The European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) is the global tourism institution responsible for the promotion of culture based tourism, and offering support for responsible and sustainable tourism.
Kazakhstan: a nation endowed with impressive cultural and heritage legacy and stunning natural beauty.
It is the leading international organization in the field of tourism, which promotes tourism as a driver of heritage protection, culture advancement and economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability and offers leadership and stewardship to the world tourism.
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European Council on Tourism and Trade-Kazakhstan strategic partnership: an outline
European Council on Tourism and Trade President was informed about Kazakhstan`s Prime Minister, H.E. Askar Mamin desire to discuss the development of the tourism sector in the country.
The documents and Astana presentation for World Capital of Culture and Tourism where handed out to ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea by H.E. Kazakhstan Ambassador Daulet Batrashev.
European Council on Tourism and Trade President was informed about Prime Minister, H.E. Askar Mamin desire to discuss the development of the tourism sector in the country and how to further strengthen cooperation between Kazakhstan and global tourism institution-ECTT.
The following issues were addressed during the meeting: support in the implementation of investment projects, reinforcement of cooperation within the European Tourism Academy (ETA) Silk Road Programme and European Council on Tourism and Trade -ECTT assistance to Kazakhstan in marketing and communication.
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More about European Tourism Academy (ETA) Silk Road Programme is available here:
President Dr. Anton Caragea was informed about the Minister of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan proposed measures for the development of the tourism industry until 2025.
Astana presentation for World Capital of Culture and Tourism candidature where handed out to ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea by H.E. Ambassador Daulet Batrashev.
The state program includes 10 systemic measures with a significant socio-economic effect.
According to the minister, it is planned to create priority tourist areas and management companies in the TOP-10 of the most attractive tourist places, which will allow for the implementation of more than 200 investment projects.
The project of the state program also proposes the development of specially protected natural territories with the involvement of business for the development of tourism infrastructure.
As part of the state program for the development of the tourism industry, it is planned to implement more than 200 investment projects, therefore we will provide 72.000 people from rural areas with permanent work.
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World Tourism Initiatives and Programmes under European Council on Tourism and Trade supervision:
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 DESTINATIONaward 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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY EVENTS PROGRAMME FOR ADDIS ABABA
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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 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:
“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.”
More about Global Ambassadors of Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals can be accessed here:
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.
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.
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.
On the occasion of the start of preparations for WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 the global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy had decided to select Djibouti City and Phnom Penh as models and hosts of World Tourism Day 2019 ceremonies in sign of recognition of these cities as centers of tourism development, repositories of priceless cultural artifacts and leaders in heritage protection.
The Autumn 2018 Meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade and the official celebrations for WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018 had taken place at the headquarters of global tourism institution.
The events had taken place under the leadership of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President and a string of key decisions for tourism and culture future in 2019 had being taken.
The main issues debated where the selection of the 2019 host cities for World Tourism Day, and the announcement of official theme of the next year tourism celebration for European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade.
This theme will be instrumental also in the selection of new candidates for hosting world tourism awards ceremonies in 2019.
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Main world tourism and culture awards ceremonies slated for 2019:
Phnom Penh, the capital of Kingdom of Cambodia and Djibouti city, the capital of The Republic of Djibouti were selected as the official model cities for World Tourism Day celebrations and official hosts of global tourism events.
Both Djibouti and Phnom Penh where in previous years selected as World`s Capital of Culture and Tourism and globally recognized as centers of heritage, tourism and culture.
The city of Phnom Penh has also obtained WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status in 2016 and hosted the World Tourism Awards ceremonies the same year establishing himself as a powerful tourism and cultural center of Indochina.
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Phnom Penh-the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.
Cambodia and Djibouti have won the honor to be global examples in the tourism and cultural world for 2019.
On the venue of the same event the WORLD TOURISM DAY 2019 theme was decided to be History and Tourism: A symbiotic relation!
The theme is destined not only to enliven tourism during 2019, but also to emphasize that tourism is inextricably linked with historical legacy.
History is the main attraction that is creating tourism demand and visitors expectation is linked with the existence of historical and cultural heritage.
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More information on Djibouti tourism potential and strategy can be extracted from these sources:
Tourism must also be organized in such a manner to not impede conservation efforts, to support raising awareness on historical monuments and to help to acquire the financial support necessary for historical preservation activities.
Tourism and history are inseparable, are growing from the same tree: the sapling of culture and civilization.
