WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2014 CEREMONY FOR ZIMBABWE
On 3 June 2014 in Harare-the capital of Republic of Zimbabwe the ceremony for awarding the world highest tourism prize has taken place in the presence of H.E. President Robert Gabriel Mugabe of Zimbabwe and H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.
After the handing over ceremony of the most important honor that tourism industry can bestow for a country, now new opportunities arise for Zimbabwe tourism.
This wonderful world of opportunity for the people of Zimbabwe was opened by the 3 June mass ceremony held in Harare-Zimbabwe on the occasion of the official presentation of the highest tourism award of the world to the African country ( a premiere in the history of the award)
We have the honor of presenting you the full text of the empowering speech by European Council on Tourism and Trade president on this felicitous celebration:
Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, and Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe;
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea MA, FINS, ETA speech at WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for Zimbabwe.
As always, the ceremony for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD is the embodiment of an idea and the universal proclamation of a country that succeeded in materializing this idea to the fullest.
Last year we concentrated on the idea that in the world of today, tourism is a causeway uniting knowledge and friendship, peoples and countries, a way to promote peace and understanding, a road that leads towards a better future for all.
We see the recipient of the WORLD BEST TOURISM AWARD, ZIMBABWE, not only standing for the idea of a resurrection of Africa and African people, but also symbolizing Africa’s determination to undertake the long journey to global significance.
We have also noted with great satisfaction that Zimbabwe has persistently viewed tourism as one of the pillars of its economy, going forward. Your successive economic blueprints, right up to the current one, the ZIMASSET, recognize the critical value-adding role that the tourism sector can play in your economy.
Your Excellency, we are aware that in 2013 you signed the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s Golden Book of Tourism. We must congratulate and commend you highly for signing that book. Yours was the 29th signature by various world statesmen throughout the globe, who have pledged their support for global tourism, with its critical role of promoting both the economic, as well as the social wellbeing of the world. Needless to say, tourism can do a great deal of social and economic good for Africa, including Zimbabwe.
Mr. President, in our consideration for whom to give this award to, we learnt, amongst many other facts about your country, of your economic model ensuring that local communities participate and benefit from enterprises that exploit and benefit from the conservation of bio-diversity of both flora and fauna, was born here. We are here to urge you along this course, because that makes Zimbabwe a steward of the earth’s flora and fauna, in its pristine condition, for the benefit and enjoyment of all humanity including Zimbabwe’s own posterity.
Your government’s well placed recognition of tourism as an important sector is also evident in your decision to create a stand-alone Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, back in 2009.
Even more fundamental for us, is your acknowledgement that tourism is a peace sector, constantly building bridges amongst the various peoples of the world.
Your recognition of this truth is evidenced, in part, by the support you have given your Minister of Tourism to travel the world, east and west, ensuring that this bridge between your country and the rest of the world remains intact and promote real people-to-people warmth and friendship.
It is not only for these philosophical reasons that we found your country worthy of this award, the fact is your country if well-endowed with historical and cultural features of great worth and value to all humanity. These range from the massive long-standing architectural structures of Great Zimbabwe monument, and others like it all over your country, to rock paintings and artefacts that symbolize early human civilization. Zimbabwe is indeed a destination of global note and the recognition of many of your country’s features as UNESCO Human Heritage sites says as much.
We did explain in great detail in our 3rd of May Press Release that we put out for this purpose, why we found Zimbabwe a deserving recipient of these awards, but my address would be amiss if I failed to refer to the well-known hospitality and peace- loving nature of the Zimbabwean people. It is quite appropriate that you position your people as one of the Seven Wonders that characterize Zimbabwe. Zimbabweans, both at home and in the diaspora, are generally well-known for their hard-work and cheerfulness – they are a wonder indeed.
H.E. President of Zimbabwe-Robert Mugabe and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea MA, FINS, ETA at WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD ceremony for Zimbabwe.
Last but not least, Your Excellency, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is not only in Zimbabwe that we have found a naturally and culturally well-endowed destination, but it is here that we find an exceptional combination of peace and security, combined with a crime-free environment and an exceptionally hospitable people. Visitors here are bound to feel welcome, safe and secure, and that is probably the reason why the United Nations World Tourism Organization decided to hold the 20th Session of its General Assembly, which turned out to be its most successful, here in Zimbabwe at the magnificent Victoria Falls.
