46 COUNTRIES AND 70.000 ELECTIONS MONITORS EXPRESS FULL CONFIDENCE IN CAMBODIA 2018 ELECTIONS PREPARATIONS

On July 17, 2018 the release of the pre-electoral assessment report of The International Electoral Monitoring Team has taken place.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea The Head of International Electoral Monitoring Team for Cambodia`s July 2018 National Assembly Election marked in his speech that:  we recognize that the 2018 elections in Cambodia the sixth since the end of the civil war, are critical to the maintenance of peace and stability in the country.

 

His Majesty King NORODOM SIHAMONI promised to his people free and fair elections and has honored his promise say`s international election monitoring team.

 

Inter In his presentation, the Head of the IE Mission Team for Cambodia noted that this was the sixth General Election to be held in the Kingdom since the end of the protracted civil war and the democratic character of the polls and the law provisions to this effect are the creation of H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia.

The Honourable President Dr. Anton Caragea stressed that these elections are incremental steps that potentially create a conducive environment for political stability, economic growth, and sustainable development.

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The full text of the pre-election assessment report can be read out here:

EUROPE AND ASIA CONFERENCE

DIPLOMATIC BULLETIN 

WORLD ELECTIONS MONITORS ORGANIZATION

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Based on its assessment the IEM was of the opinion that the pre-election and the election phases of the process were evidently fair, free and transparent.

The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, electoral stakeholders, Heads and representatives of Diplomatic Missions, representatives of political parties, faith-based groups, local observers, members of civil society, and the media.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea with the first team already on the field for Cambodia`s Parliamentary Elections.

The IEM report of the 2018 National Assembly Elections will be completed and issued within 30 days after the close of the poll.

The report will be directed to the Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the country’s National Electoral Commission.

 

 

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More information about upcoming election process in Cambodia can be accessed here:

H.M. KING NORODOM SIHAMONI WEIGHTS IN: CAMBODIA IS HAVING FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS!

CAMBODIA`S NATIONAL ELECTION COMMITTEE CREATES A BALANCED CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PRESS AND JOURNALISTS

CAMBODIA`S NATIONAL ELECTIONS COMMITTEE ENSURES FREE AND FAIR 2018 POLL

NEW INFORMATION ABOUT NATIONAL ELECTION COMMITTEE OF CAMBODIA

INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY: CAMBODIA`S DEMOCRATIC MODEL 

INTERNATIONAL WEBSITE DEDICATED TO CAMBODIA`S 2018 ELECTIONS 

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EUROPE AND VENEZUELA: DEFENDING NATIONS SOVEREIGNTY AND INDEPENDENCE

President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, has accepted the invitation from Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Jorge Arreaza Montserrat, for a familiarization visit with the realities of the Latin American country.

Jorge Arreaza Montserrat, The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela invited an European delegation to see first hand the realities of Venezuela.

 

Jorge Arreaza Montserrat, The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela has marked in the official invitation letter addressed to European Council on International Relations President:

As the Minister of People Power for International Relations I consider with interest your participation in this space of magnitude importance and your solidarity in this historical moment when we celebrated the legacy of dignity and justice of Comandante Hugo Chavez and of President Nicolas Maduro bequeathed to the Venezuelan people and to the Bolivarian revolution.

The visit of European  delegates took place from 15 to 22 September 2017 and is part of a broader strategy of the Nicolas Maduro government to develop Venezuela and to diversify the nation’s economy and reduce dependence on oil income.

Development is a tool for a better Venezuela: H.E. Nicolas Maduro, President of Venezuela presents CARACAS candidature for World Capital of Culture and Tourism to H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of EUCIR.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, EUCIR President remarked: Venezuela has one of the most diverse climates, with ice capped Andean mountains to the west, Amazon jungle to the south, wide rivers and tall waterfalls surrounded by tabletop mountains and unusual rock formations to the southeast, and a gorgeous, pristine Caribbean coast to the north that has some of the world’s finest and exclusive beaches, such as Los Roques and highest waterfalls on the planet, Angel Falls.

