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.

CE VIN BEAU DIPLOMATII ? CASA PANCIU ESTE VINUL DIPLOMATILOR PENTRU 2014

Casa Panciu a castigat titlul de CEL MAI BUN VIN ROMANESC-VINUL DIPLOMATILOR pentru 2014 si beneficiaza de indelungata recunoastere internationala de care se bucura produsele zonei Panciu, zona cu renume solid, bine stabilit pe pietele de gen din intreaga lume. 

Vinul romanesc este considerat unul din elementele principale de identitate ale Romaniei in lume.

Prin calitate si renume, vinul din Romania ocupa unul din locurile fruntase in economie, ca produs de export si de recunoastere nationala.

Pentru a sprijinii promovarea vinului romanesc si pentru a oferi noi posibilitati de recunoastere internationala pentru producatorii romani, Institutul de Relatii Internationale si Cooperare Economica organizeaza anual o competitie a celor mai bune vinuri din tara noastra, alegand la final cel mai bun vin: Vinul Diplomatilor.

 

Cel mai bun vin romanesc al anului 2014: Casa Panciu-colectia SAGIO

In data de 18 decembrie 2013 comisia diplomatilor si-a anuntat decizia : pentru anul 2014 aceasta onoare deosebita, de a fi considerat cel mai bun vin al Romaniei, a revenit vinurilor produse de Casa Panciu.

Casa Panciu a introdus in concurs o larga gama de vinuri, printre care amintim excelentele: Sauvignon Blanc, Feteasca Alba, Feteasca Neagra, Feteasca Regala, Muscat Ottonel, Babeasca Neagra sau vinuri din gama Sagio, maturate cel putin 12 luni in barrique-uri de diverse origini (frantuzesc, american sau romanesc), si imbogatit cu arome complexe, de cafea, ciocolata sau vanilie etc.

 

Cel mai bun vin spumant al anului 2014: CASA PANCIU-MUSCAT OTTONEL

Vinurile de la Casa Panciu au starnit entuazismul comisiei de diplomati, reprezentand trei continente ( cate trei diplomati din Asia, Africa si Europa, ce provin din principalele piete de desfacere a produselor vini-viticole romanesti).

Cel mai bun vin fiind considerat cupajul de Cabernet Sauvignon si Feteasca Neagra, iar la capitolul cel mai bun vin spumant, sufragiile s-au indreptat spre Muscat Ottonel.

Casa Panciu a reusit sa cucereasca asistenta nu doar prin varietatea sortimentelor de vin prezentate, dar si prin caracteristicile deosebite ale vinurilor spumante prezentate.

 

Prin aroma, tarie, culoare, calitati organo-leptice si profunzimea vinurilor, oferite pentru degustare, Casa Panciu a reusit sa demonstreze diplomatilor ca vinul romanesc, din regiunea Vrancea, nu si-a scris ultima pagina si nici nu si-a spus ultimul cuvant.

Vinul diplomatilor, titlul corespunzator celui mai bun vin romanesc al anului, aduce nu doar recunoastere interna si internationala producatorilor, dar va fi si oferit ca element de protocol si de recunoastere a imaginii Romaniei, in toate delegatiile internationale din anul 2014.

Delegatiile straine ce vor sosi in tara noastra vor putea sa guste magia vinului romanesc, prin produsele Casa Panciu, iar in toate delegatiile internationale noi vom aduce produse de la Casa Panciu, ca semn al inaltei calitati a vinului romanesc pe toate meridianele globului.

Totodata nu pot decat sa il felicit pe dl. Daniel Guzu, Directorul de la Casa Panciu, pentru inalta calitate a produselor sale, produse care au cucerit atentia diplomatilor straini, produse care au reusit sa se impuna ca fiind vinul anului 2014, vinul diplomatilor, si care vor reprezenta imaginea vinului din Romania timp de un an.

Este aceasta o remarcabila realizare, bazata pe eforturile echipei de profesionisti in vinificatie de la Casa Panciu, care au reusit sa readuca zona Vrancea in topul producatorilor de vin din tara noastra.

