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.

THANK YOU EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE ! SAY`S AFRICAN LIBERATION GIANT-PRESIDENT ROBERT G. MUGABE

The visit to Zimbabwe-World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 of the EU team has brought new recognition`s for President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe and for ZANU-PF government party for their crucial role in propelling Zimbabwe as a perfect tourist destination and a safe country.

Zimbabwe-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2014

On the venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION award ceremony held in Harare H.E. President of the Republic of Zimbabwe-Robert Gabriel Mugabe, the african liberation hero, has presented the official acceptance allocution on behalf of people and government of Zimbabwe.

Here is the full text of the inspiring speech presented by the most famous african leader of today:

I want I thank for this event to: The Honorable Vice-President Joice Mujuru

 

The Speaker of the House of Assembly and advocate Jacob Mudenda,

The Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry comrade Walter Mzembi and all ministers here present,

Foremost to The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and all members of his delegation,

Minister of Culture Andrew Langa , traditional leaders, all minister here presence,

Members of the diplomatic core,

Ladies and gentlemen`s, dear comrades,

I’m pleased though not surprised at all that the European Council on Tourism and Trade had seen fit to give the awards for the BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2014 and the distinction for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2014 to Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe’s is indeed endowed with bountiful natural resources and rich cultural history

 

In addition our country is adjudged by relevant experts to poses the best climate in the word making it: an attracting tourism destination all year around

 

All thou like anyone else we can experience dramatic climate conditions, the impact on us is not that devastating , Zimbabwe can conform his reputation as an ideal tourism destination, but destinations might be mere geographical entities, it have to be destinations with people, and it is the people that are making destination to worth the talk, and is therefore the people of Zimbabwe we should be praised for the destination to be as warm as is proofed to be, Zimbabwe together with many other countries in southern Africa has succeeded to preserved much of his natural biodiversity in both flora and fauna, indeed we are home to some of the

Of the most sought after and rare animals in the world, including the big five: the elephant- huge, the lion- feroces, the rhino-quiet, but harmful, the leopard-there is stealthy but also blood thirsty and buffalo.

Of all this, the one we say is the most friendly maybe the buffalo, it is the only one of them but it is just one but the others do not provide the thing that we want to eat. I don’t know if the lion is eatable, less still do I know if the rhino or leopard are eatable anywhere but the elephant is, I did not tasted before I was in the prison where they serve us with elephant meet, it but I can tell you that I never like it I never tasted it after prison. I was afraid and who could not be afraid to eat the elephant ?

Who would obviously not be frighten to eat the elephant?

 

I am indeed proud that the iconic physical tourist attraction that we have in the country that include: Victoria Falls, the Eastern Highlands, the Mana Pools and off course the Exfoliated Hills in Manicaland, all must have influence the European Council on Tourism and Trade to select out of 27 nominated country to select Zimbabwe as the winner of the BEST DESTINATION AWARD.

 

It is our capacity to give tourists from all the corners of the world access to all our country natural features, the opportunity for tourists to explore nature in his ecological environment, must have strongly contributed to ECTT decision to grant us the awards that we just received today.

Ladies and Gentleman’s

While our country rich historical and cultural legacy has caught the et ye of ECTT, the venerable Great Zimbabwe, a fortified palatial complex that must have being build in 12 century, must played his part , the Great Zimbabwe from whom our great country is deriving his name is offering a rare insight into one of the greatest pre-colonial civilization of Africa and indeed a rare window into centuries of traditions.

Indeed countrymen, the winning of this award should must be a wakeup call to many, to realize the many historical treasures that we own.

How many of us are aware of the many historical treasure that we own ?

How many are aware that our national monuments in Manicaland are dating back from stone age period ?

Many of this natural sites, that are now on the list of UNESCO human heritage site, can and should be leveraged, to attract international visitors to Zimbabwe.

I believe is equally important for our people both children and adults to know and visit this site, yes we can share them with world and can be said that that we hold them entrust for humanity , but they remain first and foremost our own, they defined our zimbabwesness cultural diversity.

 

Cultural diversity in way of life and way of life showing itself in our interaction, marriages but much, much more pleasantly in song and dance and you heard today that diversity coming out from Reverend Damasani poetic rendering.

A gifted man indeed!

O gifted musician, but a gifted moralist, man of prayer, man of God,

 

We need to be thoroughly familiar with them and be proud with them. Some time I think that Zimbabweans are not knowing their country endowment, beside mineral gold, and precious stones, perhaps Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality should launch a know your Zimbabwe! , know yourself campaign!

To facilitate, to know our country.

I must pay a tribute to this young person they call Minister Mzembi, now the only surviving minister of tourism in Africa, or in the world, so he says

I rate him as one of my best ministers.

Foresight, full of brilliant ideas that are not remaining just in the mind, they take the form of action and practice.

Yes, he has gallivanted the world: East, West, North South, but every step he took, was to make better know Zimbabwe, two make the people better know, to make the reaches of Zimbabwe better known.

We still have so many not unknown, some of them where known and dig out, but thanks God we still have them and we start to discovering them for ourselves.

 

Let the world to know us and to know us fully: that we are a peaceful people but a proud people as well, and when it comes about natural resources s committed to be their owners, jealous of them.

Fighters against imperialism and colonialism because it wants to displace us, as in deed they have displaced us for nearly a century, and we are owners and in possession of our wealth.

A wealth that we discovered !

Even our past was sometime ugly, difficult for our ancestors, but let it be know our immediate past even as well as our contemporary history.

Is in this context that we emphasize the importance of our history of liberating Zimbabwe from colonial bondage and it is in this context that we want to emphasize the importance of writing the history because was not just the liberation of the people but the liberation of a people and their resources and their the tourist attraction as well.

Must people commemorate the major historical wars going back to centuries, our war of liberation was, only yesterday, comparatively specking, we should not risk erase it from our memories

But we should preserved our pride history.

We won a great war the often pitted poorly armed, often shoeless peasants against experienced, well armed, ruffles mercenaries, but we won it, against all odds.

