EUROPE RECOGNIZES ETHIOPIAN DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

European Tourism Academy release the official letter approving the election of  H.E. Prime Minister of Ethiopia Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn as a honorary member of European tourism body.

25/26 June 2015 General Meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade

The decision was taken during 25/26 June General Meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade announced and was taken in high appreciation of H.E. Desalegn Hailemariam  “recognition of the role and significance of tourism on world stage”.

H.E. European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea announces the new addition to European Tourism Academy-H.E. Prime Minister of Ethiopia Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn.

The official letter emanating from European Council on Tourism and Trade encourages Ethiopia to continue on the road for development via tourism growth and for poverty reduction strategy:

“Today, the Government of Ethiopia is recognizing the importance of tourism as a key facilitator for the country development and international promotion, creating exemplary structures like Tourism Transformation Council, investing in infrastructure and capacity building, creating a special team under Your Excellency leadership for destination promotion and management and protecting the cultural, natural and historical patrimony of the country.

Prime Minister of Ethiopia Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn recognized as a WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM

The world leaders that are offering such a special attention to historical patrimony of their country and use it, and preserve it for the benefit of the future generation, who grasp the importance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, international relations and raising national profile on world arena, must be supported and commanded and offered as a general example .

Your Excellency stated that your “aims are to build on Ethiopia’s natural, historical and cultural resources to strengthen the tourism sector, identify pressing value-chain gaps and intervening to allay these gaps based on tangible and scientific studies jointly with the private sector and the international tourism community.

Together, we will work hand in hand to make tourism one of the leading economic sectors of our country and Ethiopia a top destination in Africa”

This statement, and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the 2015- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for your rich past and cultural prowess.

This is a momentous achievement for ETHIOPIA that is due to your exertions.”

The letter authored by H.E. European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and European Tourism Academy Director-Dr. Mircea Constantinescu and addressed to The Prime Minister of Ethiopia Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn concludes:

“In your new capacity, as the representative of ETHIOPIA on world tourism and on international cultural stage, we hope that the World will benefit now from your public exertions and support in creating a new world community based on peace, development and tourism as the pillars of international cooperation”.

DEMOCRATIC KAZAKHSTAN INFORMATION SITE CREATED

European Council on International Relations is determined to promote the values of fairness, open society, free and fair elections and democratic developments by using the example of countries with a positive track record on democratic evolution`s like Kazakhstan.

To this aim it was published a new version of the website:DEMOCRATIC KAZAKHSTAN. PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS 2015.

In 2011, with the support of European organizations and European Council on International Relations, a first version of the site was dedicated to the PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS 2011, in support of democratic development of Kazakhstan.

The informational site is destined to offer to political analysis, experts, electoral experts a valid insight in the democratic process taking hold in Kazakhstan.

In this moment no real and trust wordy organization is involved in presenting the valid analysis on the strong democratic process created by Kazakhstan and the information available is on the junk category, considers on a rightful base the Kazakh News Agency-inform.kz.

This lack of serious information’s must be addressed with new and perfect directed info.

The http://kazakhstan-elections.webs.com/apps/blog/ accumulates several services including: international ad national news, discussion, videos and related information’s.

On April 20, 2015, the website will unveil the first international pre-election monitoring report on Kazakhstan Presidential Elections 2015 and the website will also offer to the readers a final report and analysis on Kazakhstan Presidential Election 2015.

H.E. AMBASSADOR BATRASHEV DAULET PRESENT`S HIS VISION ON ASSEMBLY OF PEOPLE OF KAZAKHSTAN

2015 was declared by Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev as THE YEAR OF THE ASSEMBLY OF PEOPLE OF KAZAKHSTAN marking the 20 years history of this prestigious institution.

 

Today after 20 years of activity, the ASSEMBLY OF PEOPLE’S OF KAZAKHSTAN had become a model for all the states of the world, a model of resolving minority’s problems and democratic people’s involvement.

 

 

A special conference was held in honor of ASSEMBLY OF PEOPLE OF KAZAKHSTAN by the Romanian parliament and has attracted representatives from 23 countries. We address  all our gratitude for their attendence that was  a sign of respect towards the institution of Parliament, a perfect  way to show commitment to Romanian foreign policy and a diplomatic way to present appreciation to Kazakhstan delegation.

 

H.E. Kazakhstan Ambassador Batrashev Daulet has presented a concluding speech at this important event and the full text of the speech can be found here:

It is my greatest pleasure to express my appreciation for the wonderful event hosted today in the honor of the Kazakhstan delegation by the Romanian parliament.

 

It is a rare honor and privilege that a parliamentary delegation it is received so warmly and has an opportunity to meet all the leaders of the structures of parliament: from European Committee to Energy and transport to UNESCO Committee to Romanians Abroad and International Relations all the committees of the Parliament had presented today their views on an unique and prized institution of the Kazakh State: PEOPLES ASSEMBLY OF KAZAKHSTAN.

I am sure that the reasons for such a high level meeting and conference are deeply rooted in the friendship that is bounding together Romania and Kazakhstan and in the desire of the Romanian political, cultural and academic elite to meet our honored guests from Kazakhstan Parliament.

I am also extremely proud that all the voices expressed here recognized the huge strides and progresses of my country in the field of building a democratic system, in creating an inclusive society and in fostering dialogue and peaceful mechanisms in resolving, the vote of confidence of our Romanian friends express in this international conference in Kazakhstan future development and progress is commendable and is inspiring us in forging new bridges of cooperation`s and understanding amongst our nations.

I wish also to express my sincere appreciation for the presence here of representatives of the Romanian Government and specially of the representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited to Romania who express by this their solidarity with Kazakhstan of today.

My appreciation goes also for the energetic team of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation for their exertions in promoting our bilateral relation.

2015 it is an important year for our country, a year when we are celebrating 550 years of long, glorious and outstanding history of Kazakh state, we celebrate 20 years of activity of PEOPLES ASSEMBLY OF KAZAKHSTAN, a felicitous moment that we are celebrating today and we will have another democratic exercise this year with new presidential elections.

It is a year when Kazakhstan will not only celebrate a rich history but will also have a chance to write another democratic page and I am pleased to note that Kazakhstan can count amongst his closest allies and friends in the world Romania.

Is for me as Kazakhstan Ambassador to Romania a motive of satisfaction and pride and is giving me a sense of fulfilled duty.

I thank you all for this!

The video of Kazakhstan Ambassador can be watched here:

NURLY ZHOL-MESSAGE OF PRESIDENT NURSULTAN NAZARBAYEV PRESENTED TO ROMANIAN PARLIAMENT

In order to underline the strength of the strategic and friendship bond that is uniting Romania and Kazakhstan, in agreement with the leadership of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation, it was decided that on 6 December 2014 in a special session , senator Ionel Agrigoroaei to present to Romanian Parliament the message presented by H.E. President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan, on the occasion of launching a new economic policy for his nation under the name of Nurly Zhol ( Bright Path).