President/Professor Dr. Anton Caragea hosted in MIRAFORES TV studios and National Venezuelan Television.

 

 

During the week-long visit, the high-level European Council delegates hold extensive talks with various officials like: Juan Bautista Arias Palacio – Minister for Basic and Strategic Industries and Socialist Development, Minister for Communications and Information and Minister of Tourism.

Agreements regarding economic cooperation, tourism promotion, TV travel documentaries and bilateral information exchange and cooperation for SDG completion in the framework of Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals where tabled.

Cooperation in the field of tourism promotion and ECTT technical support for Caracas drafting a coherent plan to obtain the election as World Capital of Culture and Tourism was also agreed.

The highlights of the visit, where the two memorable encounters with President Nicolas Maduro.

 

On September 19, 2017, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea took the distinct honor to sign the HONORARY BOOK at MIRAFLORES Presidential Palace.

On 17 September 2017, the delegates part take in the President TV Show: Sundays with Maduro! together with Evo Morales, Bolivian President.

 

Evo Morales, President of Bolivia presents a tourism booklet to European  delegation.

During the discussions, the tourism and cultural connections between the two countries were tabled and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has given as gifts to the two President’s his latest book on Interference of Civilizations in European Union Project.

On 19 September 2017, in the conclusion of The International March of Solidarity with Venezuela, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was invited for a photo session with President Nicolas Maduro, signed the Honorary Book at Miraflores Palace and has given an interview to the Miraflores TV Channel, expressing his support for Bolivarian Revolution role in forging a free and democratic Latin America.

The cultural program of the visit included discovery trips to Natural Sanctuary of Waraira Repano, a tour of Caracas landmarks like The Cathedral of Caracas, Saint Francis, Simon Bolivar birthplace etc.

 

The cable car of Caracas connecting the city with Waraira Repano.

A special day was dedicated to offering respect for Venezuelan history major figures, with a visit to National Pantheon and a stop to Simon Bolivar funeral monument and Francisco Miranda tomb.

 

Simon Bolivar: The Hero of Latin American Liberation struggle: a lay over charged with respect for official delegates.

 

An emotionally charged moment was the visit to Mountain Quarter (Quartel de la Montana) the place where the architect of the Bolivarian Revolution and the apostle of the poor`s: Commander Hugo Chavez is laid for eternal rest surrounded by world gratitude and love.

The delegates witnessed the changing of the guard and where hart struck by the powerful words of remembering for the fallen hero: Chavez lives!

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea in a moment of respect in front of the Commander HUGO CHAVEZ Mausoleum in Mountain Quarter (Quartel de la Montana).

 

The European delegation visit to Venezuela has given a new impetus to the relations between nations and their attendance to the world solidarity movement with Venezuela has being registered with gratitude by the people of the Caribbean nation, proudly building a revolution of freedom and dignity.

 

Venezuela it is blessed with an impressive diversity of natural treasures including crystalline beaches, dense jungles, expansive savannas and imposing mountains and we hope that the beautiful city of Caracas will have a fighting chance in WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competition, stated President Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

It will be an incredible boost for all Caribbean region concluded the President.

Caracas: a candidate city for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

 

The telepheric connecting Caracas and Waraira Repano

Natural sanctuary of Waraira Repano

 

MIRAFLORES Presidential Palace: the beating heart of Venezuela welcomed ECTT President!

 

Cathedral of Caracas: a splendid architectural marvel.

 

Saint Francisc Church of Caracas.

DIPLOMATIC CORPS ACCREDITED TO EUROPE CELEBRATES CONTINENT DAY

Building on a successful cooperation on last year’s Europe Day, the European Tourism Academy supported the EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE(ECTT)  to organize the Europe Day on Tuesday , 9 May 2017.

 

             

2017 EUROPE DAY reception has enjoyed a massive participation and the launch of new partnerships for European Council on Tourism and Trade with DALI HAUTE PARFUMERIE.

The reception was attended by over 1000 people from including prominent guests such as government representatives, diplomatic corps in Bucharest, business leaders, academia, and the media.

