EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM AND TRADE
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ETHIOPIAN MINISTER OF CULTURE AND TOURISM Aisha Mohammed Mussa OUTLINES NEW TOURISM STRATEGY IN DIALOGUE WITH A WEEK IN THE HORN MAGAZINE

2/23/2016

 
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_On July 10, 2015 Ethiopia was selected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION, a selection that paved the way for the rapid development of country tourism industry.


On 12 February 2016 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia published the regular A WEEK IN THE HORN magazine outlining the New Tourism Strategy of the country.
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As Ethiopia is the elected WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015, European Journal of Tourism and Trade is presenting for the world readers the main outlines of this ambitious program:

Tourism in Ethiopia currently generates about US$2.9 billion annually, close to a million jobs and about 4.5% of GDP.

The Government, however, is determined to significantly increase the number of tourists during the 2nd Growth and Transformation Plan (2015–2020). The Ministry of Culture and Tourism plans to triple foreign visitors to more than 2.5 million by 2020.

This would make Ethiopia one of the top five tourist destinations in Africa.

Last financial year, 770,000 tourists visited Ethiopia and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism hopes to increase this to one million, and the revenue earned to well over US$3billion by the end of this Ethiopian budget year, by July 2016. To attain this the Ministry has identified five main focus areas for the GTP 2 agenda.

These are: natural and cultural heritage conservation and development; culture and tourism products marketing; service excellence; improve culture and tourism research and information systems; and enhance cooperation and collaboration with development partners.

Based on these focus areas, the Ministry now has clearly defined goals for the next five years.


Ethiopia‘s Minister of Culture and Tourism, Aisha Mohammed Mussa, recently explained some of the details behind the extra impetus the Government is adding to the development and promotion of the tourism sector in order to achieve and indeed surpass the ambitious growth targets it has set for 2020, the end of the Growth and Transformation Plan.

Indeed, she hopes that these aims can be exceeded if tourist sites can be developed quickly enough and promoted accordingly. She admits to being very ambitious in her vision.

The Government‘s interest in the sector has been underlined by the drawing up of a Sustainable Tourism Master Plan; by the revitalization of the Ethiopian Tourism Organization, to concentrate mainly on destination marketing and promotion, as well as destination development in terms of service, quality and access; and by setting up of the Ethiopian Tourism Transformation Council, chaired by the Prime Minister. Ms. Aisha pointed out the Ministry was now working on different websites to promote Ethiopia as a favorite tourist destination.

It was also working on changing the tourism brand and trying to build a completely new communications‘ campaign. This is going to be launched before March.

Minister Aisha is quite clear about the immense natural, cultural, and historical attractions of Ethiopia. It has eleven registered world heritage sites by UNESCO, with most recently the Konso Cultural Landscape, Meskel Demera Festivities and Fiche-Chambelala, the Sidama people‘s New Year celebrations, being added to the list.

Ethiopia is the origin of humanity, the birthplace of  Lucy‘, the world‘s oldest known almost-complete hominid skeleton, more than three million years old. It is the land of the Queen of Sheba, home of the Ark of the Covenant, the origin of coffee and of the Blue Nile.

It is also the home of Erta Ale, a unique active lava lake, in the beautiful Danakil Depression, in part below sea level and the hottest place on Earth. It has beautiful scenery including the Simien Mountains, a spectacular chain of mountains that are sometimes called ―the roof of Africa.

There are four biosphere reserves registered by UNESCO.

There are numerous Rift Valley lakes, hot springs and highland lakes even around Addis Ababa. There are various national and regional parks, such as the Awash National Park and the Simien Mountains National Park, among nine other national parks and two beautiful sanctuaries.

It has spectacular sites dedicated to the some of the earliest buildings of three great religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; with old cities, beautiful ancient mosques and churches, monuments. Axum, Lalibela and the Nejashi mosque are major sites that attract many tourists and, indeed academic researchers.

