One may think that in a large and complex country like Zimbabwe, being a Minister of Tourism may be much easier than in other areas of activity. But what the international tourist visiting Zimbabwe nowadays might see is only the tip of the aisberg. Practically all the Zimbabwe economy is benefiting from and contributing to a successful tourism, making the tourism the third largest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product, after mining and agriculture sectors.

Dr. Walter Mzembi’s expertise in all these areas was extremely useful.

Mother Nature was generous with Zimbabwe. The numerous natural reservations represent a valuable asset and create a legal framework for preserving the natural resources and wonderful landscapes, as well as building a tourism structure. After our working trips and evaluations of many countries of the world, we know that only the beauty of a scenery does not make a tourist attraction and does not bring revenues to the people.

You need modern infrastructure, need people to provide services and stewardship, need financial and human resources, need communication and good will, and above all you need to be proud of your country.

Dr. Walter Mzembi knows all that, and since 2009 he and his team, with the support of the entire Zimbabwe government, developed and implemented a successful strategy for the Zimbabwe tourism.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is a born communicator and diplomat.

And this is not a pure laudation. The recognition of his merits in this area are confirmed by the appreciation of the Institute of Public Relations, by the African Travel Association, by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, by the Institute Of Cultural Diplomacy, and by many other national and international professional bodies.

But there are not the titles and diplomas that finally count, but the results, and Dr. Walter Mzembi, as Minister of Tourism of Zimbabwe got remarkable results since 2009. He realized that a continuous development of domestic tourism will not be enough. The tourism of Zimbabwe, as the entire Zimbabwe nation must be reconnected to the world.

It was not an easy task for a country that has been confronted with an unlawful isolation for more than a decade. The president Robert Mugabe, the Zimbabwe Government and Parliament, supported by all the Zimbabwe people, played and essential role in installing again Zimbabwe into the great concert of the nations.

Dr. Walter Mzembi was part of this continuous effort of communication and diplomacy inside and outside the country, and his role as Minister of Tourism was important and with remarkable results.

So there is almost no surprise that with remarkable personalities like Dr. Walter Mzembi, Zimbabwe was nominated as the 2014 Best Tourist Destination by the European Council on Tourism and Trade, award handed over by President Dr. Anton Caragea during an official ceremony.

As a recognition of his contribution to the development of Zimbabwe tourism, we are proud to hand over the title of Academician member of Honor and to bestow the Medal Of Honor to his Excellency Dr. Walter Mzembi, Minister of Zimbabwe tourism, and to congratulate his as the newest academician of our European Tourism Academy.

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presented the report titled: ZIMBABWE: THE PERFECT AFRICAN DESTINATION. A SEVEN WONDER IN TOURISM AND CULTURAL POTENTIAL proposing ZIMBABWE as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 and as receiver of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2014.

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 to ZIMBABWE the report outlined:

-                      The peerless organization of World Tourism Organization General Assembly in 24-30 August 2013, the world gathering of tourism experts comprising more than 120 countries.

The successful organizing of this world event, despite tremendous logistic and economic challenges, proves without a doubt the capacity of Zimbabwe authority and tourism industry to organize world level events and to host all level of tourism.

After the perfect support and creative vision in carving a successful world tourism meeting,  ZIMBABWE has unequivocal demonstrated that is a safe, open and perfect managed tourism power house.

-                      The promotion and support offered to a new concept of community natural protection supporting tourism friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest south-African eco-climate.

Community based ecotourism protection carved by Minister Walter Mzembi is a perfect way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting their foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make eco-tourism as the base for an economic local development.               
Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering eco-friendly tourism it is a lesson that REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is offering to the world.

-                      Offering to tourists and outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: the unique landscape of Victoria Waterfall, the National Parks as: Mana, Eastern Highlands from Manicaland, Mana Basins from West Mashonaland, Exfoliated Hills from Matebeland, Chilojo Cliffs, and Matobo Hills from Bulawayo etc.

All this regions and natural parks 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 Republic of Zimbabwe, the transformation of Harare in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of  people’s of Zimbabwe

-                      The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: cultural, historical and rich legacy of Great Kingdom of Zimbabwe, the preservation of the former capital of Shone Kingdom-Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo area with a world-class fortification system and palatial complex from 12th century, this are offering a rare insight  for tourists into one of the greatest civilization of pre-colonial Africa and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

-                      Today, REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is creating and offering for tourists an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological 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 Stone Age period with an incomparable contribution to world legacy.