Tifesti-Vrancea-Panciu: locul de origine al celor mai bune vinuri romanesti

Casa Panciu produce peste 20 de sortimente de vinuri linistite si spumante, de o calitate deosebita, beneficiind de cadrul natural deosebit al ariei Tifesti, zona cu o indelungata expunere solara, cu un pamant de cea mai buna calitate, ne-epuizat de agricultura intensiva, fara chimicale si fara tratamente agresive.

Casa Panciu este inima si sufletul vinurilor provenite din cele peste 120 de hectare situate la Tifesti, in podgoria Panciu, cultivate cu soiuri frantuzesti precum Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Ottonel si Cabernet Sauvignon, dar mai ales cu cele mai renumite si iubite soiuri romanesti de Feteasca Alba sau Regala, Sarba, Babeasca Neagra si Feteasca Neagra.

 

 

Din 2009, munca grea si dedicata din podgorie se fructifica prin prezenta pe piata a vinurilor Casa Panciu, vinuri cu un continut minim de sulfiti.

Vinurile obtinute la poalele muntilor Vrancei au un caracter vioi si neastamparat, precum acest pamant framantat, aflat la imbinarea placilor tectonice.

In plus Casa Panciu beneficiaza de indelungata recunoastere internationala de care se bucura produsele zonei Panciu, zona cu renume solid, bine stabilit pe pietele de gen din intreaga lume.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE DELEGATION AT HANDOVER CEREMONY FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD

 

Between 5 to 10 May 2013 a high ranking official delegation of European Council on Tourism and Trade, under the leadership of H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) was invited for a working visit in People`s Democratic Republic of Lao( Lao PDR).

 

The Government of LAO PDR and ECTT delegation at the handover ceremony for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013.

The delegation had also the outstanding task of presenting to the people and Government of Lao PDR the highest honor in tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013.

The visit has being encompassed in the rapid developing bilateral relation between Europe and Laos, in a rapid evolving dialogue and a reciprocated desire to establish an extensive and consolidate partnership, Laos being presently the main partner of our European Council on Tourism and Trade in the South-East Asia area.

In the framework of H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea visit an inclusive discussion was held with H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao.

H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao PDR and H.E. President of  Dr. Anton Caragea in  an inclusive discussion. 

 

Tabled at the meeting where the extension of bilateral exchanges in areas such as economy, tourism, culture and political dialogue.

H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao has outlined for European delegation an extensive presentation of the Laos economic situation as a country in full and ample development, with a rate of annual economic growth of 4 to 7%, and an expansion rate of incoming tourists of more than 20% annually and being counted amongst economic tigers of the area.

Also the Prime Minister had expressed the sincere appreciation of the Government and People of Laos for the instrumental role played by Professor dr. Anton Caragea in promoting Laos image in the world and in bestowing the WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION title for Lao.

On his turn, professor dr. Anton Caragea had emphasized the strong points of Lao: political stability, impressive economic development and the clear express desire to extend the bilateral relation.

 

The visit H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea lead delegation had included also an extensive dialogue with H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information, and H. E. Vice-Prime Minister Asang Laoly and Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith-Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Tabled at the meetings where issued such as the establishment of a Council for Business and cooperation, Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, Honorary Consulates and other structures destined to enhance the economic , cultural and political partnership.

 

H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information in a fruitful dialogue with H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information expressed his appreciation for the Professor dr. Anton Caragea support for Laos in championing at European level with considerable influence and energy the country as a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

During the discussion with Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara , professor dr.Anton Caragea had presented the arguments for Lao PDR being considered as a world power in culture and tourism , noting that in XXI century that values of a nation is encompassing the cultural and historical patrimony and in this regard Lao PDR is an outstanding country.

At the end of the meeting, professor dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy had bestow the title and insignia and certificate of European academician to H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information for his unremitting efforts in promoting tourism as a tool for peace and development.

 

Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy  bestows academic insignia to  Academician Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara.