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei is presenting to Romania`s Parliament the message of Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev. 

 

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei was selected to read out the message to the parliament as it was the uncontested leader of efficiency in parliamentary activity in the last two years and was recognized as a leader of parliamentary diplomacy.

We must underline that is for the first time in Romanian history when the message of an international leader is read out for the benefit of the Romanian Parliament. This is an outspoken proof of the importance of the strategic relation that is uniting our country and Kazakhstan but also a clear demonstration of the admiration nurtured by the Romanian political elite for the impressive personality of the Kazakh leader, creator of modern day Kazakhstan-H.E. Nursultan Nazarbayev.

 We are presenting you the full message of H.E. Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev as it was read out in the session of Romanian Parliament.

 

            The Address of His Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev to the people of Kazakhstan

                 Astana, November 11, 2014     

            Nurly Zhol – The Path to the Future

 

The world is facing new challenges and threats today. The world economy has still not recovered from consequences of the global financial and economic crisis. The recovery continues at a very slow and uncertain pace, and some countries remain in decline. The geopolitical crisis and the sanctions policy of the leading powers create an additional obstacle for the recovery of the world economy.

From my experience, I feel that the years to come will become the time of global trials. The entire architecture of the world will be changing. Not all countries will be able to get through these complications in a decent manner. Only strong states, with their people united, will manage to do that. Kazakhstan, as a part of the world economy and a country located very close to the epicentre of geopolitical tensions, is experiencing negative pressure from all these challenges. We see the results: prices in global markets are dropping, and general economic growth is slowing down.

 

As is known, the forecasts of the development of the global economy for 2014 and the next two years were revised downward by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. That means we need to revise our own plans, and make adjustments for the coming period. There is no time for hesitation. The measures I will talk about today will be implemented from January 1, 2015. We must promptly take all the possible measures to prevent negative trends.

Today the Government is already working quickly at my order. We have revised the parameters of the republic’s budget for 2015. And this is right, as the drop in prices of our export raw materials has led to the reduction of the flow of money to our income. At the same time, the Government have a tough yet specific task: it must fulfil all social liabilities in full.

In a crisis, as we’re seeing the world over, economic policies must be re-evaluated. The sectors that need support are those which create the highest multiplier effect on economic growth and employment. We have already had such an experience. Suffice it to recall our successful anti-crisis measures in 2007-2009. As you see, life makes adjustments to the best laid plans. And we should add new content to the platform of our party based on today’s reality.

On my orders, the Government has completed the development of a new large-scale development programme. Today, as we respond to the challenges we face, I proclaim Kazakhstan’s New Economic Policy “Nyrly Zhol” (The Bright Road). This is what I devote my state-of-the-nation address for 2015. The policy will have a counter-cyclical character and will be aimed at continuing structural reforms in our economy. What does this mean?

Over the years, when the situation in external markets was favourable, and the price of oil and our export products were at sufficiently high level, we diverted revenues from those exports to the National Fund. One of the main tasks of the National Fund is to increase resistance of our economy to external shocks, including when prices of natural resources drop.

We were putting income from extraction and sales of raw materials into this Fund during all these years. We used 10 billion US dollars out of the National Fund to fight the crisis of 2007-2009. As for the rest of the money, we have not spent it. We saved and multiplied it. Now we are in the period when we must use these reserves. They will help overcome uneasy times and stimulate the growth of our economy. These resources are not intended for short-term measures. We will spend them on the transformation of our economy, namely – the development of transport, energy, industrial and social infrastructure, and small and medium businesses.

In February, a decision was made to allocate one trillion tenge from the National Fund to support economic growth and employment in 2014-2015 in two tranches of 500 billion tenge. To finalise the initiated projects and resolve pressing issues, I have instructed the Government to divert the second tranche of 500 billion tenge from the National Fund to the following goals:

First, 100 billion tenge should be additionally allocated to issue easy-term loans to small and medium businesses, as well as large enterprises. This will secure the implementation of projects in the food and chemical industries, engineering, as well as the service sector.

Second, to revive the banking sector and buy out “bad” loans, I have ordered additional capitalisation of the Fund of Problem Loans in the amount of 250 billion tenge in 2015.

Third, to raise new investments, we need to improve respective conditions. For these purposes, I have ordered the government to allocate 81 billion tenge in 2015 to complete the construction of the “dry port” complex, the infrastructure of the special economic zones at Khorgos – East Gate and the National Industrial Petrochemical Technological Park in Atyrau and Taraz.

Fourth, to continue the construction of the EXPO-2017, I have ordered the allocation of 40 billion tenge in 2015 adding to the already allocated 25 billion tenge.

Fifth, on the eve of EXPO-2017, we need to take care of the development of Astana’s transport infrastructure. This year the capital airport will reach its maximum capacity – 3.5 million people. Therefore, to increase its potential, I have ordered the allocation in 2015 of 29 billion tenge on the construction of a new terminal and a reconstruction of the landing strip. This will allow us to increase airport capacity to 7.1 million of passengers per year by 2017.

 

Dear people of Kazakhstan,

In view of new external risks for the development of our economy, we need new initiatives to stimulate business activity and employment. The Infrastructure Development Plan, which I want to make public today, will become the core of the New Economic Policy. It is intended to last for five years and is to run in parallel with the Second Five Year term of the Programme of Accelerated Industrial and Innovative Development. More than 100 foreign companies intend to participate in its implementation. The total investment portfolio will make 6 trillion tenge, with the state contributing 15 per cent of the total.

Kazakhstan owns a territory so vast it would tire the wings of a bird to fly over it. Thus, this plan requires huge funds and hard work. There is a saying: “If you want to know a nation’s prosperity look at its paths.” Road connections are of high importance, not only for travel, but also for the transportation of goods. In ancient times our big cities were located along the Great Silk Road.

Nowadays, all essential life depends on access to the main highways. Roads are the essence of life, the source of a modern existence. All the regions of Kazakhstan need to be closely connected by railroads, highways, and air services. The nine roads, connecting with each other in Astana are like the roots of life, spread our capital’s creative spirit. Improving interconnectivity between the regions will eventually lead to a greater domestic well-being. It will strengthen trade and economic ties between the regions. There will be new markets emerging from inside the country. Therefore bringing together distant parts is the main focus of today’s address.

First, the development of transport and logistics infrastructure will be formed around regional hubs, connected through Astana as the central hub and backbone by highways, railways and airlines. But first, we need to implement the main road projects. They are Western China to Western Europe; Astana to Almaty; Astana to Ust-Kamenogorsk; Astana to Aktobe to Atyrau; Almay to Ust-Kamenogorsk; Karaganda to Zhezkazgan to Kyzylorda; Atyrau to Astrakhan.