-                      The REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is today a hot spot for adventure tourism offering a large area of regions suitable for this special kind of tourism and the necessary infrastructure to welcome adventure sicker, the safety structures and natural potential to rank amongst the top world adventure spots.

-                      Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE in a spiritual first class destination.

After hearing the report, Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, from Romanian Parliament and Director of European Parliamentary Committee in European Council on Tourism and Trade had express the feeling’s of all present at the gathering declaring that: REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE  is the perfect candidate, with a perfect record of promoting eco-friendly tourism, ecological and social oriented tourism and that only a unanimity vote in favor of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE could express the unwavering European tourism and economic community support in favor of such a world model.

Mr. Victor Deleanu, ECTT  rapporteur,  presented also a report on ZIMBABWE: HOT SPOT OF ADVENTURE TOURISM reiterating the highest praises for the country safety record and infrastructure and hospitality industry achievements that are making Zimbabwe the perfect destination in Africa.

Mr. Mihai Prundianu, Chairman of Trade Mission of ECTT also highlighted the importance that today, when Africa is celebrated 50 years of African Unity, Europe must express his commitment and appreciation for Africa by crowning ZIMBABWE as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.

In 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 -FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE for a delegation of European high-ranking official of 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 of today Africa.

Awarding the highest world tourism prize of European Council on Tourism and Trade, accepting the invitation for a working visit of high-ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade in REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, are all momentous and felicitous occasions that are offering the symbol of admiration that    all tourism experts are having for the potential and future of tourism in REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE  concluded at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

On 2 May 2014, Zimbabwe was selected from 27 candidate countries as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2014.

The group of experts of European Council on Tourism and Trade considered that Zimbabwe is encompassing safety for traveler`s with natural treasures and cultural legacy constituting the country in THE PERFECT AFRICAN DESTINATION. A SEVEN-WONDER DESTINATION IN TOURISM AND CULTURAL POTENTIAL.

The list of astonishing beautiful places that can be find in WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2014 -ZIMBABWE comprise:

Visit incredible museums. In search of wealth of history and heritage

Zimbabwe is one of the few African countries that invested heavily in promoting and conserving the richness of history and tradition in the country.

With a long history that dates back to over 30 000 years Zimbabwe has created world famous museums such as: The Natural History Museum in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences in Harare, Mutare Antiquities Museum and Gweru Military & Police Museum.

Visit the African rock paintings

A special attention must be paid to the world renowned ancient African rock paintings scattered all over beautiful Zimbabwe. The National Museums and Monuments has recorded over 2 000 known painted caves and sites, with the most beautiful being the Nzwatugi Caves in the Matopos. What of the numerous monuments and heritage sites that you can visit to totally absorb the meaning of being Zimbabwean from as far back as the 16th century. 


Witness the magic of Victoria Falls

Present on the list of all major natural monuments in the world and even in the less orthodox “Things You Must Do Before You Die” lists it is a visit to the incredible Victoria Falls.

Being listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Mosi-oa-Tunya as is known by the local tribes, the place is a World Natural Heritage Site of incomparable beauty. It is considered as the adventure capital of Africa, with more than 50 activities available for tourist leisure and activity. Lunar rainbows otherwise known as Moonbows at the Victoria Falls are a special spectacle to enjoy. It is an amazing and romantic sight for weeding celebration and vacations.

The indelible Great Zimbabwe — The Medieval Palace Complex

The name Zimbabwe derives from the ancient kingdom of Shona words “Dzimba dzamabwe” directly translated “houses of stone”. The heritage of the “Stone City” is the treasure of pride and achievement that has been handed down from an astonishing civilization that once has towered over south of Africa.

Once you are there you can take a trip in time and history, back to the medieval era and experience the rich history of Zimbabwe.

Millions of tourist has crowded over the ages to witness and enjoy this spectacular place of legends and fantastic stories.

You can see firsthand 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 century’s old traditions.

Today, Great Zimbabwe Monument offers tourists an open air museum with a rare collection of historical and archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

It is time for you also to discover it !

Go on safari on pristine wildlife and nature

Wilderness safaris in Zimbabwe’s game parks are a great thrill because of the high encounter possibility with the Big Seven. Hwange National Park is one of the leading game reserves in the world and largest in Zimbabwe. It is home to over 100 species of mammals and over 400 bird species.