History is the root of tourism development and tourism must feed and nurture historical preservation as leaves are feeding the tree said Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-global tourism president.
The next year celebration for World Tourism Day will take place in 27 September 2019, placing under the spotlight the culture and civilization as an integral part of tourism growth and role in the sustainable development goals agenda.
It is focused on member countries’ politics and statal agenda in terms of tourism and trade and produces strategies, research and studies on tourism and cultural development implemented worldwide.
Its membership includes state actors, private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations and local tourism authorities
The world tourism dedicated site will be officially unveiled in front of the diplomatic corps accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade in order to mark festively the World Tourism Day for 2018.
On the approaching WORLD TOURISM DAY 2018 the global tourism institutions: European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade had launched a dedicated website in order to promote sustainable tourism destinations, to support tourism development and to foster knowledge of tourism institutions across the world.
The world tourism dedicated site will be officially unveiled in front of the diplomatic corps accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade in order to mark festively the World Tourism Day for 2018.
According to the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea the new information vehicle aims at tourism and development professionals across the globe and it will provide easy to access, visual information, videos and connections to the most important and relevant tourism and development information websites.
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For more information on tourism development you can access this information portals:
The new world tourism institutions website will also future information about European Tourism Academy, Global Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals Ambassadors programme, World Best Tourist Destinations, World Capital of Culture and Tourism and is destined to be a one-stop shop to connect visitors with world tourism trends and recent evolution`s.
According to Ambassador Tiberius Puiu, the new information website is a perfect tool to assist in global tourism development, to offer information about tourism role in fulfilling the world Agenda 2030 and to offer to the public coverage of the activities of world tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy.
It will be a perfect instrument for the world`s diplomats.
Academician Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy.
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For more on diverse world tourism programmes you can discover here:
Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy expressed his gratitude for his institution being recognized once more as an instrument for world development and Agenda 2030 fulfillment and encouraged the diplomats, tourism professionals and the general public to take advantage on the fountain of information and images contained in the new world tourism dedicated site.
The new website is having informational pages dedicated to:
More than 30 leaders across the world had offered their congratulation messages and well-wishes to Prime Minister Hun Sen of Kingdom of Cambodia on a perfect election victory that had made him reinstated as the national leader for another five-year mandate.
According to the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia statement the first to address congratulatory messages where the world tourism leaders, in 2013 Mr. Taleb Rifai from Madrid based Tourism Organization and in 2016 Professor Dr. Anton Caragea from European Council on Tourism and Trade.
This is undoubtedly a mark of the significance of Cambodia o world tourism stage.
ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was the first world leader to offer his congratulations to H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia after the landslide victory that confirmed him to retain premiership for another five years.
President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea to Prime Minister Academician Hun Sen: electing you at the helm of the country, the people of Cambodia had made the wise choice of development and growth and democracy against war, disaster and incertitude.
The congratulatory message reads: On the occasion of Your victory on the VI NATIONAL ASSEMBLY election and Your re-election as Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, I want to express the international community and academic community warmest appreciation for the overwhelming support manifested by the people of Cambodia for your agenda of transformation and development.(..)
Electing Your Excellency at the helm of the country, the people of Cambodia had made the wise choice of development and growth and democracy against war, disaster and incertitude.
The free and democratic elections have given Your Excellency the full mandate to reshape Cambodia and to continue to provide leadership and opportunities for the people of Cambodia.
H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia to Professor Dr. Anton Caragea:
Your Excellency, I strongly believe that you would extend your continuous support and cooperation to the promotion of peace, political stability and development of Cambodia.
In his replay, Prime Minister Hun Sen expressed his: gratitude for the cordial message of felicitations that you kindly extended to me personally and the Cambodian people`s party…your witnessing and assessment on the national election have certainly reflected a strong credibility of Cambodia`s electoral process in a peaceful, smooth, free and fair manner.
This is a justice you have given to the people of Cambodia to demonstrate to the international community the genuineness of the functioning democracy in Cambodia. Your Excellency, I strongly believe that you would extend your continuous support and cooperation to the promotion of peace, political stability and development of Cambodia.
President Dr. Anton Caragea message was the first to reach Samdech Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Cambodia after the victory in the elections of July 2018, elections considered as the most democratically in the kingdom history.
Accordingly to official Cambodian State News Agency after the message of H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea, new messages of support had come from more than 30 leaders in the order being: President Xi Jinping of China, Prime Minister of Laos and Vietnam, Prime Minister of Thailand, Prime Minister of Japan and Narendra Moodi, Indian premier.
