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.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ARE HEAVING A HISTORY RICH IN ACHIEVEMENTS, DECLARES H.H. SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID – PRIME MINISTER OF UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

On 1 December 2011 an European media delegation, headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and attending United Arab Emirates National Day Celebration,  was received  by  H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.

The delegation headed by professor Dr. Anton Caragea witnessed the extraordinary and charged with love atmosphere of the meeting between Dubai Ruler and Vice-President of United Arab Emirates and the people of Emirates .

H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid-Vice-President of United Arab Emirates, Prime -Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed his guests by reciting a short poem in which he reflected his nationalistic feelings of the UAE’s 40th National Day and his pride in the second of December which forms a turning point for the UAE people and leadership.

Addressing the audience, especially the young people who were born after the union, Sheikh Mohammed said that the age of 40 is the age of maturity, that’s why God sent down His revelation on his Prophet Muhammad ( peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) when he reached 40 years.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the 40th national day is the stage of maturity for our country which has made great achievements at the national, cultural and humanitarian levels. Through these achievements, he said, the UAE has not only vied with others but has also set an example for others to follow and learn from its long experience.

He added that contrary to what others, who live in prosperity and luxury today, believe, the way was not planted with flowers, but it was full of challenges and dangers in addition to other outside influences, which without Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid’s resolve and national sense such a union would not have been possible.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to point out that the most important achievement made during the time of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid and sustained today by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is man, especially the youth who represent the highest percentage of the UAE citizens. He added that the youth are the future and we, as leaders, rely on them and their ability to shoulder the responsibility and take the initiative to build their future and the future of the generations to come to achieve the national goals, hopes and aspirations of their people.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed hope that when the UAE celebrates its 50th national day it will be ranked as one of the best countries the world in all fields; our people, amongst the most civilized and forward looking of nations, by God’s guidance and the support of its leadership.

Speaking about his wishes before the establishment of the modern state many of which, he said, have been achieved today, Sheikh Mohammed said that when he had visited European and non European countries for study or tourism and saw great achievements in those countries ‘ infrastructures, armies, cultural and educational institutions and others; he wished such achievements would be made at home.

Talking further about his dreams and wishes, Sheikh Mohammed went on to say that he dreamed of a strong country, strong people, strong leadership, strong economy, and strong achievements, adding that when he saw the fighter planes during the Dubai Air Show, he wished his country would have this kind of weapon; now I tell you that our factory in Al Ain manufactures spare parts for these planes; this national factory is part of my national dreams.

Talking with pride about the perseverance and heritage of the fathers and ancestors, Sheikh Mohammed said that the people and the leadership of the country inherited perseverance from our fathers and forefathers, who have suffered hardship to keep alive and provide their children with food and drink. They used to dive in the dangerous sea to bring the fish to their children. They lived with all kinds of challenges in the Arabian Peninsula from which they started their journey to the world spreading Islam; they are the pioneers who defended their island and their land. I would like to tell you, young people, that despite all the challenges achievements were made and you, in the UAE, are harvesting the fruit of the challenges your fathers and forefathers had endured and overcome.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid-Vice-President of United Arab Emirates

Sheikh Mohammed went further to touch on the invasion of the Gulf region by foreign powers, which brought about devastation and havoc to the land and the sea, and destruction and exploitation of the riches and which adopted other colonial and abhorrent methods, forcing the people of the region to fight those occupiers and expel them to attain independence. After liberating their land from the enemies, our grandparents returned to fishing and diving for pearls. As a result, the pearl industry flourished and the people felt a kind of prosperity. Those people survived and resisted until they have become in line with developed countries, able to have influence on and make change in the world’s economic and political map.

He warned the youth against despair, calling on them to equip themselves with patience, perseverance and determination to achieve their ambitions through reviving the heritage of their grandparents and ancestors.

Sheikh Mohammed briefed his guests about the differences and difficulties the rulers of the emirates faced before signing of the Union’s constitution and the declaration of the state of the United Arab Emirates. In this regard, he said that the late Sheikh Zayed and the late Sheikh Rashid met in a tent in the Al Sameeh area on the borders between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, accompanied by some other people and I was among those who witnessed the meeting and the signing of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rahshid on the draft constitution, despite the reluctance of the rest of the rulers of the Emirates; Ras Al Khaimah was the last to sign.

He touched on the role of the British in fueling negative feelings among some rulers, using the method of “divide and rule”, taking advantage of the marginal disputes that prevailed during the consultations and meetings held by Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid with the other rulers; Sheikh Zayed managed lastly through his expertise, patience, wisdom and patriotism to convince them to join him and his brother, Sheikh Rashid and sign on the interim constitution, and then, he announced the Union on the second of December, 1971 at the Union House in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to relate to his guests the various challenges , which faced the union, which without the perseverance and insistence of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, our dream to live today under one leadership and one flag and have a stable, sovereign and an independent country, would not have been possible.