Mana Pools National Park is another exquisite natural park in Zimbabwe that can be visited on foot and without a guide. Imagine the thrill of close wild animal sightseeing in the wild, b but take the necessary precautions as is not uncommon to come across lions and even some of the last remaining black rhinos.

Visit the Eastern Highlands

Here is where one can find the most stunning landscapes in Africa. The Eastern Highlands mark the peak of Zimbabwe with the highest point being the Mount Nyangani. The weather is mostly pleasant throughout the year, but can get a bit too chilly during winter.

The Eastern Highlands abound in scenic spots views, like the cascading Nyangombe Falls, or the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe being the two-tier Mtarazi Falls, or the Vumba Mountain overlooking Mozambique, and it is also the home of some of the finest hotels in Africa, world class golf ranges and is offering an opportunity to encounter the blue duiker and to enjoy the pine breeze.

Meet the Lake God: Nyaminyami  

Africa abounds in stories of fearsome god`s and deities but none so famous as the Mythical River God of Kariba, (one of the largest man-made lakes in the world). According to the local folklore Nyaminyami – the protector and guardian of the Lake, who had the body of a snake mixed with a fishes head, made occasional appearances above the water surface and offers food to the locals in time of need.

For those disappointed by the search of monster of Loch Ness searching for the lost God of Kariba could be a well spend time if it is mixed with watching the spectacular African sunset on lake water-front, or viewing the famous house-boats will sure leave an indelible memory.

The “Mighty Zambezi” is Africa’s fourth largest river. It crosses over the boundaries of six countries and is Africa’s only major importance river to flow eastwards into the Indian Ocean.

Adrenalin seekers should never miss an opportunity to try out the extreme activities available on the wild Zambezi River.

Popular activities include the famous white water rafting, kayaking, and canoe trips, in fact the list is endless.

Enjoying life in Tourism based community.

Supporting a rural community development via tourism and insuring the survival of sustainable tourism, with its low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species in Southern Africa it is another time well spent travel experience.

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.

Community based ecotourism 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.

See the Exfoliated Hills.

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.

In search of humanity most acclaimed places.

Once in Zimbabwe don’t forget to put on your to do list a visit to at least 2-3 major historical 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.

The REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is today a hot spot for first class tourism, offering large areas suitable for tourist to enjoy and discover and completed with the necessary infrastructure to welcome the adventure seeker while its conditions of safety and peace, makes the country, one of the world’s top destinations.

Welcome to Zimbabwe-World Best Tourist Destination to discover in 2014 !

On 14 April 2014 the Office of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade informed us that Professor Dr. Anton Caragea received on behalf of a European Union delegation of parliamentarians the EUROPEAN AWARD FOR DIPLOMATIC ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2014.

In the last period of time Professor Dr. Anton Caragea received two times the title of MAN OF THE YEAR for United States Biographic Institute, Romanian Senate MEDAL OF HONOR FOR INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS and 20 medals and decoration from around the world for his commitment in promoting a new diplomacy for XXI century.  

The parliamentarian committee had decided to award him for his key role in promoting European unity, in creating efficient and real democratic oriented organizations that are offering today world models of activity and for his instrumental role in carving a new image of Europe in the world.

The EUROPEAN AWARD FOR DIPLOMATIC ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2014 comes in recognition of this role in opening dialogue and friendly relations with Central Asian countries like Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, in chairing and supporting election supervision bodies that supervised the democratic electoral process and progress in Kazakhstan parliamentary and presidential elections, in supporting the democratic reform in Syria, in promoting the message of peace and reconciliation of peoples of Europe across the world , in promoting the reform and the democratic process in international bodies such as United Nations, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and supporting the plans for a general confederation between Europe and Asia in the framework of Eurasia Security and Cooperation Plan and to reform the 1975 Helsinki Treaty.

In all his actions, the voice of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea supported the direct democracy, the social agenda, the true national development and the freedom of speech and the necessity of engagement with the world area without preconditions, false and covered agenda and imperialist and hegemonic pretentions.