Your Excellency Mr. President, it is my great honor and privilege to hand over this title as an international recognition for all the people of Zimbabwe, all united in the service of protecting and preserving the historical and cultural heritage of your country, leveraging tourism and culture, in the service of the people of Zimbabwe.
This title is also a challenge because we now expect your country and people to hold what you have in trust on behalf of world culture and tourism. May this award be used to enhance the international standing of the Republic of ZIMBABWE-A WORLD OF WONDERS. It is my privilege and honour Mr. President, to handover to Your Excellency, as the representative of your country and tourism, the Award for theWORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.
THE HIGHEST TOURISM PRIZE
WORLD BEST TOURIST
DESTINATION AWARDED TO THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE FOR 2014
On May 3, 2014 in the presence of all members of the
European Council on Tourism and Trade, the list of candidates for WORLD BEST
TOURIST DESTINATION for 2014 was considered.
European Council on Tourism and Trade President is welcomed with thunderous applause as announced the news that ZIMBABWE is THE WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014.
Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of
European Tourism Academy presented a report on the 2013 Award for the WORLD
BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos. He stated
that the
Republic of Laos had leveraged the award in
accordance with rules and regulations, which proved useful for attracting new
tourists and investors.
In 2013, Laos PDR recorded the highest increase in
the number of incoming tourists in the world with a staggering 8% increase
during the 2013/2014, despite the world economic crisis.
An increase in investment, in the country’s tourism
potential and the number of foreign visitors were the positive outcomes of the
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for Lao PDR, concluded Professor Dr.
Mircea Constantinescu.
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea also praised the
outstanding commitment and achievements of Laos tourism in 2013. Laos PDR also
boosted its international presence, with European companies and tour operators
that advertised sites and trips to Laos PDR increasing from 1.500 to 3.200 in
less than a year.
On internet, the number of pages promoting Laos
biodiversity and tourism facilities increased from 20 million to more than 50
million, an unrivalled increase in the recent history of tourism marketing on
internet.
The 8% growth of the tourism industry, during these
times of worldwide economic recession, is also unmatched by any other country,
said ECTT President-Professor Dr.Anton Caragea.
On the debate for the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
AWARD FOR 2014, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on
Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presented a report titled: ZIMBABWE: THE PERFECT
AFRICAN DESTINATION; A SEVEN-WONDER DESTINATION IN TOURISM AND CULTURAL
POTENTIAL.
He proposed
ZIMBABWE as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 and as
receiver of the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2014.
The report noted that the reasons for awarding WORLD
BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 to ZIMBABWE were the following:
Delegates from across Europe voted in unanimity to support awarding ZIMBABWE-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014.
The excellent organization of the 20th Session of
the World Tourism Organization General Assembly from 24-30 August 2013. The
world gathering brought together tourism experts from more than 120 countries.
The successful organizing of this world event,
inspite of huge logistic and economic challenges, proves without doubt, the
capacity of Zimbabwe Government and the tourism industry’s capacity to organize
world level events.
Following a magnificent vision and the organisation
of a successful world tourism meeting, ZIMBABWE has unequivocally demonstrated
that it is a safe, open and perfect tourism destination.
The support offered to the promotion of Community
Based Tourism, which ensures the survival of sustainable tourism, with its with
low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection
of endangered species in Southern Africa. Community based ecotourism, promoted
by Minister Walter Mzembi, is a perfect way of sharing revenue that supports
rural communities’ prosperity through opportunities to market their foodstuffs
and handicrafts to the world. The way in which eco-tourism has become the base
for local economic development, providing benefits to communities, makes
eco-friendly tourism the lesson that the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is offering to
the world.
Victoria Waterfall-nominated as reason for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION TO ZIMBABWE
Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine
nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological
preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places such as: the
unique landscape of Victoria Falls; the National Parks such the Eastern
Highlands in Manicaland; the Mana Pools in Mashonaland West; Exfoliated Hills
from Matebeland; Chilojo Cliffs in Masvingo and the Matobo Hills near Bulawayo
etc. All these regions and national parks, are a model of achieving ecological and
green tourism that must be recognized throughout the world.
The ongoing development and protection of cultural
and historical shrines of the Republic of Zimbabwe, the transformation of
Harare into a historical and spiritual centre, offering to the visitors a
glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of Zimbabwe.
Harare- historical center of ZIMBABWE-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.
The preservation of outstanding historical and
cultural heritage in the form of the former capital of the Shona Kingdom, the
Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo, a fortified palatial complex from the 12th Century,
offering a rare insight into one of the greatest pre-colonial civilizations of
Africa, and a rare window into centuries old traditions.