It is also necessary to continue the creation of a logistical hub in the east and marine infrastructure in the west of the country. The large-scale ferry site from Kuryk and the railway line from Borzhakty to Yersai will contribute to the growth of exports to the west through ports in the Caspian Sea. I have ordered the Government to work on the construction or rental of terminals at dry and sea ports in China, Iran, Russia and the EU.

Second, development of industrial infrastructure. The implementation of infrastructure projects will produce big demand for construction materials, products and services for transport, communication, energy, housing and utility areas.

So, firstly, we need to complete our work on the formation of infrastructure in existing special economic zones. The Government and the akims (governors) need to work in a timely manner to fill those zones with concrete projects. Secondly, they need to explore the possibility of constructing new industrial zones in regions aimed at the development of production facilities of SMEs and raising extra investments. Tourism infrastructure is a separate line. Its main advantage is the opportunity to create jobs. The creation of one job here costs 10 times less than in industry.

Third, the development of energy infrastructure. Extensive work has been carried out within the framework of the industrialisation programme in energy in the past five years. Nevertheless, limited transmission systems create a deficit of electric energy in the southern regions of the country and of natural gas in central and eastern regions. We need to focus on two projects. To construct high voltage lines Ekibastuz – Semey – Ust-Kamenogorsk and Semey – Aktogai – Taldykorgan – Almaty. This will create a balanced energy supply from Kazakh power plants to all regions of the country.

Fourth, the modernisation of housing and utilities infrastructure and water and heat supply networks. The total demand for investments makes no less than 2 trillion tenge with annual allocation till 2020 from all sources of founding of no less than 200 billion tenge.

Today we see significant interest in investing in the modernisation of housing and utilities from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Asian Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank and private investors. We need to ensure their maximum involvement through the provision of long-term investment rates. Such projects should be co-funded by the state to prevent significant increases in rates. We should allocate up to 100 billion tenge each year to accelerate the level of modernisation in our heat and water supply systems, in addition to the funds already envisaged in the budget.

Fifth, the strengthening of housing infrastructure. The formation of urban centres is accompanied by a significant cross-flow of the population. This creates pressure on the labour market and city infrastructure, including on the housing fund. Therefore, our approach to construction of rental housing should be revised. The state will construct social housing to rent out and provide to the population for long term rent with the right to buy it. The provision of housing directly, without mediators, with low-interest loans will allow us to reduce the cost of acquisition. No first instalment and low mortgage interest will make housing more affordable for various strata of the people of Kazakhstan. Therefore, we will additionally increase funding of construction of rental housing for the amount of 180 billion tenge during 2015-2016.

Sixth, development of social infrastructure. We must resolve the issues of unfit schools and three-shift education, as we set out in our election platform. The funds envisaged in the 3 year budget do not let us to resolve this problem by 2017. Therefore, I have ordered the Government to allocate another 70 billion tenge. Another matter is the lack of kindergartens. I instruct to allocate an additional 20 billion tenge to reduce the deficit of places in preschools within 3 years. Akims must deal will this as much as possible and attract the private sector.

Ten higher education institutions were defined within the framework of the industrialisation programme based on which the link between science, economic sectors and personnel training will be ensured. I have ordered the Government to create the material and technical framework of these education institutions, allocating up to 10 billion tenge by 2017.

Seventh, we need to continue the work to support small and medium businesses and business activities. As of today, the 100 billion tenge from the National Fund aimed at supporting and crediting small and medium enterprises has been fully used. This allowed us to create more than 4,500 jobs. The demand for these funds exceeded the supply by 23 billion tenge. The unprecedented conditions providing credit for businesses at 6 per cent for 10 years were created. There were no such conditions in our country before. We should continue our work to develop small and medium businesses as a driver of economic growth and increase their share to 50 per cent of GDP by 2050. Therefore, we need to use credit facilities for small and medium businesses more effectively at the account of the ADB, EBRD, and the World Bank for the total amount of 155 billion tenge in 2015-2017.

 

Dear people of Kazakhstan,

The situation in the world economy makes it sufficiently hard to achieve our goals without extra financial resources.

There was a reason why we established the National Fund. It was mainly aimed at providing stable social and economic development, and protecting our country’s economy from unpredictable circumstances. Right now, it is high time to use this fund for our needs. Kazakhstan should avoid repeating the mistakes of other countries. We have to use our internal resources for economic growth efficiently.

I have made the decision regarding additional allocation of 3 billion US dollars from the National Fund for the period from 2015 to 2017. I have ordered the Government to prepare respective decisions for the allocation of funds from the National Fund and to take into account the required funds in the draft national budget for 2015 within a week. The Government should also undertake measures and ensure effective and rational use of these funds.

The commission created by me will strictly monitor the effective use of the funds and report to me personally. I will request a report about every tenge spent. Special responsibility is imposed on all the akims. Nur Otan must actively get involved into this work and to establish strict party control at all levels.

I am entrusting the Government with ensuring that National Fund resources are allocated efficiently and appropriately to the relevant areas. Every tenge will be under strict control. Nur Otan should take an active part in it, and monitor it closely for the party.

The investments from the National Fund must be accompanied by structural reforms in the economic sectors. We need to ensure joint implementation of projects with international financial organisations. For instance, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the EBRD and the IDB are ready to allocate about 9 billion dollars for 90 priority projects. The allocated funds should support investment activities, prevent a drop in population’s income and stimulate the creation of new jobs. This will result in sustainable economic growth in the short and medium term.

Our education, health care and agriculture development programmes will continue. We will have a substantial discussion about this at the first extended meeting of the Government next year. The New Economic Policy “Nurly Zhol” is our global step on the path to become one of 30 most developed countries of the world.

All the necessary conditions for successful work have been created. Administrative reforms were carried out, and the new structure of the Government and executive power is working. Every minister knows what to do. We removed redundancy and unnecessary links in management. Akims have the necessary scope of authority. The regions have everything – programmes, resources, finances. Everybody is responsible for their area of work. They now need to knuckle down and set to work.

The New Economic Policy “Nurly Zhol” will become a driver of the growth in our economy during the coming years. 200,000 new jobs will be created by the construction of roads alone. And this means greater employment and growth of income for the population. “Nurly Zhol” will create a multiplier effect in other economic sectors:  production of cement, metal, machinery, bitumen, equipment and related services. Roads are lifelines for Kazakhstan. Life has always emerged and developed in our vast expanses around roads. We must create such a transport network that car, railway and air lines stretch to all directions from Astana. Like arteries from the heart. Like rays from the sun.

