VASILE VLASIN-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE DIRECTOR: DEBRE LIBANOS IS A MIRACLE OF NATURE AND ART

During an official visit to Ethiopia, ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea inaugurated the celebrations marking the inscription of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia`s capital on the WORLD`S CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM list and have a line of high level talks in order to address the advancement of tourism in Ethiopia and the key role of the sector in the country’s social-economic development. (Addis Abeba, Ethiopia, 30 January-8 February 2019).

 

 

Debre Libanos Monastery and natural preserve has provoked awe to the ECTT executives. European Council on Tourism and Trade Director Vasile Vlasin declared that Debre Libanos is one of the world`s top natural and architectural marvels.

 

 

 

The Government of Ethiopia and the Government of Addis Ababa are currently implementing a number of strategic measures to further develop the country’s tourism sector, including investment in infrastructure and capacity building on destination management and product development, through the recently established Tourism Transformation Council.

 

 

Upon an invitation by H.E. Mrs. Sahle Work Zewde F.D.R Ethiopia President, European Council on Tourism and Trade President H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had visited Ethiopia at the head of a high level delegation.

 

These measures reflect how tourism is firmly established among the development drivers of the country, said Head of Government of Addis Ababa Takele Uma Benti in a meeting with President Dr. Anton Caragea, where he expressed his full support to the tourism sector, and the commitment of the Ethiopian government to make sustainability a priority in future tourism development.

 

 

 

Ethiopian art enthused all the representatives of the global tourism institution.

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President Dr. Anton Caragea commended Ethiopia for the political support awarded to the tourism sector and in particular for integrating tourism as part of its development policy.

 

In 2015 after the decision taken by the European Council on Tourism and Trade to select Ethiopia as the receiver of the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION award the country registered an influx of over 1 million tourists and earned more than 2 billion dollars in 2015/2016 tourism year, numbers never achieved before and after in the Ethiopia`s tourism history.

 

 

The Head of Global Tourism Institution-ECTT H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea gives the start of Addis Ababa Culture and Tourism Festival and of Addis Ababa-WORLD`S CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM manifestations.

 

 

The decision to inscribe Addis Ababa as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM will give a new impetus to the country and support is further development appreciated President Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

During his official visit, President Dr. Anton Caragea opened the cultural festival of Addis Ababa: Unity through Culture and officially entrusted  the certificate and award for Addis Ababa as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

The Ethiopia`s President received also the Official Letter for World Leaders in Tourism Development highlighting Ethiopian government responsibilities for protecting culture and heritage and using tourism as a tool for development of their nation.

The Official Letter for World Leaders in Tourism Development is calling on Heads of States and Government to “promote the value of the tourism sector in advancing sustainable tourism development”.

 

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MARKING ADDIS ABABA ROLE AS WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

CEREMONIES FOR ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY CONFERENCE FOR ADDIS ABABA

WORLD TOURISM DAY HOST ADDIS ABABA

NEW ACADEMY MEMBER PRESENTATION: H.E. PRESIDENT SAHLE WORK ZEWDE

NEW ACADEMY MEMBER PRESENTATION: ADDIS ABABA GOVERNMENT HEAD TAKLE BENTI UMA

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An extensive cultural programme was carved out for President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and his delegates  and destined to offer them an extensive Ethiopian experience.

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates having in the center Mr. Mark Doda-Head of Balkan Tourism Organization are enjoying an interesting cultural show in Ethiopia`s capital: Addis Ababa.

 

 

The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visited the provinces of Kaffa and Jimma, the birth place of coffee and the famous Palace of Abba Jifar located in Jimma.

Jimma tourism potential and Abba Jiffar Museum as well as the city open markets left an indelible mark on the delegates who appreciated the city architecture and elegance and Islamic heritage potential and valued the impressive remains of the Abba Jifar palace towering over the city.

The ECTT delegation enjoyed also an exclusive tour of the tourism and cultural potential of Addis Ababa environs like the natural crater lakes of Bishoftu and the splendid religious and cultural complex of Debre Libanos.

Debre Libanos unique role in Ethiopian Church development and the rich museum collections of the Debre Libanos Monastery are powerful elements destined to make the area a hot tourism spot.

 

In the familiarization tour around Addis Ababa the delegation had explored the Addis Ababa City Museum, The Ethnographic Museum (hosted in former Imperial palace Genet Leul,  Haile Selassie Museum, National Museum etc.) the Saint George Cathedral and Holy Trinity and Entoto Heritage Area (encompassing the Palace of Emperor Menelik II, Churches Myriam Entoto and Saints Raguel and Elias).

 

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea emphasized the importance for future of Addis Ababa of better highlighting and package the impressive potential of the tourism and cultural preserve of the Entoto Area.

 

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea emphasized as urgency the enacted as a special tourism and cultural preserve of the Entoto Area, in order to ensure its better protection and tourism role in development of Addis Ababa and highly valued the decision taken by the new dispensation of the Head of Government of Adds Ababa Takele Uma Benti to promote a safe and cultural oriented tourism in the city.

 

 

President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea receives an Ethiopian art work from Head of Addis Ababa City Government Eng. Takele Uma Benti. 

 

 

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You can read more about the letter for tourism and development leaders on:

LETTER ADDRESSED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM FOR CAMBODIA

LETTER ADDRESSED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM FOR ETHIOPIA

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM: ACADEMICIAN HUN SEN

PHNOM PENH-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

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President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea delegation included: the Director of European Tourism Academy, Academician Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director for Hospitality and Development Mr. Pavel Avramoiu, Mr. Vasile Vlasin-Head of Investment Division in European Council on Tourism and Trade and former Prime Minister Mark Doda, Chairman of Balkan Tourism Organization.

 

ECTT and Ethiopia have agreed to reinforce their collaboration in the areas of cultural protection, historical promotion, sustainable tourism development, public-private partnerships and marketing strategies etc.

The Photo Album of the Addis Ababa-World Capital of Culture and Tourism is accessible here

The Photo Dossier of the Global Tourism Institution visit to Addis Ababa is available here

ECTT TO ENTRUST FDR ETHIOPIA`S LEADER SAHLE WORK ZEWDE WITH THE LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT

The Office of the President of the GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTION (European Council on Tourism and Trade) announced that H.E. President of F.D.R of Ethiopia Ambassador Sahle Work Zewde will receive the OFFICIAL LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT on behalf of European Tourism Academy “in clear appreciation of your influential vision in carving culture and national heritage of Ethiopia as conducive instruments in building tourism and in ensuring development for your people recognition of the role and significance of tourism on world stage”.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade-ECTT (left) and President of Romania H.E. Professor Dr. Emil Constantinescu on the venue of ECTT Executive Board meeting.

 

 

 

The official letter penned by the Office of the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade outlines the role of tourism in promoting  Ethiopia in the world, in building bridges of cooperation and friendship and highlighting the positive effects of the cooperation between the Presidency of Ethiopia, the local government of Addis Ababa and the Embassy of Ethiopia in Brussels, cooperation that allowed the nation to continue on the road for development via tourism growth and for poverty reduction strategy:

 

Your activities had created what we are celebrating today: ADDIS ABABA victory and selection as the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Ethiopia is an example of development activities, investment protection and facilitation, economic growth and wealth spreading to the nation and this is the creation of your life long experience and devotion to your people.

 

The world community statement of confidence in the bright future of Ethiopia nation and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competition in recognition of your nation incredible wealth of traditions, natural treasures, history prowess and contribution to humanity legacy.

The world recognizes that Trade, Travel and Tourism are part of the international life and each and every one of our citizens became a world ambassador and a central actor on world stage.

 

 

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EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY EVENTS PROGRAMME FOR ADDIS ABABA

ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

 

CEREMONIES FOR ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY CONFERENCE FOR ADDIS ABABA

WORLD TOURISM DAY HOST ADDIS ABABA

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Nations that wish to attain their full potential and reach the picks of development, international recognition, economic growth and prosperous life for their citizens can’t remove themselves from the international tourism and trade arena.

Trade and Tourism are the key pillars for countries and billions of people, worldwide, in their efforts to achieve fully their live potential.

European Council on Tourism and Trade had become, and strides to remain, the driving force in the international promotion of culture, and patrimony and encapsulate tourism as the main vector in development and international cooperation.

 

The international recognition of Ethiopia`s President Sahle-Work Zewde comes in the wake of the global tourism institution –European Council on Tourism and Trade decision to recognize Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia and the seat of African union as receiver of the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM designation.

 

 

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You can read more about tourism and development on:

 

LETTER ADDRESSED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM FOR CAMBODIA

LETTER ADDRESSED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM FOR ETHIOPIA

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM: ACADEMICIAN HUN SEN

PHNOM PENH-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

BREAKING NEWS: ADDIS ABEBA IS ELECTED AS WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has publicly signed the official decision naming ADDIS ABABA as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM on January 19, 2019, in the presence of the diplomatic corps accredited to the global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy.

 

 

 

 

The event coincided with the conclusion of the First Academic and Mayors Forum for Culture and Tourism – ‘WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM: protecting heritage and promoting tourism’.,

 

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You can read more about tourism and development on:

 

LETTER ADDRESSED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM FOR CAMBODIA

LETTER ADDRESSED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM FOR ETHIOPIA

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM: ACADEMICIAN HUN SEN

PHNOM PENH-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

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Addis Ababa was announced as the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM as the city is preparing for a string of celebrations during 2019 and 2020 marking 550 years as a political center and 130 years since in 1889 the Emperor Menelik II announced the city as the capital of his Ethiopian empire.

 

The decision of the global tourism institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade to register Addis Ababa on the coveted list of WORLD`S CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM comes in recognition of the city administration lead by the new city mayor Mr. Takele Uma Benti ambitious plans to place tourism at the root of the city development and in appreciation of the cooperation that Presidency of F.D.R. of Ethiopia extended to the Addis Ababa City Government.

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President Dr. Anton Caragea (center photo) surrounded by Acad. Ion Iliescu-President of Romania(left photo) and Acad. Emil Constantinescu (right) President of Romania (1996-2000) announces the election of Addis Ababa as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

 

 

Among the reasons for crowning the city as a world cultural and touristic hub the European Council on Tourism and Tradeenumerated the existence of a vast array of historically and religiously monuments like the former imperial palace hosting today the Ethnographic Museum, the Entoto enclose of Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taytu , the cathedrals of Saint George, Holy Trinity, Medhame Alem –the largest cathedral in Ethiopia and the second in Africa etc.

 

By this recognition of Addis Ababa as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, the capital city of Ethiopia is added on the world`s list of cities leading humanity into development and using culture and tourism as fundamentals for a better life.

 

 

The global tourism institution ECTTremarked in the official statement that: Addis Ababa is blending his position, in one of the most beautiful regions in the world, with an extraordinary potential of culture and history patrimony, becoming a true world treasure and without a doubt, one of the most impressive areas of Africa.

Addis Ababa can capitalize on the city status as World Capital of Culture and Tourism creating special tourism offers and touristic routes in the city and his adjacent territory (like the Blue Nile Falls, Lake Tana etc.) in order to retain a growing number of tourists in the city.

 

 

Addis-Ababa-Djibouti railway station built by French Architects and connecting today two WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

 

 

With Ethiopian Airlines growth and more than 10 million travelers expected to pass through Addis Ababa an important part of these tourists could be attracted to spend at least one or two nights in the city bringing a substantial revenue into the city.