The celebration started with the Europe anthem “Ode to Joy”. H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , the Head of ECTT/ Ambassador  welcomed the attendees with a brief speech followed by European Tourism Academy Director , Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , the Head of ECTT/ Ambassador welcomes Korean delegation to EUROPE DAY festivities.

 

The ceremony was officially opened with the traditional cake-cutting by President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea together with Academician Mircea Constantinescu, and High Commissioner for Tourism, Mr. Mark Doda as well as all ECTT accredited ambassadors in Bucharest.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE(ECTT ) and European Tourism Academy , in cooperation with its partners would like to thank all the sponsors and European embassies  by giving a great contribution to make Europe Day Reception as a memorable celebration of Europe and ECTT accomplishments.

Welcoming the guests for EUROPE DAY 2017

On the fringes of the celebrations and reception was launched the BEST OF EUROPE/BEST OF THE WORLD program promoting the best products and lifestyle goods from across Europe and the world.

The first company to be enrolled in the product promotion and universal recognition of value was COFINLUXE and DALI HAUTE PERFUMERIE, the creator of WORLD FAVORITE PERFUME for 2017.

 

Others followed suit like: wine and champagne and sparkling wine producers registered in the fallowing days (European Diplomatic Wine`s partners like HOUSE OF PANCIU who unveiled for you the best European sparkling wines and HOUSE OF WINES COTNARI).

 EUROPE at 60! A GOOD YEAR TO CELEBRATE!

The European Council on Tourism and Trade had hosted the formal reception at European Tourism Academy Headquarters on May 9 from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.

Invitees lists included ministers, members of Parliament, justices, senior officials, members of the diplomatic crop, representatives of international and regional organizations and of the civil society, media, development partners and representatives of the private sector.

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA HOPES THAT US WILL BECOME A WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE IS THE INSTITUTION GRANTING WORLD BEST TOURIST STATUS

 

Under the influence of a recent visit to Ethiopia – World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 (European Council on Tourism and Trade), United States President, Barack Obama, prepares an overhaul of the country stagnating tourism industry in order to make United States a World Best Tourist Destination.

Barack Obama said that: [Today,] I directed my administration to send me a new national tourism strategy focused on creating jobs. And some of America’s most successful business leaders –- some who are here today –- have signed up to help.

We’re going to see how we can make it easier for foreign tourists to find basic information about visiting America. And we’re going to see how we can attract more tourists to our national parks.

We want people visiting not just Epcot Center, but the Everglades, too. The more folks who visit America, the more Americans we get back to work. It’s that simple.

The President said that: his goal is to ensure that the United States is the top tourist destination in the world.

In the last period of time the well sought out title of Best Tourist Destination obtained a plus of 3 million tourists for Laos, the winner of the title in 2013 and an 80% increase in revenues and number of tourist for Zimbabwe, the winner of world tourism accolade for 2014.

If accepted as a top tourist destination is appreciated that more than 8 million Americans will have jobs in the service and tourism sector.

To better understand the influence that Ethiopian visit has had on United States President Barack Obama vision for tourism, we are outlining for you the main steps of his trip to Ethiopia-World Best Tourist Destination for 2015.

The month of July 2015 had entered in the annals of Ethiopian history, as a fast period of the recent period.

At the beginning of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade announced that had selected Ethiopia as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2015, the world highest tourism recognition, and between 9 to 15 July an European delegation lead by ECTT President-Anton Caragea toured Ethiopia, fallowed, quickly after, by the arrival of US President Barack Obama for a three day visit (27 to 29 July 2015) in Addis Ababa. This chain of connected events, succeeded in putting the country on the limelight of international trade and tourism, and in the forefront of international diplomacy.

President Obama starts his journey into ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

We present to you the chronic of the two visits that marked Ethiopia`s place in recent African history.

On the landmark occasion, of the universal proclamation of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, a top ranking delegation from European Council on Tourism and Trade was invited for a discovery tour of Ethiopia, the receiver of this year most influential tourism designation.

 

We are WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION is the hymn of Ethiopia ! A perfect song for a perfect destination!