There are extensive national archives and a national library with rare and beautiful manuscripts. Ethiopia has its own unique calendar and alphabet. In addition, it has more than 80 nations and nationalities and peoples, all with their own distinct cultures and amazing traditions. On top of this, the Minister underlines, Ethiopia also has dependable peace and stability. Never colonized, it remains a symbol of independence for many in Africa and other continents. Addis Ababa, of course, is the seat of a number of international organizations including the African Union, the UN Economic Commission for Africa and more than 100 embassies. Conference tourism is another area of growth potential.

This entire heritage and the associated potential for tourism are at the centre of Ethiopia‘s plan to quadruple the number of foreign visitors by 2020.

The Minister emphasizes that the new strategy of tourism is a central part of the Government‘s integrated development plans. As the number of visitors increases, the demand for developed infrastructure also increases. Ethiopia has immense and untapped natural resources, a competitive labor force and stability.

These attributes make it a major investment destination in Africa, and this creates many opportunities for the tourism sector. Ethiopia‘s tourist destination sites used to be inaccessible due to inadequate road and air infrastructure, lack of power infrastructure and other facilities. In the past 10 years, the Government has carried out large-scale investments in the construction of airports, road, and railway and the energy sector; she added ―power infrastructure is our top priority so as to support this growing economy and we are doing well in this regard.


Overall, infrastructure development remains one of country‘s top priorities. Now, the Minister said, the Government is investing a lot into these areas. Tourists are accessing these destinations more easily and, equally, investors are keen to invest in building lodges, hotels and restaurants at the tourist sites or operate as tour operators.

Potential investors can take advantage of these opportunities through direct investment or joint ventures with local partners.

Tourism opportunities exist in the construction of star-rated hotels, lodges and resorts, international and specialized restaurants. The return of investment for government and the private sector is growing. The new strategy focuses on coordinating and communicating the many stakeholders at both the national and sub-national levels effectively in order to improve Ethiopia‘s image, market presence and penetration.

Along with this, another priority is education to provide the necessary human resources to work efficiently in the hospitality sector.

The Minister underlined the importance of providing market-oriented training for young people who want to work in hospitality, invest in the expansion of employment and proper professional training, to encourage entrepreneurship among young people, including women.

All this, she said, had to go along more generally with ensuring good governance and democracy in order to use this young workforce most effectively. Also important is minimizing the rate of corruption, ensuring the rule of law, accountability and integrity among stakeholders.

All these factors would contribute to the country‘s growing economy. One element behind this is, of course, the Government‘s strong commitment to end poverty.

Another is the development of clear and appropriate government policies and strategies for each and every sector that is leading us to the eradication of poverty.

The Government also works hard for mutual cooperation and win-win collaboration with partners in every sector.

The tourism sector has benefited greatly from the stable political arena over the past two decades giving Ethiopia some competitive advantage over other countries. It also works hard to maintain peace and security with neighbors. All in all, it provides a conducive environment for the tourism sector.

The Ministry is now planning to have a new brand and a new slogan to communicate Ethiopia‘s attractiveness and uniqueness more fully to the rest of the world.

It is developing new websites, software and mobile apps to promote Ethiopia. It is participating in different worldwide trade fairs in order to expand promotion and get better market access to tourism products. Equally, ―the current stress is on destination development and service excellence in order to sustain current and future customer relationships.

During the last Growth and Transformation Plan (2010-2014) the Ministry assessed nearly 400 hotels in collaboration with UNWTO, and in Addis Ababa alone 68 hotels were awarded with stars from 1 to 5. It is also encouraging the diversification of the tourism product offering to include nature-based tourist elements, such as mountain climbing, river tracking, bird watching, and similar areas.

The country has ample resources in all these areas.

Whether the Ministry achieves the longer-term aims, revenue and tourist numbers are already both up this year.

The country‘s image is continuing to improve as indeed the international media has noted.


Last year, Ethiopia was named World Best Tourism Destination‘ by the representatives of the 28 countries on the General Assembly of the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT).

The judges noted that the Simien Mountains showed the potential for national parks and offered a model of achieving ecological tourism that should be recognized throughout the world. They described Ethiopia as perfect for safari and adventure tourism, providing safety and peace, making the country one of the world‘s top adventure destinations.