The decision of European Council on Tourism and Trade marks the end of a negative period in Ethiopian tourism and restarts the process to promote Ethiopia as a safe, tourist-oriented and perfect destination for the culture and adventure loving tourists.

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More about WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT can be observed here:

PRESIDENT ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH NAMED WORLD LEADER IN DEVELOPMENT

LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT 

PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA NAMED WORLD LEADER FOR DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTION APPOINTS WORLD LEADERS FOR DEVELOPMENT

PRIME MINISTER OF ETHIOPIA RECEIVES THE LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS

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In January 2019 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed revamped the Ethiopian Tourism Organization and selected a new leadership of the organization and H.E. Academician SAHLE-WORK ZEWDE, President of F.D.R of Ethiopia expressed the nation full commitment to support tourism development and carving a safe destination for tourism and investment in the heart of Africa.

 

We must note that in 2015 Ethiopia was selected as World`s Best Tourist Destination by the European Council on Tourism and Trade leading to a historic surge in the numbers of tourists in the country and of tourism-related revenues.

Ethiopia has led African tourism in 2015 with a whopping 1 billion USD in revenues from tourism, well ahead of other regional tourism destinations.

 

CELEBRATIONS MARKING ADDIS ABABA ROLE AS WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

 

ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

 

CEREMONIES FOR ADDIS ABABA-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY CONFERENCE FOR ADDIS ABABA

WORLD TOURISM DAY HOST ADDIS ABABA

 

NEW ACADEMY MEMBER PRESENTATION: H.E. PRESIDENT SAHLE WORK ZEWDE

NEW ACADEMY MEMBER PRESENTATION: ADDIS ABABA GOVERNMENT HEAD TAKLE BENTI UMA

 

 

PRESIDENT DR. ANTON CARAGEA DELEGATION OFFICIAL VISIT TO KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

Cambodia has become the foremost center of tourism in Asia in the last span of time.

The country has topped all international rankings in areas of tourism growth, revenues, tourism satisfaction and has transformed itself in an area of encounters for world leaders in development and cooperation.

The latest global leaders to visit the Kingdom of Cambodia where the officials of global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) and European Tourism Academy lead by H.E. ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

The Prime Minister of Cambodia, Academician Hun Sen, re-affirmed tourism´s role as the most important agenda item for the sustainable development of Cambodia´s economy as he received the leaders of global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy on evaluation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

 

President of global tourism institutions: ECTT and European Tourism Academy, Academician Professor Dr. Anton Caragea received by H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia and Global Ambassador for Tourism and SDG`s.

“In spite of the worldwide economic crisis, Cambodia enjoys continuous tourism growth.

Tourism in Cambodia grew from zero to 5.2 million foreign visitors expected this year of 2018,” said Prime Minister Academician Hun Sen.

“Tourism development has been taken by the Cambodian government as a priority for the sustainable development of our cultural and natural heritage sites,” he added.

“Cambodia´s is fairing best in the world tourism development field growing from 3 million tourist in 2015 to a projected 6 million in 2019 and this is the globe`s most impressive tourism achievements.

Cambodia is a true success story that registered the impressive victories of being named WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and to have in Phnom Penh named as the first Asian city to become a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM stated ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

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Main world tourism and culture awards ceremonies are listed here:

World Capital of Culture and Tourism

World`s Best Tourist Destination Award

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“With its wide variety of European Council on Tourism and Trade ECTT heritage sites, Cambodia continues and will continue to draw tourists from all over the world and we are very happy to see the country placing tourism as a priority in their development agenda.”

 

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More about Global Ambassadors of Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals can be accessed here:

♦ THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG 

♦ EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY

♦ EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE AND SDG

♦ TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

♦ CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

♦ GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SDG

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Cambodia´s tourism has experienced a significant growth over the years, from 460,000 visitors in 2000 to 4.2 million in 2016(when the nation was voted as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION), or an increase of 1000% over the 2000 benchmark.

International tourism generated US$ 3.8 billion in receipts in 2018.

 

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Phnom Penh-the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Read more:

♦ THE GUIDE AROUND PHNOM PENH

♦ PHNOM PENH: THE CITY OF WATERS!

♦ A VISIT TO PHNOM PENH! HIGHLIGHT OF A PERFECT CITY! 

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During his visit to Cambodia ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade President announced that ECTT and European Tourism Academy will organize the WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 in Phnom Penh marking tourism opportunities in the Kingdom of Cambodia and highlighting Phnom Penh as the perfect destination for cultural, luxury and heritage tourism.

Landmarks of European Council on Tourism and Trade Presidential Delegation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Battamang-the future center of tourism development stage in the Kingdom of Cambodia. The first leg of ECTT discovery trip. 

Banteay Meanchey: a treasure fountain of culture and heritage.   

The Wat Ek Phnom archaeological site 

Siem Reap Province. The Bakong Temple. A perfect stop-over for history aficionados.  

Kampong Thom Province. Sambor Prey Kuk -UNESCO heritage site. European Tourism Academy shortlisted for World Capital of Culture and Tourism status.

National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh-World Favorite Museum in 2017

Banteay Chhmar temple- a symbol of ever victorious spirit of Khmer People. 

Cambodia under Academician Hun SEN, the most extraordinary Prime Minister that the nation had ever had has become a model for development, an independent and people oriented country and a symbol for tourism and national resurgence-ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea.

UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY LISTEN TO THE GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SDG`S REPORT

H.E. Prime Minister-Academician SAMDECH HUN SEN was elected as the only head of state to date to present to the world a concise and effective vision of completion of SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

Attending the General Debate of the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, as the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS and as the Head of the newly elected 6th mandate Royal Government of Cambodia, Prime Minister made a statement highlighting not only Cambodia`s role on upholding international peace and development but also his country global vision for the world in XXI century.

 

According to international experts Prime Minister HUN SEN speech was bold, energetic and creating a new page in the international relations and upholding the interest and the vision of small and medium countries and of non-aligned group of nations and also ASEAN vision for the world`s future.

 

H.E. Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia and GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, Academician HUN SEN has presented his lofty vision for his country, for United Nations and for the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.

 

Attending the General Debate of the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, as the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS and as the Head of the newly elected 6th mandate Royal Government of Cambodia, Prime Minister made a statement highlighting the new images of Cambodia with stable democratic process and remarkable socio-economic achievements following the attainment of full peace and stability which prevail all over the country.

He underlined the government’s continued commitment to enhance people’s well-being in line with the soon to be adopted “Cambodian Sustainable Development Goals.”

On international affairs, Prime Minister raised concerns about the threat of unilateralism that has undermined multilateral system, hindered global efforts to address SDGs, to tackle climate change and other common security challenges.

Prime Minister appealed for respect of the UN Charter and avoidance of domestic interference in the pretext of political rights protection. He raised specific case of Cambodia where some external circles, who have fed on ambition to interfere in the domestic affairs of Cambodia, still fail to see the quality and integrity of our election process by issuing statements against or attacking the election outcome.

Such actions are a serious assault on the will of the Cambodian people,” H.E. Prime Minister HUN SEN was elected as the only head of state to date to present to the world a concise and effective vision of completion of SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

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You can find out more about these topics here:

♦ THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG`s 

♦ EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY

♦ EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE AND SDG`s

♦ TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

♦ CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 

♦ GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SDG`s

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The full text of the allocution of THE GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS-ACADEMICIAN SAMDECH HUN SEN can be read out here:

My participation in this General Assembly is in the context that Cambodian Nation is enjoying the dividends of peace, stability and rapid development which had never been before in her modern history.

Cambodia is a successful case of a war-torn country which had succeeded in making a complete and prideful transformation.

 

Previously infamous for its killing fields, an unstable region caused by armed conflicts and dangerous mine disposals, an economically backward country mired in poverty and food insecurity, Cambodia now enjoys full peace, and has become a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia (the WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION r.n); a food exporter; an outstanding performer in poverty reduction and improvement in social indicators. Cambodia is recognized as one of the world’s fast-growing economies, which recently has successfully graduated from its status as a low-income country to a lower-middle income country, owing to its high economic growth at around 7% per annum over the past two decades.

 

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The photo journal of the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS activity during UNITED NATION GENERAL ASSEMBLY can be observed here:

PHOTO DOSSIER GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

 

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H.E. António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General welcomes H.E. Prime Minister of Cambodia Samdech HUN SEN-the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

Notably known for its armed struggle for the power and changes of government, Cambodia is now governed by the rule of law and firmly respects the multi-party liberal democracy, with regular, free and fair elections, held to enable its people to choose the country’s leadership.

 

In the general election of Cambodia’s Sixth Legislature of the National Assembly in July, nearly 7 million Cambodians, or 83.02% of the total registered voters, cast their votes and decided on their political choices freely and without any coercion, threat or violence.

Twenty registered political parties have competed in the election which clearly demonstrated a legitimate representation of pluralist politics and reflected what thousands of domestic and international observers described as a stable democratic process in Cambodia and as a free, fair, and credible election.

 

By their votes, Cambodians reaffirmed their desire for peace, stability and long-lasting sustainable development.

Indeed, the free choice of the Cambodian people and the legitimate result of this election is not a subject for question or debate.

 

Some external circles, who have fed on ambition to interfere in domestic affairs of Cambodia, still fail to see the quality and integrity of our election process by issuing statements against or attacking the election outcome.

Such actions are a serious assault on the will of the Cambodian people.

• Madam President!

I would like to draw the attention of all UN members to the vitality of the United Nations Charter.

It depends on all of us to provide a proper respect for this crucial document by avoiding the interference, damaging, or disrupting sovereignty of an independent state.

We are heartedly regretful to highlight the fact that human rights nowadays have become “a mission to impose civilization” for some powerful nations or, perhaps, as their operating standards as the pretext for the interference under the name of political rights protection.

 

As a result, the imposition of unilateral sanctions has become a popular weapon of powerful nations in managing their international politics, which is completely driven by geopolitical agendas.

This is nothing but a use of the brutal force of a particular state to impose its will on other sovereignty states.

 

In a world, where the eras of imperialism and colonialism became the history, we have to acknowledge that not all nations in this General Assembly shall follow the governing model of any country.

 

Big countries should not attempt to install their administrative system on other small countries, because those small countries also possess sovereignty and legitimate aspiration to maintain their own identities. In the modern-days of interdependence, such an old style coercive mindset should be put to rest.

Together, both big and small countries, must respect one another and uphold the rules of the international law and the Charter of the United Nations.

• Madam President!

Currently, the world is facing severe instabilities while the threats to peace are coming in many forms, more than what we have witnessed in the past 25 years.

We are all living in a world faced with fragility, unpredictability, complicated changes, as the challenges are coming from various fronts, including the increase in persistent conflicts and unprecedented humanitarian crises.

We are deeply concerned by the tensions made by a first world class superpower in the diplomatic circle and by the conflicts happening in many places thank to the interference by this superpower.

We are also deeply concerned by the rush decisions made by this superpower to urgently withdraw from major international agreements that threaten the core legitimacy of international legal order.

This unilateral actions have undermined the state-to-state relationships and caused tension in the international community.

Yet, what puts the most pressure is direct attack on multilateralism.

Undoubtedly, in our globalized world, all things are connected. if we begin to adhere to the protectionist policy, unilateralism and trade war, we are closing the door by not welcoming any trade and investment opportunities which have provided prosperity to our countries, both small and big ones, for many decades.