The new lines built by the people of Kazakhstan will renew our economy and community. They will firmly link all the corners of our country with its centre. Cargo traffic will accelerate and increase. The volume of transit through the country will grow. Our citizens will drive on modern and quality highways, and will be able to get to any region quickly and safely. Social infrastructure will improve, new and modern schools and hospitals will provide high-quality services. Finally, this will affect the welfare and the quality of life of each citizen of Kazakhstan. And the main thing is all of this will remain in our land as wealth of our future generations.

Dear people of Kazakhstan,

There is large and important work in front of us. We must be united to pass this global exam. We must strengthen trust among all the people of Kazakhstan! Be tolerant to each other! These are keys to Kazakhstan’s future. Interethnic harmony is oxygen. We never notice it, when we breathe, we do it automatically – we just live. We must safeguard our unity and our interethnic harmony. No outsider can come and do this for us. Our young grow in a new and independent country. The younger generation did not witness interethnic war or conflict, the devastation of 1990’s. Many people perceive stability and comfortable life in Kazakhstan as something given since their birth.

For what are stability and harmony? It is family welfare, safety, a roof over our head. Peace is the joy of paternity and maternity, health of parents and happiness of our children. Peace is stable work, wages and feeling confident about the future. Peace and stability are the achievement of our entire population, which must be protected and reinforced by everyday hard work. I always say: the young are the foundation of our future. The state has opened up all the doors and all the paths to the new generation! Nurly Zhol is where our creative and dynamic young can invest their efforts and develop!

Next year we will solemnly celebrate 20 years since the adoption of the Constitution and the creation of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan. When we celebrate these dates, we should make the people of Kazakhstan spiritually stronger, united, and even more tolerant. I am convinced that our core principle – Kazakhstan, Only Ahead! – will sound in a new way and will acquire a deeper meaning at this new important turn of our history! I wish success and reaching new heights to all of you, because they will raise our Homeland even higher!

Dear fellow citizens,

We are united by our national idea – Mangilik El (Eternal Nation), making its way to the independent development of “Nurly Zhol”. To follow this path we need to work hard, and to unite our efforts on the way to a brighter future. The Eternal Nation is a unifying force and an inexhaustible source of energy. It is the basis for not only the “Kazakhstan 2050” Strategy, but also the strong ideological foundation of Kazakhstan’s Statehood in the 21st century! The Eternal Nation is itself the source of a new Kazakhstan Patriotism. It is a great principle for the entire society of Kazakhstan.

Adoration for our historical past, pride for today’s fortunes, and faith in our blossoming future – are all covered by the powerful concept of “Mangilik El” (The Eternal Nation). Love for the fatherland is respect for the great legacy of our ancestors, keeping it as safe as the apple of your eye, making a contribution to its development, and passing it on to future generations. This is the ultimate goal of all Kazakhstan.

The foundation of the idea of the Eternal Nation runs very deep. Thirteen centuries ago, the sage Tonykok stated the “Eternal Nation is the goal of all Turkic people.” This means that our national idea, just as the roots of our nationhood, originates from our ancient history. The unity of the people, that’s what makes a viable national idea. Where there is no unity, and discord flourishes, no national ideas can ever come to life. Unity and prosperity are the main reasons for of the great success achieved by Kazakhstan.

Today, thanks to our respect for stability, we have managed great strides forward. Humiliating nobody, denying nobody’s language or cultural heritage, while giving all citizens equal opportunities, helps us strengthen the stability of our country. National unity must be our main treasure to pass on to future generations. We must nurture the concept of national values in the mind of every young person.

THE COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES (CASA DE VINURI COTNARI) IS BEST EUROPEAN WINE PRODUCER

On 22 November 2014, under the high patronage and organization of The Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation, the annual selection ceremony for electing the BEST ROMANIAN WINE-DIPLOMATIC WINE for 2015 has taken place.

 

The DIPLOMATIC WINE will represent during 2015 the Romanian wine tradition and high quality.

We can already note that: the ceremony had become a focal point in diplomatic life, a moment awaited with pleasure and interest by diplomatic community, as the tasting committee is enjoying the best products of Romanian wine industry.

Respecting the yearly tradition, the committee has encompassed two diplomats from every continent that us usually importing Romanian wine products (Europe, Asia, Africa, America).

 

Every body on the venue had enjoyed with pleasure the new ROMANIAN DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2015,creation of COTNARI-HOUSE OF WINES

This year the committee under the direction of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President Director General of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation has pin pointed as Romania’s Best Wine creator for 2015- The COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES.

The COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES was established in 2007 and is having in yield a total of 350 hectares out of which 100 hectares are cultivated with the famous Romanian grape variety: Feteasca Neagra(Black Girl), the Busuioaca de Bohotin(Bohotin Basilicum) , world celebrated for his unique flavor is cultivated on 75 hectares, the Tamaioasa Romaneasca (Romanian Incense Flavor) favored by the connoisseurs for his strong taste, unique palates, can be found on other 75 hectares, Feteasca Alba(White Girl) is produced on 50 hectares and the Grasa de Cotnari ( Fat Lady of Cotnari) assortment , which is on good reason named as the Romania treasure and is comprised in natural patrimony, is cultivated on 50 hectares.

From this extraordinary lands, where grapes are cultivated from the renowned Cucuteni culture time, more than 5000 years ago, has arise today the exceptional wines of COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES , wines that conquered the hearts of diplomats.

 

On the third place(no.3) was selected the FETEASCA NEAGRA (Black Girly) from Domenii Collection of COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES 

Amongst the wine tasted, from COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES, where presented the Domain collection and Colloquium-collection .

From this collections, the assortments of wines that had conquered the heart and mind of the tasters where as follows : Colocviu la Paris –Busuioacă de Bohotin dry, from Collection Cotnari-Domenii – Busuioacă de Bohotin demi-dry, Colocviu la Moscova – Grasă de Cotnari dry, from Collection Cotnari-Domenii – Fetească Neagră dry, Colocviu la Roma – Tămâioasă Românească dry, Colocviu la Atena – Fetească Albă dry, from Collection Cotnari-Domenii – Tămâioasă Românească demi-dry, from Collection Cotnari-Domenii – Fetească Albă dry.

After the tasting session, the final selection, based on the evaluation of wine types, had comprised on the III-rd place: Feteasca Alba (White Girly) and Feteasca Neagra (Black Girly).

On the second place, the commission had appreciated the aroma and taste of the unique Grasa de Cotnari and finally the first place was given to the aromatic wines from Tămâioasă Românească and Busuioacă de Bohotin assortments.

The final phase of the competition had decided the winners as being on the III-rd place, the only red wine from COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES production was selected the dry Feteasca Neagra (Black Girl) from Dominium Cotnari.