The visit took place between 9 to 15 July, 2015 and included an important political and diplomatic dimension, with European Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea holding discussions with Minister of Trade-Yaekob Yalla,Minister of Foreign Affairs-Berhane Gebre-Christosand H.E. Amin Abdulkadir – Minister of Culture and Tourism of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopiaand an inclusive and profusely dialogue with Prime Minister of F.D.R. Ethiopia- Academician Hailemariam Desalegn.

 

Ethiopia tourism is having a perfect future ! with the hand shake between Prime Minister of Ethiopia-Hailemariam Desalegn and ECTT President-Professor dr. Anton Caragea.

The inclusive dialogue, concentrated on promoting bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation, supporting business people and firms from both regions in cooperating and promoting the exchange of techniques, skills and economic goods.

United States President Barack Obama at the Gala Dinner in Addis Ababa

 

United States President Barack Obama hold meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister-Hailemariam Desalegn, Ethiopian Minister of Culture and Tourism-Amin Abdulkadir and Ethiopian President and was treated with an official dinner by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

Gala dinner for European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) President and his high ranking delegation. (from right to left): Minister of Culture and Tourism – Amin Abdulkadir, H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia-Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

On diplomatic arena a cooperation and further developing of honorary consul’s network across the world, was established, with a view to foster tourism, cultural and economic cooperation.

Creating a network of Ambassadors for Tourism and Culture, promoting tourism and the image of Ethiopia, where also tabled, based on other successful examples of actions of tourism promotion carved by European Council on Tourism and Trade.

ETHIOPIA IS THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD ! an WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 proclaimed President  Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

On July 10, 2015 European Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had presented the World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 insignia to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Academician Hailemariam Desalegn.

H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, Minister of Culture and Tourism – Amin Abdulkadir,H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, are directing the proceedings for World Tourism Awards Ceremony  for 2015.

 

The President also presented the main speech of the world tourism ceremony titled: Ethiopia-the land chosen by God!

European Tourism Academy Director- Academician Mircea Constantinescu, announced also that after receiving the letter destined to World Leaders of Tourism-Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn will represent Ethiopia, as the newest honorary members of European Tourism Academy.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy is presenting the Honorary Academician Title to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Hailemariam Desalegn.

 

The ceremony for World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 included also folk dances, Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony and academic presentations, supported by leading figures of Ethiopian cultural establishment.

H.E. Prime Minister and Academician Hailemariam Desalegn and European Council on Tourism and Trade  President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea in the center of Ethiopian government and European Council on Tourism and Trade visiting delegation.

In the mean time President Barack Obama schedule contained a visit to African union headquarter and a meeting with African Union chairwoman and a visit on the streets of Addis Ababa and a tour of the Faffa Food factory in Ethiopia`s capital and a tour of the National Palace where WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ceremony for Ethiopia was held.

No visit in Ethiopia is complete without paying a visit to Lucy-the grandmother of humanity: President Barack Obama on the first photo and President Dr. Anton Caragea on the latter photo. 

The ceremony for World Best Tourist Destination in 2015 was live broadcasted and viewed by more than 200 millions viewers and will continued to be presented across Europe for the next year.

Axum Cathedral: the place of coronation for Emperors of Ethiopia. The last emperor to be crowned here was Haile Selassie I

From 10th July, the European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his delegation embarked in a cultural and tourism program visiting Axum-the first capital of Christian Africa and the centre of a world power in 100 to 400 BC that controlled trade across the Read Sea.

Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade looking over Axum-the first capital of Ethiopian empire (300 a.Chr.)

In Axum, the delegation visit the royal tombs, the Church of the Arch of Covenant, the Saint Mary Imperial Basilica, where the emperors of Ethiopia were crowned.

Specially for European delegates, were opened the gates of the imperial museum, containing the priceless treasures of  ten Ethiopian emperors from garments, to crown adorned with jewels and the robes used for imperial investiture.

 

Dances and flowers: welcoming at Gondar airport, European delegates with Mayor Getinet Amare.

From Axum, the old imperial city, the delegation led by President Anton Caragea has being directed to Gondar, the capital of Ethiopia from XVII century to XIX century.