Today, Great Zimbabwe Monument also offers
tourists an open air museum with a rare collection of historical and
archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.
The preservation of cultural and natural sites of
world significance and value such as: Great Zimbabwe National Monument (added
to UNESCO list in 1986), Khami Ruins National Monument (added to UNESCO list in
1986), Matobo Hills (added to UNESCO list in 2003), Mana Pools National Park,
Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas (added to UNESCO list in 1984), Mosi-oa-Tunya /
Victoria Falls and UNESCO candidate regions as: Ziwa National Monuments dating
from the Stone Age period, make destination Zimbabwe to offer an incomparable
contribution to the world legacy.
Great Zimbabwe-Capital of Shona Kingdom the reason behind nominating ZIMBABWE-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION FOR 2014
The REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is today a hot spot for
adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this special kind of
tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to welcome the adventure seeker, its
safety and peace, makes the country, one of the world’s top adventure
destinations.
Keeping alive indigenous traditions, allows
tourists and visitors to be part of the Zimbabwe people’s social fabric, which
offers the possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all
achievements that make the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE a first class destination.
After hearing the report, Senator Ionel
Agrigoroaiei, from the Romanian Parliament and Director of European
Parliamentary Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade expressed
the views of all present at the gathering when he declared that the REPUBLIC OF
ZIMBABWE is the deserving candidate, with a perfect record of promoting
eco-friendly tourism, ecological and socially oriented tourism, and that only a
unanimous vote in favor of the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, could express the
unwavering European tourism and economic communities’ support for such a world
model.
Mr. Victor Deleanu, ECTT rapporteur also presented a
report titled “ZIMBABWE: A HOT SPOT OF ADVENTURE TOURISM” which praised the
country for its safety record, infrastructure and hospitality industry’s
achievements that make Zimbabwe an attractive destination in Africa.
Mr. Mihai Prundianu, Chairman of the Trade Mission
of the ECTT, also highlighted the importance of the moment as the continent celebrated
50 years of African Unity, it is appropriate for Europe to express its
commitment to, and appreciation for, Africa by crowning ZIMBABWE THE FAVORITE
CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.
At the end of the debate, European Council on
Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
FOR 2014 TITLE TO REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE and to declare REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE THE
FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.
The meeting was also presented with the Official
Invitation, from the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality of the REPUBLIC OF
ZIMBABWE, for a delegation of high ranking officials of the European Council on
Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in
Harare, in person, to His Excellency President of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE ROBERT
GABRIEL MUGABE, the most outstanding personality in Africa today.
Awarding the highest world tourism prize of the
European Council on Tourism and Trade; accepting the invitation for a working
visit of high ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade to the
REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, are all momentous occasions and evidence of the
admiration that all tourism experts have for the potential and future of
tourism in REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, concluded Professor Anton Caragea, President
of the European Council on Tourism and Trade at the end of the meeting.
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR LAOS IS CELEBRATED
WITH POMP AND PARAPHERNALIA IN VIENTIANE
Between 5 to 10 May 2013 a high ranking official delegation of European Council on Tourism and Trade, under the leadership of H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) was invited for a working visit in People`s Democratic Republic of Lao( Lao PDR).
The Government of LAO PDR and ECTT delegation at the handover ceremony for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013.
The delegation had also the outstanding task of presenting to the people and Government of Lao PDR the highest honor in tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013.
The visit has being encompassed in the rapid developing bilateral relation between Europe and Laos, in a rapid evolving dialogue and a reciprocated desire to establish an extensive and consolidate partnership, Laos being presently the main partner of our European Council on Tourism and Trade in the South-East Asia area.
In the framework of H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea visit an inclusive discussion was held with H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao.
H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao PDR and H.E. President of Dr. Anton Caragea in an inclusive discussion.
Tabled at the meeting where the extension of bilateral exchanges in areas such as economy, tourism, culture and political dialogue.
H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao has outlined for European delegation an extensive presentation of the Laos economic situation as a country in full and ample development, with a rate of annual economic growth of 4 to 7%, and an expansion rate of incoming tourists of more than 20% annually and being counted amongst economic tigers of the area.
Also the Prime Minister had expressed the sincere appreciation of the Government and People of Laos for the instrumental role played by Professor dr. Anton Caragea in promoting Laos image in the world and in bestowing the WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION title for Lao.