The Europe of today owes a great deal of gratitude to Professor Dr. Anton Caragea declared Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

Other parliamentarians like: Steliana Miron, Florin Constantinescu Constantin Popa, Dan Ionita, Daniel Fenechiu etc.   stated that:     

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea is widely recognized as a main European intellectual and lofty personality that is full heartedly engaged in promoting new concepts of international diplomacy, European unity, world natural areas protection offering by his lofty personality a wise leadership for Europe of today and tomorrow.  

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea accepted the EUROPEAN AWARD FOR DIPLOMATIC ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2014 with gratitude and declared that the prize is a sign of confidence on behalf on intellectual and true European believers, People that believes that Europe must not preach, must not threat, must not impose sanctions and consider himself as a power against the people. The Europe of today and of tomorrow must support real and direct democracy, must rebuke the imperialist cover agenda, the exploitation of people and must lead by example and by respecting the main principle’s   of international law: respect for suzerainty and territorial  integrity, refuses the involvement in internal affairs of independent nations, to relinquish the threat of war or the war as instruments of foreign policy, promoting the mutual respect between nations indifferent to the size or population number, economic or military power  all countries have the same rights and obligations. Making the base of diplomacy the mutual respect, bilateral interest, equality among nations and totally refuse the use of human right as a tool for promoting imperialist agenda and horrible crimes against humanity.

This are the ideal`s that guided and will guide my activity in the field of diplomacy and international cooperation into the spirit of development and brotherhood among nations and peoples stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea accepting the diplomatic prize.

The ECTT President decided to convene on 2 and 3 May 2014 the General Assembly of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

More than 200 representatives of major regional branches of European Council on Tourism and Trade, major tourism and trade firms and tourism specialized journalist`s will convene in Bucharest, in the landmark Palace of Parliament of Romania, the second largest building in the world and the first in Europe, a landmark of European tourism and architectural treasures.

It was considered as befitting that, the most important European tourism gathering to be held in the venues of the greatest building in Europe.

On the luxurious surrounding of Palace of Parliament, the body will have to decide upon the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2014 with 27 countries on the list, from all the continents, regions and climate`s off the world.

It is the biggest number of competitors in the history of the prize and this fact alone is speaking about the importance of the prize, the relevance of the competition and of the prestige that is encompassed in the European highest tourist award, stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, ECTT President.

We have countries representing the historical patrimony and the rich cultures of Asia, to the pristine nature of Africa and the traditions and historical patrimony of the black continent and concluding with the impressive tourism potential of South and Central America, declared Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

Other topics will be: the selection of the best city for tourism-World Capital of Culture and Tourism, analyzing the future of European tourism, electing new countries in the ECTT and electing new members in the European Tourism Academy etc.

In concluding the works of European Council on Tourism and Trade the main delegates will be invited for a discovery trip to Danube Delta.

Danube Delta it is an unique touristic and natural reservation, an area without similarity in European Union and the world, a wild life and natural sanctuary and the visit of all European delegates to the area will be not only a promotion trip, but also a discovery of a natural protected area that every European must at least once in their life to come and visit, stated ECTT President Professor Dr.  Anton Caragea. 

On 4 March, 2014 the envoy of Montenegro presented his country desire to accede as 28-th member of European Council on Tourism and Trade in a protocol meeting between Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Montenegro is a perfect destination of tourism, uniting a lavish nature, a developed infrastructure and a large area of hotels, motels and touristic facilities.

Also on the political side Montenegro is offering a stable environment, closer ties with European Union and had already opened the accession negotiation, all motives to be admitted in the European Council on Tourism and Trade stated H.E. Milan Bergovic, Ambassador of Montenegro.

Prof.Dr. Anton Caragea express his full heartedly congratulation for the recent successes of Montenegro and assessed that Montenegro could be an important economic and political partner to foster the dialogue between Europe and West Balkans and it was the time to amplify the diplomatic dialogue in order to sustain a development in economic, trade and touristic exchanges between the European Council on Tourism and Trade and the Balkan state, stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

Now it is an auspicious moment to promote economic exchanges, to fully exploit touristic potential of Montenegro, to encourage economic investment and to create a stable touristic relation, all this being objectives that we subscribe to, stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

Montenegro Ambassador had expressed his appreciation for the encouragement`s offered by Prof.Dr.Anton Caragea and had stated that the vision of a economic, politic and cultural special relationship between European Council on Tourism and Trade and Montenegro is a common shared vision.