Eventually, we all are poorer; our economies will decline; financial capital will shrink and the ability to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as, addressing the challenges caused by climate change would be seriously affected.

Those factors will make poor countries suffer prolonged poverty, and thus we are more vulnerable to the dangerous ideology of terrorism, extremism, and regional conflicts.

Cambodia, as a small economy, believes in the interests of the rule-based international cooperation. As a matter of fact, we all have been prospering because of the globalization.

We all are thus convinced that the global trade should not be hindered by the imposition of unilateral tariffs; yet it should be enhanced and supported through the adherence to conductive policies for trade and investment, as well as, the provision of special preferential treatment to developing countries.

Stability and diversification in the financial sector need to be further encouraged to promote innovation and development.

All in all, we need to jointly maintain and strengthen ‘’multilateralism”.

In fact, peace without development is not sustainable. In this context, “Sustainable Development Goals” of the United Nations play a pivotal role in guiding toward prosperity for the people. Cambodia views the SDGs as an important opportunity to mobilize efforts in achieving poverty reduction, as well as, sustainable and inclusive development.

The Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) soon will approve “Cambodia Sustainable Development Goals (CSDGs)” which has been fully localized, and we will use those goals to shape our medium and long-term policies and plans for Cambodia.

Moreover, the conflict prevention is precondition for a long-lasting peace. The UN peacekeeping forces play a vital leading role in these efforts. As a result, Cambodia greatly welcomes the vision of H.E. António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, on peace-building and peace-keeping, particularly further paying continued attention to the conflict prevention.

Cambodia is a consistent supporter of the architecture of peace and security of the United Nations.

For instance, for the last 12 years, Cambodia has sent thousands of Blue Helmet forces to join peace-keeping missions under the umbrella of the United Nations.

However, peace-keeping is facing unprecedented challenges since the non-state actors have waged rebellion wars against our peace-keeping forces, which have caused many lives and disabilities.

We are sincerely indebted to the sacrifice of the UN peace-keeping heroes. Nonetheless, their death and sacrifice have not distorted our commitment to further contributing to the cause of this great mission.

Another severe and complicated threat which is the barriers to the long-lasting peace is terrorism.

They have disintegrated communities, worsened the conflicts and weakened the stability of the whole region. Currently, the battles against terrorism have become even more complex and modernized since the terrorists are turning to the cyberspace for their malevolent operation.

Profoundly, the cross-border nature of terrorism requires us to build a multilateral cooperation with concerted coordination, including “countermeasures” and “preventive measures”.

Addressing climate change is another key element for the success of the 2030 Agenda, which requires urgent and focused attention from the global community.

The fundamentals for action on climate change are undoubtedly rested upon the Paris Agreement.

In this spirit, Cambodia will provide full support to the Secretary-General of the United Nations to organize the Climate Summit next year to foster the inspiration to further address climate change.

• Madame President!

Finally, I would like to emphasize that Cambodia fully support the UN’s global leadership, and commits to implementing our shared responsibility to build a peaceful and equitable human society who enjoys sustainable and inclusive development.

Thank you for your attention!  

CUBA CANDIDATURE FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD ACCEPTED

The official candidature of The Republic of Cuba for WORLD TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD was accepted and dully registered, being the last candidature accepted for 2018/2019 tourism year announced the Office of The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

On this occasion, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has wished full success for the country international recognition in the field of tourism.

 

 

On the occasion of the arrival of the new ambassador of Cuba,  H.E. Roberto César Hamilton MAGAÑA, the official audience with the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has taken place.

The presentation and cooperation meeting was focused on the tourism potential of the Caribbean island, recovery of the tourism industry after Irma hurricane and opportunities for investment in tourism industry on Cuba after the latest legal and constitutional framework changes and the chances of the beautiful hot-spot to be named as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION.

Cuba has the potential of making another perfect WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION awardee considers President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea. 

H.E. Roberto César Hamilton MAGAÑA, the new Ambassador of Cuba, has outlined the changes in property laws, the acceptance of private property and is guarantee by the state and the special support offered for hotel and hospitality chains interested in investing in the booming Cuban tourism sector.

The bilateral discussion, has marked the debut of mandate for H.E. Roberto César Hamilton MAGAÑA and H.E. ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, has officially presented the congratulations for the start of mandate of the new ambassador noting the world tourism institution hopes for a fruitful cooperation and also has marked the official congratulations for the new Head of State of The Republic of Cuba: H.E. Miguel Díaz-Canel – President of Council of State and Council of Ministers.

 

H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea had addressed the official congratulation message for the newly elected President of Cuba H.E. Miguel Díaz-Canel.

 

The election of the new Cuban leader is a testimony of the desire of Cuba to continue on the path of revolution and to foster new development ways while maintaining the legacy and conquest of the Revolution, underlined Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Our desires for bilateral cooperation and consolidated relations expressed in our official message from 2017 addressed to Comrade Raul Castro are still present and representing our vision in the bilateral relations stated the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Dialogue of friendship marking the beginning of the new mandate: ECTT  President-Dr. Anton Caragea and Cuban Ambassador Roberto César Hamilton MAGAÑA.

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea express his amicable fillings and friendly interest towards the recent evolution`s 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 Raul Castro supervision and President Miguel Díaz-Canel guidance and leadership is witnessed with sympathy and interest in Europe, emphasized Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

H.E. Ambassador Roberto César Hamilton MAGAÑA expressed his gratitude for the good wishes related to his new mandate and presented the latest achievements in bilateral relations :developing cultural relations and building new bridges of understanding between world tourism institution-ECTT and Cuba.

 

Cuba`s tourism potential proposed for evaluation for WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD.

 

The parties had appreciated that between European Council on Tourism and Trade and Cuba there are  large area of common interests , designed to forge a good understanding  and a long-term cooperation.

Marking the opportunity Professor Dr. Anton Caragea stress the significance for the new Ambassador: Roberto César Hamilton MAGAÑA, to place accent on the cooperation in the fields of hospitality and tourism promotion, taking full advantage of the support of the Presidency of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, a unique occasion to foster Cuban  tourism potential and international image across the continent.

 

Europe and Cuba can foster an impressive cultural and touristic cooperation pressed Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

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

In the end of the discussion the official candidature of Cuba for WORLD TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD was accepted and dully registered, being the last candidature accepted for 2018/2019 tourism year.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has wished full success for the country international recognition and encouraged the ambassador to continue his diplomatic presentation tour with a meeting with European Tourism Academy leadership in order to foster tourism and the better understanding of Cuba in the world.

WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS HOSTED BY DJIBOUTI. THE NEW WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

In a strikingly rich and impressive paraphernalia, displaying for the benefit of the world the incredibly diverse cultural landscape of the country, Djibouti has welcomed the who`s who of international culture and tourism on the felicitous occasion of the country being named WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

       Djibouti played host for a week (16 to 22 April 2018) to global tourism celebrations marking the inscription of the capital city on the list of WORLD CAPITAL`S OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Attending the ceremonies was a high ranking delegation of global tourism institutions European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academylead by President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

President of The Republic of Djibouti: Academician ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH in the center of global tourism institutions delegates presenting DJIBOUTI as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

The world tourism delegates where welcomed with a colorful ceremony on the Djibouti Airport tarmac and received lush flowers bouquets in a sign of peaceful arrival.

On April 18, 2018, a working session with representatives of Presidency of Djibouti chaired by Secretary General Mohamed Abdillahi Wais, Ministry of Economy (with tourism as mandate), Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Information and with the delegates of European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy chaired by President Dr. Anton Caragea has taken place.

During the day a series of dialogues where held between Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation-Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Minister of Culture, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Moumin Hassan Barreh, Ministry of Tourism and The President of the National Assembly of Djibouti Mr.Mohamed Ali Houmed.

 

                        

The main event of the week of celebrations was the official inscription of DJIBOUTI as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM in a powerful, music and rhythm driven ceremony destined to showcase the cultural endowment of people of Djibouti.

 

On display where ceremonial weaponry, costumes, dances, ceremonies of Issas, Afars, Yemenis constituting the matrix of today`s Djibouti.

Actors, poets, dancers and musicians from far and wide contributed to a glittering performance and crafted a vivid portrait of a young and yet cultured nation.

Congratulatory remarks were addressed for the delegates attending DJIBOUTI as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM festivities by Ministers of culture and Islamic Foundations, Ministry of Tourism and a presentation of the country new tourism strategy was unveiled for the benefit of those present.

 

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More about President of Djibouti agenda for development can be accessed here:

EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY PRAISES PRESIDENT ISMAIL O. GUELLEH DEVELOPMENTAL ACTIVITIES

ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU: PRESIDENT ISMAIL GUELLEH IS AN EXEMPLARY LEADER

PRESIDENT OF DJIBOUTI SAY`S NO TO DESTRUCTION AND YES TO PRESERVATION

DJIBOUTI`S PRESIDENT HAS BUILD A TOURISM ORIENTED ECONOMY OUT OF NOTHING: EXPERT`S OPINION

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The core of the festivity came at the moment of announcing H.E. President Ismail Omar Guelleh as the new ACADEMICIAN member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY with a powerful presentation speech by Academician Mircea Constantinescu, European Academy Director.

 

Hand in hand for African tourism future: President of Djibouti-Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh and President of European Council on Tourism and Trade – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

 

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea took to the rostrum to announce officially that from April 19, 2018, DJIBOUTI is THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM in recognition of a splendid array of natural and historical monuments encapsulated in a rapidly developing country and powered by a dynamic people.

H.E. Ismail Omar Gulleh, The President of Djibouti come to the fore to a rapturous welcome by his people and was surrounded with huge manifestations of love and respect and ululations of admiration for his crowning as a new ACADEMICIAN and for the country assuming the new mantle as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

In a prominent and poignant allocution President Omar Gulleh, now Academician Ismail Omar Gulleh charted the new directions for his country and promised to further endeavor to make Djibouti recognized and to etch the name of his nation on the global stage.

Djibouti as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM has become a center of beaming culture, a beacon of development on the banks of the Red Sea and a tourism center for the Horn of Africa showing to all the region that another destiny free from fear and poverty is possible.

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea and President Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh announcing to the world: DJIBOUTI IS WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

 

Global tourism delegates lead by President Dr. Anton Caragea had immersed afterwards in a discovery trip among the natural beauties and man-made carved civilizations of Djibouti.

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More information on Djibouti tourism potential and strategy can be extracted from these sources:

DJIBOUTI: WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

SIX ARGUMENTS THAT BODE WELL FOR DJIBOUTI`S TOURISM FUTURE

WHAT YOU DIDN`T KNOW ABOUT DJIBOUTI

AFRICAN TOURISM ON THE RISE

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The trip encompassed discovery of the Gulf of Tadjoura with the island of Moucha at his heart, old center of slaves and coffee trade and a symbolic place for the birth of Djibouti in the XIX century.

 

The fabled city of Tadjoura, the center of commerce of hides, oysters, coffee and ivory, rich and powerful dominating the south of Red Sea and portrayed as the white city or the city of seven mosques was a main point of interest.

The astonishing collection of natural monuments spanning from The Great African rift to Bab el Mandeb, to the volcano of  Ardoukôba, the impressive Goubet Al Kharab, the island of Devil and the gates of Inferno where all magnificent sights to see.