It was a people war, not just a ZANU ZAPU ZAMPLA ZIBRA war. No!

Those where fronts, fronts of the people of Zimbabwe in their diversity and thus where fronts of determined people, determined to fight for our people, their people, our people.

 

We should never forget our people together, whatever their cultural believes religious, cultural, political, they are our people and hence the need for the unity of our people, unity in diversity.

We need to enshrined all location of majors battles indeed and grow them into iconic attractions, that our visitors and our posterity will visit and value them for all time.

They become visiting places, tourist attraction.

They will naturally evoke memories, but they should never, even if they made us angry sometimes, they should never make us to want to fight again, but should make us to be always ready against the enemy, against thus who want to pull the same trick already that they put against us in 1890 lasting up to 1980 we say No. Never again!

 

Ladies and gentlemen, comrades and friends, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Let me conclude by saying:

Thank you to you to European Council on Tourism and Trade-ECTT for these awards.

We should thank you for your magnanimity, I say magnanimity because at this juncture, during this time, at this time.

When others are thinking at punishing us more, you are thinking of making us more a friend than enemy. We are thanking you; we are exuding with friendship and love for others who equally may exude with love and friendship to us.

It is that interaction of love, love of nations, and love of people that we in Zimbabwe we want to work for.

Let me conclude by saying that I ‘am greatly enthusiastic and appreciative and full of pride for all the decision taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) to give this awards to Zimbabwe.

If the countries that have win these awards in the past are anything to go by, the European Council on Tourism and Trade has a very powerful and transparent desire to draw all the world’s attention to the tourism potential in developing countries.

Thank you for that!

This award is having the effect of putting the winner under the global limelight and I want to say that we have this limelight, thanks to the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) and thanks to you the Zimbabweans for demonstrating that you love others in the world.

We are now in the global limelight!

I want to promise to the European Council on Tourism and Trade that we shall continue to increase our efforts to leverage the potential that you have identified in us and always make Zimbabwe a preferred tourist destination in the world, a people loving people’s destination.

And I want to assure you that this is what are we working for: peace and harmony in Zimbabwe, peace and harmony in the region, and peace and harmony in the world

 

I want to say once again thank you to European Council on Tourism and Trade for these awards, we shell treasure them for all time.

United Arab Emirates are an oasis of security, stability and prosperity declares H.H. Sheikh Kalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of United Arab Emirates

On the occasion of United Arab Emirates celebrations of 40 years of independence and outstanding achievements , H.H.  Sheikh Kalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of United Arab Emirates addressed to the people of United Arab Emirates and journalist assembled for this occasion in Abu Dhabi the fallowing message:

His Highness  Sheikh Kalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan – President of United Arab Emirates

“Sons, daughters, brothers and sisters, Men and women of the Emirates, Salam Alaikum Warahmatullah Wabarakatu.

 We celebrate today the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the UAE. Our country has made remarkable achievements that have catapulted it to the ranks of advanced nations, thanks to the sincere and tireless efforts spearheaded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow founding fathers who toiled in silence to initiate a march whose aims fit with our genuine national values and principles. We will pursue their approach in shouldering this responsibility with diligent work to achieve further progress and prosperity for the homeland and its citizens. 

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

On this great day, we offer our heartfelt congratulations and profound appreciation to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and to my brothers, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of Emirates, for their support and for the care they give to the march of the Union, protecting the country, defending its gains and meeting the aspirations of its children. 

This Union that is with us today in terms of political achievement and socio-economic reality was neither a gift or a grant nor an easy achievement. Rather, it was the fruit of a good tree planted by our fathers who dreamed of the idea with hope, took care of it with their dedication to raise the flag of the Union as high as they could and strengthened its pillars. They are really the spirit of the Union; from their life and history, generations will draw lessons and will continue to carry the responsibility under the eyes of a glorious nation that takes pride in its past, its giving present and promising future. 

In the 40 years that have passed, the State has channeled all of its efforts and potential to serve the country and its citizens. More than this, it has invested all of its resources and energies in the building of a federal, pioneering modern state in which the values of solidarity, coherence and unity have been deepened, the concepts of work, dedication and participation have been promoted and in which the sense of belonging and pride in the achievements of the glorious federal march has been upheld. 

Men and women of the Emirates,

Your State has earned a prominent place in the international community thanks to what has been achieved over the past four decades in all walks of life. We have succeeded in building a robust federal government and active local governments. Our State today is ranked as one of the best countries in the world in terms of the efficiency of its services, its general policies and the credibility of the government with regards to local community. 

The UAE is, moreover, acknowledged as one of the most secure and stable countries, as a lavish investor in education and in the provision of qualifications for its people. Our judicial system has also received appreciation for its integrity and for the trust placed in it. 
The UAE has the second largest Arab economy, thanks to the robust and sound economy and prudent policies that are based on openness and diversification of sources of income. The UAE Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose from Dh6.5 billion in 1971 to Dh1,248 billion by the end of 2011. GDP per capita rose in 2011 to Dh174,000 per annum. The value of foreign trade went up from Dh13 billion in 1971 to Dh1,737 billion in 2011 while the share of non-oil sectors in GDP rose from 30% to 71% in the same period. The State has a viable small and medium enterprise sector (SME). The industrial sector has made remarkable achievements especially in terms of the increase in the number of enterprises. Large industrial complexes have been created, drawing in massive investment that has boosted the State’s strategy for developing the productive base of the economy and diversifying sources of income. 

Yas Island Project is attracting investors from all over the world.

The UAE has become an attractive hub for businessmen from all corners of the world and a magnet for foreign investment. With its high quality investment climate and the diverse and enormous investment opportunities that are available, the UAE leads the Arab World in indicators of the macroeconomic environment, the securities market, the corporate and institutional environment, and international financing. 
Although we concentrated on development of the oil and gas industries as the backbone of our economy and of the energy industry in our country, the State, at the same time, pursuing economic diversification and in order to meet the growing demand for energy, is setting out to invest heavily in renewable energy and nuclear power so as to reduce the consumption of conventional energy sources and to increase oil and gas exports. This approach is clearly evident through the Masdar Initiative and through the UAE being chosen as the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). 