Commenting on what others write and say about the country and its people, denying us our values, culture, history and heritage and claiming that we are merely an oil country and luxury loving people, Sheikh Mohammed responded: yes, we are a rich and an oil producing country; nevertheless, we have our own civilization, Arab and Islamic culture and a history that is rich in achievements.

We possess all elements of a decent life based on equality, justice, humanity, and we reach out to all people of the world who need our support. “Concluding his lecture, Sheikh Mohammed recited some love and nationalistic poems, adding an atmosphere of intimacy to the gathering and knocking down barriers between His Highness and the young people who were happy with this talk and proud of their leader, wishing him and the UAE leadership all good health and glory.

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.

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.

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.

EUROPEAN DELEGATION VISIT IN TAJIKISTAN : AN IMPRESSIVE SUCCESS

Between 24-30 August 2011 a delegation of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R), headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was invited for an official working visit by the Government of Republic of Tajikistan.

President of Tajikistan H.E. Emomali Rahmon and President of European Council on International Relations -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

The visit had being concentrated on developing the bilateral Europe   -Tajikistan relation and it was the most important invitation addressed by Tajikistan authorities for an European Union delegation , a moment that was considered as historical in developing the relation between the two countries.

In the framework of dialogue where included subjects such as : tourism and transport cooperation, supporting hydro-energy sector development in Tajikistan with instructors, specialists and European material , taking in consideration the extensive European experience in the field .

European Council on International Relations held talks at Minister of Economy and Development of Tajikistan

Other discussion where held on topics like: opening in European country a branch of National Bank of Tajikistan , tajik investments in tourism sectors in Europe    , import of aluminum from TALCO factory –the biggest aluminum  factory in Tajikistan .

European delegation headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R) was received in official audience by H.E. President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan.

The president of Tajikistan had mentioned that his country is in a moment of economic development, social development and democratic construction, that makes Tajikistan to be interested in economic and political cooperation with other countries and he considers as a privileged partner for this development European Council on International Relations .

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R) had expressed his gratitude for the impressive welcoming organized for European delegation and appreciated that Tajikistan had succeeded in overcome the economic crisis, to build impressive energy projects such Rogun hydropower plant and to be a supplier of security and stability in the region and an example in the region.

LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD presented to H.E. President of Tajikistan

In the framework of the meeting, in an impressive ceremony , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations, bestow in a public ceremony, the most prestigious cultural and political award of Academic Committee of European Council on International Relations : LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD to H.E. President of Tajikistan – Emomali Rahmon .

The ceremony was lived broadcasted by national and international channels and attended by members of Parliament and Government of Tajikistan.

In the framework of discussion held at Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, with H.E. Minister Hamrokhon Zarifi, the parties had agreed of a calendar of concrete cultural and academic exchanges program for 2011-2012 and set up the details for a Bilateral Economic Forum and a Tajikistan-Romanian  Chamber of Commerce.

European Council on International relations delegation held talks at Ministry of Energy and Industry

The delegation headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea  also sustained detailed and fruitful discussion and finalized agreements with Minister of Energy and Industry Mr. Sherali Gul , Minister of Investments , Minister of Tourism and Sport Mr. M . Nematov and Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mr. Farukh Hamraliev.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of EUCIR in dialogue with Tajikistan Parliament President and Prime Minister of Tajikistan

In the visit program, a consistent cultural interlude was provided to European delegation, including visits to Hissar Fortress (UNESCO Heritage site- XI century), cities of Tursunzade, Kulyab, and Monuments dedicated to Great poet Mir Said Homodoni and Hulbur Fortress.

Final Press Conference held by professor Dr. Anton Caragea – President of European Council on International Relations ( EUCIR )

Concluding the visit, in a press conference, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R) had appreciated that Tajikistan is offering to the world an example of  an economy in full development , with impressive hydro power projects like Rogun that will benefit the all Central Asia region and beyond, with plans to exploits ore and precious stones mining fields that will make Tajikistan an attractive economy in full development , key elements that are underlined by a democratic and stabile political climate.

The future of Tajikistan is bright, if it continuing on the same path of President Emomali Rahmon vision of prosperity and development and of respects toward culture and civilization, had concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

SPLENDID CEREMONY HELD IN DUSHANBE FOR LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD PRESENTATION

On 25 august 2011 , in the framework of European Council on International Relations high ranking academic delegation visit in Tajikistan , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations and his delegation where received by H. E. President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan.