Here they have a chance to admire the fiery Amharic dances, in a wonderful welcoming ceremony, offered by the local authorities, enjoyed the fabulous gondarine cuisine at famous Four sisters’ restaurant and toured the imperial city.

European Tourism delegation is touring the outstandingly preserved Imperial compound of Gondar- Ethiopian empire capital from 17 to 19 century. Behind is the the world famous Fasil Ghibli-Palace of Emperor Fasilides.

Gondar is also world renamed for his architecture and for housing almost ten  emperors, in a period of glory for Abyssinia, as Ethiopia was known in that time.

Garnering Portuguese influence, with Indian and English architectural designs, Gondar is nicknamed as African Camelot for his strange, but perfect architecture.

Welcoming in Lalibela with flowers and the beautiful children of Ethiopia: Anton Caragea- European Tourism President and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates were received with a religious ceremony in Lalibela, the holiest Christian city in Africa and the second Jerusalem, as in worldly known.

More than 5000 pilgrims, priests and deacons, welcomed President Dr. Anton Caragea and offered to him and his delegation, special ceremonial robes, to mark their entrance in the holy city.

European Tourism President-Dr. Anton Caragea addressing  to priests, pilgrims and believers at Lalibela-the capital of Christian Africa.

On this occasion, President Anton Caragea held his gratitude speech known as:  To The People of Lalibela, a discourse that quickly captured the imagination of the inhabitants of Lalibela.

An impressive tour of six of the eleven rock hewn churches was conducted, including the famous grave of Saint Lalibela, the church of Medhane Alem (Our Saviour) and Holy Cross Church.

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!-President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

In the final leg of the trip, European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his party were treated with a wonderful welcoming to the bustling and sunny south of Ethiopia and with his famous Lake District city of Hawassa.

The delegates were welcomed to music and a fire display by the head of Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State of Ethiopia and enjoyed a tour of Lake Hawassa, a discovery of the city landmarks and a special night show that touched their hearts.

Boat trip along the Hawassa lake shores.

The Rift  Valley Lakes of Ethiopia are an internal sea, that can be perfectly used for tourism and leisure.

A special surprised was offered by HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir, who arranged for ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea delegation a special discovery tour of Harar-the fourth most holy Islamic site.

Mihai Prundianu, ECTT Trade Chairman pose for a photo in front of famous Harar landmark-Grand Jami Mosque.

The city comprises more than 82 mosques and 4000 saints tombs known in the Islamic world as Medinat Al Awliya- the city of saints and a UNESCO heritage site.

The delegates were welcomed with a coffee ceremony and a tour of famous city enclosure, known as Jugal, and a visit to famous French poet Arthur Rimbaud house in Harar.

 

A short moment of tranquility in a dense schedule: in a famous traditional Gay Ger (house) in Harar.

The visit, to extraordinary city of Harar, was the perfect gift for our delegates, appreciated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The European delegation official visit to Ethiopia is a sign of the country inclusive development, political, clout and prominence in Africa and a mark of the country taking the rightful place that is deserved amidst the most cultural and historical developed country in the world, concluded his remarks, President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Photo-Journal of EUROPEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE TO ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

 

For new links related to European delegation visit to Ethiopia we recommend you this:

Photo Journal of the visit of President Dr. Anton Caragea to Ethiopia on Flickr

 

European Union Delegation Travel Journal in Ethiopia on Pinterest

For new links related to US President Barack Obama delegation visit to Ethiopia we recommend you this:

Photo Journal of the visit of President Barack Obama in Ethiopia

President Barack Obama in Ethiopia on You Tube

WORLD TRAVEL AND TOURISM AWARDS CEREMONY FOR 2015 DRAWS CANDIDATURES FROM 45 COUNTRIES

According to a press release from the Press Office of the European Tourism Organization-European Council on Tourism and Trade representatives from 43 countries had registered their candidatures for World Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism designation for 2015 in an impressive show of support and confidence in the development of world tourism.  