 

The second place goes to the Grasa de Cotnari, special creation of COTNARI-HOUSE OF WINES, Colloquium Collection

On the second place, the jury had appreciated the extreme aroma and complexity of the unique Grasa de Cotnari, dry made and finally the first place-DIPLOMATIC WINE has gone to the rosy, profusely aroma and the round and perfect taste of the Busuioaca de Bohotin-Colloquium in Paris.

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei, prominent member of the Romanian Senate, present on the rostrum of the ceremony, had stated that for him, as a Senator from Iasi county, he is extremely touched and proud that Moldavian wines, the Cotnari wines, where highly appreciated and noted by diplomats and is appreciative that, from today, the COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES products will be tasted in the entire world.

 

And the winner is… the special formula accompanied the announcement, the ROMANIAN DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2015 is Busuioaca de Bohotin-Colloquium in Paris

COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES must be promoted and supported for there outstanding efforts in promoting traditional Romanian wines and wine types, noted Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

He explained to the diplomats, presented on the venue, that COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES is offering to consumers not only exceptional quality wines, created with modern technology, but is using also in the production cycle the famous new world wine making techniques.

We have to mention that: the COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES is also benefiting from the tremendous experience, garnered by the Cotnari teams, teams that gather for hundreds of years the valuable wine making experience.

Today we are proud of the fact that we can offer to Romanian and foreign diplomats, to all lovers of perfect quality wines from Romania and across the world, an exceptional selection of wines: the ROMANIAN DIPLOMATIC WINE from COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES, had declared Professor Dr. Anton Caragea concluding the ceremony.

OPINION. INTERVIEW WITH H.E. KAZAKHSTAN AMBASSADOR DAULET BATRSHEV: KAZAKHSTAN IS BUILDING AN ECONOMIC GIANT

On the indication of H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea the electronic media, video agencies, printed publications and other mass media from 20 countries had offered excerpts  from the inteview of H.E.Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary  of Kazakhstan to Romania-Mr. Daulet Batrashev.

Kazakhstan President H.E. Nursultan Nazarbayev-creator of free Kazakhstan of today and a true leader of Turkic world. 

We have the pleasure of presenting to you the full text of the interview of H.E.Daulet Batrashev-Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan.

KAZAKHSTAN: THE CENTRAL ASIAN LEOPARD.

THE BUILDING OF AN ECONOMIC GIANT.

Question: Your Excellency just started Your mandate in Romania, as the first ambassador of Kazakhstan to our country. What is the message of Your appointment and Your vision for the bilateral relation?

 

Answer: Romania-Kazakhstan bilateral relation is evolving rapidly and continuously in the right direction.

 

I will just emphasize that in 2012, Kazakhstan President took the decision to upgrade the status of the Diplomatic Mission of Kazakhstan to Romania to the Embassy and now, in 2014, I was appointed as the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Your country.

This is a proof that on diplomatic level the trend is clearly ascending.

I will just add to this the fact that “KazMunayGas International” (former Rompetrol) investment is the largest foreign investment of Kazakhstan outside our borders and we have the plan to continue and develop our investment into Romania.

 

I will reiterate the fact that the Memorandum between the Romanian State and “KMG International” is creating a bilateral investment fund of up to one billion dollars that will dramatically increase and diversify the investments of Kazakhstan into Romanian economy, creating a solid base for our ever developing bilateral relations.

 

If we add to this, the reality that our political dialogue is based on a perfect understanding and our recent history is paved with moments that are marking our bilateral friendship such as: the Romanian support for Kazakhstan chairmanship at Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the high level presence of Romanian President and Prime Minister at the OSCE summit in Astana 2010 and we have a dynamic view of this relation.

 

Kazakhstan noted the enthused European support for His Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s initiative for creating a platform of security and cooperation in Europe and Asia say`s Ambassador Daulet Batrashev in dialogue with President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea MA,FINS, EDA.

 

We in Kazakhstan noted the enthused support of Romania towards His Excellency President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s initiative for creating a platform of security and cooperation in Europe and Asia, based on the models of OSCE and Shanghai Organization, that could be beneficial to Romania, Kazakhstan and the world.

 

Concluding, I will underline the fact that Romania and Kazakhstan are starting their journey on the road for a strategic friendship based on our common political vision, economic interests and common foreign policy principles.

„Kazakhstan foreign policy strides for political dialogue, for creating a climate of understanding, dialogue-Ambassador Daulet Batrashev”

 

Question: What should Romanians know about today`s Kazakhstan. If Your long time history as the country on the Silk Road, of the state of Kazakh Khans of Turkestan is well known and documented, what is the image of today’s Kazakhstan?

Answer: Today Kazakhstan is a vibrant, modern and rapidly developing country.

President Nursultan Nazarbayev envisioned our country as „a Kazakh snow leopard, enriched with Western elegance, multiplied by our high level of development and wisdom and tenacity.”

 

I could not find a better description of our vision for Kazakhstan of tomorrow.

Kazakhstan of today envisages becoming the main economic hub between Europe and Asia, between the emerging markets of China and the developed Europe.

 

Kazakhstan hopes to become the main economic hub between Europe and Asia.

 

This new Silk Road of riches and commerce will stretch a total of 8,445km, with 2,233km in Russia, 2,787km in Kazakhstan, and 3,425km in China. This modern highway will pass through Aktobe, Kyzylorda, South-Kazakhstan, Zhambyl and Almaty regions of Kazakhstan.

 

This European-Chinese connector follows the same caravan routes as the Silk Road, the trade “highway” that ran from China to the Middle East and Europe, and saw its greatest use during the 14 centuries.

The new Silk Road will boost trade, commerce and will better and faster connect the land masses of Europe and Asia and will become not only a viable economic initiative, but will also generate work places, will help people rip benefits and have a better standard of life and by this we will enjoy in our regions political stability and prosperity.

This new Silk Road’s significance is far from just being a bridge of trade and exchange of goods, but will create a better understanding and dialogue causeway between the peoples of Europe and Asia.

I want also to draw Your readers attention towards a new concept launched by Kazakhstan under the name of «Silk Wind» project, by launching container train “China – Kazakhstan – Caspian Sea – Caucasus – Turkey – Europe.

According to the concept craved out by Kazakhstan, we envisage that cargo containers from China by railroad will be delivered to the Kazakh port of Aktau on the Caspian Sea. Then they will be loaded on cargo sea ferry and from here they will go to the Azerbaijani port – to Baku, and then again by railroad to Georgian ports where the fright goods will be delivered to the ports of Europe.

 

This economic concept build by our country within the framework of the diversification of transport and transit routes, was discussed at the conference “TransEurasia 2014″, during the past VII Astana Economic Forum in May 2014, when we have started building an international investors consensus in bringing to light this “Silk Wind” transnational project.