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

The main topics had concentrated on increasing the trade volume, promoting economic investments, developing the legal framework for economic activities and expanding tourist liaisons and fully exploiting Montenegro special tourist potential, launching the bilateral cultural exchanges etc.

The dialogue was held in an open and amicable atmosphere.

On 30 January 2014, the taking office protocol and presentation meeting between Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and Ambassador of Federal Republic of Nigeria had taken place.

Nigerian special envoy presents Abuja and Lagos candidature for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM


Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea express his heart felted congratulation on the occasion of beginning of mandate of new Nigerian ambassador , asserting that between European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) and Nigeria there is a long and positive history of touristic, cultural, economic and political cooperation and a large area of common interests , designed to forge a good understanding .

The ECTT- Nigeria relationship needs an overhaul and a rapid intensification in the field of tourism, economic and cultural exchange areas, creating a better perception of Nigeria in European tourism, remarked President Anton Caragea.

Now it is an auspicious moment for reconstructing and rebuilding the framework of dialogue and friendship between Europe and Nigeria and bolstering knowledge, information and the presence of Nigeria in tourism, mass media and diplomatic and economic community of European Union is of great importance for Nigeria concluded President-Professor Anton Caragea.

H.E. Okechuku Muoh, Nigerian envoy, had expressed his satisfaction and appreciation for the encouragement`s offered by President Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea and had stated that the vision of a tourism, economic, politic and cultural special relationship between Europe and Nigeria is a common shared vision.

This year is especially important for the image of Nigeria as the country wants to hold WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM prizes for Lagos or for present capital of Nigeria-Abuja.

Nigerian Ambassador presented afterwards the candidature file of Nigerian capital-Abuja to compete for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM AWARD and of Lagos-Nigerian economic capital for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM FOR 2014.

If we succeed to obtain this prize in 2014 this will be regarded as a symbol of Nigeria status in the world, concluded Ambassador

Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade accepted the candidature file and promised a full and complete review by European Council on Tourism and Trade.

President Anton Caragea expressed question marks regarding the troubles in Central Nigerian Plateau area and other hurdles in this road for tourism promotion and acceptance, but he accepted the idea of candidature in order to encourage Nigerian future in tourism industry.

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

European Council on Tourism and Trade was the first institution to announce his support for Dubai in an impressive ceremony held in the Palace of Parliament and afterwards Professor Dr. Anton Caragea held meeting with Asian, African and European countries during an eight months period promoting Dubai candidature for World Expo 2020.


On the occasion of the 42 celebration of United Arab Emirates National Day, an important European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation participated at the impressive manifestation of solidarity and admiration for the extraordinary achievements of the UAE.

The European participation at the UAE National celebrations had become a permanent event as an expression of the rock-solid partnership and friendship instilled between the two countries.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade who lead the european presence at National Day of United Arab Emirates in the last five years held an important program of familiarization with the latest developments in the country and receive first hand information in holding talks with: H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan-Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, H.E. Sultan bin Nasser Al Suwaidi-Governor of United Arab Emirates Central Bank, Dr. Nawal Al Hosani-Director of Zayed Future Energy Prize and Masdar City ,H.E.Suhail Mohammad Al Mazroui, UAE Minister of Energy, H.E. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi-Minister of Public Works etc.

The visit was held between 25 November 2013 until 2 December 2013 and offered a high level political and cultural program destined to offer a large area of information’s to the visiting party.

The program carved for President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea included also a high profile visit to Masdar City, touring the premises of the solar powered energy city and getting acquainted with lodging, research and study facilities of the Masdar Institute of Technology and drive testing the latest electric powered car constructed on site.

The cultural side of the program included a visit to universally acclaimed Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, Yas Island and Saadiyat Island Cultural Complex and a safari experience on Al Ain desert.
European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation paid a special attention to the tourism facilities, leisure and cultural objectives developed in the last year in UAE and also analysed the future plans for development of tourism infrastructure.

Extensive presentation of tourism growth, tourism factors creating new jobs and opportunities for emirate citizens and boosting the United Arab Emirates standing in the world where presented for European Council on Tourism and Trade information.Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was also congratulated for his decision to uphold Dubai City candidature to host World Expo 2020, a decision that was echoed during Paris Séance of International Exhibition Bureau that voted with overwhelming majority to support Dubai as World EXPO 2020 organizer.

