THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE HELD A FIVE DAY ORIENTATION VISIT TO AZERBAIJAN

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation taken up a tour of city of Baku and a familiarization trip to Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, component part of Republic of Azerbaijan.

Between 30 October to 5 November 2013 a delegation from European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) was invited for a familiarization trip to Azerbaijan and to Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan in order to analyze touristic opportunities offered by this beautiful country in the Caspian Sea Region.

ECTT President Anton Caragea attended the International Humanitarian Forum held in Baku.

Also ECTT President Anton Caragea attended from 31 October to 1 November 2013 the International Humanitarian Forum held in Baku, a forum that become the world center of cultural and academic elite.

The Forum had united, under the leadership of Azerbaijan President-Ilham Aliyev, the highest representatives of academic groups and world leaders from 65 countries in search of solutions to build a world free of economic crisis, wars and conflicts.

Upon the invitation of Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan-Elmar Mammadyarov, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade attended as key-note speaker to the forum activities.

Opening the International Humanitarian Forum of Baku, President Ilham Aliyev had underlined the necessity to reorganize international institutions system in order to increase their effectiveness and action power.

The purpose of this proposed reform is to empower the decisions of international organisms and to avoid negative cases, like in the situation of Nagorno-Karabakh where United Nations decisions are not implemented for more than two decades and remain dead letter.

Azerbaijan President highlighted the necessity to export inter-cultural dialogue model of Azerbaijan, that become a country for many religions and ethnical groups, a country that is respecting equally the Christian, Judaic or Islamic heritage, as part of the global historical patrimony of Azerbaijan.

″We have restored an ancient Zoroastrian temple in Azerbaijan. The oldest church in the Caucasus is also located in Azerbaijan. It has also been renovated. The Shamakhi Juma Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the world, has been overhauled. It is 1270 years old.

In other words, restoration and protection of the monuments of all religions are part of the national policy″, concluded Azeri president.

The national Azeri leader mentioned in his speech and the importance of economic development model offered by Azerbaijan in this time of crisis, citing a constant economic growth, low unemployment and high standard of living, with salaries that increased six times in the last decade, all this factors helped Azerbaijan ranking in the top 39 world economic competitiveness.

In his allocution, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade had openly thanked President Ilham Aliyev for the initiative to host this high standard forum that has the potential of creating a global world dialogue platform, in order to create a XXI century world without humanitarian crisis, a world of social equity, equal chances and sustainable development.

In his key note speech, President Dr. Anton Caragea underlined the fact that the only cure for world economic crisis is a global debate, that will replace the philosophical fundaments of XVIII century, with the imperatives of XXI century: an ecological civilization, relinquishing the capitalist economic paradigm and replacing it with sustainable development and ousting profit as the symbol of global economic assessment and replacing it by social utility. 

After the forum works where concluded, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation taken up a tour of city of Baku and a familiarization trip to Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, component part of Republic of Azerbaijan.

Tour of Baku: city of modernity and architectural daring and historical preservation.

The visit had a strong cultural component including a tour of city of Nakhchivan, a city with a 3.500 years history, a on the spot excursion to Prophet Noah Tomb, visiting Heydar Aliyev Palace in the city, carpet museum, a cruise to the ancient city of Ordubad, an incursion to the Nakhchivan Shah palace and to Ashabi-Khaf mosque and had observed a classical and opera spectacle offered by the Drama Theatre of Nakhchivan.

Nakhchivan Opera concert in honor of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea delegation.

The Baku city tour presented a capital that unites perfectly high tech buildings and the splendours of the old city and had included a visit to Shirvanshah palace, Azeri national television and medieval citadel.

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had stated in a television interview for National Azeri Channel that: Baku is today a symbol metropolis that is respecting the past and building a powerful mega polis in line with XXI century requirements and magnificent located on shores of Caspian Sea.

The visit to Azerbaijan was held between 30 October and 5 November 2013 and was inscribed in the bilateral expressed desire to develop the strategic partnership and in order to better appreciate the cultural, economic and civilization model offered by Azeri society to European tourists.

CUBA PRESENTS CANDIDATURE FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013

On 13 of February 2012 a friendly and cooperation meeting between Prof. dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and H.E. Mrs. Marta Fajardo Palet, Ambassador of Republic of Cuba had taken place.

Prof. dr. Anton Caragea express his amicable fillings and friendly interest towards the recent evolutions in Cuba, that are consolidating Cuba`s economic development, open society and are creating a sense of perfect unity between the people of Cuba and the government. Cuba`s revolutionary transition under Commander Fidel Castro supervision and President Raul Castro guidance is witnessed with sympathy and interest in Europe, emphasized prof.dr.Anton Caragea .

H.E. Ambassador Marta Fajardo Palet presented the latest achievements in bilateral relations : opening a bilateral chamber of commerce, developing cultural relations and building new bridges of understanding between European Council on Tourism and Trade and Cuba.