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President Office outlined in the communique the fact that Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had stated that: I want this year choice to be a legacy of this way of regarding the tourism as a part of world development, of creating a support for cultural recognition`s and eliciting the sentiments of respect for nature and historical legacy of the mankind.

 

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD had become a center of international tourism recognition in the last span of time.

After obtaining the highest world tourism accolade in 2012, the nation island of Trinidad and Tobago becomes the only Caribbean nation that registered tourism increase in the region.

In 2013 People Democratic Republic of Laos registered a plus of over 1,5 million tourists in the first year and a 7% increase in GDP, due to mounting tourism revenues and Zimbabwe: the 2014 winner rose from zero to hero, in tourism statistics after snatching the world best tourism destination designation.

Band of mariachi interpreting Latin American songs for World Best Tourist Destination for 2015

This string of tourism success stories made 29 countries to start registering their candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in 2015 more early than ever.

Already countries from Central and South America had put forward their touristic potential with a mind blowing extravaganza at Intercontinental Hotel in Bucharest where eight Latin American and Caribbean countries outlined their touristic, artistic and cultural potential for European Council on Tourism and Trade election committee.

Algerian Ambassador presenting here country candidature for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015.

 

ECTT President Anton Caragea highly praised their demonstration as a perfect display of Latin American cultural and touristic prowess that will be seriously regarded by the prize committee.

African countries fallow rapidly with: Nigeria, Congo DRC andAlgeria taking the leading role in outlining their candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in 2015.

 

Palestine and Bethlehem candidatures for 2015 Tourism Awards presented. 

Middle Eastern countries have outlined also their fantastic touristic and cultural potential with: Turkey, Egypt, Palestine and Jordan in the vanguard of outlining their powerful cultural asset and explaining their security measures put in place to make tourism feel safe and secure and enjoy a well deserve vacation on sandy beaches of Sharm El Sheik or Alexandria of Egypt, discovering ancient cities of Petra and Jerash in Jordan or the Cappadocia coast in Turkey.

 

Egypt hopeful for his World Tourism Awards candidatures

The Central Asian countries tourism potential is expecting to be discovered by the Kazakhstan candidature that is bringing the potential of Caspian Sea, the beauty of Astana-the XXI century capital of the country and the impressive historical legacy of Turkestan-candidate city to WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM IN 2015.

Kingodm of Jordan has high hopes in being elected as World Best Tourism Destination in 2015.

In total an initial number of 29 country early bird registered their candidatures, appreciated Mrs. Teodora Nicolae-press officer ECTT and we are expecting that by the end of January 2015, when we will close the registration process we will have even more candidatures.

 

Many contenders for the title opted to register their capitals or other landmark cities or regions for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM IN 2015, noted Mrs. Ioana Rosu, responsible for collecting the candidatures for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM IN 2015 cities, which is a first.

 

In total 14 cities and region`s from across the globe, aspire for the world famous designation.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had stated that: the evaluation process is already started and it is an ongoing research and decision activity.

We will have also countries that will be approach by us, to take part in the selection process, in order to obtain a balanced geographical distribution of the winners of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and we will consider as always where we can have the biggest impact in promoting a new destination like in Trinidad, in promoting rural and social tourism, like in Lao PDR or rebranding a country and reasserting it in the world tourism field like in Zimbabwe case.

We hope that we will have the same global impact and weight in promoting new emerging destination`s and in asserting cultural tourism role and importance. Culture and social benefits of tourism are encapsulated in our attention, concluded President Dr. Anton Caragea his evaluation of 2015 candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Let`s wish good luck to all the contenders!

The full text of the Press Office of the European Tourism Organization-European Council on Tourism and Trade release can be read here: EUROPEAN COUNCIL

EUROPEAN UNION DELEGATION TOURS AFRICA

In the period between 29 May-7 June 2014, an European delegation headed by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations was invited for an official visit to the Republic of Zimbabwe.

The visit was destined to restart the bilateral relation between Europe and the Republic of Zimbabwe and the southern region of Africa, a region in full economic development and with a long tradition of partnership with our country.