 

The program of European delegation headed by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea also included a strong cultural element like visiting UNESCO heritage city of Luang Prabang, That Luang National Stupa, Vat Siseket temple, Vat Xiang tong, UNESCO classified monuments such as: Vat Vixun, Vat Phat Tai, Royal Palace of Luang Prabang, Phusi and Xieng Tong temple ad National Museum Kaysone Pomvihan etc.

Also a special program was carved off for professor dr. Anton Caragea as WORLD AMBASSADOR OF NATURAL PROTECTED AREAS to visit special natural; monuments situated along the banks of Mekong river.

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had highly praised the decision`s taken by the Government of Lao PDR to protect natural patrimony, environmental protection and sustainable development for this important touristic areas.

On 9 May 2013 in an impressive ceremony full of pomp and paraphernalia the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013 was bestow to the people and Government of LAOS.

The ceremony reuniting leaders of Government of Lao PDR, diplomats, academicians, business community, cultural and media representatives had included the presentation of the AWARD FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2013, the presentation of the main landmark beauties and scenic spots for tourism in Lao an emotional charged speech of H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information and concluding a large area of fashion presentation, music and dance spectacle that impress favorable the numerous assistance.

 

By the outstanding organizing the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY in Vientiane, the Government of Lao PDR had proved his extraordinary capacity to host international events and to organize high resounding world meeting.

The successful and felicitous visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation , the high level and inclusive dialogue with the relevant authorities of Lao PDR, the reciprocated vision of rapid evolving relations, the clearly marked economic, touristic and cultural opportunities are all testament`s of the desire to further extend the dialogue.

ACADEMICIAN BOSENGKHAM VONGDARA-MINISTER OF TOURISM OF LAOS SPEECH AT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR LAO

On behalf of the Lao government and people, it is my pleasure and delight to welcome all delegates to the presentation ceremony of the World’s Best Tourist Destination Award for 2013 to Laos. 

Today, the Lao government and people are proud and delighted to have received this honourable prize, which demonstrates the great achievements of tourism development in Laos. Laos offers impressive tourist attractions and services for tourists from across the world.

 

Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR-Academician Professor dr. Bosengkham Vongdara and European Council on Tourism and Trade high ranking official`s delegation in Vientiane. 

I would like to take this opportunity to praise and express my sincere gratitude to the European Council on Tourism and Trade and all tourists for highly valuing Lao tourism and selecting Laos as the World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2013. 

I would like, especially, to welcome Prof. Dr Anton Caragea, Chairman of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, and his delegation to Laos to attend the ceremony and present the award.

  

The Lao PDR is diverse in languages, cultures and customs, which have been inherited from our ancestors over thousands of years. The country is rich in spectacular natural resources as well as having a long and civilised history and well-known archaeological sites, which further boosts Laos’ tourism potential.

With great effort and a high sense of responsibility by the Party and government since the 4th Party Congress in 1986 outlined a comprehensive renovation policy to open up for foreign cooperation, tourism has played an ever more prominent role in the country’s socio-economic development. The government has defined policy and taken action to develop and promote cultural, natural and historical tourism.

To facilitate the growth of tourism and services, the government has done its utmost to develop infrastructure such as building roads to link all regions across the country as well as connecting with neighbouring countries. Over the past 4-5 years, the government has exerted utmost efforts to increase the number of border checkpoints to integrate with countries in the region and the world at large. At present, the Lao PDR has 23 international checkpoints, of which 21 can issue visas. Laos has four international airports (Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, Savannakhet International Airport and Pakxe International Airport). Visas have been exempted for citizens of Asean member countries. Laos has also granted visa exemptions to citizens of Japan, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Russia, Mongolia and Luxembourg.

The authorities have redefined that visas issued at checkpoints permit the holders to stay in Laos for 15 days, reduced from 30 days previously. According to Prime Ministerial Order No. 15 issued on June 20, 2006, these visas can be extended by the provincial authorities instead of only by the Vientiane authority as before. In addition, the government grants three-month visas to foreign citizens of Lao origin who acquire visas from Lao embassies, which can be extended for another three months. However, visas issued at border checkpoints grant only a two-month stay with another two months of extension. After implementing the aforesaid tourism development and promotion policy, the tourism sec tor has grown rapidly. From 1990 to 2012, foreign tourist arrivals have risen by an average of 20.36 percent annually.