 

This commercial and economic initiative was completed in the political arena by President Nazarbayev’s appeal for a better dialogue and a common dialogue between Europe and Asia known as the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Europe and Asia.

This is clearly marking the fact that Kazakhstan foreign policy strives not only for economic development and facilitating creation of trading corridors between Europe and Asia, but also strives for political dialogue, for creating a climate of understanding, dialogue, avoiding tensions and conflicts and creating a platform for dialogue between the countries of Asia and Europe.

 

Our country’s initiative is based on our successful Chairmanship of Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe for 2010 and on our prominent track records as members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Eurasian Economic Union.

We are proposing our experience in dialogue and fostering international organization in the service of world peace and development, and we hope that the world is noting this Kazakhstan’s effort.

 

I would like also to observe our efforts in promoting religious dialogue and better understanding. Necessary to note our successful two year presidency of Organization of Islamic Cooperation, in difficult times, when we helped the Islamic world to concentrate on culture, education and Islamic heritage as unifying factors, as bricks of a better understanding of Islam in the world.

 

President Nazarbayev brought together representatives of religious denomination from all continents and all corners of the world, in an open and long standing dialogue.

„Convened at the initiative of President Nursultan Nazarbayev, the Astana Religious Conference – CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF WORLD AND TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS – has become the most impressive and efficient world conference that established inter-religious dialogue”-Ambassador Daulet Batrashev.

 

But Kazakhstan was not only satisfied to preserve its religious legacy but was actively involved in the research for an open and continuing dialogue of religions and traditional religious leaders. At the initiative of President Nursultan Nazarbayev the Astana Religious Conference – CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF WORLD AND TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS – has become with the support and presence of all world religious leaders, the most impressive and efficient world conference that established rules and points for inter-religious dialogue.

 

President Nazarbayev brought together representatives of religious denomination from all continents and all corners of the world, in an open and long standing dialogue.

The fact that this series of meetings continues to be held continuously from 2003 is self expressing.

Our basic ideas where to use this rostrum is to make a statement of peace, concord and tolerance as stable principles of human existence, to obtain the achievement of mutual respect and tolerance between religions, confessions, nations etc and to oppose to the use of religious believes of people for fostering conflicts.

 

I hope that our ideals develop further and CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF WORLD AND TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS continues to be a solid landmark in the world of religions.

 

Question: It is incredible this excurse in what is the role of today`s Kazakhstan in the world, from economy, to foreign policy, culture and dialogue. Your country is continuing leaving a long lasting imprint on the world of today. What are the future plans of Kazakhstan, the heart of Central Asia, for the years to come and Your personal plans for developing Romania-Kazakhstan friendship?

 

Answer: The future will be undoubtedly bright as we hope to continue all this initiatives destined to develop for Kazakhstan a network of friendship in the world and to enable us to play our role as a force of moderation, democracy and development in the world.

 

Our main goal is to lead by example. I will recollect, for the benefit of Your readers, the fact that Kazakhstan was the first country in the world to voluntarily relinquish our atomic arsenal, left after the dissolution of Soviet Union, according the Decree from 1991 of H.E. President Nursultan Nazarbayev.

 

We have, by our own accord, accepted the dismantling of nuclear warheads, the evacuation of material that could be used for nuclear armament and we have stopped nuclear experience in the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site.

 

These are valuable contributions of Kazakhstan to a secure and safer world, a world without nuclear weapons and in 2012 at Seoul Summit we have offered to share our experience to help other nations to embrace the concept of a nuclear weapons free world.

 

We offer to host a low enriched uranium bank in Kazakhstan under the auspices of the IAEA that will help tackling the issues of nuclear material trafficking and will guarantee the use of nuclear materials for peaceful purpose.

 

This is another proof of the way that Kazakhstan aims to take action on global stage: leading by force of example.

 

In our bilateral relations my agenda is rich and amongst my priorities I can enumerate for Your reader’s information the desire to foster our political dialogue, to develop the economical presence of Kazakhstan in Romanian economy on the template of the success that is Rompetrol experience.

 

“KMG International” is today one of the biggest contributor to Romanian budget with more than 1 billion euro`s annually, offering to Romanian people the possibility for a better life, if we add to this the number of jobs created in Romanian industry and connected jobs, we have a number of around 100.000 jobs offered for Romanian people. I believe that these figures are self-speaking for the beneficial influence that a Kazakh investment is having for the Romanian state.

 

Kazakhstan it is a wonderful place to visit and to emerge in it.

“We hope that Romanian products find their way to Kazakhstan market”-Ambassador Daulet Batrashev

 

We can imagine how this relation will be developed, when we start our next investments in Romanian economy, we are already the second foreign investor in Romanian economy and at the end of this investment process we can become the first investor in Your economy.

 

We are determined also to help Romania balance the bilateral trade with Kazakhstan and we hope that Romanian products find their way to Kazakhstan market. World renowned Romanian products like Romanian wine, agricultural products, high quality industrial products, furniture that is having a long tradition of presence on our market are just a few of the Romanian manufactured products that we will be happy to see on our internal market. Plus I tell the future business partners of Kazakhstan not to forget that our country is the center of a free-tax zone in all Eurasia through the Customs Union so their products find their way not solely to Kazakhstan, but to Russia and Belarus as well.

 

We are speaking often about the fact that Romania must become the hub for Kazakh products to be spread across Europe and this is equally true for Romanian goods and services that can take advantage of our relaxed laws and regulation and tax free zones and make Kazakhstan the bridge head in conquering, with their products, all of Asia.

It is a daring thought but a realistic one.

I would like to conclude by saying to the Romanian people that You will always have in Kazakhstan a firm and proven friend, and all that we have built in our bilateral relation from economic cooperation, to foreign policy and to diplomacy, must be complemented by people to people interaction.

Kazakhstan is much more than just a normal developed country, it is also a country of wonderful people, of breathtaking scenery and scenic spots, it is a wonderful place to visit and to emerge in it.

 

Kazakhstan is waiting for You with open arms.

LUXURY HOTELS IN AFRICA: MEIKLES HOTEL IN HARARE AND VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL IN ZIMBABWE

In 2015 Meikles Hotel will turn 100-years-old. It was the brainchild of Thomas Meikles who envisioned a commitment to the “highest possible standard of service and product” – something that has become enshrined in the Meikles culture.

 

 

Zimbabwe is WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2014!  Come an visit !

 

For over 100 years, visiting members of Royal families, international and local statesmen, and celebrities worldwide, have preferred to stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel, where they are assured of privacy and care.

 

On the occasion of Zimbabwe familiarization trip for European Council on Tourism and Trade Organization (ECTT), the director of hospitality and amenities department of ECTT: Mr. Ioan Matei has assessed the accommodation, amenities and tourism facilities existent in Zimbabwe.