European Council on Tourism and Trade as an integral part of Europe is always true to the alliance and friendship with United Arab Emirates and promoting and supporting Dubai candidature for World Expo was a necessary and intricate apart of their long term cooperation, stated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

European Council on Tourism and Trade was the first institution to announce his support for Dubai in an impressive ceremony held in the Palace of Parliament and afterwards Professor Dr. Anton Caragea held meeting with Asian, African and European countries during an eight months period promoting Dubai candidature for World Expo 2020.

Supporting Dubai and United Arab Emirates as organizers of World Expo 2020 and constantly attending UAE National Day Celebrations are all testimonies of the strategic friendship that is uniting in a brotherhood spirit Europe and UAE.

This friendship becomes the strong bridge that is connecting Arabic Golf area and Europe, stated in his concluding remarks Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

On 14 November, 2013 a friendly and cooperation meeting between President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and Ambassador of Cuba had taken place.

Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea expressed his amicable fillings and friendly interest towards the recent evolutions in Cuban tourism sector. Tourism is consolidating Cuba’s economic development, is supporting the poverty alleviation programs and creates a platform for a higher standard in the world for Cuba.

H.E. Cuban Ambassador Ms. Ileana Hernandez made a presentation of the latest achievements in tourism sector and bilateral relations: opening new tourism resorts, hotels, adopting a brand promotion strategy, adopting a regional development strategy for different sectors of economy and increasing state support for tourism activities all this are building new bridges of understanding between European Council on Tourism and Trade and Cuba.

On this note, Cuban Ambassador present his country candidature for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 emphasizing that Cuba wants to be the first Caribbean country to be presented on the competition as a sign of recent development in his touristic activities.

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

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

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

Professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism had express his appreciation for Cuban desire to obtain the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2014 and declared that Cuba is one the most important contenders to the title and have`s a lot of arguments in his favor and this candidature will be reviewed and will be considered in due time with all the attention.

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

The Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan was visited between 2 to 5 November 2013 by a high level European Council on Tourism and Trade lead by the Council President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan is integral part of Republic of Azerbaijan and is favourable placed for receiving foreign tourists as is surrounded by Iran, Turkey and Armenia and could become a potential tourist hub in the region.


The European delegation visit to Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan was concentrated in analysing tourist facilities, road and communication and to explore the natural potential of Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan and also the cultural and historical patrimony of the outstanding region of Caucasus.

Amongst the highlights of the visit was the on the spot trip to the salt mine and health facilities of the Duzdag Health and Therapy Center recommended for treatment of a large area of long diseases.

In the amenities area also the delegation lead by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had visited the markets of the area and the facilities for producing world famous Ordubad jams.

In the cultural and historical leg of the journey the European delegation had embarked in a tour of city of Nakhchivan, a city with a 3.500 years history, a on the spot excursion to Prophet Noah Tomb, visiting Heydar Aliyev Palace in the city, carpet museum, a cruise to the ancient city of Ordubad, an incursion to the Nakhchivan Shah palace and to Ashabi-Khaf mosque and had observed a classical and opera spectacle offered by the Drama Theater of Nakhchivan.

Among the cultural and archaeological patrimony of Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan praised by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea where nominated Momina Khatun Shrine and Huseyn Javid House Museum as land marks of a cultural trip to the region.

Also ECTT President Anton Caragea had congratulated the Nakhchivan Opera assembly that proved that high quality music and classical entertainment could be provided in any region if there is the will and the resources necessary.

Opera of Nakhchivan deserves all the plaudits and is a witness of the genius of Azeri people concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The visit to Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan was the first visit of a European tourist delegation dedicated to analyses, assess and promote the tourist potential of this extraordinary region of Azerbaijan.

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Just two years ago the key words about Japan where summarized in the expression: lost decades. After 1990, Japan seems to be fallen in along period marked by stagnation and by natural disasters such as Kobe earthquake and more recent Fukushima tsunami.

On economic field, the country that once towered over the region as an international symbol of economic growth in the sixties and seventies, was struggling now with hipper-inflation, reduced economic competitiveness and the unfair competition of cheep and low quality products of China.

The man who succeeded in pulling up the country from tittering on the brink of the abyss: Shinzo Abe had managed also to enrich the economic vocabulary with a new term: abenomics (a strange mingling of his name-Abe and economics).

                                                         

What is abenomics?             