In 2012, Laos registered 3,330,072 foreign tourists generating total revenue as high as US$513,576,784. By 2013 the number of tour operators had risen to 275 companies. Hotels and guesthouses have also increased and in 2012 there were 3,526 hotels and guesthouses offering 35,857 rooms. Laos now has 1,493 official tourist sites comprising 849 sites of natural interest, 435 sites of cultural interest, and 209 historical sites.

 

Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR-Academician Professor dr. Bosengkham Vongdara deleivering acceptance speech for LAOS: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2013.

 

The Lao PDR shares similar characteristics with many other countries, such as different and diverse traditions and customs among its multi-ethnic people. There are also impressive archaeological and historical sites such as Luang Prabang, the historic town and living world heritage site, and Vat Phou Champassak, which is another world heritage site dating back to the 12th century.

In addition, the historic caves of Viengxay (deemed to be the birthplace of the Lao PDR) have become an open-air museum, while the Plain of Jars is expected to be listed as a world heritage site in the near future. The Lao PDR also has rich and beautiful natural sites suitable for development as ecotourism attractions and green industry without smog or hazardous pollution, which will become new relaxing sites to impress visitors from the region and the world.

 Community-based eco-tourism programmes have become Laos’ unique feature and have great potential because they give visitors the chance to get in touch with and taste nat ure, as well as the everyday life of local people and the customs practised by the Lao multiethnic people. To translate the tourism development strategic plan for 2011-2020, the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism in collaboration with provincial authorities have carried out nature-based tourism activities with the participation of local people by making use of the local potential and conditions of each province. Such activities were first initiated in 2000 in Luang Namtha province, called the ‘Community-based Eco-tourism Programme’. Similar programmes now exist in all 17 provinces involving 40 districts and 160 villages, and have generated income directly for local people.

 

 

Because of these progressive great achievements of the Lao tourism sector coupled with the impressive progress made in socio-economic development across the country, Laos has been praised by tourists and friendly countries across the world, justified by the fact that Laos has been awarded many honourable and impressive prizes as follows: 

In 2008, the New York Times named Laos as one of 53 countries it described as the world’s top tourist destinations. 

The world heritage site of Luang Prabang received the Top City Gold Award after being voted the world’s top tourist destination by Wanderlust, a UK based travel magazine from 2006 to 2008, and again from 2010 to 2012. 

The Community-based Eco-tourism Programme in the Nam Ha Protected Forest Area in Luang Namtha province also won an award for ‘best poverty alleviation project’ and ‘best services’ given by the United Nations Development Programme. And today, we feel proud and honoured that the European Council on Tourism and Trade awards Laos with the World’s Best Tourist Destination Award for 2013. This honourable prize will make Laos even more popular among tourists across the globe, and will drive the development of the tourism sector in our country.

 I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to Professor Dr Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, for highly valuing the development of Lao tourism. I agree with his comment that “In the 21st century, tourism has become an important bridge for friendship and relations among nations in the world; it is also a way to promote peace and mutual understanding and lead the way to a good future.”

 The Lao PDR stands ready to continue to develop the tourism sector to contribute to establishing and enhancing friendly relations among nations in the world to make a joint effort to promote peace and mutual understanding, together entering into the proper future of development under the sky of peace, friendship and sustainable cooperation.

  

On this auspicious occasion, I would like to wish Party and state leaders and honourable Lao and foreign guests participating in this ceremony good health, success in your noble tasks, happiness and prosperity, and further contributions to the tourism development of our country for progressive success.

  I would like, especially, to wish Professor Dr Anton Caragea and high-level delegates from the European Council on Tourism and Trade good health, success in your noble tasks and happiness, and to further contribute to promoting Lao tourism in Europe and across the globe.

ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU KEY NOTE SPEECH AT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013

 

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear friends,

We traveled here to bring to you, the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, our message of friendship, peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, a message from the very heart of the Europe.