The opportunities for leisure tourism, balmy sun and sea tourism wherein length explained during the visit to the incredible Sable blanc-White sands.

Finally a visit to the lowest place on the African continent: Lake Assal put the delegates in awe of the country tourism potential.

 Concluding the visit to Djibouti-THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM President Dr. Anton Caragearemarked that: Djibouti is this unique spot:  a place of magic!

 

The magic of the beginning of Earth`s history, the geological miracle of the gates of Earth opening and a place where volcanoes are resurrected after 3000 years sleep.

Djibouti is the magic of poets and dreamers that where touched by the aura of this place and in turn they give Djibouti a name in the cultural history of the world.

The magic of men`s who created here kingdoms, built mosques and carved out cities that lasted for hundreds of years.

May Djibouti succeed in tourism on the level of his potential.

ACADEMICIAN ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH DISCOURSE FOR DJIBOUTI-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

On the occasion of the proclamation of Djibouti as the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, H.E. President Ismail Omar Guelleh has took the rostrum to announce the country new tourism strategy, to proclaim tourism as a pillar of the national economic development and to express his gratitude to President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for his support in the inscribing Djibouti cultural and natural patrimony on the list of  WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM. This is  a recognition that will endure for ages for the benefit of all people of Djibouti remarked the President.

 

 

WORD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

DJIBOUTI

 

OFFICIAL DECLARATION OF

H.E. ACADEMICIAN ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH 

PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI

It is with great joy and pride that I welcome this high distinction.

Through me, it is Djibouti and its population that you justly honor.

Therefore, first of all, Mr. President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, on behalf of the people of Djibouti, I thank you personally as well as the academy that you are leading for this mark of trust and esteem that you show us.

This distinction, Mr. President, as meritorious as it may be, we take it neither as a consecration nor as a reward.

But as an encouragement.

An encouragement to persevere on the path that we have traced in the development of tourism.

It is always rewarding to be supported in its efforts, especially by an institution like yours that has always defended a vision of tourism and culture centered on the human.

Ladies and gentlemen,

There are different ways to define and perceive Djibouti and its people.

 

Some speak of us as a pebble in the middle of the desert.

Others, no doubt nostalgic of a colonial era yet gone, we reduce to a sign on which is written “Territory of the Afars and Issas”.

The most innovative ones identify us with a geostrategic basis for the military powers.

But fortunately for us, ladies and gentlemen, there are still many people around the world who do not reduce us to these anachronistic clichés and labels.

For us and for all those citizens of the world who have had the opportunity to stay in our country, Djibouti, it is this land of meetings and exchanges at the confluence of all roads: maritime, land and air.

For us and for all these citizens of the world, Djibouti is a story and even a prehistory that geology, geography and archeology keep telling through times and ages.

Those who marveled at the pristine beauty of the Lac Abbé, those who accompanied a caravan on the salt shores of Lake Assal, those are having the feeling of what is Djibouti.

It is probably because they felt the magic of a captivating space that Tazief and Rimbaud spoke in their time of “a book of open geology” and “a lunar landscape”.

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen,

We are therefore looking forward today to this international recognition of our country as “World Capital of Culture and Tourism”.

Our country contains sites that are well worth detours.

I mentioned Lake Assal and Lac Abbé earlier, but I could have mentioned the prehistoric frescoes of Abourma or the primary Foret du Day.

I could also mention the extraordinary biodiversity of our flora and fauna which includes endemic species such as Djibouti Francolin or Beira gazelle.

I could also mention the extraordinary cultural richness of our communities.

These nomads rooted in their territories.

But also these citizens who are the fruits of a historic melting pot, and which makes Djibouti a haven of tolerance and living together.

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen,

In our development strategy for our country, we are very aware to the benefits of tourism, its impact on growth, and its role in the fight against poverty.

In a decade and thanks to all the efforts made to increase its attractiveness, our country has more than quadrupled the proportion of tourists.

Naturally, the Government is encouraging this job-creating dynamic for our youth and generating foreign currency for our economy.

So much so that we have not hesitated to build the tourism industry as one of the economic pillars of the 2035 vision.

In the frenzied global competition that drives the tourism sector, we want to remain lucid to avoid falling into certain pitfalls.

We do not want to sacrifice to mass-tourism territories and ecosystems that we know as fragile.

We do not want to build this still burgeoning sector on an economic model that plunders and torpedoes the ecological balance of territories and populations.

Faced with the short-term and consumerist promises of a tourism industry that often degrades, pollutes and destroys, we want to get out of the Manichean trap of all-tourism or its opposite, for a responsible solution that integrates the tourism industry into a development plan sustainable.

Djibouti has chosen a niche tourism that connects individuals, cultures and

civilizations.

The choice of a tourism that has an important role to play in the dialogue of cultures and in living together.

The choice of balance between our development objectives and the indispensable protection of our social, cultural and environmental heritage.

It is a difficult choice whose dividends, although promising, are still meager.

But a choice that my country assumes for the sake of fairness and justice for future generations of our country.

Thank you for your attention!

 

ARTHUR RIMBAUD, HENRY DE MONFREID AND HAROUN TAZIEFF MAKE DJIBOUTI A WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

WORD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM: DJIBOUTI

 

OFFICIAL DECLARATION OF

H.E. PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA

 

PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

Your Excellency Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of Republic of Djibouti

Your Excellency Mr.  Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Prime Minister of Republic of Djibouti

Your Excellency, Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssef, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Republic of Djibouti

Esteemed members of Government of Djibouti, members of Parliament of Djibouti, distinguished member’s diplomatic corps

Dear guests,

All protocol observed,

Official ceremony for DJIBOUTI registered as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM(l-r) Mr. Mihai Prundianu (ECTT), President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea(ECTT), President Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, Academician Mircea Constantinescu (ECTT), Mr. Pavel Avramoiu (ECTT)  

It is today a historic moment for global tourism and for Africa, as we have come here to mark the recognition of DJIBOUTI as a member of WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM list.

Djibouti becomes the first city in Africa to be recognized by the global tourism institutions as a center for tourism, an example for culture and a model for development in XXI century.

Since his inception WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM program was build around the decision taken by global tourism institutions: EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE and EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY to offer to the world examples of tourism development that are harmonious and are protecting historical potential and natural patrimony and are offering opportunities for growth for all.

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM it is today a part of the AGENDA FOR HUMANITY and universally recognized as an ambitious effort destined to establish a world list of cities and regions that are encompassing the legacy of humanity, that are harboring traditions and costumes unique or hosting natural treasures considered to be of outstanding and universal value.

 

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-European Council on Tourism and Trade President.

 

Today there is no other global effort with the magnitude and scope of THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM program.

To date this is now a part of the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda, integral part of Parliamentary Assembly for the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals actions and part and parcel of the global efforts destined to eradicate inequalities, ensure growth, develop education and cultural opportunities for all and supporting investment and development and integration policies where there are more needed.

On this note I must salute the exertions of the administration lead by Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of The Republic of Djibouti and his commitment to fulfilling the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations and for ensuring that DJIBOUTI it is and continues to be a placed for development, creativity, encouragement of free enterprise and initiative and inclusiveness for all who come to this beautiful capital city.

 

H.E. Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of The Republic of Djibouti hailed as a world leader in development.

I also must express my gratitude to the efficient and wise team of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Djibouti Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssef energetically represented by the Embassy in Paris Ayed Mousseid Yahya they had created the powerful diplomatic and tourism promotion exertions that led to this moment when we crown Djibouti as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

They had proven their dedication to the proud people of Djibouti and their commitment to the policies and vision of H.E. Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of The Republic of Djibouti.

 

 

We have now to answer the fundamental question: Why is DJIBOUTI consecrated today as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM?

What are travelers, visitors and mere passersby going to find here?

What is the legacy pertaining to humanity ascribable to the people of Djibouti?

 First of all Djibouti is the most impressive place on the world to watch the creation of the planet earth.

Since the beginning of humanity people where attracted and interested to find the access point, the door that leads to unleashing the secrets of the creation of Earth.

Djibouti undoubtedly holds this key: here geology and nature had created the open air museum of the creation of the world: from unfinished volcanoes around Abbe Lake and the incredible structures of East African Rift visible around Lake Assal.

If you want to understand how our planet was created, is functioning and is evolving after millions of years you have to come to Djibouti: where the world was created.

The famous French geologist Haroun Tazieff, had here, in Djibouti, the honor of discovering the world newest volcano:  Ardoukôba reactivated after a 3.000 years sleep.

Djibouti: land of exception and country of exceptional, the only place where we can witness the geological history of our planet.

Only for this incredible potential of a country that is standing as witness to our planet birth and destiny and by virtue of this alone Djibouti will well deserve the title of world capital.

Djibouti is on equal footing a place of destiny and a receptacle of culture, a unique place that carves destinies like no other.

I will recollect the adventures and poetic influence that Djibouti held over Arthur Rimbaud who decided that all that is having significance in life is to wander between the Red Sea, Tadjourah, Djibouti, Lake Assal in a mystical journey for which he sacrificed family, poetic glory and all his prospects.

 

All of life glory just for a breath of Djibouti air.

It was not the only one: Henry de Monfreid has made his fortune and his literary name on the marvelous rocks of Obock, on the shores of Djibouti.

The spell and sway cam about personalities like: Albert Londres, Ryszard Kapuscinski, Hugo Pratt and many others.

What does have Djibouti so magic, so powerful, so un-equal that attracts to his sandy shores poets, adventurers, painters, novelists and all mans who have a soul and a passion and soles of wind?

It is the magical door to the creation of the Earth?

It the incredible power of the desert?

It is the clarion call of the caravans that are making everybody to want to come to Djibouti, to share this city fame, glory and all-powerful sun?

Djibouti is not only the portal to world creation as Haroun Tazieff was seeing it, nor the mystery place where life is finding his meaning as Rimbaud claim it or simply the only place on the planet to call home as Henry de Monfreid consider it.

 

Djibouti is foremost a world example of cohabitation, of peaceful harmony of peoples and languages, all creating a perfect home, an abode where everybody is building and uniting costumes, traditions and legacies.

Where if not in Djibouti you can see in the same city the rich cultural landscape the beautiful mosque Hamoudi , the crowded markets of Menelik Square or African quarter, churches, coffee, hides and tobacco?

All united in a perfect melting pot that speaks of faith, history, rich traditions and patrimony.

Djibouti it is also all about water in the same proportions as is all about desert.

No wonder Djibouti was placed to stay guard to the Red Sea and Bab El Mandeb as here everything is valued in water: water of the tears of happiness for travelers who reached Djibouti after perilous journeys, of sweat from the caravans coming from far and wide, even the decision of Leonce Lagarde  to build a city on Ras al Djibouti was taken pondering the wealth of water of the region.

The first President of Djibouti, Hassan Gouled Aptidon explain most clearly this unique role of melting pot of culture and costumes of Djibouti at the crossroads of the world.

Djibouti is that unique place, he said, where we met the creeds of the peoples of herds and milk and those of the peoples of grain and grapes.

Here is the place where the traveler can meet, in the same space of time and place, the creations specific to the nomadic civilization and to the urban and settlers way of life.

If the political figure penned such a clear vision of Djibouti as the place of communion of different cultures and garbs and creeds the poet has also a similar vision: Djibouti is not at the shores of the ocean, it is at the fringes of the desert. This is the secret of his sweet magnet: the city is build by the sea but his people are belonging to the desert.