On his turn, professor dr. Anton Caragea had emphasized the strong points of Lao: political stability, impressive economic development and the clear express desire to extend the bilateral relation.
The visit H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea lead delegation had included also an extensive dialogue with H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information, and H. E. Vice-Prime Minister Asang Laoly and Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith-Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Tabled at the meetings where issued such as the establishment of a Council for Business and cooperation, Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, Honorary Consulates and other structures destined to enhance the economic , cultural and political partnership.
H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information in a fruitful dialogue with H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information expressed his appreciation for the Professor dr. Anton Caragea support for Laos in championing at European level with considerable influence and energy the country as a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
During the discussion with Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara , professor dr.Anton Caragea had presented the arguments for Lao PDR being considered as a world power in culture and tourism , noting that in XXI century that values of a nation is encompassing the cultural and historical patrimony and in this regard Lao PDR is an outstanding country.
At the end of the meeting, professor dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy had bestow the title and insignia and certificate of European academician to H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information for his unremitting efforts in promoting tourism as a tool for peace and development.
Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy bestows academic insignia to Academician Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara.
The program of European delegation headed by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea also included a strong cultural element like visiting UNESCO heritage city of Luang Prabang, That Luang National Stupa, Vat Siseket temple, Vat Xiang tong, UNESCO classified monuments such as: Vat Vixun, Vat Phat Tai, Royal Palace of Luang Prabang, Phusi and Xieng Tong temple ad National Museum Kaysone Pomvihan etc.
Also a special program was carved off for professor dr. Anton Caragea as WORLD AMBASSADOR OF NATURAL PROTECTED AREAS to visit special natural; monuments situated along the banks of Mekong river.
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had highly praised the decision`s taken by the Government of Lao PDR to protect natural patrimony, environmental protection and sustainable development for this important touristic areas.
On 9 May 2013 in an impressive ceremony full of pomp and paraphernalia the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013 was bestow to the people and Government of LAOS.
The ceremony reuniting leaders of Government of Lao PDR, diplomats, academicians, business community, cultural and media representatives had included the presentation of the AWARD FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2013, the presentation of the main landmark beauties and scenic spots for tourism in Lao an emotional charged speech of H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information and concluding a large area of fashion presentation, music and dance spectacle that impress favorable the numerous assistance.
By the outstanding organizing the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY in Vientiane, the Government of Lao PDR had proved his extraordinary capacity to host international events and to organize high resounding world meeting.
The successful and felicitous visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation , the high level and inclusive dialogue with the relevant authorities of Lao PDR, the reciprocated vision of rapid evolving relations, the clearly marked economic, touristic and cultural opportunities are all testament`s of the desire to further extend the dialogue.
ACADEMICIAN BOSENGKHAM VONGDARA KEY NOTE SPEECH AT WORLD BEST TOURIST
DESTINATION AWARD CEREMONY
On behalf of the Lao government and people, it is my pleasure and delight to welcome all delegates to the presentation ceremony of the World's Best Tourist Destination Award for 2013 to Laos.
Today, the Lao government and people are proud and delighted to have received this honourable prize, which demonstrates the great achievements of tourism development in Laos. Laos offers impressive tourist attractions and services for tourists from across the world.
Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR-Academician Professor dr. Bosengkham Vongdara and European Council on Tourism and Trade high ranking official`s delegation in Vientiane.
I would like to take this opportunity to praise and express my sincere gratitude to the European Council on Tourism and Trade and all tourists for highly valuing Lao tourism and selecting Laos as the World's Best Tourist Destination for 2013.
I would like, especially, to welcome Prof. Dr Anton Caragea, Chairman of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, and his delegation to Laos to attend the ceremony and present the award.
The Lao PDR is diverse in languages, cultures and customs, which have been inherited from our ancestors over thousands of years. The country is rich in spectacular natural resources as well as having a long and civilised history and well-known archaeological sites, which further boosts Laos' tourism potential.
With great effort and a high sense of responsibility by the Party and government since the 4th Party Congress in 1986 outlined a comprehensive renovation policy to open up for foreign cooperation, tourism has played an ever more prominent role in the country's socio-economic development.
The government has defined policy and taken action to develop and promote cultural, natural and historical tourism. To facilitate the growth of tourism and services, the government has done its utmost to develop infrastructure such as building roads to link all regions across the country as well as connecting with neighbouring countries. Over the past 4-5 years, the government has exerted utmost efforts to increase the number of border checkpoints to integrate with countries in the region and the world at large.