Our belief in education and knowledge as pillars of development and progress has been the motive that us led us to devote more care to regular education and higher education. Statistics show that from only 74 public and private schools in 1971, with 32.800 students, the number had risen to 1,186 schools in 2011, with around 800,000 students. There are also 76 federal and local government and private higher education institutions throughout the emirates, working in coordination and cooperation to provide diverse, high quality learning opportunities for our children in all fields of knowledge. 
The government has paid special attention to the health sector and has worked diligently to provide high quality qualitative curative and preventive services as well as care for mothers and children. The UAE can boast of now having more than 92 government hospitals and 246 centres for primary healthcare and maternity and child care, compared to only 7 hospitals and 12 health centres in 1971. This is in addition to dozens of private hospitals and thousands of specialist clinics. The government is planning to upgrade and modernise the health sector so that it will become one of the best worldwide in terms of quality of practices, services, medical professionals, the percentage of Emiratisation, along with a broader contribution by the private sector. 

Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Abu Dhabi a symbol of cultural vitality of United Arab Emirates.

As for the housing sector, the government has built and distributed thousands of low-cost houses and built modern fully-serviced cities across the country. Since 2007, the Ministry of Public Works has been implementing a national housing plan which aims to meet requirements of citizens over the next 20 years. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme and other similar government-sponsored agencies are also undertaking ambitious housing projects. We have also made prepared a national housing strategy which is now being undertaken in full coordination with other local housing initiatives. 
It is appropriate at this point to express our appreciation for the role being played by the national committee which follows up implementation of the Presidential initiative to upgrade the basic infrastructure in various parts of the country. The budget for these projects, aimed at improving the standards of services crossed AED 7 billion. Financial support will continue to flow so as to deliver the objectives of these initiatives. 

Our foremost concern from the outset has been to build an infrastructure base that serves our development goals in all domains. For that purpose, the government has built road networks, sea and air ports and has expanded these facilities to serve the country’s ambitions in terms of the economy, trade, finance and tourism. It has also launched a range of initiatives projects in terms of culture and information so as to advance its strategic policy to become a regional hub for media, culture and arts, as well as a bridge for civilisational interaction between civilisations. Capitalising on its state-of-the-art complexes and facilities, the UAE has become an important centre for regional and international sports events. 
The government has made immense efforts to protect the environment, to improve water and natural resources management, to conserve biodiversity, animal species, and endangered marine and terrestrial flora, to protect and develop fisheries and to establish more nature reserves. What was done in this field under the stewardship of the founding father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a magnificent achievement that has earned our country a prominent regional and international standing in the sphere of the environment. 

His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan- the founding father of UAE

In all development fields in the country, including the increasing contribution of women in the workforce and the provision of full social care to all segments of society with special attention being given to youth, and, in particular, the vulnerable (the handicapped and the elderly), the indicators of the progress achieved have prompted many international organisations to rate our country as one of the most prosperous and as one of those delivering the best welfare services worldwide.

Building on this, we will continue with our plans to further develop our human resources and build their capacity and skills, since we believe that the human being is the target, the end, the engine and the means of development. We will also continue to encourage national qualified professionals to take their natural place in the present renaissance drive to ensure a more bright, promising future.” 

Brothers and sisters,

“The Union whose 40th anniversary we celebrate today is a social and collective responsibility. It is a project for renaissance and a continuous action plan. The selection of the ‘Spirit of the Union’ as a theme for this year’s celebration is a true expression of the genuine experiment which veritably embodies the originality, values and special nature of the reality of the UAE. 

Keeping the Union’s spirit alive is something that can be achieved through the empowerment of the UAE citizen who is the top national priority and the focus of the vision for the future that guides all strategies and policies that the government will adopt, in all sectors, over the next ten years. 

Empowerment of the citizen is our project for the next ten years of the Union – a project through which we will lay the ground for a more confident and strong national personality and whose driving force and cornerstone will be an active Emirati who is proud of his stable and coherent family and of his well-founded, dynamic community where security and justice prevail, where the values of voluntary work and of initiative are highly recognised, with a forward-thinking, modern learning system, an advanced, high quality health services, a knowledge-based sustainable and diversified economy, an integrated infrastructure, a sustainable environment, well-conserved natural resources and, finally, an eminent status on the international stage. 

These pillars were the same that guided our founding fathers to lay the foundations of this State. And in meeting the demands and aspirations of the people, they agreed upon a constitutional framework for a federal system of governance that deals with people on an equal footing, that guarantees their freedoms, that unlocks their potential, that mobilises their resources, and that provides them with more opportunities through powerful federal institutions that perform their work in integration with local governments and in full coordination with other segments in society. 

Our prime concern will be to deliver this vision and make it a living reality in a manner that realizes the aspirations of both the leadership and citizens for a more secure and prosperous future. The Council of Ministers will be responsible for transforming these aspirations into program that have specific targets and transparent standards. The Council of Ministers has already finalised the strategic framework of the UAE Vision 2021. 
Honourable citizens, We are progressing confidently towards a decade that will be spearheaded by the sons and daughters of the UAE. I have a word for all leaders : heed the voices of the people, take them into consideration while you are planning, setting goals and making decisions. In a world that has diverse organs of mass communications and platforms for social contacts, it is necessary for governments to seek the best and effective tools of communication with the citizen everywhere, to listen to his voice, to learn about his trends and to respond to his aspirations. This requires that we should pay attention and that we should listen. 

Abu Dhabi today – a modern city.

Based on that, we assert that broadening popular participation is a firm national trend and an irrevocable option which we have chosen with our full will. We will continue to take it further forward, gradually and steadily, in response to the aspirations of our people for a homeland for which they can come forward together to serve and develop its society. We have successfully completed the second phase of the gradual approach we adopted as a method to expand the popular participation in elections and to empower the Federal National Council (FNC) and increase its powers and enhance its role. 
This phase was crowned with the election of a new FNC which has commenced its sessions as a more vocal organ of the national will. We hope that the Council will perform its role in complete cooperation with the executive authority as a responsible platform for national issues and with a positive impact in decision-making. 
Dear sons of UAE There is no distinction between one citizen and another in our State…… all are equal in rights and duties and the main purpose of government activity is to improve the quality of life, to ensure sustainability of reasonable living standards for citizens and to ensure that all enjoy equal opportunities and fair privileges in a sound societal and family ambience where all feel justice and stability. This is what we are pursuing through many development initiatives in sectors like housing and services across the emirates. 