Chinese leadership: President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Keqiang were quick to congratulate the victory of Academician Hun Sen in July 29 democratic elections.
Chinese President Xi Jinping said he is glad to see that in recent years, under the leadership of Hun Sen, Cambodia has achieved political stability, rapid economic development, continuous improvement of its international status, and gratifying achievements in various fields.
We believe that the Cambodian People’s Party will continue to unite and lead the Cambodian people to follow the development path of their own national conditions, promote economic development, continuously improve people’s livelihood, enhance national unity, and make new and greater for the prosperity of the country and the people’s happiness and for regional stability and development. contribution.
Tourism was at the heart of recent days celebrations in Djibouti as the country was crowned as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, has launched his new tourism strategy and received the visit of the leading teams of global tourism institutions (European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy).
Tourism was also honored on April 19,2018 in the person of H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade who was decorated with the Republic of Djibouti highest order: NATIONAL ORDER OF 27 JUNE 1977.
This is not necessary a recognition for myself but a tribute to the role of tourism as promoter of peace and dialogue, of understanding and development, part and parcel of the XXI century diplomacy, commented President Anton Caragea on the official handover ceremony of the decoration.
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More about WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM is accessible here:
On the occasion of the official visit to the Republic of Djibouti, European Council on Tourism and Trade President Dr. Anton Caragea was received by Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of the Republic of Djibouti.
A dialogue of friendship and cooperation between H.E. President of Djibouti-Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh and H.E. ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh express his gratitude on behalf of people and Government of Djibouti for the official visit of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea in the country of the Horn of Africa and for the entire support offered to the state of Djibouti in the areas of asserting the country influence in the fields of diplomacy, culture and tourism.
On his turn Professor Dr. Anton Caragea graciously expressed his gratitude and that of his delegation for the exceptional and warm welcoming ceremony and for the perfect played by Djibouti as the host of African Culture and Tourism Week.
H.E. Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Prime Minister of Djibouti had officially bestowed upon ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea the NATIONAL ORDER OF 27 JUNE on the highest rank.
Djibouti is rapidly evolving from a center of great business a central place in international trade and a crucial supplier of security for African continent into an area of culture, traditions and natural riches to be exploited for the development of tourism, remarked Council President Dr. Anton Caragea.
Concluding the meeting with H.E. Academician Ismail Omar Guelleh President of the Republic of Djibouti, according to the president instructions H.E. Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Prime Minister of Djibouti had officially bestowed upon European President Dr. Anton Caragea the NATIONAL ORDER OF 27 JUNE on the highest rank.
This decoration comes in recognition a lifetime achievements of President professor Dr. Anton Caragea in developing world tourism, promoting culture and traditions amalgamated in the XXI century diplomacy, in promoting democracy and freedom and in the defense of peace on global arena has stated Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed Prime Minister of Djibouti.
The decoration ceremony has taken place in the presence of the members of government of Djibouti, members of parliament and presidency and was live broadcasted.
On the venue where present the Minister of Culture, Moumin Hassan Barreh, the Minister Delegate for Trade and Tourism, Hassan Houmed Ibrahim, the Secretary General of the Presidency, Mohamed Abdillahi Waïs, the Chief of Cabinet of the Presidency, Mohamed Abdoulkader Ibrahim, the Director General of the National Tourist Office, Osman Abdi Mohamed, and high level delegates of the European Council of Tourism and Trade( Mr. Pavel Avramoiu-Hospitality Director, Mihai Prundianu-Chairman for Trade, Academician Mircea Constantinescu-European Academy Director, Mr. Jacob Fonea-Foreign Investment Director in ECTT).
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.
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.
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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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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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 1st, 2018 and the closing of World Best Tourist Destination candidature list on May 15th, 2018.
Africa is on the rise is a well-known trope but the rapid climbing on the top of world tourist destinations is a reality powered by booming economies, improving security, better air connectivity and of course incredible natural and historical potential.
To mark this fortunate moment for Africa`s development and to mark down an African vision we present our readers with six accomplishments that are placing President Ismail Omar Guelleh achievements on the top of African and world tourism leadership.
President of Djibouti, Ismail Omar Guelleh was elected as a member of European Tourism Academy and has received the Letter addressed to world leaders in tourism and development in recognition of his visionary leadership in related to tourism.