At present, the Lao PDR has 23 international checkpoints, of which 21 can issue visas. Laos has four international airports (Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, Savannakhet International Airport and Pakxe International Airport). Visas have been exempted for citizens of Asean member countries. Laos has also granted visa exemptions to citizens of Japan, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Russia, Mongolia and Luxembourg.
The authorities have redefined that visas issued at checkpoints permit the holders to stay in Laos for 15 days, reduced from 30 days previously. According to Prime Ministerial Order No. 15 issued on June 20, 2006, these visas can be extended by the provincial authorities instead of only by the Vientiane authority as before. In addition, the government grants three-month visas to foreign citizens of Lao origin who acquire visas from Lao embassies, which can be extended for another three months.
However, visas issued at border checkpoints grant only a two-month stay with another two months of extension. After implementing the aforesaid tourism development and promotion policy, the tourism sec tor has grown rapidly. From 1990 to 2012, foreign tourist arrivals have risen by an average of 20.36 percent annually. In 2012, Laos registered 3,330,072 foreign tourists generating total revenue as high as US$513,576,784. By 2013 the number of tour operators had risen to 275 companies.
Hotels and guesthouses have also increased and in 2012 there were 3,526 hotels and guesthouses offering 35,857 rooms. Laos now has 1,493 official tourist sites comprising 849 sites of natural interest, 435 sites of cultural interest, and 209 historical sites.
Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR-Academician Professor dr. Bosengkham Vongdara deleivering acceptance speech for LAOS: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2013.
The Lao PDR shares similar characteristics with many other countries, such as different and diverse traditions and customs among its multi-ethnic people.
There are also impressive archaeological and historical sites such as Luang Prabang, the historic town and living world heritage site, and Vat Phou Champassak, which is another world heritage site dating back to the 12th century. In addition, the historic caves of Viengxay (deemed to be the birthplace of the Lao PDR) have become an open-air museum, while the Plain of Jars is expected to be listed as a world heritage site in the near future. The Lao PDR also has rich and beautiful natural sites suitable for development as ecotourism attractions and green industry without smog or hazardous pollution, which will become new relaxing sites to impress visitors from the region and the world.
Community-based eco-tourism programmes have become Laos' unique feature and have great potential because they give visitors the chance to get in touch with and taste nat ure, as well as the everyday life of local people and the customs practised by the Lao multiethnic people.
To translate the tourism development strategic plan for 2011-2020, the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism in collaboration with provincial authorities have carried out nature-based tourism activities with the participation of local people by making use of the local potential and conditions of each province. Such activities were first initiated in 2000 in Luang Namtha province, called the ‘Community-based Eco-tourism Programme'. Similar programmes now exist in all 17 provinces involving 40 districts and 160 villages, and have generated income directly for local people.
Because of these progressive great achievements of the Lao tourism sector coupled with the impressive progress made in socio-economic development across the country, Laos has been praised by tourists and friendly countries across the world, justified by the fact that Laos has been awarded many honourable and impressive prizes as follows:
In 2008, the New York Times named Laos as one of 53 countries it described as the world's top tourist destinations.
The world heritage site of Luang Prabang received the Top City Gold Award after being voted the world's top tourist destination by Wanderlust, a UK based travel magazine from 2006 to 2008, and again from 2010 to 2012.
The Community-based Eco-tourism Programme in the Nam Ha Protected Forest Area in Luang Namtha province also won an award for ‘best poverty alleviation project' and ‘best services' given by the United Nations Development Programme. And today, we feel proud and honoured that the European Council on Tourism and Trade awards Laos with the World's Best Tourist Destination Award for 2013. This honourable prize will make Laos even more popular among tourists across the globe, and will drive the development of the tourism sector in our country.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to Professor Dr Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, for highly valuing the development of Lao tourism. I agree with his comment that “In the 21st century, tourism has become an important bridge for friendship and relations among nations in the world; it is also a way to promote peace and mutual understanding and lead the way to a good future.”
The Lao PDR stands ready to continue to develop the tourism sector to contribute to establishing and enhancing friendly relations among nations in the world to make a joint effort to promote peace and mutual understanding, together entering into the proper future of development under the sky of peace, friendship and sustainable cooperation.
On this auspicious occasion, I would like to wish Party and state leaders and honourable Lao and foreign guests participating in this ceremony good health, success in your noble tasks, happiness and prosperity, and further contributions to the tourism development of our country for progressive success.