The Original Certificate of LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD

In an impressive ceremony, witnessed by 500 guests  , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea,  President of European Council on International Relations, bestow with a public ceremonial , the most prestigious cultural and political award of Academic Committee of European Council on International Relations : LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD to H.E. President of Tajikistan – Emomali Rahmon .

H.E. President Emomali Rahmon had received the official scroll signed by Academic Committee of  European Council on International Relations, honoring the achievements of President of Tajikistan , followed by the Golden Crystal, symbolizing the accountability of the receiver   and in the end by the trade mark of the award the Original Certificate of  LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD.

Golden Crystal of LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD entrusted to President of Tajikistan

The ceremony was lived broadcasted by national and international channels and attended among many others by members of Parliament and Government of Tajikistan.

After the ceremony an official audience was offered for Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations and his delegation.

President of Tajikistan-Emomali Rahmon and President of EUCIR – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

On this opportunity President of Tajikistan had made for European delegation a presentation of the situation in his country including : construction of a line of impressive hydro-energy power plant  that will insure full energy independence for Tajikistan in the next three years and also will make Tajikistan the supplier of clean energy for the region , constructing high voltage line for energy exports toward Pakistan and Afghanistan , infrastructure projects , tourism and transport modernizations , reforestation programs .

In all this fields there are important bilateral cooperation opportunities for European Union expertise to be present, had appreciated President Emomali Rahmon.

Joint Press Conference of H.E. President of Tajikistan-Emomali Rahmon – LEADER OF XXI CENTURY LAUREATE and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea – EUCIR President

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations had underlined in his replay that: developing a bilateral fruitful relationship, based on mutual respect and understanding   is welcomed by European side and the presence of a high level European Council on International Relations delegation, vast and complex, shows the commitment of our part in fostering the relations with Tajikistan.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of E.U.C.I.R receives a basket of flowers from H.E. President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon

Tajikistan had overcome the horrors of civil wars, had succeeded to avoid the dramatic faith of Afghanistan and build a society of equilibrium, with a social market economy, offering to all the path of development.  The vast plans, announced by President of Tajikistan, are a living proof of the right track of the country and we are appreciative for the expressed desire that Europe will be a gate for Tajikistan .

The dialogue had continued for an hour and a half, far more that the 30 minutes initially dedicated and after  European Council on International Relations  delegation had being invited to inaugurate the world tallest flag and then at on official banquet on the side of President Emomali Rahmon.

EUROPEAN UNION – TAJIKISTAN : A DEVELOPING RELATION

Between 25-26 July 2011 Ambassador of Tajikistan to European Union , Rustamjon Soliev  ,  had made an working visit to Romania at the invitation of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations  in order to further develop the bilateral relation and offer new dimensions to economical, cultural and political dialogue between Tajikistan  , European Union and Romania .

His Excellency Ambassador Rustamjon Soliev – Ambassador of Republic of Tajikistan to European Union

In the framework of the visit Ambassador Soliev paid special attention to de-frozen  the economic dimension of the relations between the two countries.

Ambassador of Tajikistan had arranged meetings with Romanian Chamber of Commerce President and European Union Bilateral  Chambers of Commerce Vice-President , Director of Romanian Investment Agency  and Ministry of Economy and other Romanian economic officials .

The parties expressed the common desire of re-launch the bilateral relations by mutual assured investment , development of trade and tourism . Romanian side express the desire , in accordance with Tajikistan Ambassador views ,  to have an Romanian ( EU) – Tajikistan Economic Forum , to have Tajikistan investment in Romanian tourist sites and to have practical offers for investment in Tajikistan .

In the meetings  held by Ambassador Soliev  at Energy Minister , Romania offered technical expertise for rehabilitation of Tajikistan energy system and also expressed interest in programs for solar and wind energy exploitation in Tajikistan .

In all the meetings Ambassador Rustamjon Soliev received official congratulation on the appointment of President of Tajikistan, Emamoli Rahmon for the prestigious European Award of LEADER OF XXI CENTURY , the Romanian side underlining  that this famous award is the expression of Tajikistan new position of strength in the world and also an incentive for foreign investors to seek closer economical and political relations  with Tajikistan , as the prize is awarded as a proof of European confidence in a country and a leader.

In a special meeting at the European Council on International Relations Headquarters Ambassador Rustamjon Soliev presented for an impressive audience of academics , politicians, diplomats and foreign observers , a report about Tajikistan development today .

The report was based on the masterpiece book TAJIK ARTS AND CRAFTS THROUGH THE CENTURIES by Hamrokhon Zarifi , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan and highlighted the cultural richness  and lofty tradition  of the country. From Alexander the Great to Silk Road and today development and beauties of Tajikistan under President Emomali Rahmon economic and social reform program , the complete image of Tajikstan was presented in the Ambassador Soliev report .