Here are six arguments that can solid present his case:
Air Djibouti
Air Djibouti has succeeded a new re-birth starting with cargo activities in 2015 and started again to fly across the world: “Djibouti is reconfirming his strategic position in the international commerce, global transport and it is centrally positioned at the heart of the second most important maritime trade line in the world” marked Aboubaker Omar Hadi, president of Port and Free Trade Authority of Djibouti in a public ceremony on the tarmac of Djibouti airport.
New air travel connections will start in 2017, linking Asia and Europe with Africa welcoming around 200.000 passengers per year on board of his flights.
Djibouti Airport
Djibouti Airport and Djibouti Air are both state-owned companies that are proving that in a highly competitive market they can still impose themselves, bring profit and attract international costumers as long as they are well-managed.
Visa on arrival
Djibouti is one of the world most accommodating to world tourists offering visa on arrival to a large number of citizens from Europe, Asia and Africa.
European Journal of Tourism Visa Openness 2018 evaluation placed Djibouti on the second position among African countries in term of friendliness for tourism entry and visa facilities.
Djibouti City: a well-groomed city
In contrast to many other world cities, the capital of Djibouti is a safe, clean and order city ranking year after year on top of best cities to live in.
Security
Security is without a shadow of a doubt one of the most important issues in promoting tourism.
Djibouti is an example of order and with the country hosting military bases of United States, France and China you could be well safe in this nation that is enjoying a perfect security situation and is a proven exporter of stability throughout Africa.
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Djibouti city is renowned for the great numbers of high-quality hotels, well-groomed offices where businessmen’s from around the world are feeling perfectly making the city a base for international trade on the continent.
With sophisticated infrastructure, Djibouti has succeeded in claiming the mantle of a regional capital for the international companies seeking to expand or making business in Eastern Africa.
You can watch DJIBOUTI WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM promotion video here:
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.
Read more about WORLD TOURISM AND TRAVEL AWARDS competition
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
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 1st , 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.
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.
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.
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.
What to do in Cambodia? Here are some suggestions:
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 7th world wonder ! Mark Doda, Chairman of Balkan Tourism Organization
Mark Doda, Chairman of Balkan Tourism Organization declared Koh Ker as a 7th 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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PHNOM PENH: THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM
Pomp, pageantry and a powerful motion of confidence in the future of Kingdom of Cambodia tourism, cultural and development potential where the trademarks of the WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM celebration dedicated to Phnom Penh, the booming capital of Cambodia.
On December 9, 2017 in the presence of over 3.000 guests, diplomats, tourism and culture experts, members of the Parliamentary Assembly for the Sustainable Development Goals, members of the Royal Government of Cambodia and of the Royal Parliament of Cambodia and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates and many others high level guests attended the official ceremony for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM handover for PHNOM PENH has taken place.
In the pomp and ceremony of the event the Director of The EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY, Academician Dr. MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU outlined the reasons and the arguments for the inscription of Phnom Penh as one of the world landmark cities.
Here is the full text of the presentation:
ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU: Phnom Penh – 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.
Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN- Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia,
Your Excellency Dr. Thong Khon – Minister of Tourism,
Esteemed members of Royal Government of Cambodia, members of Parliament of Cambodia, distinguished member’s diplomatic corps
Dear guests,
All protocol observed,
Today is a historical day, is the day when we inscribe the name of another model city on the humanity list of WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.
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.
We are ensuring their presence in the limelight so that we and the future generations can enjoy the world’s patrimony wealth and it’s variety.
The international community must give much more support to the activities promoting the heritage, which is central to our civilizations and this is the main role of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM designation.
During last year`s THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM program enlarged and enriched his focus becoming a part of THE AGENDA FOR HUMANITY and a part of the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda being 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.
The full video of the ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU allocutio for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM: PHNOM PENH!
From an essentially global cultural and tourism program we have evolved in line with the world commitments and concerns onto a world level development program.
On this note I must salute the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia commitment to fulfilling the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations and for ensuring that Phnom Penh 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 city.
Inscribing PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM we recognize that culture and history are not resource consumers, but are major economic and development factors, that help countries to develop and enrich themselves in more ways than just simple economic value.
Culture is undoubtedly a fundamental part of our life, is marking our identity and is facilitates our encounter, our dialogue, it helps us to share experiences, to search for unknown territories, to go further and further, is inscribed in our fiber and it defines us, is make us human.