I would like, especially, to wish Professor Dr Anton Caragea and high-level delegates from the European Council on Tourism and Trade good health, success in your noble tasks and happiness, and to further contribute to promoting Lao tourism in Europe and across the globe.
LAOS
A CULTURAL AND TOURISTIC PARADISE BY PROFESSOR DR.ANTON CARAGEA
EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE PRESIDENT
Your Excellency Mr. Asang Laoly ,Vice-Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,
Your Excellency Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith ,Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,
Your Excellency`s distinguish members of Government of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao
Distinguish guests ,
We have all gather here to pay homage to an idea and to a country that embodies this idea.
The idea is encompass in the simple truth that: in XXI century tourism has become a bridge towards knowledge and friendship between peoples and countries , a way to promote peace and understanding , a road that leads towards a better future.
We have also gather here to express our appreciation for a country and a people that will embody in 2013 this triumphant spirit of tourism: the people of Lao.
I must re-emphasize that: tourism is in the XXI century, not only a way to enjoy life, to discover new places, new cultures but also a mass phenomenon that combines sightseeing, recreation and health care.
Tourism has become, in the world today, an intrinsic value of human life and experience and what I like to call a natural right of all people: the right to move freely, to express freely and to enjoy a life of adventure and discoveries.
Undoubtedly, for a country tourism is a constant and serious source of revenue, is becoming an important factor to promote development, to build roads, to offer to people a source of income and employment, a source of prosperity.
But, material significance of tourism must not elapse the true value of tourism: as a way for people`s to build bridges of friendship and tolerance , to discover different cultures, ideas and way`s of life, to embrace the beauty of being different .
We must also clearly mark that: tourism must be based on a set of values such as nature preservation, cultural and historical patrimony conservation for future generation and exactly for this need we have carved WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD as an international recognition for the country`s that are respecting this values .
I must say what a privilege is for our delegation to honor a country that is becoming a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
It is also a great pleasure to address our salute to the great people of Lao, a people that had build throughout centuries a perfect civilization, with hundreds of monuments of historical and civilization relevance ,a people that had offered to humanity countless riches: from religious temple and scriptures to literary texts and historical writings .
Today, Lao had become a cultural and touristic world power and the main credit belongs, without a doubt, to the great people of Laos, that from 1975 onwards is constructing a life of dignity, liberty and tolerance in a free country.
Today, in a world that rarely accepts and tolerates difference, we come to honor a country of TOLERANCE, in a world crowded with pseudo-culture, without a form and substance , we come today to honor a TRUE CULTURE , in a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real TOURISTIC VALUE, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for historical sites preservation , we come to honor a PARADISE OF HISTORY , we come to honor the People`s Democratic Republic of LAO .
Here, we have all gather to show our support for the values of humanity, of educational and cultural tourism . We are all here in the search for a country that offer to tourists a complete experience , a country that educates spirit, elevates soul and gives everybody a lesson in history and culture.
We all have found in LAO the perfect teacher in tourism, offering to all the tourist`s of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening tourist experience.
Among the reasons leading to awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS our report had taken under consideration:
- The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 12th century, the remarkable site from Plain of Jars, offering an insight into Neolithic civilization and a rare window into traditions of centuries.
A name that needs no introduction: the UNESCO heritage site of Luang Prabang, with the gems of Haw Kham and Vat Xieng Toung monastery.
I could continue for hours this list of treasures, but I will enumerate just in Vientiane- Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple of the city and the world famous That Luang complex.
Today, Lao is offering an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.
- The preservation of religious sites of world significance and value such as: Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important of world Buddhism monasteries and remains a significant place for the spirit of religion and traditional art. Other sites that must be mentioned such as: Wat Phu ( UNESCO heritage site) and Champasak Cultural Landscape ( under UNESCO recognition).
Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the Lao people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO in a spiritual destination of first hand.
- Promoting a new concept of community based tourism, friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.
Community based ecotourism is a way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting there foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make the base for an economic local development. Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering a social tourism it is a lesson that Lao is offering to the world.
Supporting Lao community tourism project as a way to spread wealth, it is a duty for everybody and one of the main reason for portraying Laos as a world example of democratic tourism , a tourism that is not only offering benefits to the rich, but to all people. Lao example must be appreciated and supported , and all tourist that are going to Lao must know that an investment in Lao tourism is an investment in the future of Lao people.