ECTT President, Professor Anton Caragea_, said ―the Government of Ethiopia is recognizing the importance of tourism as a key facilitator for the country‘s development, investing in infrastructure, creating a special team under the Prime Minister‘s leadership for destination promotion and management and protecting the cultural, natural and historical patrimony of the country.

He said the community-based approach, promoted by the Prime Minister was the perfect way of sharing revenue, increasing incomes and supporting marginal and rural community development. ―Ethiopia, he said, ― is a perfect, safe and outstanding place to visit, and all world tourism experts have expressed their confidence in the future of tourism in Ethiopia.

Dr Ray Muntida, Advisor to IGAD‘s Sustainable Tourism Master Plan for the region, believes that if Ethiopia fully implements its Sustainable Tourism Master Plan by 2020, it really can become one of the five leading tourist destinations in Africa. Minister of Culture and Tourism, Aisha Mohammed, agrees.

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WORLD FAVORITE MUSEUM FOR 2015 IS ETHIOPIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM  

12/19/2015

 
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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ETHIOPIA, located in Addis Ababa, is a perfect resource for palaeontology and prehistory, the museum being filled with incredible historical findings, Ethnography and modern art.
We must also mention that the museum is placed in Ethiopia, a country who was selected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.

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The collection at the national museum is as varied as it is large; visitors have the opportunity to see fossilised remains of early humans, regalia and other memorabilia from former Ethiopian rulers, traditional and ceremonial costumes, modern paintings and sculptures and pre-Axumite findings.


No other museum succeeded in making on the list of WORLD FAVORITE MUSEUMS in 2015, but ETHIOPIA NATIONAL MUSEUM form Addis Ababa made it.

On the arguments that put the Museum on the right track in the cultural world where the refurbishing of a new wing destined to conserve their countries priceless artifacts and cultural patrimony.


The judges did not escape the fact that: the museum received during 2015 landmarks visits like European Council delegations and United States delegations, a moment that was not achieved by any other cultural institution during this year.

Uniting Europe, America and Africa around Lucy-the skeleton of the first hominid, is a success that only Ethiopian National Museum registered, during 2015.


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Selam-the body of the second most old hominide child-male.


NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ETHIOPIA is the only world museum that received the visit of American and European delegations during the same year. All around Lucy-the first human skeleton.



On December 15, 2015, on the function of the official opening of the 2016 World Tourism, Culture and Travel Awards, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea announced the Ethiopian National Museum of Addis Ababa is recognized as a WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM for his priceless artefacts and outstanding contribution to the human civilization understanding.



The Ethiopia National Museum made it on the list of WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM on the account of garnering the most relevant artefacts of the incredible history of Ethiopia.


The Museum is having in his exhibitions an outstanding treasure of crowns and objects pertaining to the long list of emperors of Ethiopia, coronation artefacts, imperial insignia and memorabilia.



The museum has also prided himself with impressive collections of weaponry, agricultural and everyday life objects from all the national groups and minorities from the territory of today Ethiopia, this makes it one of the largest ethnographic collection in the world and spawning for two millennia.


Of course, the crowning jewels of the permanent exhibitions at the Ethiopian National Museum are the outstandingly preserved bodies of Lucy and Salem (the oldest human remains in the world). 


If Ethiopia is proudly named the “cradle of the civilisation” and “the place where it all begins” than a visit to the WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM-the place where the forefathers of humanity are placed is a must for any human being.



In 2015 the Ethiopian National Museum received the visits of the United States delegates led by President Barack Obama, who praised the outstanding humanity’s legacy of Ethiopia and of the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates led by President Anton Caragea.

This visits where a proof that: the Ethiopian National Museum has become a lynchpin of culture and a most see stop over for all the citizens of the world. 



Religious art of Ethiopia: a must see and enjoy!