Registering PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM we are taking act of the Government of Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN commitments and incredible achievements of the last 30 years in carving cultural and heritage protection programs, in ensuring a permanent growth in the quality of patrimony protection and consolidation, in ensuring the preservation and fostering of religions, traditions and cultural and traditional activities.
We must also remember the salient fact that on this account that this luminary policies has succeeded in inscribing the Kingdom as aWORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
Today, PHNOM PENH is fulfilling the trademarks of what we are calling the cultural landscape marked by the existence of “mixed properties”, blending natural properties and cultural properties.
It designates areas where there has been a harmonious interaction between man and nature over a long period, linked to a particular culture, and which provides evidence of a traditional way of life in which nature and culture are profoundly interlinked.
Cultural landscapes are described in Article 1 of the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage as representing “the combined works of nature and man”.
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 become the setting of a rich cultural city that encompasses religious monuments and heritage treasures like: Wat Ounalom the 1443 shrine built for a sacred hair of the Buddha and considered the seat of Cambodian Buddhism who will celebrate 575 years of continuously and uninterrupted religious activities.
Another landmark is the famous Wat Phnom, built in 1372 and restored and 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 the National Museum having on display more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from the 7th to the 13th century. Treasures include sculptures, 19th-century dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins.
I will just note on the lines 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 14.000 priceless artifacts and for the perfect ways that are displayed and imbuing the visitors with the message of culture.
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.
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.
Initiatives like this are creating the image of a friendly and traveler welcoming city, an image that Phnom Penh so richly deserves.
We can say that the European Council on Tourism and Trade was confronted with an easy conundrum at the question: IT IS? OR IT IS NOT PHNOM PENH a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM?
The positive answer was clear keeping in mind the impressive history of the city, the enormous cultural and heritage potential of Phnom Penh and the plans put in place by the Government of H.E. Prime Minister HUN SEN in order to carve out an ever better future for the peoples of the city and for those who come to share the life of the gem of Asia: the incredible PHNOM PENH – the city of waters, the gift of Cambodia to the world.
Your Excellency Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia HUN SEN,
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.
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.
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
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.
♦ 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.
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.
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.
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!
Latin America has started a push for tourism development and international recognition.
After a wave of candidature`s from the region where registered for 2017 WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD now it was the time for Venezuela to invite for a familiarization and discovery trip a high level delegation of European Council on Tourism and Trade and to start preparing for a candidature of Caracas, the capital city, to the international title of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.
European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, has accepted the invitation from Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Jorge Arreaza Montserrat, for a familiarization visit with the realities of the Latin American country.
Jorge Arreaza Montserrat, The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela invited an European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation to see first hand the realities of Venezuela.
Jorge Arreaza Montserrat, The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela has marked in the official invitation letter addressed to European Council on Tourism and Trade President: As the Minister of People Power for International Relations I consider with interest your participation in this space of magnitude importance and your solidarity in this historical moment when we celebrated the legacy of dignity and justice of Comandante Hugo Chavez and of President Nicolas Maduro bequeathed to the Venezuelan people and to the Bolivarian revolution.
A concert in the honour of Bolivarian Revolution has enjoyed the presence of European council on Tourism and Trade delegates.
The visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade high level representatives took place in the period between 15 to 22 September 2017 and is part of a broader strategy of the President Nicolas Maduro government to develop Venezuela’s tourism industry and to diversify the nation’s economy and reduce dependence on oil income.
Tourism is a tool for the betterment of Venezuela: H.E. Nicolas Maduro, President of Venezuela presents the city of CARACAS candidature for World Capital of Culture and Tourism to H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, ECTT President remarked: Venezuela has one of the most diverse climates, with ice capped Andean mountains to the west, Amazon jungle to the south, wide rivers and tall waterfalls surrounded by tabletop mountains and unusual rock formations to the southeast, and a gorgeous, pristine Caribbean coast to the north that has some of the world’s finest and exclusive beaches, such as Los Roques and highest waterfalls on the planet, Angel Falls.
President/Professor Dr. Anton Caragea hosted in MIRAFORES TV studios and National Venezuelan Television.
During the week-long visit, the high-level European Council delegates hold extensive talks with various officials like: Juan Bautista Arias Palacio – Minister for Basic and Strategic Industries and Socialist Development, Minister for Communications and Information and Minister of Tourism.
President Dr. Anton Caragea receives for discussions at Hotel Alba the Vice-Minister of Tourism of Venezuela.