The parties had appreciated that between European Council on Tourism and Trade Romanian and Cuba there are large area of common interests , designed to forge a good understanding between the two organisms . The European Council on Tourism and Trade- Cuba relationship must be an example for a better relation between Europe and Latin America .

If in the last decade the bilateral dialogue with this area was faltering, now it is a auspicious moment for reconstructing and rebuilding this framework of dialogue and friendship.

The dialogue had continued on concrete aspects and analyses of economic, tourismpolitical and cultural bilateral relations and on ways of fostering this dialogue on to the future .

H.E. Mrs. Marta Fajardo Palet, Ambassador of Republic of Cuba presented on this occasion the candidature of here country to WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD.

 

Also the parties had evoked the history of bilateral relations and the marking in this year (2012) of 85 years of bilateral diplomatic relations and the commemoration last year ( 2011) of 50 years of diplomatic relations at ambassador level.

The discussion led the foundations of continuing the dialogue and fostering the relations between European Council on Tourism and Trade and Cuba.

AMBASSADOR OF VENEZUELA PRESENT HIS COUNTRY CANDIDATURE FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2012

On 30 of January 2012 the taking office protocol meeting between Prof.dr.Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and H.E. Mrs.Z. Coromoto Prieto de Rodriguez , Charge D`Affairs of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela had taken place.

Prof.dr.Anton Caragea express his heartfealted congratulation on the occasion of beginning of mandate of H.E. Z .Coromoto Prieto de Rodriguez appreciating that between Europe and Venezuela there is a large area of common interests , designed to forge a good understanding between the two nations . The Europe- Venezuela relationship must be an example for a better relation between Europe and Latin America .

If in the last decade the bilateral dialogue with this area was faltering, now it is a auspicious moment for reconstructing and rebuilding this framework of dialogue and friendship.

H.E. Mrs. Z. Coromoto Prieto de Rodriguez had expressed here appreciation for the encouragement`s offered by prof.dr.Anton Caragea and had stated that the vision of a economic, tourism , politic and cultural special relationship between Europe and Venezuela is a shared vision.

The dialogue had continued on concrete aspects and analyses of economic, tourism and cultural bilateral relations and on ways of fostering this dialogue on to the future .

H.E. Mrs.Z. Coromoto Prieto de Rodriguez , Charge D`Affairs of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela presented his country candidature for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD .

The dialogue led the foundations of a successful diplomatic mandate and fostering the relations between Europe and Venezuela and is constituting a promise for re-launching a european diplomatic action towards Latin America in the nearest future.

Prof.dr.Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade receives a portret of Simon Bolivar-Venezuelean Hero  from  H.E. Mrs.Z. Coromoto Prieto de Rodriguez , Charge D`Affairs of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. 

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE DELEGATION VISIT TO UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is a rare occasion and a friendship declaration when European delegation attend National Day Celebration of another country and this is a supplementary demonstration of the brotherly spirit that unites European Union and United Arab Emirates( UAE).

Finally the European presence on 2 December-the National Day of Emirates is an evidence of Europe`s people support for the UAE outstanding achievements and positive model offered to the world, stated prof.dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations upon his return.

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

Emirati traditional dance performed for European delegation.

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

AMBASSADOR FOR WORLD NATURAL PROTECTED AREA`S NOMINATED

On 13 December 2011 on United Nations Headquarters in Romania was unveiled the special initiative on protecting natural areas of United Nations Development Program ( UNDP) .

On this occasion Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was presented with the appointment of Goodwill Ambassador At Large for the World Natural Protected Area. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was empowered to speak on behalf the ecological and protection program`s regarding protected natural area and to represent on world stage the necessity issues related to: integrating environment into development , environment and finance, local development, climate change, sustainable energy, ecosystems and biodiversity, ozone and climate , climate strategy etc.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- World Goodwill Ambassador for Natural Protected Area`s visiting Chaguaramas Natural Rezervation in Trinidad and Tobago.  

In his acceptance speech as Goodwill Ambassador for Natural Protected Area Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had appreciated the wealth of Romanian natural protected area evaluated at more than 23 natural and national parks that are representing a priority for natural conservation in Romania and for the world. This regions will be a priority for me and also we have to emphasize the educational vision in promoting natural area protection and development, touristic opportunities, conservationist education programs and international aid. All this all the pillars of developing and insuring financial independence and sustainability for natural protected areas, concluded professor dr. Anton Caragea.

The discussion concluded with the UNDP Country Representative presentation of the UNDP plans main features: The natural environment is the foundation on which poverty reduction efforts and sustainable development must be built. Poor people everywhere depend critically on environmental assets and energy resources for their livelihoods and well-being. It is widely recognized that recent and ongoing global shocks, food, fuel, financial, climate change, have linkages, if not in some cases direct lineage, to environmental issues related to the use and management environmental systems and services. Therefore, mainstreaming environment and sustainable development, including climate change, in national development planning and implementation is central to UNDP`s poverty reduction and Millennium Development Goal mission.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AND FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION FOR 2012

On 19 October 2011, in the framework of European Council on Tourism and Trade official delegation visit to Republic of Trinidad and Tobago , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European 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. The fallowing are extracts from the speech presented on this occasion.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade

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

Esteemed members of the Government and Parliament of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago , dear guests and member of diplomatic corp ,

It is may great honor and privilege to stand today, before you, honoring a country that is becoming a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION .