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ETHIOPIA CELEBRATED AS THE PERFECT DEVELOPMENT EXAMPLE ON WORLD TOURISM DAY 2015

9/28/2015

 
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European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea is welcoming attendees at WORLD TOURISM DAY.



On 27 September, as in every year, Europe will celebrate WORLD TOURISM DAY and 2015 celebration is a special one as the tourist sector is celebrating touching the benchmark of 1 billion tourists.


​2014 and 2015 WORLD TOURISM DAY celebration where concentrated on Africa growing role in global tourism rapid development.

In 2014 Zimbabwe-World Best Tourist Destination was the official country at the fore of the universal tourism celebration and in 2015 Ethiopia is taking the spotlight as the official center of WORLD TOURISM DAY CELEBRATION.

The WORLD TOURISM DAY celebration will be held across 27 European countries on 27 September 2015 and will be also marked at the European Council on Tourism and Trade headquarters.

On this occasion the Office of The President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade presented the message of President Dr. Anton Caragea on this celebration of world tourism.

This is the text of the message of WORLD TOURISM DAY-2015 emanating from President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea Press-office.

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 This year´s celebration of World Tourism Day must focus on the ability of tourism to transform society, to enable progress and to empower peoples and nations around the world.

Engaging peoples and nations in tourism progress is the dint by which we are building stronger and more resilient communities.

Tourism it helps people to master a variety of skills and to become masters of their life`s.

 One billion tourists across the world, are one billion opportunities for nations to develop, to integrate, to become better known and ultimately to progress further.
Tourism is having an all out positive impact on agriculture, construction or handicrafts.

In a nutshell, tourism creates millions of jobs and business opportunities.

Tourism is having the capacity to lift people from poverty, promote gender empowerment and help protect the environment.

Today on World Tourism Day, we are celebrating tourism inner ability to constitute itself in a primordial tool to achieve positive changes in communities across the world.

On World Tourism Day, I encourage the international tourism actors and key stakeholders to carve out sustainable policies and ensure that nations and communities worldwide rip the benefits of one billion tourists every year and enjoy the benefits generated by tourism.

   UNDERSTANDING WORLD TOURISM DAY IN FIGURES AND DATA`S

Fact sheet on World Tourism Day-2015

International tourist arrivals grew by 4.3 % in 2014 to 1.133 billion.

In 2014, international tourism generated US$ 1.5 trillion in export earnings.

ECTT forecasts a growth in international tourist arrivals of between 4% and 6% in 2015.

European Council on Tourism and Trade documents on Tourism Today

Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

European Guide for Sustainable Tourism

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

AMBASSADOR TIBERIUS PUIU CONGRATULATES MINISTER ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR FOR HIS EFFORTS IN MAINTAINING ETHIOPIA AT WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION STATUS 

8/26/2015

 
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During his semestrial press conference Ambassador Tiberius Puiu from European Council on Tourism and Trade Presidential Bureau praised Ethiopia`s Minister of Tourism and Culture, achievements and efforts, during the first month of Ethiopia holding the WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION crown status.

Ambassador Tiberius Puiu noted that according to President Anton Caragea visit and subsequent analyses Ethiopia tourism potential of 20 million tourist per year is fully substantiated .


Ambassador Puiu remarked that: President of the Council, Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, said during his visit: Ethiopia deserves the recognition conferred on it as the best tourist destination. 

“You should promote your country to the international community to erase the drought and famine image that some media posted on your country in the past. If this happens, Ethiopia can raise its number of visitors to 20 million over the coming 10 years,” President Anton Caragea said.



H.E. Mr. Ato Amin Abdulkadir- Minister of Tourism and Culture of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia activity  was highly evaluated.


The Minister announced  that Ethiopia has set target to secure seven billion USD revenues from tourism at the end of the second five-year Growth and Transformation Plan Period (GTP).

The plan is to increase the revenue the nation collected from foreign tourists at the end of the first GTP, the just concluded Ethiopian fiscal year, by threefold, Amin Abdulkadir Minister of Tourism said.

Opening new destination for tourists, expanding infrastructure networks and promoting tourist destinations are among the few things to be done in order to meet the target, he said.