As a result of this first hand observation, for a period comprised between 29 May-7 June 2014,  ECTT department of hospitality and amenities is recommending as ones of the best African hotels, offering luxurious condition and a perfect structured management: the Victoria Fall Hotel in Victoria Falls  and Meikles Hotel in Harare (part of The Leading Hotels of the World).

 

Victoria Falls Hotel-best luxury hotel in Africa

 

The two hotels are fully complying with international standards, are offering luxury and full five stars commodities, safety and large are of opportunities for a lavish stay in the heart of Africa: Zimbabwe.

As the country was named as World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 is expected to receive in the next two years large number of international tourists, and the need for recommendation of luxury hotels is in full spring.

Victoria Falls Hotels is priding himself as having 180 rooms decorated in a manner that recaptures the comfortable charm of a bygone age, with colonial prints, four-poster and canopied beds, antique furniture and well-chosen artifacts. Modern facilities and amenities mingle well with the old-fashioned ambience, including such 21st century travellers’ necessities as personal safes, minibars, bathrobes, digital satellite television and even umbrellas for the convenience of guests visiting the Rain Forest surrounding the Falls. Deluxe Rooms and Suites in the original section of the hotel offer breathtaking views across the deep Zambezi River gorge to the Victoria Falls Bridge and the spray of the Falls.

The home of royalty for the last 100 years: VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL  

Victoria Falls Hotel has being home for more that 100 years to the royalty of Europe, their list of guests in this period being a true who’s who of the world.

The second recommended luxury establishment is Meikles Hotel in Harare that is celebrating a 100 year history and has always envisioned a commitment to the “highest possible standard of service and product” – something that has become enshrined in the Meikles culture.  It has always been an iconic landmark of capital city Harare, one which has constantly and gracefully evolved through the colonial era of Rhodesia into modern- day Zimbabwe. Its position in the heart of the city has allowed its walls to bear witness to many events that have shaped the Zimbabwe’s past.

Today Meikles-Harare is offering an atmosphere steeped in history, combining the charm of the old with the comfort and convenience of today.

Meikles Hotel-Harare-Best African luxury hotel

The team of ECTT is warmly congratulates the two hotels: Meikles and Victoria Fall for their long history of achievements and is encouraging all the travellers interested in discovering Africa to visit Zimbabwe-World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 and to benefit the best’s hotel’s that Africa is having to offer: Meikles Harare Hotel and Victoria Falls Hotel in Victoria.

Enjoy your stay!

 Meikles Hotel-Harare

 http://www.meikles.com/

The Victoria Falls Hotel

http://www.victoria-falls-hotels.net/

HONORARY ACADEMICIAN TITLE IS BESTOW TO MINISTER OF TOURISM OF ZIMBABWE-WALTER MZEMBI

After being nominated as Academician- Honorary Member of European Tourism Academy Mr. Walter Mzembi becomes the voice of African continent in relation with Europe and in the world tourist stage opening the gates of prosperity and recognition for his fellow ministers from Africa and creating new opportunities of engagement between Africa and Europe in tourism, culture and economic cooperation.

 

On the occasion of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2014 elections, the Academic Board of European Council on Tourism and Trade has decided to co-opt as his newest honorary academic member- Mr. Walter Mzembi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of Zimbabwe.

 

Academician Mircea Constantinescu presenting his welcoming speech for Minister Walter Mzembi 

 

The decision comes natural, as Minister Walter Mzembi succeeded in profusely supporting the successful candidature of Zimbabwe to the highest tourism honor- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

After being voted as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014, Zimbabwe has become the first African country to hold this honor, a sign of African resurgence and of closer ties with Europe.

The decision to award the HONORARY ACADEMICIAN TITLE has come not only after the successful Zimbabwe bid for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD, but in recognition of the extensive academic activity realized by Minister Walter Mzembi in the last span of time.

From the large list of academic qualification of Mr. Walter Mzembi the academic committee has appreciated his studies in: Mechanical Engineering, Diplomas in Business and Governance Studies (USA), Business Administration and Doctorate in management (Mexico) etc.

The decision was taken in consensus on 3rd of May 2014 and was communicated to Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of Zimbabwe-Mr. Walter Mzembi in Harare on 29 May 2014.

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei and Director  of European Tourism Academy are offering warm congratulation to Minister Walter Mzembi

 

The official handing out ceremony was part of   WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 and was conducted by the Director of European Tourism Academy-Academician Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu.

In his welcoming speech in the European Academy, Professor Mircea Constantinescu has praised the first African leader accepted in the European Academy-Minister Walter Mzembi: Dr. Walter Mzembi is at the same time a great patriot. He loves his country, Zimbabwe, and the people of Zimbabwe. He put his enthusiasm, energy and knowledge in making a better life for the people and promoting the image of his country all over the world (…..)

Dr. Walter Mzembi is a born communicator and diplomat. And this is not a pure laudation. The recognition of his merits in this area are confirmed by the appreciation of the Institute of Public Relations, by the African Travel Association, by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, by the Institute Of Cultural Diplomacy, and by many other national and international professional bodies.

Professor Mircea Constantinescu has praised the first African leader accepted in the European Academy-Minister Walter Mzembi

 

In the end of the ceremony Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei handed out the academician insignia and European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea invited the new academician Walter Mzembi to take his place amongst his peers.

 Gratitude speech for European Tourism Academy from Academician Walter Mzembi 

 

After being nominated as Academician- Honorary Member of European Tourism Academy Mr. Walter Mzembi becomes the voice of African continent in relation with Europe and in the world tourist stage opening the gates of prosperity and recognition for his fellow ministers from Africa and creating new opportunities of engagement between Africa and Europe in tourism, culture and economic cooperation.

DR. CARAGEA ANTON-PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE DELIVERS HIS ADDRESS FOR ZIMBABWE-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION

On the occasion of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD CEREMONY for 2014 held in Harare, Zimbabwe, the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade delivered his long awaited speech for Zimbabwe-Favorite Cultural Destination in 2014.

 

  His Excellency, Commander Robert Gabriel Mugabe, President of Republic of Zimbabwe

His Excellency, European Academician Walter Mzembi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality of Republic of Zimbabwe

Distinguish guests,

To all the people of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE,

 

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea delivering the speech for Zimbabwe-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2014 

I must say what a privilege is for the all mankind to honor a country that is becoming a FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION.

It is also a great pleasure to address our salute to the majestic people of Zimbabwe, a people that with spirit and mettle have united the south of African continent in the peerless civilization of Great Zimbabwe, that had left to the mankind the legacy of an indelible civilization, with hundreds of monuments of historical and world patrimony relevance, a strong and proud people that had offered to the world heritage countless blessings.