This spring, The European Council on Tourism and Trade awarded the highest tourism prize, the World Best Tourist Destination for 2013 to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos.

 

60 years ago a well known scientist predicted that up to the end of the last century the world will become global, and that all the people in the world will be living in “the global village”.

It seems indeed that we are living now in a global world, where all the nations are called to solve complex problems of international, national, confessional, environmental and social nature.

 

And Laos is indeed a part of this global village. The strategic perspective and the wise and balanced approach adopted by your government and by your country’s leadership is a wonderful example. Your country is connected to the world with care and confidence, step by step, keeping a balance between the international and the national perspective.

This means respect for the national identity of Laos, a realization of the importance of the country’s image in the world, as well as a need for a sincere and positive cooperation with other countries for the progress and well-being of mankind.

 

When we study the realities of Laos and place of Laos in the modern world we discover that your country is from a certain point of view the “melting pot” that the same scientist predicted, a place and a nation where interethnic, interracial, inter-confessional problems are solved peacefully, with a careful approach to the environment, people, ancient and modern culture, national and global economy.

Here is a typical example of the wise manner in which the country’s leadership is solving complex problems and situations.

The leaders of Laos, in accordance with the needs and expectations of the Laos society and people decided that the activities of information, culture and tourism are gathered under the same umbrella, in the same ministry, underlying the importance of the three activities, their national importance, as well as their strong interconnection.

 

Information is vital for any human activity, for any nation involved in the process of multilateral development. The last century could be described as the beginning of the information age. It seems to be a never-ending story. Recent studies revealed the too much information from too many sources could be harmful. The individual effort of looking for information sources, receiving and decoding, selecting and interpreting may require too much effort. Too much and too divers information could be confusing. Spending too much time inside the virtual world keeps us from living in real life: to work, to spend quality time with family and friends, to meet new people and to enjoy the nature. From ancient times, teaching was the basic method of censorship and selection, of passing important information from one generation to another.

 

Culture is the heart of every nation, of every group of people related by place, time and political context. Again, almost 40 years ago, the new leadership of your country took a wise and strategic decision to the build the identity of the Lao nation, the present and the future of the country on the heritage of the past. Wisdom and tolerance, firmness and balance, were the concepts that guided the building of a nation, proud of its past and confident in its future.

 

The collaboration with UNESCO in identifying and carefully preserving the heritage of the Lao people is at the same time a token of admiration and respect of the whole world for the treasures of the Lao nation. As you may know, the most precious treasure of your country, are the people! They are friendly and their hospitality is already known around the world. They seem to live according to other time measures, and I am sure that the English idioms “take your time” and “take it easy” have their ancient roots in Lao!

 

We may thank you for reminding us that there is life beyond stress, morning rush, crazy schedules and endless meetings…..

And at last, the most complex task of all: tourism. It involves resources and money, smart managers and nice people, a cultural heritage and an enchanting nature, along with good food, good transportation, good housing and most of all, good will.

Taking a look at the progress made by Laos’s tourism, we may affirm that Laos has all the above incentives, and may become many years from now, a preferred tourist destination for millions of people from all over the world.

 

Dear friends,

 

It is so easy for me to bring to you all the good words from the European Union. I would like to congratulate once again your great leaders, their leadership teams and all the Lao people, men and women that contributed to building together a proud nation, admired and respected by the entire world.

And finally from our hearts again congratulations for being awarded the highest tourism prize, the World Best Tourist Destination for 2013 to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos by The European Council on Tourism and Trade.

LAOS: A CULTURAL AND TOURISTIC PARADISE

 

Your Excellency Mr. Asang Laoly ,Vice-Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,

Your Excellency Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith ,Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,

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

Distinguish guests ,

 

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION TITLE AWARDED TO LAOS

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARDED TO PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS FOR 2013

 

Professor dr.Anton Caragea opens the European Council on Tourism and Trade session to elect WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013. 

On 26th of April 2013 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 2013.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of Tourism Academy had presented a report on the last year situation of the Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION that was dedicated to Trinidad and Tobago and it was used accordingly with rules and regulations and have being proving highly efficient in attracting new tourists and investor`s.