Amin said, the government has taken a lesson over the past five years that tourism can be a huge source of revenue for the nation and a major instrument to eradicate poverty as today ethiopian tourism sector employs 700,000 people.

The Minister of Culture and Tourism evaluated also the hotels in Addis Ababa in a larger project to evaluate more than 400 hotels across Ethiopia.



Thirty-eight hotels in Addis Ababa awarded five to one star, in the rating underway for the past few months.

Accordingly, the classification was made based on 12 international criteria. Bedrooms, bath and rest rooms, guest rooms, restaurants, kitchen, sustainability of hotel service, security and employ treatment, are amongst the reasons.


If this fervent activity will continue we will have to hail Minister Amin Abdulkadir as the most active african tourism minister, concluded his presentation Ambassador Tiberius Puiu, on behalf of Presidential Bureau of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

EUROPEAN SENATOR IONEL AGRIGOROAEI BESTOW PARLIAMENT MEDAL FOR EUROPEAN ACADEMICIAN HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN-ETHIOPIAN PRIME MINISTER

8/17/2015

 
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On 10 July 2015, on a special ceremony, in the presence of European Council on Tourism and Trade President, the Government of Federal Republic of Ethiopia, Director of European Tourism Academy, ambassadors accredited to the country and representatives of different international organization, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn-Prime Minister of Ethiopia received the Romanian Parliament Medal for his outstanding merits in international diplomacy and in obtaining for his country the accolade of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and the sobriquet of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION.

The Romanian Parliament Medal was entrusted to the leader of Ethiopia for his record in promoting peace and international cooperation by tourism promotion, fostering development in his country and promoting Ethiopia as a world leader in tourism, culture and heritage protection.

The Romanian Parliament Medal was offered to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia in a public ceremony by Hon. Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei, Secretary of National Defense and Public Order Committee of Romania and Economic, Industry and Services Committee member of Romanian Parliament.

We must also mention that senator Ionel Agrigoroaei was elected in 2013 and 2014 as leader of activity of Romanian Parliament for his profusely activity on parliament arena.  

The latest world international personality, receiver of Romanian Parliament Medal was Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan-H.E. Erlan Idrissov for his role in promoting free and fair international election monitoring into his country, the proposal and the final decision was taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea. 

We must also note that during his official visit to Ethiopia, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea met for an extensive dialogue Prime Minister Desalegn Hailemariam, who, on the occasion of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY FOR 2015, was presented with the WORLD LEDERS OF TOURISM LETTER of European Council on Tourism and Trade, calling on Heads of States and Government to “promote peace and world development via the tourism sector”. 

ECTT and Ethiopia have agreed to reinforce their collaboration in the areas of tourism promotion, management of tourism product development, and cultural marketing strategies, as agreed in the discussions between Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and the 
Minister of Tourism and Culture of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Mr. Amin Abdulkadir.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF ETHIOPIA WILL PROMOTE ETHIOPIA AS WORLD BEST TOURIST &FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION FOR 2015

8/4/2015

 
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Friendly dialogue between European Council on Tourism and Trade and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia.


The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea participated in a dialogue and friendly consultation session, with State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia-Berhane Gebre Christos, during the President official visit to Addis Ababa.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined that keeping the intense pace of this dialogue was a priority and declared that it would further enhance the bilateral relationship, including by identifying new  cooperation opportunities.


Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined the consistency of economic cooperation, supported by the dynamic presence of European companies in Ethiopia and by the increasing trade between the two countries and our mission is to provide all the support they need to have opportunities for increased investment and business”, emphasized Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.


In his turn, Ethiopian Minister appreciated the dynamics of bilateral cultural and economic relations.


Minister Berhane Gebre Christos recalled the very important role of the European lobby for his country in international organizations and for Ethiopia being nominated as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015, an action that will have a significant contribution to his country’s economic development.


 “I thanked Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for the support that the European  personalities provide for the Ethiopian world stage profile and for supporting my countries initiative in the world of tourism”, stated Berhane Gebre Christos.