What other place on this planet can boost being the place where man`s of sand and land are living in a city of water and salt.

 

Djibouti is this unique spot:  a place of magic!

The magic of the beginning of Earth`s history, the geological miracle of the gates of Earth opening and a place where volcanoes are resurrected after 3000 years sleep.

Djibouti is the magic of poets and dreamers that where touched by the aura of this place and in turn they give Djibouti a name in the cultural history of the world.

The magic of men`s who created here kingdoms, built mosques and carved out cities that lasted for hundreds of years.

The magic of nature: the all-powerful desert, the lowest place on African continent: Lake Assal, the still creating miracle of earth creation along the shores of Lake Abbe, the place where whales are coming to give the miracle of life and birth.

In a way maybe this is the magic of Djibouti: is the place where always life is finding a way, is recreating and creating for millions of years.

We could highlight the wonders of Tadjoura, the famed city of the seven mosques, the fabled places of Obock, end of the road of coffee and start of the journeys on sea for hundreds of years or the perfect place that Djibouti city is offering for visitors: melting pot, center of cultures, traditions or creeds coming together to build a model, to build a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

 

All these are world treasures of cultural and historical value and significance that are part of the miracle that is Djibouti: WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

We hope and trust that the inscription of Djibouti on the list of WORLD CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM together with the continuous exertions of the government of President Ismail Omar Gulleh will make the city not only the center of tourism, of culture but a place where the future and past are intertwined together.

Your Excellency Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of Republic of Djibouti

It is my privilege to handover to Your Excellency, as the highest representative leader of people and tourism of REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI the award and regalia’s for DJIBOUTI – THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

DJIBOUTI IS WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

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H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has publicly signed the official decision naming DJIBOUTI as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM on April 10, 2018, in the presence of the diplomatic corps accredited to the global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy.

 

 

The induction of Djibouti as World Capital of Culture and Tourism will take place on April 19, 2018, on the occasion of the official handover ceremony to be held at Presidential Palace in Djibouti.

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President (center image) announces DJIBOUTI-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM (on the left Acad. Emil Constantinescu-President of Romania).

The Spring 2018 meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) has taken place offering new opportunities for global cooperation and tourism development.

The meeting enjoyed the presence of the president of Romania. Academician Emil Constantinescu.

Among the decisions taken during Spring Council Meeting was the inscription of Djibouti on the list of WORLD CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has stated: among the recently inscribed candidates for the world top cultural award Djibouti is standing out as a luminary example.

 

Academician Mircea Constantinescu (European Tourism Academy) presented to Cuban Ambassador by ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea. 

In the second line(l-r): Mr. Mihai Prundianu-ECTT Chairman, Mr. Gabriel Rasvan-Presidential Adviser.

 

The country encompasses ten tentative world heritage sites on tentative list ranging from natural treasures and natural protected areas such as: Lake Assal and Lake Abbe, National Park Foret du day to the tumulus of Awellos, cave paintings of Abourma.

The capital city, Djibouti is home to a treasure trove of architectural marvels from the historical Haji Hamoudi Mosque, European Quarter (Malik Square) and African Quarter, Djibouti Cathedral and Ethiopian Church Saint Gabriel of the Sun and the cultural blending space of Les Caisses etc.

Taking under consideration the large array of traditions blending in the country from Issa and Afar cultural heritage to the French inspirations, the incredibly rich and fascinating natural landscape offered for tourists to discover and evaluating the government decisions inscribed in DJIBOUTI VISION 2035 to make tourism a pillar of development we have taken the decision to validate DJIBOUTI candidature for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM designation.

 

 

Ambassadors from Cuba, Japan, Korea, Indonesia and Armenia on European Council on Tourism and Trade ceremony for DJIBOUTI-WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

In the presence of the diplomatic corps and registered members of the Executive Board of the European Council on Tourism and Trade Professor Dr. Anton Caragea proceeded to the public signing of the decree to that effect.

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More about WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM is accessible here:

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM-official website

AFRICAN TOURISM ON THE RISE

ARGUMENTS FOR DJIBOUTI AS A TOURISM CENTER

DJIBOUTI: NO.5 ECONOMY IN THE WORLD(World Bank)

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European Tourism Academy Director, Academician Mircea Constantinescu presented for the diplomatic corps present for the occasion the LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT that will be addressed to H.E. President Ismail Omar Guelleh marking his selection as the new Academician member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY.

 

 

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President announces the decision: WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM is DJIBOUTI.

 

President Ismail Omar Guelleh has succeeded in carving out on Djibouti a space for international peace and security and in making Djibouti a key to African continent peace and security.

Today Djibouti is ensuring security along the Red Sea, is opening African continent to trade and riches and commercial exchanges and has succeeded in making Djibouti in a pole of economic growth.

 

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More about WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT can be observed here:

PRESIDENT ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH NAMED WORLD LEADER IN DEVELOPMENT

LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT 

PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA NAMED WORLD LEADER FOR DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTION APPOINTS WORLD LEADERS FOR DEVELOPMENT

PRIME MINISTER OF ETHIOPIA RECEIVES THE LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS

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Djibouti has supported the building of Addis Ababa –Djibouti railroad, has constructed Africa`s bigger deepwater seaport, has garnered top-notch investments and rise up on being number five economy in the world in term of annual growth.

These are the achievements of an adroit, powerful and visionary leader that is creating growth where it was only poverty and opportunities where there was only despair and a miracle where it was only desert, outlined the merits of the new academician Professor Mircea Constantinescu.

 

Dr. Emil Constantinescu, President of Romania (1996-2000) mentioned that recognizing Djibouti as a world center of culture and tourism and electing President Ismail Omar Guelleh to the highest academic rank are perfect connection supporting Europe and Africa cooperation and future relations.

 

Signing the official decrees for DJIBOUTI as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and for H.E. President ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH as ACADEMICIAN member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY concluded the ceremonies and then a vin d’honneur was served for diplomats in attendance.

 

Other decisions taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade where: the selection of a new diplomatic partner, the celebration of European Tourism Day on December 1^st, 2018 and the closing of World Best Tourist Destination candidature list on May 15^th, 2018.

Photo-Album of European Council on Tourism and Trade Spring 2018 Assembly

PRESIDENT PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA CONGRATULATES THE NEW ETHIOPIAN PREMIER DR. ABIY AHMED

President of Global Tourism Institution ECTT, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has sent a congratulatory cable to the new Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali on his election to the premiership office.

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea announcing Ethiopia as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015.

 

The President’s message reads as follows:

 

I want to start by congratulating you on the occasion of  the election as Prime Minister of Federal Republic of Ethiopia and as Chairman of Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front and take this opportunity to wish you joy, happiness and successes for all your loved ones and a perfect year for ETHIOPIA and his people(…)

I want to avail to this opportunity to wish you a perfect mandate, on personal level with health and happiness, and on government level, a mandate of accomplishments in your exertions for a better future and for development of people of Ethiopia.

European Council on Tourism and Trade and the Government of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia share a long history of cooperation in building tourism, cultural and developmental cooperation between Europe and Ethiopia and we express our goodwill and desire for a continuous cooperation with Your Excellency Government.

 

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More about Europe-Ethiopia relations can be accessed here:

ETHIOPIA: WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015

PRESIDENT DR. ANTON CARAGEA OFFICIAL VISIT TO ETHIOPIA

ETHIOPIA: AMONG THE LEADING NATIONS OF AFRICA

ETHIOPIAN TOURISM POTENTIAL

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On behalf of European Council on Tourism and Trade, I express our desire to work closely with Your Excellency towards the achievement of the objectives set in the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, including the promotion of tourism, development projects and the advancement of bilateral cooperation.  

 

Full details are available at the link below:

Source URL: The President’s Office

PRESIDENT ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH OF DJIBOUTI RECEIVES THE LETTER DEDICATED TO WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT

President of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh has been named member of European Tourism Academy in recognition of his visionary leadership.

 

As it is the academic tradition, The Letter destined for World Leaders of Tourism and Development will be presented to H.E. President Ismail Guelleh on the opening day of World Capital of Culture and Tourism festivity by European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The European Tourism Academy encompass world leaders who proven themselves as creators of outstanding initiatives related to world development, tourism growth, tourism diplomatic initiatives and in fostering sustainable tourism and developing programs that give back to local and global communities.

 

 

European Council On Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea presents the activities of the new academician: H.E. Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti.

President of Romania (1996-2000) Academician Emil Constantinescu attends the ceremony (photo left).

 

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More can be observed here:

LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT 

PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA NAMED WORLD LEADER FOR DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

GLOBAL TOURISM INSTITUTION APPOINTS WORLD LEADERS FOR DEVELOPMENT

PRIME MINISTER OF ETHIOPIA RECEIVES THE LETTER FOR WORLD LEADERS

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According to the international media, President Ismail Omar Guelleh is being honored for “his developmental policies which lifted Djibouti out of poverty and raised it according to World Bank on no.5 on the top of world fastest growing economies in 2018.

 

World Bank has placed Djibouti on no.5 on world level on the rate of economic growth.

 

 

President Ismail Omar Guelleh is to be commended for a visionary leadership that enacted on national level policies of reconciliation and inter-community dialogue, encouraged sustainable tourism, wildlife conservation, and economic development attracting major hotel investment, resulting in the remarkable turnaround that has led to Djibouti’s rise as one of the leading growing tourism destinations in Africa today (European Council on Tourism and Trade).”

 

 

The Press Dossier of an intensive diplomatic activity of a world leader: Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh President of the Republic of Djibouti.

 

 

Among other recent recipients of the Letter destined for World Leaders of Tourism and Development and academician title, an eminent place is held by H. E. Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia Hun Sen who enacted policies that made Cambodia to be the first country in tourism development in 2016 and 2017 at world level.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, European Tourism Academy Director declared “Growth in this industry has proven to be a driver of shared prosperity because H.E. President Ismail Omar Guelleh has ensured that Djibouti-ans benefit directly.

This is one of the reasons that we salute in him a world leader and a development example.”

 

 

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We recommend you to see:

European Council on Tourism and Trade Photo Dossier

ECTT Photo Journal

WHERE SHOULD YOU TAKE YOUR NEXT VACATION? MAYBE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS WILL INSPIRE YOU

The ECTT Awards for tourism and cultural achievements are the annual celebration that consecrates the best in the tourism industry by crowning, since 2006, the countries and nations excellence and investment in the tourism sector.

European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) had given the start for the 2018 competition for WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards for tourism and travel are the flagship event for the global tourism sector.

 

World Tourism and Travel Awards for 2018 will be a moment of recognition for tourism and world development: ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Since their inception in 2006, these awards seek to highlight the work of countries, nations and regions and cities, recognizing nations and people’s strides for their innovative and determined tourism initiatives.

The WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS are encompassing: THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for cities and regions and  WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for countries, the special category of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and marking out outstanding cultural and investment tourism projects.                                                                                                                                      The contribution of the nations and leaders receiving world tourism and travel prizes is adjudged in line with ECTT guidelines for World Capital of Culture and Tourism and World Best Tourist Destination Award.                                                                                                                   In twelve consecutive editions, the ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards recognized and promoted globally the tourism potentials of the most attractive tourist and cultural destinations.                                                                                                                                        President Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade President Office staff will start from 29 January 2018 to receive the candidatures for word tourism accolades celebrated as Nobel`s or Oscar`s of tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competitions.