Within the context of these initiatives, education will receive a top priority, getting a major allocation in the federal budget for 2012 which will enable it to secure the required potential to develop its structure, to upgrade its output and to link it with the needs of development and the job market. 

On top of this, the conditions of employees in education will be improved, and new advanced curricula will be introduced that deepen the sense of belonging and identity, promote the values of moderation and incorporate the latest developments in systems, science, technology and languages. 
Out of our keenness to raise a generation that is capable of carrying responsibility and of pursuing the drive for development, the government has launched a set of integrated policies to build the capacity of our youth and to create an environment that will equip them to take part in economic, social, cultural, political and sports spheres and will stimulate them to actively engage in voluntary work and community development. 
Towards this end, we have created a ministry to take care of their affairs and have established the General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare. Child care has seen spectacular progress with the creation of the Higher Council for Maternity and Childhood. 

Emirates Palace- a landmark of capital of UAE-Abu Dhabi.

Similarly, we have made the empowerment of woman a pressing national priority. Thanks to sound planning, our State has an honorable record in terms of the rights of women; our women enjoy full rights, able to take part in all activities without discrimination. All the doors are open for the UAE woman to make more progress. 

Brother Emirati men and women,

“Our country is forging ahead steadily in making progress and our national economy has weathered the storm of the global economic crisis thanks to its vibrancy, resilience, diversity and its sound legislative environment. Our economy today remains on track and flourishing, buoyed by the stellar performance of some economic sectors, the improvement in liquidity, and the increase in surpluses. 
However, while expansion and diversification of the economic base and rise in growth rates are all important leading indicators, they are not an end in themselves. Rather, they are means towards the higher end, which is the happiness of man, the coherence of family, the solidarity of society, and the sovereignty of the state. This is the development model approved by the UAE Vision 2021, as a sustainable model of human society, whose target is to empower the society and to build the capacities, skills and knowledge of its members. 
It is our roadmap for the future and the main way to address the challenges faced both by the State and by society. On the top of these are national identity, the imbalance in the job market, low productivity and the weak rates of replacement and Emiratisation. 
We have already taken serious measures in that direction by establishing the Federal Council for the Demographic Structure, the National Qualifications Authority and the Khalifa Emiratisation Fund as well as other agencies. We hope the initiatives of these bodies will serve as a realistic prelude for tackling these challenges we are facing, like Emiratisation, the reduction of foreign workforce, increasing of the opportunities for training and the qualification of the national workforce in a manner that hones their skills and puts more demands on them. 
While recognising the role and contribution from the business sector over the past forty years, it must be noted that this sector should display more commitment today in terms of corporate social responsibility, so as to expand its participation in nation building, in protecting the local community, in increasing productivity and in the provision of investment in development and training and in attracting national human resources by creating more job opportunities for them. 

Dear Emirati men and women,

Our State is adopting a national security and defence strategy based on enhancing and supporting arrangements for maintaining public security and the rule of law along with developing skills and raising the efficiency of human element, in addition to our commitment to combating terrorism and all forms of alien organised crime and to dealing in a serious way with whatever harms internal security and stability. 
With God’s grace, the UAE is today acquiring the ability to defend our national gains and to protect our vital interests. We have given our armed forces special attention as a protective shield for the sovereignty, independence and security of the homeland. These forces have efficiently kept international security and peace and have proven their high efficiency in delivering aid to brotherly and friendly countries. Our armed forces will remain a source of our pride and a depository of our trust. 

Dear brother and sisters,

The current transformation in the Arab World has proven the soundness of the principles and pillars upon which our State has been based since its birth, which call for respect for the human being and his dignity, guaranteeing his rights as the backbone of stability of our communities and the essence of the security of the State. 
We have built our foreign policy principles and practices on moderation, the maintenance of security and stability, the adoption of peaceful means to settle internal and external disputes, on recourse to international legitimacy, on respect for the rule of law and the aspirations of peoples, establishing relations of cooperation with all countries of the world which treat the UAE with all respect and appreciation and are keen to extend bridges of friendship with all its dimensions and forms. 

The commitment to these values have been clearly evident through the approach we have followed in supporting the GCC joint action. We are keen to continue working with our brothers in the GCC to complete political, economic, security and social integration. And, as part of our membership of the GCC, we are closely monitoring the situation in our sister Bahrain, asserting our full support for the efforts being made by its leadership to promote national dialogue in a way that preserves its security and unity. 
As we follow developments in a number of sisterly Arab countries, we affirm our respect for the choices of their peoples and express our support for the ongoing efforts to overcome this situation in a manner that preserves unity and cohesion and meets the aspirations of their peoples. We will also continue our full support to our Palestinian brothers and to their efforts to restore their legitimate rights and to declare their independent state. We are also committed to offer everything that will help to ensure that stability, security and development prevail in friendly Islamic countries. 

As part of our international responsibility, our State is working seriously to enhance and coordinate humanitarian assistance and relief programmes and to provide aid development to developing countries, along with its contribution to international efforts for peace-keeping, reconstruction, disaster and crisis management, as well as responding to appeals for humanitarian relief. 
This is confirmed by the UAE’s distinguished partnership in maintaining international peace and security, its effective contribution in various UN activities and its agencies and its pledging of assistance to the tune of billions of dollars. We remain committed to our principled policy to prohibit the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to engage with the international community to spare the world from the dangers of nuclear proliferation. 
Brothers and sisters, The security and stability of the State is a trust and keeping it is a responsibility which doesn’t tolerate leniency or hesitance. Our gallant Armed Forces and our Police and security forces have been and will remain the strong protective shield and line of defence to earn the trust of and maintain the security and stability of the country and its citizens. We salute those commanders, officers and personnel on this glorious day for their dedication and faithfulness in performing their duty and for what they do to upgrade our national defence and security capabilities. 
We also pay tribute to the children of the loyal UAE people for showing solidarity, allegiance, a unity in their ranks and a deep consciousness. We also greet residents from sisterly and friendly countries who are living among us. 
Together, we have gone through major steps and have witnessed years replete with achievements and success. And we, with the aid of God, will stay the course of the triumphal march, steadfast and in full confidence, so as to reach that for which we aspire – a promising future of prosperity and well-being. 