The Ethiopian official also thanked President Dr. Anton Caragea for its constant and sustained support that it provides Ethiopia for the latter’s accession to the tourism structures, World Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism international competitions and expressed confidence that President Dr. Anton Caragea would further support Ethiopia, in view of a positive decision in this file for World Capital of Culture and Tourism nomination.


In this context, he congratulated President Dr. Anton Caragea for the successful mandate and his Chairmanship of the Tourism and Trade Council.During the talks, the two personalities extensively exchanged views on the current developments in Africa and Europe, particularly in the context of the Somali crisis and the issue of migration.There was also an exchange of views on matters of interest on the international agenda, economic cooperation, cultural and diplomatic strengthening of ties.


Ethiopia-World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 special T shirt presented to State Minister-Berhane Gebre Christos.


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MINISTER AMIN ABDULKADIR SUCCEDED IN CREATING A CULTURAL BRIDGE BETWEEN EUROPE AND ETHIOPIA 

8/4/2015

 
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Minister of Culture and Tourism-Amin Abdulkadir, Prime Minister and European Academician-Hailemariam Desalegn and European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea (from right to left)-Presiding of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 ceremony.


During the official visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade Delegation to Ethiopia, World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, the official meeting between HE. ECTT President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia-Amin Abdulkadir has taken place.

On 9th of July 2015, H. E. Minister Amin Abdulkadir has welcomed the European high ranking officials at their arrival on Ethiopian soil.The minister express his country appreciation for European support, in electing Ethiopia as World Best Tourist Destination and Favourite Cultural Destination for 2015, a moment that will mark the full maturity of Ethiopian tourism industry.

Amin Abdulkadir-Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia presented with the promotion T-shirt for summer 2015 marking Ethiopia as World Best Tourism Destination for 2015.


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European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, graciously acknowledged the warm welcoming and stated that: now Ethiopia has emerged as the most rapidly developing African country, one of the world top level economic powers and a symbol of African development.I am pleased and honoured to be in Ethiopia-the Center of African tourism, concluded President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.


On 14 July 2015, a new round of talks was held between the two tourism leaders at the end of European Council on Tourism and Trade top level delegation visit to Ethiopia-World Favourite Cultural Destination.

European Council on Tourism and Trade President remarked thatEthiopia had succeed in the world competition for World Best Tourist Destination for all the right reasons and is today a paradise for travellers, an oasis for culture and history seekers and a perfect luxury and discovery destination.Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia -Amin Abdulkadir had presented his ambitious plans for fostering Ethiopia’s place on international tourism markets and presented his desire to continue the cooperation with European tourism body for years to come.Among minister plans are: to obtain for a city in Ethiopia the designation of World Capital of Culture and Tourism, to start a step by step and state by state developing process of tourism in Ethiopia.


HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir and H.E. ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, discussed a long term agreement of support and cooperation envisaging: holding of conferences, exhibitions, promotion activities and decided to concentrate in electing in 2016 a World Capital of Culture and Tourism from Ethiopia, in order to create a two-three years long campaign for Ethiopia-the land chosen by God!


Minister of Culture and Tourism-Ato Amin Abdulkadir presents Lucy-the oldest hominide to European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea and Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

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DISCUSSING TRADE CONNECTION BETWEEN EUROPE  AND ETHIOPIA

8/4/2015

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Europe-Ethiopia are preparing trade cooperation.




Professor Dr. Anton Caragea European Council on Tourism and Trade President was received on , 9 July 2015, by the Minister of Trade of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Yaekob Yalla, during his visit to Ethiopia.


The two officials reviewed the progress in the bilateral relations, insisting on economic cooperation and trade.


They expressed their firm belief that additional joint effort and intensified bilateral political contacts could boost the economic exchanges and help map out new investment and business projects of mutual interest.


As promising areas for bilateral economic cooperation, they mentioned the textile industry, the energy sector (hydroelectric plants, coal mining), agriculture and the pharmaceutical industry.