In 2017 European Tourism Academy had received 56 candidatures from cities, regions and countries from across the world and in 2018 this number is expected to expand.

 

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Read more about WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS competition

2017 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM 

WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 

FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AWARD

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European Council on Tourism and Trade, Ambassador Dr. Anton Caragea outlines the significance of  World Tourism Awards 2018.

 

World Tourism and Travel Awards of world tourism institutions (European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy) are significant for their track record in fostering growth and development in the decorated countries.

Laos (2013 winner has registered a growth of more than 1,5 million tourists and in total a plus of 3 million visitors for Lao-World Best Tourist Destination), Zimbabwe succeeded to garner a plus of 1 million visitors in 2014/2015 and Ethiopia obtained more than 1 billion in tourism-related receipts and 1,1 million visitors for 2015 as World`s Best Tourist Destination  and finally the Kingdom of Cambodia who topped the tourist growth worldwide in 2016 and 2017`s with a whopping 5 million tourists after being named World`s Best Tourist Destination.                                                                                                                                                                                                                    It is considered that European Council on Tourism and Trade succeeded in creating more than 100.000 jobs in the nations selected as World Best Tourist Destination (2016 survey).                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        European Tourism Academy will start to analyze ongoing the candidatures for World`s Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism and will present the selected candidatures files for decision in General Assembly of European Council on Tourism and Trade declared Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

 

 

 

Video collection for WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS

CAMBODIA

ETHIOPIA

LAOS

PHNOM PENH

OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS

PRESIDENT DR. ANTON CARAGEA ANNOUNCES THE PRIORITIES FOR WORLD TOURISM IN 2018

European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has unveiled the world institutions decisions regarding the theme for 2018 tourism year and world tourism day as TOURISM: PROTECTING CULTURE AND HERITAGE. Among other executive decisions are also: the opening of 2018 World`s Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism competitions from January 22, 2018.  Starting from this date the embassies, consulates, ministries of tourism, culture can start promoting and outlining the candidatures for the top awards.

 

 

Celebrated worldwide World Tourism Day at European Council on Tourism and Trade is commemorated usually at the end of September each year and hosted in the capital of the country crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION OF THE YEAR.

The decision has being taken on October 4, 2017 by the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and enter into force from January 1^st , 2018 and marks the instrumental role of tourism in promoting cultural knowledge and awareness and offering the necessary tool and public opinion support in protecting world heritage.

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Supplementary info`s can be accessed here:

PHNOM PENH THE HOST OF WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018

OFFICIAL WORLD TOURISM DAY 2017

DECISIONS REGARDING WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018

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Celebrated worldwide World Tourism Day at European Council on Tourism and Trade is commemorated usually at the end of September each year and hosted in the capital of the country crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION OF THE YEAR.

 

World Tourism Day is celebrated across the world in every country and city interested in harnessing the power of tourism for growth, development and cultural identity and in accordance with the tradition the year receivers of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM designation are recognized as the official hosts of WORLD TOURISM DAY.

Keeping in respect with this tradition, European Council on Tourism and Trade designated as official host the city of PHNOM PENH, the capital of Kingdom of Cambodia being named as the organizer and host of World Tourism Day 2018 ceremonies.

 

Phnom Penh has just taken up the mantle of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

The main role of the World Tourism Day is to highlight the global significance of tourism as a tool for global development and cultural enlightenment.

 

Tourism is the greatest educator in the world, stated on the topic the European Council on Tourism and Trade President Dr. Anton Caragea.

This is one of the goals of the World Tourism Day celebrations that are being conducted throughout the world.

The theme for 2018 world tourism selected by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE is allowing the world to focus on tourism development and to ensure protection of cultural heritage and promoting responsible and sustainable tourism management of World Heritage sites.

European Council on Tourism and Trade decision upholds the role of culture and tourism as tools for development and creativity and support  the relevance of cultural landscapes in tourism and the integration of natural and cultural heritage philosophies and procedures for sustainable tourism development.

 

The new 2018 session of WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS of European Council on Tourism and Trade will concentrate on harnessing the power of culture and heritage for the candidates declared as World`s Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism.

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More information about WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION are accessible here:

More information about WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM are accessible here:

WORLD TOURISM DELEGATES OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE IN CAMBODIA 2017 WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

On December 9, 2017, on the scene of 2017 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS, H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea hailed Cambodia example as a beacon in a world in need of a model and appointed H.E. Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN as the world`s GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremonies included and the proclamation of Phnom Penh as the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, the supreme tourism recognition for cities and regions encompassing exceptional heritage.

 

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What to do in Cambodia? Here are some suggestions:

♦ THE GUIDE AROUND PHNOM PENH

♦ PHNOM PENH: THE CITY OF WATERS!

♦ A VISIT TO PHNOM PENH! HIGHLIGHT OF A PERFECT CITY! 

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2017 has marked a new height in the relations between Europe and Kingdom of Cambodia in the fields of cultural, development and tourism cooperation with the climax being the visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade Presidential delegation (ECTT) in Cambodia between 1 to 11 December 2017.

 

European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea congratulates the author of Cambodia`s economic miracle: H.E. Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN.

 

 

The visit of the European presidential delegation headed by ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has come in recognition of the incredible strides obtained by Cambodia in the field of tourism in 2016 and 2017 as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

 

The Kingdom of Cambodia has become the leading country in tourism development with more than 1,6 million tourists growth in only a year from 3,5 million tourists in 2015 to over 5 million tourists in 2016.

 

 

Phnom Penh hosted the President Anton Caragea delegates and was crowned as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

 

 

The visit of world tourism institution of European Council on Tourism and Trade was also in recognition of Phnom Penh as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and in recognition of Prime Minister of Cambodia, Academician HUN SEN as the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

Academician HUN SEN is proclaimed to the world as the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

The visit included a rich and diversified cultural program calculated to present to ECTT delegates the heritage, cultural and historical treasures of the Kingdom.

 

The high-level delegation toured the coastal region of Cambodia including the province of Kampong Som, Sihanoukville and the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sonleom.

 

      Sihanoukville: the world`s most cleanest  beaches!

 

The Cambodian Riviera is an incredible destination uniting history with splendid beaches with lush forest and balmy climate all year round creating an attraction pole for tourists appreciated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea ECTT President.

 

Cambodia must emphasize the incredible potential of water, sun and relaxation offered by the islands area and this will be the home of more than 1 million tourists and the base for another growth in the Cambodian tourism industry.

 

The Cambodian coast line: the new address of paradise!

The Presidential delegation headed to the north to the culturally rich and historical charged space of Siem Reap and Preah Vihear.

 

Visits to the incredible pyramid temples of Koh Ker, witnessing King Jayavarman IV incredible prowess and unstinted desire to build one of the world miracles in the jungles of Cambodia was an emotional experience.

 

Koh Ker as a 7^th world wonder ! Mark Doda, Chairman of Balkan Tourism Organization

 

Mark Doda, Chairman of Balkan Tourism Organization declared Koh Ker as a 7^th world wonder, a place of absolute awe and incredible spiritual dimension, a magnet for tourists worldwide.

You cannot see Koh Ker and not want to come to Cambodia one more time and one more time.

 

Koh Ker is a love story carved in stone and a perfect witness of the grandeur of Khmer people appreciated Chairman Mark Doda.

 

The visit encompass a stopover at the Preah Vihear, the greatest temple of Indochina, an architectural wonder and restored to the Kingdom of Cambodia after a long and complicated judicial battle in the court of Hague who decided unequivocally that the Kingdom of Cambodia is the owner of this sacred jewel in terms of international law, treaties, history and legacy.

 

Preah Vihear: the larges and most impressive temple of Indochina.

 

Preah Vihear is the living testament of the Khmer people ingenuity, determination and love for beauty and glory appreciated President Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Other visits had taken place at Beng Melea temple and a special visit on Tonle Sap the inner sea of Cambodia and a boat trip on one of the world largest freshwater lakes and the breadbasket of Cambodia.

 

Delegates toured the lake and the water-based villages and have a layover at Kampong Pluk Community and Prek Toal community-based tourism.

Tonle Sap the inner sea of Cambodia!

 

Tourism has become a part and parcel of the livelihood of these regions and a breadwinner for families, registered Trade Chairman Mihai Prundianu.

 

I encourage world tourist to come to Cambodia, to visit rural and distant communities, to buy artisanal products and to support community-based tourism as a way to foster a better life and also to enjoy a positive experience and a traditional way of life.

The center of the visit was the incredible discovery of the touristic and cultural riches of Kompong Thom province culminated with a tour to the Sambor Prei Kuk Temples registered as UNESCO heritage sites in 2017.

 

Sambor Prai Kuk is the mythical capital of the fabulous Kingdom of Chenla

 

Sambor Prai Kuk is the mythical capital of the fabulous Kingdom of Chenla (Zenla in Chinese chronicles)  and is completely in tune with the ancient descriptions as the most beautiful city in the world. A host of incredible rich decorated temples, magnificent towers of worship and powerful gods spring out of the jungle in a dance of stone and brick that is not only a precursor to the marvels of Angkor but a marvel in his one right.

 

No man cannot say is cultured and visited the world if it not has stopped at Sambor Prei Kuk, this is where the world architecture and the greatest dreams of Angkor where first-born, the temples of Sambor Prei Kuk are the testaments of a rich and powerful civilization that united Gods and people for the first time in Indochina history, stated the significance of the monuments Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Sambor Prei Kuk-UNESCO Heritage Status from 2017 (the third in Cambodia after Angkor Temples and Preah Vihear Temples)

 

The delegates toured Phnom Penh and have a chance to discuss future investment projects in the capital with the Governor of Phnom Penh Mr. Khoung Sreng.

 

ECTT Director Pavel Avramoiu established a program for hotel building and investment in the capital and Cambodia Riviera area.

 

The coastal region of Cambodia with incredible clean waters, white sandy beaches and large golf facilities will become a magnet for investors in tourism worldwide appreciated Mr. Pavel Avramoiu.

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea – European Council on Tourism and Trade President receives the silver platter of Phnom Penh from H.E. Minister of Tourism Dr. Thong Khon.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates held meeting with Ministers of Land Management and Development, Environment and have a long exchange of views with the Minister of tourism H.E. Thong Khon in a friendly and amicable atmosphere discussing new cooperation projects.

 

On December 9, 2017, on the scene of 2017 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS, H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea hailed Cambodia example as a beacon in a world in need of a model and appointed H.E. Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN as the world`s GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea hailed Cambodia example as a beacon in a world in need of a model and appointed H.E. Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN as the world`s GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

 

 

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, European Tourism Academy Director had also made public the inscription of Phnom Penh, Cambodia`s capital as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, the world most prestigious designation for cities and regions of world significance and value.

 

H.E. Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN receives PHNOM PENH registration act for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM status.

 

WORLD TOURISM AWARDS 2017 marked the transformation of Cambodia in a world model of tourism and development and the country with the most rapid tourism growth in the world in 2016/2017.

 

Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia H.E. THONG KHON received the official congratulations from Prime Minister HUN SEN for his achievements in obtaining WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status for Kingdom of Cambodia.

 

The visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade representatives offered a new global standing for Cambodia on world tourism stage and proclaiming Phnom Penh as the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM will be another tourism booster for the nation as 2016 World`s Best Tourist Destination Award succeeded in bringing a plus of 1,5 million tourist and 2 billion dollars to Cambodia`s economy.