We pray to the Almighty that He may keep our country strong and secure and that He may grant us the determination and strength to protect it as an oasis of security, stability and prosperity.

EUROPEAN UNION-ALGERIA: A DEVELOPING RELATION

Between 22-23 November 2011 was taking place the visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria H.E. Mourad Medelci.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations is welcoming Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria H.E. Mourad Medelci

The visit, perfect realized by the efforts of Algerian Embassy staff in Romania headed by the dedicated ambassador Habib Chawki Hamraoui was an outstanding succes in perfecting European-romanian-algerian dialogue and in reshaping the traditional friendship between Europe and Algeria.

The dens program of the visit included a productive dialogue with Romanian prime-minister Emil Boc ,  a meeting with romanian minister of Foreign Affairs –Theodor Bachonski ,a dialogue with professor dr. Anton Caragea and the board of director`s of European Council on International Relations ,attending the inauguration of the new premises of Algerian Embassy in Romania , the opening of Romania-Algeria Economic and Business Forum, attending a working launch with Mr. Emil Constantinescu , President of Romania ( 1996-2000) and prof.dr. Anton Caragea, President of  European Council on International Relations.

At the Economic and Business Forum Romania-Algeria the European Council on International Relations had sent a 25 members strong economic delegation headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and representing investors and important economic firms from Europewith a combined economic powered over 400 millions euro`s.

The Romania-Algeria Economic and Business Forum was unanimously considered as an impressive  success because is the first major economic forum between Romania and North Africa region held in the last 10 years and also the first successful romanian-arab economic forum held in the last decade.

Was also generally praised the invitation launched at the Economic and Business Forum by H.E. Mourad Medelci – Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria:  “We wish to resume our bilateral relations, in a constructive spirit, and ground them on development and cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, civilian and military cooperation, cultural cooperation. (…) The financial situations of our country allow us to fund, from our country’s budget, a five-year program (2010-2014) worth 280 billion dollars. This context is favorable and I would like to stress that in the framework of this programme, European Council on International Relations firms have already proved their competence in fields like constructions, hydraulic infrastructure and education. Therefore there is real potential for development and cooperation between the two states,” said the head of the Algerian diplomacy.

After the Economic and Business Forum a dialogue was held between Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations , President of Romania-Emil Constantinescu (1996-2000 ) and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci

On the time of the discussion an honest asesssment of the situation from Middle East and North Africa region was made and also a discussion about the ripple effects in the region had taken place. H.E. Minister Mourad Medelci had declared that the analyses of prof.dr.Anton Caragea over the events in the region are read, analyzed and highly appreciated in Alger and are given all the importance.

Fallowing the discussion, a launch honoring Europea-Algeria friendship in the company of H.E. President of Romania Emil Constantinescu (1996-2000) and the architect of this successful visit, Algerian Ambassador Habib Chawki Hamraoui was held. Over 100 guests from cultural, academic and economy fields where present at the launch together with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci and Professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

The  two day visit culminated in the Official Ceremony of bestowing DOCTOR HONORIS CAUSA to Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations and the professors and Rectores of Spiru Haret University of Romania.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations and Ambassador of Algeria : Habib Chawki Hamraoui

The extraordinary achievements in trilateral relation Europe-Romania-Algeria obtained by the visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci are a testimony of the efficacy of hard work realized by tireless Ambassador of Algeria : Habib Chawki Hamraoui had declared for press at the end of the working launch professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE OF KAZAKHSTAN

KAZAKHSTAN: 20 YEARS OF FULFILLED PROMISES say`s Professor Anton Caragea – European Council on International Relations President

The Presidium of International Academic Conference on Kazakhstan : Presidents of Romania : Emil Constantinescu and Ion Iliescu , H.E. Kairat Aman -Kazakhstan Charge d`affairs , prof.Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on International Relations , prof.dr. Viorel Lefter, prof.dr. Mircea Constantinescu , Deputy Catalin Nechifor

On 15 November 2011 Bucharest, capital of Romania, hosted the International Academic Conference: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. PEACE AND CONSTRUCTION. The Conference was hosted and organized by the European Council on International Relations and Kazakhstan Diplomatic Mission in Romania and had enjoyed the presence of President of Romania Mr. Ion Iliescu and President of Romania Mr. Emil Constantinescu , representatives of Romanian Parliament, Romanian Government  and European Union academics etc.

Professor dr. Anton Caragea -President of European Council on International Relations.

The conference was opened by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- President of European Council on International Relations  who presented the speech: KAZAKHSTAN – 20 YEARS OF FULFILLED PROMISES, outlining the transformation of Kazakhstan from an energy dependent country into a world energy supplier, a powerful state, with consolidated democracy, market economy, social development and exporter of stability in Central Asia region.

H.E. Kairat Aman – Charge d`affairs of Kazakhstan speaking at : KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE

The speech of Professor Anton Caragea was fallowed by welcoming remarks of H.E. Kairat Aman , Charge d`Affairs of Kazakhstan Mission, who presented the astonishing accomplishments of Kazakhstan in reaching economic development , social and cultural enlightenment of his population and constructing a powerful democracy based on people consensus .

President Emil Constantinescu of Romania ( 1996-2000) praising Kazakhstan consolidated democracy.

Professor Dr. Emil Constantinescu, President of Romania (1996-2000), presented a report entitled: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. 20 YEARS OF DEMOCRATIC CONSTRUCTION, emphasizing the democratic credential of Kazakhstan , the success of holding free and fair elections, constructing a powerful civil society at the highest democratic standards.