The Professor Dr. Anton Caragea urged Ethiopian business personalities to visit Europe and identify opportunities for economic cooperation.Moreover, he underscored that a rise in commercial exchanges could also be determined through the good offices of an European -Ethiopian Business Council.


He also assured the Ethiopian side that business people across Europe are aware of the huge Ethiopian market’s potential (with around 90 million`s consumers), given the wealth of natural resources, the strategic geographical position and this year’s positive democratic and economic developments.




Yaekob Yalla-Minister of Trade of Ethiopia receive European insignia from European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.


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HAVE A GOOD TRIP TO HAWASSA-THE HEART OF ETHIOPIAN LAKE DISTRICT-DECLARES Almaz Beyero

7/23/2015

 
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Hawassa-the perfect destination of the Southern Ethiopia




Hawassa is one of the most beautiful cities in Ethiopia, exploring the city is an enjoyable and worth while experience for both foreign and domestic tourists say`s Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of SNNPRS Tourism and Culture Bureau.


On 12th of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation landed in Hawassa, for a short stay in the city of diversity, as the capital of South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State is widely known.


At the arrival rostrum the high guests where welcome with a wonderful display of hospitality by Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of the local Bureau for Culture and Tourism and members of the tourism department and local mass media.


The delegation enjoyed a tour of Haile Resort on the outskirts of the city, a boat ride on Hawassa Lake and a tour of the city landmarks with a special lay over at Sidama Nation Tower-Sidamu Summuda. 


On the occasion of the visit of European tourism body delegation Mrs. Almaz Beyero presented a welcoming speech destined to present the city tourists attractions and to lure more prospective tourists to the city.


We present to our readers the full speech of Hawassa Tourism and Culture Office Head:  


Your Excellency Professor Anton Caragea President of European Council for Tourism and Trade


Distinguished Members of the European Union Tourism and Trade Council,


Your Excellency Ato Amin Abdulkadir,
Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia


Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,


On behalf of the South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State, on behalf of the People of the Region, and on my own behalf, I would like to take this opportunity to warmly welcome you all to our region.


The region is one of the nine national regional states of Ethiopia.


Our region encompasses diversified nations and nationalities, variety of land features and water bodies, and a wide range of Ecosystems.


It is home for 56 nations and nationalities that speak more than 50 languages categorized under four language groups.


These nations and nationalities have characteristic cultural values and an outstanding cultural performance that can attract the feelings of any outsider.  Moreover, our diversity is exceptional by being our beauty and the power of our unity.


Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of the local Bureau for Culture and Tourism outlines the Hawassa city  tourism objectives.

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Geographically, the region is situated in southern half of the country very close to the international boundary, Kenya and South Sudan.


 The Great East African Rift valley, the prominent geographic feature of the region, is the home of more than four lakes that are accountable for enormous aquatic diversity. 


The significant altitudinal variation and consequent climatic variation of the region results in ecological diversity.


Biological diversity in different life forms are maintained and protected in 7 national parks, 2 wildlife reserves, the crocodile ranch and many more protected areas.


The region has unforgettable historical resources. 


It is known for old aged monasteries, mosques, palaces, caves, defensive walls, megalithic stele sites as well as archeological and paleo-anthropological sites.


These historical heritages makes the region the owner of three UNESCO registered World Heritage Sites, one biosphere reserve and in which the best gift to the world , coffee is originated.


There are many more intangible as well as tangible heritages that are in the pipeline to be registered as World Heritage Sites, the two are already registered under the tentative list.


Your Excellency,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemens,


The regional government has been doing its best to develop, promote and properly utilize its cultural, natural and historical resources for the benefit of its people through tourism development and other means’s.


As a result, the tourism sector has shown significant growth in the past two decades.Especially in the last one year the regional government developed tourism transformation plan and established Tourism Transformation Council in all administrative levels to integrate tourism in its all development agendas. 


Consequently, the region is able to witness positive development in the sector. 


The selection and awarding of our country as  The World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 by The European Tourism and Trade Council appropriately comply with our ongoing effort.