In 2012 Trinidad and Tobago had reversed the downward spiral in number of tourists and revenues provided by tourism and was the ONLY country in the Caribbean region that registered an increase in number of visitors despite economic crisis.

Increase in investment, increase in tourism potential and number of foreign visitors was the positive outcome of awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to Trinidad and Tobago in 2012, concluded professor Mircea Constantinescu.

Mr. Petru Lificiu, Minister and Vice-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade read out and presented the candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD 2013.

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013 professor dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) presented the report titled : LAOS : A TOURISTIC AND CULTURAL PARADISE proposing LAOS as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013.

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor dr. Anton Caragea presents the reasons for selecting LAOS as  WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION. 

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 to LAOS the report outlined:

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

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

– Offering to tourists not only a historical and outstanding cultural experience but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: Nam Ngum reservoir , Bolaven plateau, Mekong river islands , Mekong river boat trip , Tad Kouangsi waterfall , the cave of de Ting .

All this are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized .

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

– The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 12th century, the remarkable site from Plain of Jars, offering an insight into Neolithic civilization and a rare window into traditions of centuries The preservation of religious sites of world significance and value such as: Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important of world Buddhism monasteries and remains a significant place for the spirit of religion and traditional art. Other sites that must be mentioned such as: Wat Phu ( UNESCO heritage site) and Champasak Cultural Landscape ( under UNESCO recognition).

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

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director in European Council on Tourism and Trade.

After hearing the report, Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, from Romanian Parliamentary and Director in European Council on Tourism and Trade had express the feeling`s of all present at the gathering declaring that: LAOS is a strong candidate, with a perfect record of promoting clean, ecological and social oriented tourism and that only a unanimity vote in favor of LAOS could express the European tourism and economic community decisive action in favor of such a world model.

Mr. Mark Doda, representing Balkan countries at the meeting had also stated the desire of peoples of South-East Europe to support a new model of tourism in the present economic climate, a community based tourism on Laos example.

In the end of the debate European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 TITLE TO LAO PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to declare LAO PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC -FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATIONS in 2013.

Delegates from 30 european countries voted in WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION competition.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of LAO for a delegation of European high ranking official of European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Vientiane, in person, to His Excellency Minister of Tourism Professor dr. BOSENGKHAM VONGDARA.

European Council on Tourism and Trade conference on WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2013.

Awarding the highest tourism distinction of European Council on Tourism and Trade, accepting the invitation for an working visit of high ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade in LAOS, are estimated all tourism experts as a good example of close tourism relations and mutual consensus between Europe and Laos, said at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND EUROPE ARE UNITED BY A BROTHERLY SPIRIT SAY`S PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA

Between 25 November -4 December 2011 an european media delegation chaired by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations,  attended the 40-th National Day Celebration of United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi, at the invitation of United Arab Emirates National Media Council .

Prof.dr. Anton Caragea and Minister of Tourism and Chairman of Organizing Committee for UAE 40-th National Day Celebration: H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon

The presence of an European delegation at United Arab Emirates National Day became a regular event in the last years and a proof of the deepening ties between Europe and United Arab Emirates.

The European delegation held meetings with: H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan – UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Omar Abdullah, Department of Economic Development of UAE,  Central Bank Governor – H.E. Sultan Nasser Al Suwaidi , H.E. Saqr Ghobash, Minister of Labor, H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon – Chairman of the UAE 40-th National Day Committee , Dr. Sultan Al Jabber CEO- Masdar City , H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak , General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Environment Agency.

Professor dr.Anton Caragea and the President of Abu Dhabi Development Fund

Also european media delegation attended the open speech and meeting with people of Dubai of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai and was invited at launch by H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan – Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research at his palace.

Professor dr.Anton Caragea and General Director of National Media Council of United Arab Emirates – Ibrahim Alabed

Beside the dense official meetings program,  the European delegation enjoyed a sophisticated cultural program destined to offer a glimpse of United Arab Emirates extraordinary achievements in the latest 40 year of independence.