President of Romania Ion Iliescu ( 1990-1996; 2000-2004 ) speaking about Kazakhstan and world economy.

Mr. Ion Iliescu, President of Romania (1990-1996; 2000-2004), had presented a report titled: KAZAKHSTAN AND WORLD ECONOMY GLOBALIZATION. The report is pressing on the impressive successes of Kazakhstan in the last 20 years: reconstructing Silk Road in transport and energy supplies lines, in promoting regional economic cooperation and in developing social and cultural status of people of Kazakhstan.

President Nursultan Nazarbaev has constructing a powerful and successful Kazakhstan, that everybody could be proud, concluded President Ion Iliescu.

Member of Romanian Parliament : Catalin Nechifor prizing Kazakhstan as a bridge between Europe and Asia. 

The other speeches where held by Catalin Nechifor , member of Romanian Parliament and Vice-President of Romania –Kazakhstan Friendship Parliamentary Group and by Dr. Mircea Constantinescu- Director of European Diplomatic Academy of European Council on International Relations. The two key note speeches had reflected the astonishing successes of Kazakhstan latest 20 years of independence : democracy, development , high standard of living , security and promoting international cooperation via international organization presided by Kazakhstan such as: Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe (2010) and Organization of Islamic Conference (2011).

First chair line: H.E. Ambassador of Nigeria – Mba Ama Mba , H.E. Ambassador of  State of Palestine Ahmad Aqel , H.E. Ambassador of United Arab Emirates – Yacoub Yousef Al Hosani , H.E. Ambassador of Macedonia – Ljupco Arsovski

Second chair line: H.E. Ambassador of Sudan – Yasir Abdelsalam Ahmed

The impressive academic manifestation had enjoyed a large presence of Diplomatic Corp accredited in EuropeanUnion and  Romania, mass media organizations and over 500  academics from Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation , Romanian Academy of Sciences , European Council on International Relations , Romanian Academy of Economic Science, European Diplomatic Academy etc.

The most outstanding representatives of Diplomatic Corp accredited to Romania.

The International Academic Conference: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. PEACE AND CONSTRUCTION was the most important conference dedicated to Kazakhstan Independence celebration in European Union and was an example of the interest generated by Kazakhstan on world stage and of brotherly relations between European Union, Romania and Kazakhstan.

Professor dr. Anton Caragea presiding over European Council on International Relations –  European Diplomatic Academy saluted 20 Years of independence of Kazakhstan

Discussion before the conference .

Friends of European Union and Kazakhstan. Ambassadors presents on the venue of the International Conference on Kazakhstan 20 years of independence.  

Ambassadors taking part on Kazakhstan 20 years of independence International Academic Conference.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS DELEGATION VISIT TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Between 15 and 23 October 2011 a six member delegation from European Council on International Relations ( EUCIR ) headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, director of IRICE had paid an official visit in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea speaking for world tourism leaders gathered in Port of Spain ceremony.

The European Union delegation was invited to attend the World Travel Award Ceremony held in Port of Spain, where Trinidad and Tobago received the title of Best Destination for 2012.

European Union had being instrumental in awarding this title and the right to organize this International Tourism Festival and Prime Minister Kamla Pershad Bissessar had publicly expressed appreciation for professor Anton Caragea vote, as European Council on International Relations  representative, in favor of Trinidad and Tobago.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister H.E. Kamla Parshad Bessassar

The European Union delegation held talks on developing relations on tourism, industry and culture with Republic of Trinidad and Tobago with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Tourism – Rupert Griffith, Minister of Trade and Industry, Minister of Energy, President of Parliament of Tobago-Hon. Orville London and Minister of Science and Technology–Senator Fazal Karim etc.

The agreements reached varied from: the announcement of visa requirements relaxation for EU citezens for all type of passports and all type of travel for European citizens for a stay of 90 days, agreements for jointly established post university courses on diplomacy and tourism and agreements on tourism cooperation and on mutual investment protection.

On the side line of the official meetings professor Anton Caragea meet General Manager Russell George of Hyatt Hotel Chains discussing ways for fostering tourism investment of Hyatt in Romania.

The European Union delegation had also an impressive cultural program including touring the islands of Trinidad and Tobago , fort George , Mount George , Rain Forest Reserve, Maracas Beach etc. and participating in Divali Festival official opening etc.

The visit has concluded with an official meeting of European Council on International Relations delegation with Prime Minister Kamla Parshad Bissessar, the main political figure of the island.

Prime minister stressed the importance of the first high level talks between European Council on International Relations and Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and important agreements reached by the parties and praised European Council on International Relations visionary decision of supporting Trinidad and Tobago international candidature.

In his response Professor Dr. Anton Caragea highlighted the impressive development of Trinidad and Tobago in tourism industry, economic sustainable development and energy market regulation. Trinidad and Tobago is a safe country, democratically  advanced and an interesting market for investments and European Council on International Relations is glad to have a strong partner on the other side of the Atlantic .

The visit was an important diplomatic success in European Council on International Relations desire to foster relations with the nations of South America region and was the first high level visit in the latest 10 years in a South American country.

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD CEREMONY HELD IN PORT OF SPAIN- TRINIDAD TOBAGO

On 19 October 2011, in the framework of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade official delegation  visit to Republic of Trinidad and Tobago , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of   European Union Council on Tourism and Trade bestow upon people and government of Trinidad and Tobago the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for 2012 and declared Trinidad and Tobago as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2012.

Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago received the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for 2012 on the behalf of people and government of Trinidad and Tobago.

The impressive ceremony held in Port of Spain, capital of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was held under the auspices of Minister of Tourism, Honorable Rupert Griffith and under the High Patronage of Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago .

The most important touristic event of the year, the announcement of the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2012, had attracted a large audience of ministers, parliamentary and tourism professionals eager to find out the reasons for selecting Trinidad and Tobago as the winner of the prestigious award for next year.