The economic policy that allowed a new Japanese economic miracle to appear was created by a seasoned and sophisticated mixture of direct state investment in economy and indirect state buying of Japanese National Bank bonds, a move that allowed for the credit to be cheaper and more relaxed and for interest rates to decrease.

This infusion of capital was not planed as a sole engine for economic growth  but was planed to aid and support private investment as the key factor in economic development.

State sponsored investment is just an auxiliary, a support and confidence booster in economic growth and an ingredient to further increase private confidence in economy.

Another key element of the economic stimulus plan is offered by the increase in competitiveness of the Japanese products by means of financial support, including currency devaluation that is insuring that national products are cheaper and more attractive and by fiscally backing increases in competitiveness.

Finally, what is making Japanese prime minister plan different is the accent on fighting the inflation and keeping it under control.

As a golden rule, any stimulus package must bear the responsibility of an increase in inflation. Is not the case with Japan where abenomics is creating a serious anti-inflation package with controlling the spike in wages, strict taxation and export oriented growth rather that stimulus of internal consumption.   

          

All are specific measures that are making abenomics a balanced experience between growth and inflation, competitiveness and exports etc. Finally, another trait of the abenomics that deserves our attention is the social management plan.

The pension system, social security and health systems are all regarded as pivots of the economic growth but also of national satisfaction.

Proceeding by this path the Abe government is not falling down the easy road of electoral charity, as done in United States or Europe, but is opting for investing the economic surplus in indirect social expenses that are enriching life quality without inflation as a side effect. 

A new inspired decision!

Abenomics-an international model?    

Once the first results of abenomics are becoming visible. the plan enjoyed a star status, many economists are predicting a role model for these economic policies, famous economic thinkers as Joseph Stiglitz, risking the prophecy that abenomics will be a successful blue print for world economy.

The general interest was also attracted by the elevation of economic situation at the level of national security agenda.

It is in this decision a message of seriousness and maximum attention that Shinzo Abe government is portraying as a supplementary strong point of the Japanese economy in front of the national and international private investors.

The status of national economy becomes as such an element of national security and your investments are sure, is the subliminal message that Japan is offering to the investment market as a new powerful arguments in his favour.

Undoubtedly, the news of the hay days of Japanese economy is a good news for world economy already deeply endangered by the collapse of Chinese economy.

The abenomics can be only used by the country which already has build a powerful economic apparatus, with a developed industrial mechanism like European Union members states or American economy, as we are confronted with an economic experience that is focused on refining the economic decisions in preventing inflation and insuring a healthy and stable economic development after the current world economic crisis.

As such the abenomics model must be understood and copied by the world economic powers in order to allow a solution to emerge out of this world economic crisis.

By this alone the abenomics can be the most valuable contribution that Japan is presenting in re-launching the world economy development and by extracting the world out of this auto-regenerating crisis. 

Today, thanks to abenomics, Japan can rest assured as his role model in world economic recovery is guaranteed.                                              

On 12 July 2013 the taking office protocol meeting between Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and Ambassador of Lebanon had taken place.

Prof.Dr.Anton Caragea express his heartfealted congratulation on the occasion of beginning of mandate of a new Lebanese Ambassador appreciating that Lebanon is a household name in trade and tourism in the Middle East and stated that the impressive archeological potential of Lebanon as the heir of Phoenician Empire is a testimony for the future of tourism in this country.

European Council on Tourism and Trade as the most important tourism promoter between Europe and Middle East is fully aware of paramount role in this direction and will try to support Lebanese efforts for tourism awareness , concluded Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.


H.E. Ambassador Rena Mokadem expressed here full accordance and the appreciation for the encouragement`s offered by President Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea and had stated that Lebanon is staking the future development on tourism and in this regard the best connection will be European Council on Tourism and Trade .

The Lebanese ambassador presented afterwards the candidature file of Lebanon capital-Beirut to compete for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM AWARD and of Lebanon for WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2014.

If we succeed to obtain this prize in 2013 or 2014 it will be a symbol of Lebanon status in the world concluded Ambassador Rena Mokadem.

Prof.Dr.Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade accepted the candidature file and promised a full and complete review by European Council on Tourism and Trade.


President Anton Caragea express question marks regarding the troubles in Middle east area and other hurdle in this road for tourism promotion and acceptance and maybe Lebanon is not yet fully prepared, but he accepted the idea of candidature in order to encourage Lebanon future in tourism.

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