The highlights of the cultural program included a participation at an Omani Classic Music Concert, hosted at Emirates Palace by H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan , a visit to Burj Khalifa –the world tallest building from Dubai , a safari experience of dune traveling , a visit at Zayed University where Prof.dr. Anton Caragea held a dialogue with the students, professors and academic core of the university and a visit at the splendid Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Professor dr.Anton Caragea and Dr. Sultan Al Jassim-Vice-President of  Zayed University

The visit of the european media delegation in  United Arab Emirates is yet another demonstration of the ever deepening ties between European Union and United Arab Emirates in fields of culture, media, economy and political dialogue.

It is a rare occasion and a friendship declaration when European delegation attend National Day Celebration of another country and this is a supplementary    demonstration of the brotherly spirit that unites European Union and United Arab Emirates( UAE). Finally the European presence on 2 December-the National Day of Emirates  is an evidence of Europe`s  people support for the UAE outstanding achievements and positive model offered to the world,  stated prof.dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations upon his return.

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber CEO of Masdar Green City presenting the future development plans to European delegation

The Governor of  Central of UAE – H.E. Sultan Nasser Al Suwaidi

H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak , General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Environment Agency

H.E. Omar Abdullah, Department of Economic Development of UAE

Dubai – aerial view from Burj Khalifa – the world tallest constructing in Dubai .

Emirati traditional dance performed for European delegation

Grand Zayed Mosque – a monument of islamic art and ingenuity in the heart of Abu Dhabi

40 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE OF UNITED ARAB EMIRATES- A MODEL COUNTRY

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE AND ACHIEVEMENTS by Professor Anton Caragea PhD, MA, FINS

United Arab Emirates are celebrating the 40-th anniversary of independence and is having a lot of things to be proud of.

In only 40 years United Arab Emirates had registered an impressive economic growth, a huge development in infrastructure and is now among the most developed country in the world. But the impressive development is not only contained to economic development or standard of living but also is based on a concerted effort in building a civil society and a strong democracy.

Among news successes of UAE we must count: involvement of women’s in all political and governmental sectors, the equality of payment and treatment between men’s and woman’s and an inclusive political project that offers a strong voice to Federal National Council- the UAE Parliament in all country affairs. When 40 years ago Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan announced this visionary experiment uniting 7 emirates along a geopolitical destiny who would believe in such a glorious destiny. What was the secret of this astonishing experience?

The vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was an enduring one and based on the popular consensus and a geopolitical destiny appreciates prof.dr.Anton Caragea 

A visionary leadership.

One of the secrets of United Arab Emirates astonishing development is a shared vision that unifies along time the leaders and the peoples. Never in these 40 years was this contact and shared vision between leaders and peoples severed. This bond, this mutual trust and cooperation that allows leaders of UAE to build in full confidence of the people approval is one of the secrets of this solid construction of United Arab Emirates.

The vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was an enduring one and based on this popular consensus and a geopolitical destiny. United Arab Emirates succeeded thanks to this vision to exploit in the benefit of the people the large reserves of gas and oil building a modern country and not spend it on military adventure as other states has done. Also the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan vision enabled UAE to build a modern education and health system , one of the best in the region from a country with virtually no hospital and school only 40 years ago. The importance of education in UAE construction must not be overlooked, if today we have a successful experience of democracy building and open society this is based on sustained educational investment that offered to UAE citizens a vision of the world.

Finally the vision of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is brilliantly continued by the President of UAE H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan efforts in constructing Abu Dhabi and UAE as a success story. The new vision includes the solar energy exploitation, the green energy revolution, constructing the first ever green city: Masdar and building UAE as a society of XXI century. In Dubai H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of UAE also constructed a visionary project of attracting tourism and financial markets in an economic construction based on efficiency and rapid development. If one of the secrets of UAE success story is a continuous visionary and people connected leadership , we must also look at the history of this development and the geopolitical destiny of United Arab Emirates.