The spectacle was opened by a traditional Trinidad and Tobago dance full of fire and spirit   fallowed by a presentation of important achievements obtained in tourism by Trinidad and Tobago during last year, presentation held by Minister of Tourism, Honorable Rupert Griffith.

Speeches where held also by Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu –Director of European Tourism Academy who praised Minister of Tourism impressive results that are highlighting Trinidad and Tobago as a powerful cultural and tourist center in the world.

In the same line Dr. Petru Lificiu, Vice-President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade had underscored the significance of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION as an instrument in promoting free and fair tourism, ecologically friendly and opened to cultural values.

Finally, in the long awaited moment, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of   European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, had unveiled the reasons for proclaiming Trinidad and Tobago as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2012.

Among the reasons he emphasizes the cultural and historic values preserved by Trinidad and Tobago, the abundance of natural reserves, protected areas, and ecologically friendly tourist programs.

In the applause of the assistance   Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago received the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for 2012 on the behalf of people and government of Trinidad and Tobago.

In her speech Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar emphasize the decision taken by here government to believe in the future of Trinidad and Tobago as a tourist destination, to support development of tourism as an alternative way of economic development and expressed here gratitude towards European Union Council on Tourism and Trade   delegation for support and trust in the future of tourism in Trinidad and Tobago.

Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

Under an explosion of applause  Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago ask for a vote of thanks and obtained a unanimity of appreciation for her dedication in promoting tourism and obtaining the prestigious WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for 2012  for her country and people.

The ceremony had concluded with the presentation of the new television spot carved by Ministry of Tourism to promote in 2012 the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION – Trinidad and Tobago.

Prime Minister Kamla Pershad Bissessar – TRINIDAD TOBAGO DESERVES TO BE WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012

The award of World’s Best Tourist Destination will significantly assist in branding destination Trinidad and Tobago globally. We must change the perception of our country in the overseas markets. We must celebrate our country and work hard to sell our country abroad. It is anticipated that this award will open us to untapped European markets that are perhaps weary of the traditional leisure destinations and desire a more exciting vacation experience.

Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago 

Date: Wednesday October 19, 2011

Venue: Regency Hall-  Hyatt Regency Trinidad

Time: 12.30pm

I am indeed truly humbled and deeply honoured to be standing here today to accept, on behalf of the People of Trinidad and Tobago, the World’s Best Tourism Destination Award for 2012 from the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade. A non-governmental organisation, this body has a wide ranging membership of tourism representatives within the European Union.  

We were also declared the World’s Favourite Cultural Destination in 2012 by the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.  

It is my understanding that this award was unanimously given to Trinidad and Tobago primarily for our history of impressive cultural festivals, environmental conservation and biodiversity protection amongst other factors.  

It is not an award that is traditionally given to well-established tourism destinations but it is the highest honour awarded to non-European Union countries that have embraced sustainable tourism as a tool for cultural and social development and that respect and preserve their cultural and natural heritage.  

I extend my heartfelt thanks to the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade for having us join other distinguished winners of this award such as the United Arab Emirates, Syria and South Koreea. 

But moreover, I thank the Council for recognising what most of us fail to acknowledge and value. And this is … Trinidad and Tobago is brim-full with tourism potential.  

We are not the traditional sun, sea and surf destination. What differentiates us from the rest of our Caribbean neighbours is our diverse and rich natural, cultural and built heritage.  

This People’s Partnership Government is seriously committed and dedicated to the development of the tourism industry in Trinidad and Tobago. Tourism is an incredibly important pillar in our national economic diversification effort.  

We are not paying “lip service” to the industry as some may have done in the past. For too long tourism has been looked down on as a second class service sector. 

We recognise that tourism is a business and fiercely competitive. Tourism requires skills, talent, enterprise and more importantly the support of government. 

The award of World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2012 is important for several reasons.  

Firstly, it facilitates the formation of closer linkages with Europe for tourism, trade and investment possibilities. The European continent, as in its colonial past, is a formidable trading partner especially with the fall of communism and the rise of new economic powers.  

Europe is, and will certainly continue to be, a cornerstone for our international business.  

Ladies and gentlemen,  

The economic and social advancement of this beautiful twin island Republic of ours depends to a large extent on how well we develop and harness our resources. And one such untapped resource is that of tourism.  

The award of World’s Best Tourist Destination will significantly assist in branding destination Trinidad and Tobago globally. We must change the perception of our country in the overseas markets. We must celebrate our country and work hard to sell our country abroad.  

It is anticipated that this award will open us to untapped European markets that are perhaps weary of the traditional leisure destinations and desire a more exciting vacation experience.

Ladies and Gentlemen,  

An important opportunity that this award presents is a platform to advance the commitments of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). 

As many of you may or may not be aware, in 2008 Trinidad and Tobago, along with its neighbours in the rest of the region, embarked upon a reciprocal trade agreement with one of our largest trading partners – the European Union (EU). The signing of the EPA signalled a shift in our trade and economic development. 

We are now required to open our markets to Eastern Union manufacturers and service providers; but the EPA also provides market access for our country’s export of services to the European Union.  

The Economic Partnership Agreement also speaks to specific disciplines on tourism services because of its importance to the social and economic development of the European Union and the Caribbean. These rules are complemented by a commitment to legally binding open market conditions for each other. For instance, the Europe Union has made commitments for travel agencies, tour operators, tourist guides services.  

Trinidad and Tobago, on the other hand, have made commitments in relation to hotels and restaurants, marina services and spa services.  

The EPA also includes measures that would make it easier for European Union investors to invest in the Trinidad and Tobago. This award, then, will provide a platform to attract increased investment and to promote growth and development in the tourism sector. The Economic Partnership Agreement is, therefore, rendered more relevant, more strategic and more focused on deliverables.

Honorable Prime Minister Kamla Pershad Bissessar receives WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD  for 2012.

The World’s Best Tourism Destination award will, moreover, engender a measure of national pride amongst our citizenry and raise the level of public confidence in Trinidad and Tobago as a tourist destination. 