Tourism must be based on values such as nature preservation, cultural patrimony and history conservation for future generation and exactly for this need we have carved WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION as an international recognition of the country that are respecting this values .

It is always a pleasure when I have the occasion to meet and congratulate a representative of tourism industry that change the face of his country tourism and of the region and helped to build a new future for a tourism that is respecting the values .

In a world crowded by images, without a form and substance , we come today to honor a CULTURE , in a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real TOURISM VALUE, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for natural preservation , we come to honor a NATURAL PARADISE , we come to honor the Republic of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO .

We are all here friend`s of humanity, of cultural tourism , in search for the countries and tourism values that are offering to all the tourist of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening tourist experience .

Honorable Kamla Pershad Bissessar is glad: TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO are officially recognized as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION: Job well done for her country .  

Among the reasons leading to awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 title to TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the report take under consideration:

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

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

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

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

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

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

We believe in a people that want to develop his country and we are glad to observe that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago also believe in his people.

We are believing in the future of Trinidad and Tobago and we are proud to see the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is also investing and believing in the future of Trinidad and Tobago.

We are believing that despite shortcomings and problems, in Trinidad and Tobago there is the will to overcome this issues and to step into a new way, a new future, and we are honored to see the government of Trinidad and Tobago shaping this future.

This is a prize that was always destined to unite peoples’ in pride, not to divide, to create a filing of pride and to inoculate a desire to strive for a better future, and I hope this will be the case for Trinidad and Tobago also.

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

This speech was written after reviewing dozens of reports and publications of scientific value, but it was lacking the knowledge of a major value of Trinidad and Tobago: the people.

During our stay we have meet the people of Trinidad and Tobago: on the streets, on the islands, working in tourism industry, learning the art of panyard, or learn to dance blending Africa, South America and Europe in a fiery spirit. To them is dedicated most of all the prize: to people of Trinidad and Tobago , they are constructing a future in which nobody will ask Why is Trinidad and Tobago –WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ? They will make 2012 a better year not only for tourism but for all the country.

For all this reasons Is my privileged to award Your Excellency as representative of tourism of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago the award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012.

This title is an international recognition of your work for Republic of Trinidad and Tobago until today, in the service of tourism, culture and natural resources preservation and for people of Trinidad and Tobago, but is also a challenge because now we are expecting your services in the future benefit of the world tourism.

May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of Trinidad and Tobago, for a sustainable tourism and development and in a base for further success for beautiful Trinidad and Tobago?

We congratulate Mrs. Prime Minister and people of Trinidad and Tobago for this outstanding achievements.

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY FOR 2012-TRINIDAD AND 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 speaking at WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION  Award Ceremony for 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.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu –Director of European Tourism Academy praised Minister of Tourism impressive results.

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.

Dr. Petru Lificiu, Vice-President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade , WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD is the garantee for an ecological , high quality and fair  tourism.

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.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade unveiling the reasons for awarding TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO.

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.

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD CONFERED TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO FOR 2012.

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.

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.

KAMLA PERSHAD BISSESSAR-PRIME MINISTER OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO SPEECH AT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARDS FOR 2012

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

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

Date: Wednesday October 19, 2011

Venue: Regency 4, 5 &6 of Hyatt Regency Trinidad

Time: 12.30pm

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ladies and gentlemen,

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

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

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

Ladies and Gentlemen,

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

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

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

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

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

The EPA also includes measures that would make it easier for European Union investors to invest in the Trinidad and Tobago. This award, then, will provide a platform to attract increased investment and to promote growth and development in the tourism sector.

The Economic Partnership Agreement is, therefore, rendered more relevant, more strategic and more focused on deliverables.

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AND WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM SITES UNVEILED

On 9 October 2011 in a special gathering of European Council on Tourism and Trade Prof.dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and Dr. Petru Lificiu Vice-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade had publicly unveiled the new sites destined to present ot the world up dated information`s of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE.

The new sites provides useful information`s, up dated debates and news and are destined to emphasize the character of rewarding high quality tourism , cultural protection and environment values incorporated in the prizes of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

The sites offers to the visitors information`s on European Council on Tourism and Trade actions and values , criteria`s for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM awards and different useful dates for tourism and tourism industry professionals.

You can see the new sites here:

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE

 

 

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD GOES TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

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

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy

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

 

Prof.Dr. Anton Caragea – President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade and H.E. President of Tajikistan – Emomali Rahmon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Voting for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD

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

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

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