This award not only insures the recognition we have at the international level but also used as a spring-board on our effort to transform the sector.


Therefore, the regional government is very grateful for what you did and I hope your support will continue till of our plan gets real.


Finally, I welcome you all again, and I wish you to have a nice and pleasant stay and enjoy the original taste of coffee, the hospitality of our people and their culture in our region, our city, Hawassa.


Hawassa lake: the heart and soul of the city of Hawassa and south Ethiopia.
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GONDER MAYOR EXPRESS HIS VIEW ON WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015: ETHIOPIA

7/23/2015

 
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European delegates are receiving a perfect Amharic traditional welcoming at Gondar Airport.








On 11 of July 2015,the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates where recieved in the medieval capital of Ethiopia: Gondar (Gonder).



The ceremony of welcoming the european delegates, attending WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY for 2015, was directed by the city mayor-Mr. Getinet Amare.

Taking opportunity of this felicitous occasion Mayor Getinet Amare wanted to give a message to all the world tourists: to come to his wonderful city and to enjoy the heartland of Ethiopia: city of Gonder.



The full text of Mayor Getinet Amare can be read here:


Your Excellency Professor Anton Caragea President of European Union Trade and Tourism Council.
Respected Gusts,


First of all I would like to express my heart felt gratitude on behalf of the city administration and the people of Gondar for adjusting your precious time for visiting this city which is the center of marvelous culture and heritage.


Gondar was founded in 1636 by Emperor Fasiledes.Starting this time on wards in became the center of modern architecture.


As a result the first and the largest castle was built by the name of king Fasileded – “Fasil Castle”.Different castles and churches were built accompanied the grandest castle within an area of 70,000 meter square.The birth of such a modern architecture and start of urbanization enabled Gondar to be the center of arts, Orthodox Church education, crafts man ship, trade and exchange which stepped up Gondar in to a ladder to become and serve as a capital city of Ethiopia for more than 200 years.


Gondar the home of a world heritage site since 1978 is 748 kilometers away to the North West direction from the capital city Addis Ababa.Many of Ethiopian’s impressive tourist sites are within a few hours drive. 


Bahr Dar, the Island monasteries of Lake Tana and the spectacular Blue Nile falls are within 180 kms to the South Gondar.


The Semien Mountains National Park ( a world heritage site ) with its breath taking scenery and rare and endemic wild life is of only 140 kms to the north of Gondar.Its altitude ranges from 1900-4620 meters above sea levels it is the highest peak in Ethiopia and the fourth largest mountain in Africa.Besides Gondar has an easy asphalted road network access to both Lalibela ( the most striking feature and world heritage site ) to the west, Axum ( the world heritage site ) to the north and Gedarif ( the Sudanese city ) to the east respectively currently Gondar has a population of about 368,435 and hence I warmly want to say welcome !


Mayor Getinet Amare and European Councilon Tourism and Trade President holding “Fasil Castle” iron model.

Picture
I want to assure you that we are very much happy and feel proud for the reason that our Prime minister, His Excellency Hailemarim Desalegn recived an award of “world Best Tourist Destination Ethiopia – Favorite cultural Destination for 2015” for his recognized dedication to boost tourism development in Ethiopia.


Obviously the current global experience witnesses that tourism is growing to the extent of becoming one of the world’s largest economic sectors.


Its role is so significant in improving gross income and production and in stimulating various economic activities ,creating more employment opportunities and reducing poverty in addition tourism development undoubtedly paves the situation for the development of investment , trade and exchange .


Having this in mind , we are required to guide our strategic and operational plans in a way that help us to maximize our benefit from the sector ; and simultaneously we are also required to work hard to improve and develop the necessary infrastructure, related facilities and addressing the needs of tourists.


So , we hope !


 Planned and controlled expansion and growth of tourism will be achievable through enhancing and maintaining common interest and partnerships.Wish you a pleasant stay in Gondar.


Getinet Amare-Gondar City Mayor
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    European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 TITLE TO REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA and to declare REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA- THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2015.

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