We should be proud of our country and its tourism potential. We have so much to be proud of, so much to share with each other, and so much to show off to the rest of the world. Let us not doubt or question our intrinsic value.

In closing, ladies and gentlemen, I must take a moment to publicly acknowledge the hard work and sacrifices of our tourism community … the stakeholders in our midst. The last few years have been quite challenging for all in the tourism industry. 

But rest assured that the tourism industry will get the backing it needs. 

But we cannot do it alone. We have all to work together. The private sector in the lead but with government acting as a facilitator; supporting every step of the way.

I want to urge you to continue working with commitment, energy and enthusiasm for the betterment of the tourism industry. 

I thank you. God’s richest blessings on us all.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – FAVORITE EUROPEAN DESTINATION FOR 2012

On 9^th of October 2011 in a public séance of the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade gathering, representatives of tourism organizations from EU members country it was debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2012.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy, had presented a report on the last year situation of the Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION that was dedicated to United Arab Emirates and it was used accordingly with rules and regulations and have being proving highly efficient in attracting new tourists and investor attentions as United Arab Emirates was the ONLY country in the region that registered an increase in number of visitors despite tensions in the region.

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION  AWARD FOR 2012 professor dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) presented the report titled : TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO : A SUCCESS STORY IN TOURISM proposing TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012.

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 to TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the report outlined:

   –  Respecting cultural patrimony and traditions in offering to tourists a possibility to participate in impressive paraphernalia festivals such as: Holi, Hosay, Divali, Corpus Christi, Eid Al Fitr and special Tobago Heritage Festival Tobago Fest and Trinidad GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH etc.

Keeping alive spiritual traditions , integrating tourist and visitors in the atmosphere of the islands , offering possibility of an enriching cultural experience are achievements that transform Trinidad and Tobago in a spiritual destination of first hand.

–                      Promoting Trinidad and Tobago environmental protection, especially East Coast natural patrimony of wetlands, beaches and ecological and geographical biodiversity that make Trinidad and Tobago unique in the region. Supporting a new concept of tourism friendly to nature, with low nature impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

–                      Offering to tourists not only cultural experience or relaxation opportunities but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to observed in Tobago the impressive Forest Reserve are model achievements in ecological tourism that must be world appreciated.

–                      The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Trinidad and Tobago, the transformation of Port of Spain in an historical center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture of Trinidad and Tobago and Caribbean heritage.

–                      Offering to the tourist a large area of cultural and ecological impressive programs such as: Wildlife Photography in places such El Tucuche Reserve, Valencia Wildlife Sanctuary, Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Cave exploration (in splendid places such as Gasparee Caves).Cycling, Hiking (Argyle Waterfall –a special destination), Kayaking (Paria bay and Tobago area).

For all this reasons European Union Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 TITLE TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO and to declare TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATIONS in 2012.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO for a delegation of European high ranking official of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Port of Spain, in person, to His Excellency Minister of Tourism DR. RUPERT GRIFFITH.

Awarding the highest tourism distinction of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, the invitation for an working visit of high ranking members of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade in TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO are estimated by European tourism experts as a good example of close tourism relations and mutual appreciation   between European Union and Trinidad and Tobago, said at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS INCLUDED LARA LIFE MED CLINIC BETWEEN EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC PARTNERS

 On 22 September 2011 it was unveiled the latest European standards clinic: Lara Life Med and it was publicly signed the partnership in providing high quality medical services between Lara Life Med and MedNord Klinik from Munich.

The presentation was enjoyed by a huge assistance of personalities of medicine research and practitioners, journalists, business men, members of Lara Life Med administration board and in the presence of diplomatic corp accredited to Romania and with special presence of ambassadors accredited to European Union.

European Council on International Relations in having a new diplomatic presentation partner.

 

On this joyful occasion Mrs. Laura Ciuhu , director of prestigious Lara Life Med Clinic had presented the main tasks on future agenda of development of this impressive medical project including: importing latest generation equipment , providing top quality medical assistance and in the near future opening an european standard hospital.

On this occasion Mrs. Laura Mihaela Ciuhu had received the international and diplomatic recognition of high quality standards of services rendered by Lara Life Med, by receiving the official quality title of  official diplomatic partner of European Council on International Relations .

An impressive diplomatic and medical assistance attended the official ceremony.

 

The President of European Council on International Relations , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had presented the reasons for awarding the prestigious title and encouraging distinction for lofty initiatives to Lara Life Med Clinic.

Lara Life Med is representing a high standards in medical world by service provided , by large area of medical specializations and by latest medical technology amalgamated in the project and by providing support for European medical school development , had underlined among the reasons prof.dr.Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations.

For now one has announced prof.dr.Anton Caragea , Lara Life Med will be included in diplomatic presentations tours of European Union, in programs of medical exchanges and in institutional exchanges and by being presented as a first hand diplomatic partner in fostering a favorable image of European Union.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea chairing the inaugural event.

 

The emotional ceremony of bestowing the title of official partner of European Council on International Relations to Lara Med Life was followed by the high quality medical lecture offered by Prof.dr. Norbert Pfuetzenreuter who based on impressive image and eloquent description emphasize the progress of endoscopic surgery, minim invasive, that are allowing to patient a quick health restoration and a rapid return to normal life (no blood loss, no major trauma etc.)

Prof.dr. Ralf Senner had presented in his outstanding report on morbid obesity treatment and collateral affections that had offered hopes to hundreds of europeans in difficult situation today.

An impressive moment was also the testimony of Beppe Iuliano  , creator of success business and institutions, that prevailed over his personal drama of a poliomyelitis that left irreversible trauma`s and became a man with a valuable contribution to society.

His example had raised the audience for a standing ovation for a lesson on courage and will, offered by Beppo Iuliano.

Finally a video presentation of the latest medical gadgets operating in clinic had aroused the curiosity and enthusiasm of the audience who understood that Lara Life Med is beyond doubt a european level clinic that is providing to European and non-european citizens, the opportunity of high quality medical care.

The ceremony of inauguration of Lara Life Med was held under the High Patronage of European Council on International Relations.