The vision of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is brilliantly continued by the President of UAE H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan say`s prof.dr.Anton Caragea

UAE a country with a geopolitical destiny

In 1968 Great Britain announced his intention to evacuate the former Trucial states , as the Golf states area where known at that time. This decision spell problems for the region, in north the Iran of the Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi was looking forward for this moment to assert his authority on all the banks of the Golf , tacking under control the Golf and the vital energy supply line of this space.

No other formula was acceptable; any of the adjacent country that will have take under control the area will also enjoy a monopoly over the trade and energy route of the region. From the emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan understood this geopolitical game and acted bravely. In 1971 uniting 7 emirates he proclaimed the United Arab Emirates (the initial plan included also Bahrain and Qatar but the negotiation has failed and only 7 emirates join Sheikh Zayed plan) an alliance destined to keep free the trade and energy supply area of the Golf . How difficult will be this task was clear from the first moment when the Shah of Iran send his army and occupied 3 island of the coast of the UAE. Despite this tense moment UAE survived and oil exploitation boosted the area.

An economic model under pressure?

Today controversial financial news are arriving from all over the world regarding financial crisis and difficulties but United Arab Emirates seems to have found the way out of the crisis into a new time of development and successes and this because we must never forget the strong fundaments of the UAE economy.

First off all UAE are enjoying a reserve of oil and gas lasting for at list 100 years from now, offering a steady income of more than 50 billion euro annually .This numbers could be misleading, the common perception is that UAE is depending on oil and gas but this perception is false, more than 64% of the GDP is offered by non-oil sectors. Long before the crisis hit the UAE decided to develop the non oil sectors like trade, finance, real estate, manufacturing and this sector survived to economic crisis offering to UAE the status of a country non-depending on natural reserves exports. Today UAE are enjoying in a crisis year a steady growth, investments are continuing to come and a massive financial reserve makes a stable currency and a low inflation economy.

This economic model is not under question, UAE are still on growth and on geopolitical climate of the region investing here is still a wise move.

H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of UAE also constructed a visionary project of attracting tourism and financial markets to UAE economy

Energy revolution.

This economic model could not be understood if we not see the UAE participation in a new energy revolution. Rich in oil and gas UAE is not forgetting that this wealth will eventually ceased to exist or will become to expensive to exploit or to ecological detrimental, so they choose to invest in solar energy. With 365 day a year with clear sky the UAE could not only suffices his one energy demands but also be a world suppliers of green energy and technology. Investing in projects like Masdar City, a city that will supply 100% percent of the necessary energy from green sources UAE is proving that there is life after fossil energy. Investing in this energy of the future not only will assure UAE energy demand but also will be an important part of the economic growth , already in Germany an important solar plant property of UAE is launching a bid to make green energy for European Union.

Gulf Cooperation Council – a body with a geopolitical mission.

In 1971 Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan already wanted an inclusive state, but this option could not be put into life at that time . Today this vision is alive by the creation of Golf Cooperation Council ( GCC) uniting the Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia , Qatar and Oman. Today GCC is assuring the survival of the mission of keeping open for trade and energy supplies the waters of the Golf . The efficacy of GCC was proven in the Iraq-Iran war in the eighties and in Iraq –West tension after the 1991 Gulf War.

United Arab Emirates not only constructed a powerful and modern navy able to keep open the waters and make safe the supplies but also became the symbol of a strong allied of the western democracy , capable to support democracy building mission, peace keeping activities and investing in reconstruction projects in war torn countries. Sheikh Khalifa bin Sultan Al Nahyan (the son of deceased Sheikh Zayed and the continuator of his vision) declared that the geopolitical mission of UAE is to promote a unity of the Golf area and his example is an example of hope: unity is a conviction and a belief.

Now after 40 year from the UAE independence proclamation, in what it was at that time a small city: Abu Dhabi, the world is having a positive model. A powerful economy, a unity of 7 emirates without tensions or conflicts, a political balanced system of federal states and of unify governments, a balance of democracy, efficiency, respect for Islam and open society in a delicate area.

We have an example of a Golf state that is building a future society and we have the proof that oil is not necessary a curse (as many can believe) if we can build on it and we not make it the only reason for life. Oil is just a mean to an end.

United Arab Emirates are just teaching us this lesson.

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.