 

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More about Global Ambassadors of Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals can be accessed here:

♦ THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG 

♦ EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY

♦ EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE AND SDG

♦ TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

♦ CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 

♦ GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SDG

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The official video of PHNOM PENH – WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

 

The official video of GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

PRIME MINISTER HUN SEN IS THE NEW GLOBAL GOODWILL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS OUTLINES HIS PRIORITIES

On December 9, 2017 in the presence of over 3,000 guests, diplomats, tourism and culture experts, the official ceremony for the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS  has taken place.

On the rostrum were in attendance personalities like: Prime Minister of Government of Cambodia H.E. Academician Hun Sen, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, Prime Minister Mark Doda, over 300 diplomats and world leaders etc.

 

The world has a new world leader in development through tourism: Cambodia`s Prime Minister HUN SEN:  Global Ambassador for World Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals.

 

Speech on the occasion of Samdech Techo’s Appointment as “Global Goodwill Ambassador for World Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals 2030” and the Designation of “Phnom Penh: The World Capital of Tourism and Culture”

–     Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT)

–    Excellencies, Ladies, Gentlemen!

Today, I am delighted to participate in the ceremony to celebrate the awarding of the status “Phnom Penh: The World Capital of Tourism and Culture” to Phnom Penh capital along with my appointment as “Global Goodwill Ambassador for Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”

 

Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to the European Council on Tourism and Trade for supporting Cambodia and electing Cambodia as “World Best Tourist Destination” in 2016. Today, Cambodia is honored again on the occasion Phnom Penh is awarded “World Capital of Tourism and Culture” and my appointment “the Global Ambassador for Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”

 

 

At the same time, I wish to express my gratitude and appreciation to Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade and his colleagues for the decision to award this meaningful status to Phnom Penh capital that help promote further tourism and tourism development in Cambodia.

Thunderous applause for the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR: Prime Minister of Cambodia H.E. Academician HUN SEN

 

 

In addition, I also appreciate great cooperation between Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the European Council on Tourism and Trade for organizing this event.

I also wish to express my appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism for the effort to promote tourism development to date with the great sense of responsibility in accordance with strategic direction of the Royal Government while Cambodia has been enjoying complete peace, stability, security, and progress in all sectors.

 

–    Excellencies, Ladies, Gentlemen!

 

Cambodia is very fortunate that our ancestors left us the temple of Angkor which has become the world heritage of humanity and the wonder of the world, the temple of Preah Vihear and the temple of Sambor Prei Kuk  which have outstanding universal value, and thousands of other temples across the country and vast natural resources such as beaches, river, waterfall, beaches that haven been the status as the world most beautiful beaches, Mekong’s freshwater dolphins, ecotourism in the northeastern and southwestern Cambodia, Tonle Sap Lake, traditions and customs and natural friendliness of the people.

Those factors help Cambodia live up to its international recognition as “Kingdom of Wonder.”

In this sense, Cambodia has identified “Culture and Nature” as the values of its tourism which is now a major tourist destination in Asia and Southeast Asia, a region characterized by high tourism growth.

Peace factor is imperative along with our effort to implement our strategic plans and policies. In this sense, I wish to give three recommendations on the sustainable development of tourism sector as follows:

First, security is the key determinant of the growth in all sectors. In fact, the awarding of above status to Cambodia takes place after dark period of chronic war, genocide and divide caused by foreign interference, especially the cold war ideology. Sacrifice, loss of life and property, hardship, tragedy beyond description Cambodia must face with so many years in order to achieve peace, national unification and harmony nowadays. Today, in spite of complete peace and national unification under one constitution, one King, and one government, Cambodia is still unable to overcome both tangible and intangible consequence of the past war and tragedy. Therefore, Cambodia must protect peace at any cost because “peace is imperative for the achievement of sustainable development goals 2030”

Second, working together for tourism development which is an importance driving force of economic growth.  Overall, we must manage tourism sector appropriately to maximize the benefits and redistribute the fruit of growth equitably aimed at ensuring participation from all related parties. In this sense, I give my support to the Ministry of Tourism in producing the 2018-2030 Tourism Development Strategic Plan and the formulation of the​ ​master plan for tourism development at important tourist sites and I also welcome the strengthening of the capital/provincial tourism development committees in order to encourage the private participation because good governance at the local level is the foundation of sustainable tourism development.

Third, we must ensures the positive relation between the tourism sector and the planet earth toward greener future in 2030.  The Ministry of Tourism must continue to cooperate with related ministries/institutions, the private sector, and media to raise awareness on the benefits of sustainable tourism, the link between tourism and the conservation and protection of environment, natural resource and culture. Overall, we must promote the respect for nature and culture and raise awareness on the importance of tourism in economic development and “clean city, clean resort, good service, good hospitality” contest etc.

 

These recommendations will contribute to further development of tourism sector, underpin growth in other sectors and ensure socio-economic development and cultural and environment conservation.

I am confident that Cambodia as well as Phnom Penh will continue to be a great tourist destination with natural smile of the Cambodian people to live up to its name as the kingdom of wonder.

 

Finally, along with the celebration of “Phnom Penh: World Capital of Tourism and Culture”, and my appointment as “the Global Goodwill Ambassador for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”, I wish Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and all participants the four gems of Buddha’s blessings Longevity, Nobility, Healthiness and Strength.

Thank you!

H.E. HUN SEN PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA IS THE NEW GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SGD`S

It is absolutely befitting that Cambodia will help the international community to have a voice in development and peace and that Khmer people give us the perfect example in building a new world, a better one, with these words Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has announced the nomination of the Prime Minister of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN as the world`s newest GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS.

Prime Minister of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN is  the world`s newest GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (TV coverage).

 

 The Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals appointed H.E. Academician HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia as  GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS in recognition of a life time effort promoting sustainable development, inclusive and supportive tourism and in order to harness his abilities and knowledge for the benefit of world-wide growth, employment, and development Agenda 2030 of the United Nations.

 

H.E. Academician HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia is the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

 

 

The announcement was made by the Executive President of Parliamentary Assembly for the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals -SDG, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea on 27 November  2017 while the official handover of the Letter of the designation will take place on December 9, 2017 in Phnom Penh on the fringes of 2017 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS.

 

PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENTS GOALS salutes his new leader: Academician HUN SEN-PRIME MINISTER OF KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

 

 

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You can find out more about these topics here:

♦ THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG 

♦ EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY

♦ EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE AND SDG

♦ TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

♦ CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 

♦ GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SDG

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The LETTER OF DESIGNATION reads in part:

The aim of human society is the common welfare and in 2015 the United nations acted on this sacred principle and enacted the SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS as a way further to achieve this human desiderate.

The SDGs represent a commitment taken by all nations to work together to end poverty, achieve shared prosperity, build peace and secure a life of dignity and a healthy planet for present and future generations.

 

It is not by chance that we met in Phnom Penh, recently sacred as World Capital of Culture and Tourism to find in Academician HUN SEN the world newest global ambassador and the voice supporting world-wide peace and development and fostering tourism (Professor Dr. Anton Caragea)

Tourism is in the world of today a linchpin in achieving and enhancing world development, creating much-needed employment and opportunities for growth and social inclusion and creating much-needed economic resources to be used to protect and promote the cultural heritage.

Tourism in the world of today is the new form of diplomacy, bringing people, nations, creeds and religions together, in order to foster mutual respect and tolerance.

 

Today sustainable and responsible tourism is providing sustainable infrastructure, business opportunities, jobs and income and most important the opportunities for a dignified and useful life.

In order to bring together for the benefit of mankind and humanity the transformative powers of tourism, culture and sustainable development goals we have created a unique tool to influence positive change, to foster development and to carve out a better future for humanity: The Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals.

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM AND TRADE dedicates his cover page to a NEW LEADER IN DEVELOPMENT: CAMBODIA.

 

 

The Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals will build on their world level statesmanship, prowess and leadership in order to ensure the promotion of tourism and SDGs as part of a development, culture and peace driven global agenda.

 

The Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals  will promote the universal character of the SDGs as it was buold by the United Nations, keeping in mind the main values enshrined in this articles: to never leave no one behind or excluded; to foster new engagement`s and to garner world support to the implementation of SDGs; to encourage partnerships with all global actors irrespective of their status as either Governments, civil society and the private sector to share knowledge and resources; and to raise awareness for the integrated nature of the SDGs.

Your Excellency will have a mandate to support the Parliamentary Assembly for the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in the institution generous efforts to generate momentum and commitment to achieve the SDGs by 2030, you will add a powerful voice to spur into action the world visionary and transformational sustainable development agenda.

You will have to become a present and active actor in the implementation of the 17 SDGs Sustainable Development Goals destined to end poverty globally, to combat inequalities and tackle climate change, while leaving no one behind and no one excluded.

As a Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals, you will have the task of promoting the universal sustainable development agenda, raising awareness of the integrated nature of the SDGs, and fostering the engagement of new stakeholders in the implementation of the SDGs.

Prime Minister HUN SEN succeeded in obtaining for the Kingdom of Cambodia the coveted title of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

 

As a Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals you will engage with partners from civil society, academia, parliaments, and the private sector to develop new and ground-breaking ideas and ways to promote SDG implementation.

PHNOM PENH IS INSCRIBED ON THE COVETED LIST OF WORLD CAPITAL`S OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

In our opinion, your cultured city had registered tremendous achievements in developing tourism infrastructure and facilities and in placing in the limelight, in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner, the cultural, historical and tourism patrimony of PHNOM PENH.

Your capital-city legacy and tourism potential must be recognized and used in fruition of Kingdom of Cambodia `s international prestige and economic development.

 

These are the words penned by H.E. President of The European Council on Tourism and Trade Professor Dr. Anton Caragea to H.E. Academician Prime Minister of Cambodia H.E. HUN SEN  in the letter announcing PHNOM PENH as the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM on a public ceremony on November 27, 2017 in the presence of over 1.000 guests and diplomatic corps. 

 

PHNOM PENH receives the official registration documents as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.

On December 9, 2017 the official handover ceremony of the title of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for PHNOM PENH will take place and the humanity legacy will be richer with another stellar name: Phnom Penh .  

 

The 2017 General Assembly of European Council on Tourism and Trade -ECTT has gathered in an all-encompassing manifestation the leaders of world tourism, parliamentarians members of Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals, representatives of OSCE Bucharest Conference, Eurasia Conference and diplomatic corps accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade.

President of world institution European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea (in the center) with Academician Mircea Constantinescu-European Tourism Academy (right) and Ambassadors from China PR, Philippines, Jordan, Turkey (left). 

 

President of world institution of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea presented to his guests the achievements of ECTT at the helm of global tourism: creating and launching the tourism and sustainable development goals program, starting the global recognition program for GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, supporting growth and employment across the world with more than 100.000 jobs created by ECTT exertions and supporting humanitarian activity and investments in vulnerable corners of the world by tourism related programs.

ECTT has fulfilled for another year his mandate to offer KNOWLEDGE TO LEAD THE WORLD for a better future concluded President Dr. Anton Caragea in his welcoming message to the delegates.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea (in the center) surrounded by ECTT President Office team: Academician Mircea Constantinescu (left), Chairman Mihai Prundianu and rest of the team(to the right).

 

The main items of the ECTT Agenda for 2017 where focused around boosting the regional cooperation, layout plans for visa facilitation and the better promotion of European and world tourism.