Today when we celebrate Zimbabwe as a cultural and touristic power house, we must not forget that the main credit belongs, without a doubt, to the all people of Zimbabwe irrespective of their race, color, political or religious orientation that from 1979 onwards have been constructing, defying unfathomable difficulties, a life of dignity, liberty and tolerance in a free country.

Today, we come to share the good news that Africa, that recently celebrated 50 years of African unity, has reasserted herself and we come to honor a country of REBIRTH , OF RENAISSANCE, in a world that forgets that the main reason of tourism is imbuing the travelers into local culture, to immerse them in the discovery of the history,  we come today to Harare honor a TRUE CULTURE.

In a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real TOURISTIC PATRIMONY, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for protecting historical sites and environmental riches, we come to honor  THE SEVEN WONDER OF TOURISM, we come to honor the Republic of Zimbabwe.

We come in this place of Hope, in this place where almost 35 years ago the end of segregation, of exploitation and of colonialism was cried out into the open and confronted with a new name: Harare!

Here, in the city that never sleeps we have all gather to show our support for the values of humanity, of cultural driven 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 ZIMBABWE the perfect teacher in tourism, offering to all tourists of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening touristic experience.

Among the reasons leading to awarding FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION  IN 2014 title to REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE our report has taken under consideration:

–                      The promotion and support offered to a new concept of community natural protection supporting tourism friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest south-African eco-climate.

–                      Offering to tourists the outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: the unique landscape of Victoria Waterfall, the National Parks as: Mana, Eastern Highlands from Manicaland, Mana Basins from West Mashonaland, Exfoliated Hills from Matebeland, Chilojo Cliffs, and Matobo Hills from Bulawayo etc.

–                      The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: cultural, historical and rich legacy of Great Kingdom of Zimbabwe, the preservation of the former capital of Shone Kingdom-Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo area with a world class fortification system and palatial complex from 12th century, these are offering a rare insight  for tourists into one of the greatest civilization of pre-colonial Africa and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

–                      Today, REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is creating and offering for tourists an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological 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 Stone Age period,make destination Zimbabwe to offer an incomparable contribution to the world legacy.

Based on these facts that can be completed with many others, The European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to declare REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE – FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.

Government of Republic of Zimbabwe posing with FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2014 diploma

Your Excellency Mr. President,

It is my great honor and privilege to hand over this title to the Minister of Culture and Sports of Republic of Zimbabwe, as an international recognition for all the people of Zimbabwe, all united in the service of protecting and preserving historical and civilization patrimony of your country, in fostering tourism and culture, in the service of the people of  ZIMBABWE,

May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, for a sustainable tourism and development and in a base for further success for A WORLD OF WONDERS –THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE.

Esteemed Minister of Culture,

It is my privilege to handover to you, as representative of culture of THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, the award for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION  FOR 2014.

INCREDIBLE AFRICAN VICTORY AT EUROPEAN TOURISM INDUSTRY CONGRESS. ZIMBABWE HONORED AS WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

Zimbabwe has become the first African country to be nominated as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION. The decision has being taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade, the main european body entrusted to promote European tourism in the world.

The decision was announced by the President Office of European Council on Tourism and Trade at the end of two day`s of debates on the occasion of European spring 2014 tourism conference.   

On May 3, 2014 in a public séance of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, gathering representatives of tourism organizations from European continent has debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2014.

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade declares ZIMBABWE as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

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

Delegates from 27 countries debated the future of tourism for a two day summit.

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 to ZIMBABWE the report outlined:

–                      The peerless organization of World Tourism Organization General Assembly in 24-30 August 2013, the world gathering of tourism experts comprising more than 120 countries.

The successful organizing of this world event, despite tremendous logistic and economic challenges, proves without a doubt the capacity of Zimbabwe authority and tourism industry to organize world level events and to host all level of tourism.

After the perfect support and creative vision in carving a successful world tourism meeting,  ZIMBABWE has unequivocal demonstrated that is a safe, open and perfect managed tourism power house.

–                      The promotion and support offered to a new concept of community natural protection supporting tourism friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest south-African eco-climate.

Community based ecotourism protection carved by Minister Walter Mzembi is a perfect way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting their foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make eco-tourism as the base for an economic local development.                  Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering eco-friendly tourism it is a lesson that REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is offering to the world.

An unanimity vote choose ZIMBABWE as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

–                      Offering to tourists and outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: the unique landscape of Victoria Waterfall, the National Parks as: Mana, Eastern Highlands from Manicaland, Mana Basins from West Mashonaland, Exfoliated Hills from Matebeland, Chilojo Cliffs, and Matobo Hills from Bulawayo etc.

All this regions and natural parks 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 Republic of Zimbabwe, the transformation of Harare in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of  people’s of Zimbabwe

–                      The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: cultural, historical and rich legacy of Great Kingdom of Zimbabwe, the preservation of the former capital of Shone Kingdom-Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo area with a world-class fortification system and palatial complex from 12th century, this are offering a rare insight  for tourists into one of the greatest civilization of pre-colonial Africa and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

–                      Today, REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is creating and offering for tourists an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is from 3 May 2014 the official winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014.

–                      – 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 Stone Age period with an incomparable contribution to world legacy.

–                      The REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is today a hot spot for adventure tourism offering a large area of regions suitable for this special kind of tourism and the necessary infrastructure to welcome adventure sicker, the safety structures and natural potential to rank amongst the top world adventure spots.

–                      Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE in a spiritual first class destination.

The Group of Arab Ambassadors attended the General Assembly of European Council on Tourism and Trade 

After hearing the report, Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, from Romanian Parliament and Director of European Parliamentary Committee in European Council on Tourism and Trade had express the feeling’s of all present at the gathering declaring that: REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE  is the perfect candidate, with a perfect record of promoting eco-friendly tourism, ecological and social oriented tourism and that only a unanimity vote in favor of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE could express the unwavering European tourism and economic community support in favor of such a world model.

Mr. Victor Deleanu, ECTT  rapporteur,  presented also a report on ZIMBABWE: HOT SPOT OF ADVENTURE TOURISM reiterating the highest praises for the country safety record and infrastructure and hospitality industry achievements that are making Zimbabwe the perfect destination in Africa.

Ambassador of State of Qatar attended the General Assembly of European Council on Tourism and Trade 

Mr. Mihai Prundianu, Chairman of Trade Mission of ECTT also highlighted the importance that today, when Africa is celebrated 50 years of African Unity, Europe must express his commitment and appreciation for Africa by crowning ZIMBABWE as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.

In 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 -FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has a photo taken with the participants. 

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE for a delegation of European high-ranking official of European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present theWORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Harare, in person, to His Excellency President of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE –ROBERT GABRIEL MUGABE the most outstanding personality of today Africa.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has a photo taken with the participants. 

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