Agreements regarding economic cooperation, tourism promotion, TV travel documentaries and bilateral information exchange and cooperation for SDG completion in the framework ofParliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goalswhere tabled.
Cooperation in the field of tourism promotion and ECTT technical support for Caracas drafting a coherent plan to obtain the election as World Capital of Culture and Tourism was also agreed.
The highlights of the visit, where the two memorable encounters with President Nicolas Maduro.
On September 19, 2017, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea took the distinct honor to sign the HONORARY BOOK at MIRAFLORES Presidential Palace.
On 17 September 2017, the delegates part take in the President TV Show: Sundays with Maduro! together with Evo Morales, Bolivian President.
Evo Morales, President of Bolivia presents a tourism booklet to European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation.
During the discussions, the tourism and cultural connections between the two countries were tabled and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has given as gifts to the two President’s his latest book on Interference of Civilizations in European Union Project.
On 19 September 2017, in the conclusion of The International March of Solidarity with Venezuela, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was invited for a photo session with President Nicolas Maduro, signed the Honorary Book at Miraflores Palace and has given an interview to the Miraflores TV Channel, expressing his support for Bolivarian Revolution role in forging a free and democratic Latin America.
The cultural program of the visit included discovery trips to Natural Sanctuary of Waraira Repano, a tour of Caracas landmarks like The Cathedral of Caracas, Saint Francis, Simon Bolivar birthplace etc.
The cable car of Caracas connecting the city with Waraira Repano.
A special day was dedicated to offering respect for Venezuelan history major figures, with a visit to National Pantheon and a stop to Simon Bolivar funeral monument and Francisco Miranda tomb.
Simon Bolivar: The Hero of Latin American Liberation struggle: a lay over charged with respect for official delegates.
An emotionally charged moment was the visit to Mountain Quarter (Quartel de la Montana) the place where the architect of the Bolivarian Revolution and the apostle of the poor`s: Commander Hugo Chavez is laid for eternal rest surrounded by world gratitude and love.
The delegates witnessed the changing of the guard and where hart struck by the powerful words of remembering for the fallen hero: Chavez lives!
President Dr. Anton Caragea in a moment of respect in front of the Commander HUGO CHAVEZ Mausoleum in Mountain Quarter (Quartel de la Montana).
The ECTT delegation visit to Venezuela has given a new impetus to the relations between nations and their attendance to the world solidarity movement with Venezuela has being registered with gratitude by the people of the Caribbean nation, proudly building a revolution of freedom and dignity.
Venezuela it is blessed with an impressive diversity of natural treasures including crystalline beaches, dense jungles, expansive savannas and imposing mountains and we hope that the beautiful city of Caracas will have a fighting chance in WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competition, stated ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea.
It will be an incredible boost for all Caribbean region concluded the President.
Caracas: a candidate city for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM
The telepheric connecting Caracas and Waraira Repano
Natural sanctuary of Waraira Repano
MIRAFLORES Presidential Palace: the beating heart of Venezuela welcomed ECTT President!
Cathedral of Caracas: a splendid architectural marvel.
This year’s celebrations for World Tourism Day, marked on 27 and 28 September, will be officially celebrated in Phnom Penh, Dubai and Bucharest as European Council on Tourism and Trade had decided.
This year celebration will be focused on the role of Sustainable Tourism – a Tool for Development. Celebrated in line with the decisions of Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals, the Day will be dedicated to exploring the contribution of tourism to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event will be structured around the role of PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG as a main consent creator around the role of tourism in supporting international world wide development and a second layer session will emphasize the role of International Ambassadors for Sustainable Development Goals in fostering global emulation and eliciting support for world development and providing leadership for a greener future.
On the Agenda will also be the presentation of the Kingdom of Cambodia impressive tourism success and knowledge sharing of Cambodia`s positive practice on tourism development which saw the Kingdom being named as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
Bucharest as the center of World Tourism Institution of European Council on Tourism and Trade will also mark the event with a special session of PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG focusing on Economic, Social and Human Development on world level and will emphasize the role of world parliaments in promoting SDG value and oversee their implementation in to laws as a catalyst to progress towards a more diversified economy.
Together with the events conducted in Cambodia, European Council on Tourism and trade headquarters and Dubai, the World Tourism Day will be celebrated across the globe.
On this occasion European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) calls upon the travel and tourism community, from all affiliation like entities from private sector, governments and civil society, to join the celebrations and global recognition of tourism as a driving force for prosperity and development.
WORLD TOURISM NEWS FROM EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE 
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