H.E. President Robert Gabriel Mugabe-a true African hero and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

During the visit Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was welcomed by H.E. President of Republic of Zimbabwe-Robert Gabriel Mugabe who stated that: is exuding with love and gratitude for the visit of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

President Robert Mugabe express his gratitude for Professor Dr. Anton Caragea continuous support in promoting Zimbabwe integration in international tourism arena and stated than: when others where plotting to punish us you think at rewarding us and make us friends. From the profundity of our heart: Tank you Professor !

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea at his turn praised president Mugabe stating that:  the world did not forget the ten years spent in the dungeons of the colonial rule, the world did not forget the 20 years of revolutionary activity at the risk of the life and personal peace, spent in the opposition to the absurd regime of apartheid and segregation of Old time Rhodesia.

As we do not forget the word of reconciliation spoken after this years of struggle, ten years before Nelson Mandela similar example: “If yesterday I fought you as an enemy, today you have become a friend,” “If yesterday you hated me, today you cannot avoid the love that binds me to you.”

We will never forget that 35 years ago from Harare you have called all nations of Africa to wake up from the long colonial sleep to a new and rich life of fulfillment`s.

Your name is and will be forever inscribed for me and for all the honest people of the world along the names of the fathers of free Africa:Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, Jomo Kenyatta etc. as a giant of liberation and freedom fight in Africa and the world.

President Robert Gabriel Mugabe and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea sharing a moment of joy and good humor.  

Other meeting where held by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea with Hon. J.T.R Majuru- Vice-President of Republic of Zimbabwe, S.K.Moyo-Senior Minister (Prime Minister) of Zimbabwe, Hon. N. Goche-Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Tourism Walter Mzembi etc.

During the discussion, foreign policy cooperation, opening of honorary consulates and economic cooperation councils as well as economic and investment opportunities where tabled offering opportunity for European countries to take part in the business boom and bonanza of southern region of Africa and specially the Republic of Zimbabwe buoyant economic environment.

The European delegation enjoyed a sophisticated cultural program with visit to the History Museum of Harare, National Heroes Acre and to the wonderful UNESCO heritage site of Great Zimbabwe-the largest African palatial complex dating from XII century and covering 700 hectares and a chance to discover the world greatest cascade: Victoria waterfall.

In sign of honor Professor Dr. Anton Caragea occupied the Winston Churchill apartment in the famous Victorian hotel of Victoria Falls.

The high level visit, the first after a 25 year hiatus in bilateral relation offered to the parties the opportunity to table concrete cultural, tourism and cooperation projects and to highlight the bilateral support for the development of the social and political cooperation.

The Republic of Zimbabwe becomes now the main political and strategic partner in the region of southern Africa, offering innumerable opportunities for developing friendly ties.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and his delegation take a helicopter tour over Victoria Fall bordering Zimbabwe and Zambia

Victoria Water Fall observed from helicopter (3.000 meters)

Victoria Falls-the world largest cascade.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea touring Great Zimbabwe(the biggest African palatial complex dating from XII century)

In the heart of Great Zimbabwe historical complex

Elephant safari in the desert heart of Zimbabwe

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea gives an interview to Zimbabwe National Television

VICTORY FOR AFRICA ! ZIMBABWE HAS BEING NAMED AS WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

On the luxurious surrounding of Palace of Parliament, the European Council on Tourism and Trade decided upon the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2014 with 27 countries on the list, from all the continents, regions and climate`s off the world.

It is the biggest number of competitors in the history of the prize and this fact alone is speaking about the importance of the prize, the relevance of the competition and of the prestige that is encompassed in the European highest tourist award, stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, ECTT President.

We have countries representing the historical patrimony and the rich cultures of Asia, to the pristine nature of Africa and the traditions and historical patrimony of the black continent and concluding with the impressive tourism potential of South and Central America, declared Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community based ecotourism protection carved by Minister Walter Mzembi is a perfect way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting their foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make eco-tourism as the base for an economic local development.

                 Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering eco-friendly tourism it is a lesson that REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is offering to the world.

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

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

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

–                      The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Republic of Zimbabwe, the transformation of Harare in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of  people’s of Zimbabwe

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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