Ambassador Soliev and european academics.

In the official audience granted by President of European Council on International Relations , professor Dr. Anton Caragea to Ambassador Soliev  the parties expressed the determination to boost cultural and academic relations, to create a framework for cultural and political dialogue and to organize an art exhibition : TAJIKISTAN IN THE HEART OF SILK ROAD  based on the art crafts presented in the book of   Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan ,  Hamrokhon Zarifi.

The parties had agreed a calendar of mutual consultation to search for new ways of fostering European Union – Tajikistan relations  but also Romania-Tajikistan relation.

The cultural dimension of bilateral Romania- European Union-Tajikistan relation was underlined also by meetings at Ministry of Culture and by visit of Ambassador Soliev Rustamjon Abdulloevich   to the oldest ethnographic museum in Eastern Europe : Village Museum of Romania .

The two day visit succeeded , after  a long time, to recreate a new dimension of European Union – Tajikistan relation.In addition in August 2011 a delegation of high ranking officials of European Council on International Relations are expected to arrive in Tajikistan for a working visit.

Solid discussion on economy, culture and political agenda create a new framework and the Romanian side expressed, at the end of the visit of Ambassador Soliev , the desire for a continuity in this fruitful dialogue and for new ways according with the concepts of XXI century diplomacy to develop the bilateral relation in the framework of European Union .

DANUBE AND DANUBE DELTA – THE CENTER OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS CONFERENCE

On 23 June 2011 in the presence of Diplomatic Corp accredited to Romania and European officials it was unveiled the International Exhibition : DANUBE & DANUBE DELTA under the High Patronage of the European Council on International Relations .

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea – President of European Council on International Relations opening the INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON DANUBE AND DANUBE DELTA

It is the first edition of such an exhibition and as the organizers are stating it hopes to provide real support in erecting a platform to encourage and support fostering new initiatives and partnerships between local and regional authorities , private and state entities , environmental protection foundation in order to further develop the economic power of the Danube region .

The opening speech of the International Conference : DANUBE AND DANUBE DELTA : OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES was held by Professor Anton Caragea who offered his High Patronage to the event had presented the main objectives of the Conference: to mark 29 June 2011 as the official International Day of Danube , to emphasize the economic dimension of Danube as the second European rivers , crossing 10 countries , uniting 4 capitals and constructing a water way between North Sea and Black Sea and offering an avenue for more than 100 billions exchanges on goods and services .

Taking in consideration this economic dimension of Danube is absolutely vital for European Union and for Romania that is receiving 28, 9% percent of the length of the Danube, to transform this in economic opportunity and constructing international partnership not only with riverbanks’ country but with Mediterranean area countries, stated in his opening speech professor dr. Anton Caragea . 

The INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION DANUBE AND DANUBE DELTA (23-26 June 2011 ) opened under the High Patronage of European Council on International Relations.

Dr. Petru Lificiu, Vice-president of National Agency for Energy and President of Ecological Forum had presented in his speech the importance of economic development of Danube in the framework of environmental protection and also emphasize the importance of energy and transportation exploitation of Danube shores .

The main focus of the conference was offered by United Arab Emirates and State of Qatar ambassadors’ assessment of the Danube Delta and Danube potential after participating in the diplomatic trip along the Danube. 

Huge european presence at the opening ceremony.

H.E Yacoub Yousef Al Hosani – United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Romania focused his speech in assessment of the economical and environmental opportunities of Danube and Danube Delta and the practical dimension of his trip for observing area of interest for investors from United Arab Emirates . Also Ambassador Yacoub Yousef al Hosani expressed his appreciation towards the European Council on International Relations and President Anton Caragea for hosting this trip and for opening the magic gates of a UNESCO heritage site as valuable as Danube Delta and in such a short span of time to organize and an international conference on Danube and Danube Delta.

H.E Salem al Jaber- Ambassador of State of Qatar underlined his complete appreciation toward the observation and insightful analyses of Danube and Danube Delta offered by United Arab Emirates Ambassador stating also that now they are sharing a friendship cemented by waters of Danube , that according to legend make the perfect friendship .

Instead his speech will be directed toward concrete proposal such as including Danube Delta among the national flag carrier destination, including Mr. Petru Lificiu`s book as the travel guide for the area and offering support for state investment in tourism area in Danube region. He also expressed his gratitude for European Council on International Relations for offering this conference to European public.

At the end of the conference officials and ambassadors made the honor tour of the International Exhibition on Danube and Danube Delta admiring the marvelous objects presented in the exhibition and receiving a complementary book of Natural Patrimony of Romania by Mr. Petru Lificiu, book that was honored with Romania Book Award for 2011.