standing. Everybody is agreeing that we are witnessing just the beginning of  an international custom on managing nuclear weapons and nuclear security.  Seoul Summit, if it was not exceedingly rich on international regulation,   had offered instead a successful model of nuclear security management, of relinquishing the illusory security offered by nuclear weapons in exchange for a world commitment to his security: Kazakhstan.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea during his visit in Kazakhstan.

The world leaders have showered praises on the Central Asian country and his leader-Nursultan Nazarbaev ,top of the list being  United States President, Barack Obama,  who described Kazakhstan as a model for the world  and express his support for the country`s bid to host the International Nuclear Fuel Bank .

In this moment, when we are confronted with an insufficient legal framework on nuclear security, the need for a successful example to be offered as a way out for the countries that had pursued or are pursuing a program for nuclear military development it is clearly marked.

Kazakhstan is, undoubtedly, the success story of nuclear disarmament : dismantling an impressive nuclear arsenal inherited from Soviet Union ,with more than 1.000 warheads, prohibiting nuclear experiments on Semipalatinsk  polygon and in exchange obtaining security guarantees and international recognition of his borders .

International leaders express their appreciation towards Kazakhstan President- Nursultan Nazarbayev

In today world Kazakhstan and the architect of this enlighten policy: President Nursultan Nazarbavev had a long track record of  achievements.

Among others unremitting exertion for the nuclear disarmament Kazakhstan joined the “Group of Eight” (G-8) Global Partnership against the spread of weapons of mass destruction and ratified the 2005 Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM) to bring it into force by 2014 and successfully hosted the Conference of the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism” .

If to this list we add the impressive achievements of Kazakhstan Presidency to Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the hosting of the first high level OSCE Summit in Astana  in 2010 and the lavish and profound transforming Chairmanship to Organization of Islamic Conference we have the complete picture of a country determined to leave his mark on international arena.

Kazakhstan had not fall asleep on the laurels already won and President Nursultan Nazarbaev already used his country high standing to promote a regulation package destined to offer the possibility of further development of use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes such as: the adoption of legally binding nuclear safety standards, the establishment of mechanisms for rapid response in case of emergency at nuclear facilities, and the granting to all states of an equal access to peaceful nuclear technology and supplies of low enriched uranium (LEU), including through an International Nuclear Fuel Bank.

The mounting support of the world leaders to Kazakh President vision of a nuclear weapons free world   had offered a new chance for Seoul Summit. The value of this vision is reflected in President Nursultan Nazarbaev own words: Based on the experience of my country, that voluntarily renounced the world’s fourth nuclear arsenal, I can say that the real security guarantees are provided by sustainable economic and social development,”

If the world will support Kazakhstan in sharing this lesson, than the mankind could have a chance for a better future.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea MA, FINS, EDA