- Offering to tourists not only a historical and outstanding cultural experience but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: Nam Ngum reservoir , Bolaven plateau, Mekong river islands , Mekong river boat trip , Tad Kouangsi waterfall , the cave of de Ting . All this are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized .
- The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO, the transformation of Vientiane in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of Lao.
For all this reasons, among many others, European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS and to declare PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2013.
This title is an international recognition of Your work for Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO until today, in the service of history and civilization, tourism and culture , in the service of the people of LAO, but is also a challenge because now we are expecting your services in the future benefit of the world culture and tourism.
May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO , for a sustainable tourism and development and in a base for further success for SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL - Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO .
Is my privileged to award Your Excellency, as representative of tourism of PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS the award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 .
We congratulate You and people of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO for this outstanding achievements.
LAOS IS WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013
Professor dr.Anton Caragea opens the European Council on Tourism and Trade session to elect WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013.
On 26th of April 2013 in a public séance of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, gathering representatives of tourism organizations from European continent has debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2013.
Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of Tourism Academy had presented a report on the last year situation of the Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION that was dedicated to Trinidad and Tobago and it was used accordingly with rules and regulations and have being proving highly efficient in attracting new tourists and investor`s.
In 2012 Trinidad and Tobago had reversed the downward spiral in number of tourists and revenues provided by tourism and was the ONLY country in the Caribbean region that registered an increase in number of visitors despite economic crisis.
Increase in investment, increase in tourism potential and number of foreign visitors was the positive outcome of awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to Trinidad and Tobago in 2012, concluded professor Mircea Constantinescu.
Mr. Petru Lificiu, Minister and Vice-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade read out and presented the candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD 2013.
On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013 professor dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) presented the report titled : LAOS : A TOURISTIC AND CULTURAL PARADISE proposing LAOS as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013.
President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor dr. Anton Caragea presents the reasons for selecting LAOS as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.
Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 to LAOS the report outlined:
- Promoting a new concept of community based tourism, friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.
Community based ecotourism is a way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting there foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make the base for an economic local development. Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering a social tourism it is a lesson that Lao is offering to the world.
- Offering to tourists not only a historical and outstanding cultural experience but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: Nam Ngum reservoir , Bolaven plateau, Mekong river islands , Mekong river boat trip , Tad Kouangsi waterfall , the cave of de Ting .
All this are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized .
- The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO, the transformation of Vientiane in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of Lao .
- The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 12th century, the remarkable site from Plain of Jars, offering an insight into Neolithic civilization and a rare window into traditions of centuries The preservation of religious sites of world significance and value such as: Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important of world Buddhism monasteries and remains a significant place for the spirit of religion and traditional art. Other sites that must be mentioned such as: Wat Phu ( UNESCO heritage site) and Champasak Cultural Landscape ( under UNESCO recognition).
- Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the Lao people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO in a spiritual destination of first hand.
Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director in European Council on Tourism and Trade.
After hearing the report, Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, from Romanian Parliamentary and Director in European Council on Tourism and Trade had express the feeling`s of all present at the gathering declaring that: LAOS is a strong candidate, with a perfect record of promoting clean, ecological and social oriented tourism and that only a unanimity vote in favor of LAOS could express the European tourism and economic community decisive action in favor of such a world model.
Mr. Mark Doda, representing Balkan countries at the meeting had also stated the desire of peoples of South-East Europe to support a new model of tourism in the present economic climate, a community based tourism on Laos example.
In the end of the debate European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 TITLE TO LAO PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to declare LAO PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC -FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATIONS in 2013.
Delegates from 30 european countries voted in WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION competition.
It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of LAO for a delegation of European high ranking official of European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Vientiane, in person, to His Excellency Minister of Tourism Professor dr. BOSENGKHAM VONGDARA.
European Council on Tourism and Trade conference on WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2013.
Awarding the highest tourism distinction of European Council on Tourism and Trade, accepting the invitation for an working visit of high ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade in LAOS, are estimated all tourism experts as a good example of close tourism relations and mutual consensus between Europe and Laos, said at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.
We come to honor a NATURAL PARADISE , we come to honor the Republic of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO say`s Professor Dr. Anton Caragea
Your Excellency Honorable
Kamla Pershad Bissessar –Prime Minister of Government of Republic of Trinidad
and Tobago.
Esteemed members of the Government and Parliament of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago , dear guests and member of
diplomatic corp.