On July 28, 2017 the session was destined to plenary works and on July 29 in a relaxed atmosphere, the General Assembly of the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT), has taken under consideration the list of candidates for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2017.

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and the team of ECTT President Office and Ambassadors awaiting the name of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM. 

 

Before entering into the details the voting members decided to entrust to Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and the team of ECTT President Office the mandate to select for 2017 and 2018 the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM winners in accordance with the world tourism institute ECTT status and bylaws.

 

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TIMELINE FOR WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

28 July 2017 -THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

29 July 2017 – the decision to select PHNOM PENH as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

27 November 2017 – the signing of the OFFICIAL DECREE FOR PHNOM PENH – WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

9 December 2017 the start of the ceremonies for PHNOM PENH – WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

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The full power in selecting the world most important cultural designation for the above mentioned period was delegated to the authority of the ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

After receiving the results of vote from Presidential adviser Mr. Gabriel Rasvan , H.E. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea announced his decision to bestow the highest cultural nomination to the city of PHNOM PENH, the capital of Kingdom of Cambodia.

The WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM status for Phnom Penh will bring the inscription of the city as a cultural and patrimony hub of global significance and will also entice the city role as a part of the AGENDA FOR HUMANITY UN program and as a center for the implementation of sustainable development goals in the country and in the region.

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea lauded the Kingdom of Cambodia role in global fostering of tourism development, growth and economic development and in becoming a world model of SDG implementation.

Phnom Penh is practically littered with religious monuments, with incredible cultural artifacts with a beaming historical patrimony spanning for over 600 years and encompassing from Angkor type architectures and temples to colonial typical quarters all enveloped in a recent magnificent development.

 

The proposal of ECTT leader was approved by acclamation`s by all present on the venue and the office of the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade being empowered to make the necessary actions to bring to fruition the decision to inscribe PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM awardee.

On December 9th, 2017 the Kingdom of Cambodia will officially receive the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM status, concluded the proceedings the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

 

 

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♦ In carving up the World Capital of Culture and Tourism Program 11 years ago, European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) set for themselves the ambitious task of establishing a world list of cities and regions that are encompassing the legacy of humanity, that are harboring traditions and costumes unique or hosting natural treasures considered to be of outstanding and universal value.

 

♦ The WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM is today a registered program for the advancement of Sustainable development Goals, is a registered program of PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR UN Sustainable Development Goals and is the instrument recommended for fulfilling each country commitment to the Agenda of Humanity.

WHY IS PHNOM PENH THE NEW WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM?

Phnom Penh the recently nominated WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM is known on the world as the Gem of Asia, The city of waters and the capital of The Kingdom of Wonders: Cambodia, all are rightly deserved appellative`s and as academician Mircea Constantinescu pointed out of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS CEREMONY:

 

Independence Square and Monument: the heart of PHNOM PENH.

 

It is a city that it embraces with warmth and gentle attention the soul of the travelers and it’s the real gate to Asia and the unique gem that shines over us with the light of culture and distinction. I also take this moment to congratulate the Ministry of tourism on the initiative to create a special walking riverine prospect offering for tourists the opportunity to stroll around the banks of the famous Mekong.

 

But what are the cities landmarks and festivals and the true heart of the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM?

 

Wat Ounalom, the heart of Cambodian buddhism and a must see in any itinerary in the World Capital of Culture and Tourism – Phnom Penh.

 

PHNOM PENH is such a generous area: encompassing the natural setting provided by the confluence of three rivers: the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap, the world unique river that is flowing upwards the stream for six months a year.

 

This perfect natural landscape has becoming the setting of a rich cultural city that encompasses religious monuments and heritage treasures like: Wat Ounalom, the 1443 shrine build for a sacred hair of the Buddha and considered the seat of Cambodian Buddhism who will celebrate 575 of continuously and interrupted religious activities.

Another landmark is the famous Wat Phnom, built in 1372 and restored or reconstructed in 1434, 1806, 1894 and 1926 and has become a symbol of the capital city Phnom Penh and regularly used for prayer, small offerings, and meditation.

It is a specially charged place connected with the legendary figure of grandmother Penh and from 15th century King Ponhea Yat built the capital in Phnom Penh around this sacred mountain used for keeping the cremated ash of the King.

 

The mountain of Wat Phnom has been transformed in the last 700 years in a place that is uniting Buddhist statues of the Angkorean era with art crafts from the medieval and modern area and also a royal necropolis hosting the stupas for keeping cremated ash of the Royal families.

Other religious places and cultural landmarks are Wat Langka who is reputedly one of Phnom Penh’s five original Wats (1422).

Established as a sanctuary for the Holy Writings and a meeting place for Cambodian and Sri Lankan monks, the Wat was named in honor of these meetings.

Wat Botum Padei also one of the oldest religious buildings still in use in the city from 1422 and is compound is crowded with ornate and colorful stupas, including the towering ‘Buddha’s Relic Stupa.

Wat Koh another one of the city’s five original Wats, established in the early 15th century and Wat Neak Kravorn situated in a perfect picturesque skyline of Boeung Kak lake.

 

PHNOM PENH is not only the seat of rich cultural and religious objectives but is also presenting a long list of tourism centers from the famed Russian Market, Old Market, Central Market, Night Market and a large array of traditional markets, to the incredible riches of National Museum having on display more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from the 7th to the 13th century.

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We recommend:

♦ WHY IS CAMBODIA WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION?

♦ CAMBODIA: THE INCREDIBLE KINGDOM OF WONDER

♦ CAMBODIA NEW YEAR: PHOTO SHOW

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Treasures include sculptures, 19th-century dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins.

 

We have to note also in the panorama of the incredible cultural potential of Phnom Penh the fact that: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA was voted as a WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM for the incredible treasures encompassing more than 14.00 priceless artifacts and for the perfect ways that are displayed and imbuing the visitors with the message of culture.

Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is a must see for any Asian traveler as it is the symbol of the imperial power of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the residence of the royal family.

In Khmer language, the full name of Royal Palace of Phnom Penh is Preah Barom Reachea Vaeng Chaktomuk. The modern Royal Palace was designed by a famous French engineer, dating back to the end of the 19th century.

The resplendent and magnificent Royal Palace is the typical Cambodia building, situated in the east of Phnom Penh and facing the confluence of Mekong River and Tonle Sap River.

It is a magnificent building with golden roof and yellow walls surrounding it, consisting of over 20 palaces of various sizes, such as the golden palace, the silver palace and the treasure palace with exquisite reliefs on the winding corridors.

The treasure palace is inside the golden palace, displaying precious treasures.

Among all the buildings in the palace, the silver palace is the most gorgeous one, whose ground is paved with over 4,700 silver bricks.

In the palace, there is also a natural jade Buddha statue with the height of about 60 centimeters, regarding as the national treasure of Cambodia. It is also the holy land for the Buddhist devotions of the successive kings.

Phnom Penh is far from being just a huge open-air repository of temples, stupas, palaces and incredible museums it is also a place where the energy of his peoples is channeled into huge celebrations like Moon Festival, Water Festival, Royal Ploughing Day, Khmer New Year or famed Buddha Day-Visakh Bochea Day.

 

MEKONG ISLAND (KOH DACH)

If you wish to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and venture into a world of peace and tranquility, then a visit to Mekong Island about 15km north of the city centre will be just right for you.

 

Bounded by views of rice paddies, vegetable farms and fruit orchards, Mekong Island not only serves as a venue for an enjoyable day trip or picnic but also enables you to experience the country’s authentic culture at its best.

This island occupies an area of about ten hectares of land and is one of the prominent centers of traditional handicrafts in Cambodia, with artisans engaged in silk weaving, pottery, woodcarving and dyeing in its villages.

Phnom Penh is waiting the travelers, tourists and all those who want to experience the true charm of Asia and the magic of a World Capital of Culture and Tourism with the open doors.

 

Come and discover the magic of Mekong, come and find your true city of love: Phnom Penh!

WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018 THEME DECIDED BY EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

Next year date for WORLD TOURISM DAY celebration was decided to be September 27 2018 and the official theme will be TOURISM AND CULTURAL PROTECTION! These where the executive decisions taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade leadership on the Word Tourism Day celebrations. 

 

Celebrated worldwide since 1980, World Tourism Day at European Council on Tourism and Trade is commemorated usually at the end of September each year and hosted in the capital of the country crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION OF THE YEAR.

 

This year, the Official Celebrations are held in Phnom Penh , the capital city of Kingdom of Cambodia, winner of World Best Tourism Destination designation and in Bucharest on October 4, 2017 under the Chairmanship of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 

The main role of the World Tourism Day is to highlight the global significance of tourism as a tool for global development and cultural enlightenment.

Tourism is the greatest educator in the world, stated on the topic the European Council on Tourism and Trade President Dr. Anton Caragea.

This is one of the goals of the World Tourism Day celebrations that are being conducted throughout the world.

 

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea signs the ECTT- WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018 logo and document: TOURISM AND CULTURAL PROTECTION! 

 

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More to read on the topic:

♦TOURISM IS THE GREATEST EDUCATOR IN THE WORLD

♦AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS PROGRAMME CONTINUES DECIDES PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG-2030

♦ACADEMICIAN SAMDECH HUN SEN, PRIME MINISTER OF KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA, OPENING DECLARATION FOR WORLD TOURISM AWARDS 2016

♦PRIME MINISTER ACADEMICIAN HUN SEN: EUROPE AND KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA HANDS IN HANDS FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

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The Official Celebrations taking place in Phnom Penh, and marked as usually also at World Tourism Institute of European Council on Tourism and Trade center and garnering world tourism leaders, industry entrepreneurs and researchers, Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals  among other key actors in the sector.

The event was opened by the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, who emphasized the cultural and heritage booster and promoter role of Tourism and the links of the sector with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals as well as the carry torch role of the Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals in the global economic diversification and socially oriented growth.

On this occasion H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea – ECTT President announced that: Global Ambassadors for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals project will continue unabated until 2030, the year marked by United Nations for the completion of the 17 Goals at world level.

In conjunction with European Tourism Academy, European Council on Tourism and Trade announced that 2018 World Tourism Day theme will be: TOURISM AS A CULTURAL PROTECTOR, emphasizing tourism  role in promoting awareness for cultural and heritage patrimony , in boosting the resources allocated for their maintenance and preservation and in educating future generations on their role as guardian`s and custodians of these world treasures.

 

Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia-Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo.

 

In the Kingdom of Cambodia, the official host of World Tourism Day for European Council on Tourism and Trade celebration, the premier’s message on World Tourism Day,  Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia said the tourism sector continues to contribute to Cambodia’s economy.

 

“In recognition of the contribution tourism has made, the government through the Tourism Ministry will continue to develop the tourism market, develop tourism products, and further promote new areas like youth tourism, urban tourism and shopping tourism,” said Mr Hun Sen.

“Currently, the tourism sector is the third biggest export industry in the world after the chemical and oil industries,” he added. “Tourism brings hope, prosperity and fosters people-to-people relations in the world.”

This year’s theme for World Tourism Day was “Sustainable Tourism – a Tool for Development”.

“Tourism can contribute to all the three crucial areas of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental – and each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals,” said Academician Hun Sen.

“Not only does the sector contribute to economic growth, it also improves the quality of people’s lives. It can bolster environmental protection, champion diverse cultural heritage, and strengthen peace in the world,” added the premier.