It is may great honor and privilege to stand today, before you,
honoring a country that is becoming a
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION .
Tourism must be based on values such as nature preservation,
cultural patrimony and history conservation for future generation and exactly
for this need we have carved WORLD
BEST TOURIST DESTINATION as an international recognition of the country that
are respecting this values .
It is always a pleasure when
I have the occasion to meet and
congratulate a representative of tourism industry that change the face of his
country tourism and of the region and
helped to build a new future for a tourism that is respecting the values .
In a world crowded by
images, without a form and substance , we
come today to honor a CULTURE , in a
world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real TOURISM VALUE, in a time in which to many speak
and do not act for natural preservation , we come to honor a NATURAL PARADISE , we come to honor the Republic of
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO .
We are all here friend`s of humanity, of cultural tourism , in
search for the countries and tourism values that are offering to all the
tourist of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening
tourist experience .
Among the reasons leading to awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 title
to TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the report take under consideration :
- Respecting cultural patrimony and traditions
in offering to tourists a possibility to participate in impressive paraphernalia
festivals such as: Holi, Hosay, Divali, Corpus Christi, Eid Al Fitr and special
Tobago Heritage Festival Tobago Fest and Trinidad GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH etc.
Keeping alive
spiritual traditions , integrating tourist and visitors in the atmosphere of
the islands , offering possibility of an enriching cultural experience are
achievements that transform Trinidad and Tobago in a spiritual destination of
first hand.
-
Promoting Trinidad and Tobago environmental protection,
especially East Coast natural patrimony of wetlands, beaches and ecological and
geographical biodiversity that make Trinidad and Tobago unique in the region.
Supporting a new concept of tourism friendly to nature, with low nature impact
and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species
and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.
-
Offering to tourists not only cultural experience or
relaxation opportunities but also the possibility to explore nature , to
contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to observed in Tobago
the impressive Forest Reserve are model achievements in ecological tourism that
must be world appreciated.
-
The continuous development and protection of cultural
and historical patrimony
of Trinidad and Tobago, the transformation of Port of Spain in an historical
center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture of Trinidad and
Tobago and Caribbean heritage.
-
Offering
to the tourist a large area of cultural and ecological impressive programs such
as: Wildlife Photography in places
such El Tucuche Reserve, Valencia Wildlife Sanctuary, Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Cave exploration (in splendid places
such as Gasparee Caves).Cycling, Hiking (Argyle
Waterfall –a special destination), Kayaking
(Paria bay and Tobago area).
We believe in a people that want to develop his
country and we are glad to observe that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago
also believe in his people.
We are believing in the future of Trinidad and
Tobago and we are proud to see the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is also
investing and believing in the future of Trinidad and Tobago.
We are believing that despite shortcomings and
problems, in Trinidad and Tobago there is the will to overcome this issues and
to step into a new way, a new future, and we are honored to see the government
of Trinidad and Tobago shaping this future.
This is a prize that was always destined to unite
peoples’ in pride, not to divide, to create a filing of pride and to inoculate
a desire to strive for a better future, and I hope this will be the case for
Trinidad and Tobago also.
For all this reasons European
Union Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD
BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012
TITLE TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO and to declare TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO- FAVORITE CULTURAL
DESTINATIONS in 2012.
This speech
was written after reviewing dozens of reports and publications of scientific value,
but it was lacking the knowledge of a major value of Trinidad and Tobago: the
people.
During our
stay we have meet the people of Trinidad and Tobago: on the streets, on the islands,
working in tourism industry, learning the art of panyard, or learn to dance
blending Africa, South America and Europe in a fiery spirit. To them is
dedicated most of all the prize: to people of Trinidad and Tobago , they are
constructing a future in which nobody will ask Why is Trinidad and Tobago
–WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ? They will make 2012 a better year not only
for tourism but for all the country.
For all this reasons Is my privileged to award Your
Excellency as representative of tourism of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago the award
for WORLD
BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012.
This title is an international recognition of your
work for Republic of Trinidad and Tobago until today, in the service of tourism,
culture and natural resources preservation and for people of Trinidad and
Tobago, but is also a challenge because now we are expecting your services in
the future benefit of the world tourism.
May this award be transformed in a support for
developing the international standing of Trinidad and Tobago, for a sustainable
tourism and development and in a base for further success for beautiful
Trinidad and Tobago?
We congratulate you Mrs. Prime Minister and people
of Trinidad and Tobago for this outstanding achievements.
