European Council on International
Relations

European Council on International Relations has being voted as the BEST EUROPEAN THINK TANK AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION at the Bucharest meeting of european international relations and diplomatic experts from across European Union.

The meeting hosted by Ecological Institute of Romania and Justice and Law Institute of Romania discuss the evolution in international law`s and justice, the reform of European Law, European Court of Justice and Rome Treaty.

International Voters decided : EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS IS THE EUROPEAN UNION  BEST THINK THANK

On the conference the international visitors discuss also the impact of international think tank role in XXI Century world in offering alternative views to official point` s, offering targeted analyses and evaluation and offering assistance to governments and ministries across the world.

Also the think thanks are offering new possibilities to public diplomacy, that is extensively becoming the most important area of diplomacy as the nations states opportunities for diplomatic activities are shrinking .

The participants voted EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS as BEST EUROPEAN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION AND THINK TANK and a peerless model for European public diplomacy. In 2011 European Council on International Relations offered breaking analysis on areas such as Syria, Middle East, and Central Asia etc. established diplomatic links to important countries such as Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Algeria, Morocco, Venezuela, Argentine and Brazil.

Also EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS created in parlous condition monitoring missions, supported democracy worldwide, offered priceless training in diplomacy, international relations and elections organizing and monitoring.

The extensively and unremitting exertions for the public good of EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS offered to European Union an opportunity to express his values, to assert his unity and to offer a world model for public diplomacy , considered the participants at International Law and Justice Seminary.

On 13 December 2011 on United Nations Headquarters in Romania was unveiled the special initiative on protecting natural areas of United Nations Development Program ( UNDP) .

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , MA, FINS, EDA inspecting Chaguaramas Natural Rezervation in Trinidad and Tobago

On this occasion Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was presented with the appointment of Goodwill Ambassador At Large for the World Natural Protected Area. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was empowered to speak on behalf the ecological and protection program`s regarding protected natural area and to represent on world stage the necessity issues related to: integrating environment into development , environment and finance, local development, climate change, sustainable energy, ecosystems and biodiversity, ozone and climate , climate strategy etc.

In his acceptance speech as Goodwill Ambassador for Natural Protected Area Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had appreciated the wealth of Romanian natural protected area evaluated at more than 23 natural and national parks that are representing a priority for natural conservation in Romania and for the world. This regions will be a priority for me and also we have to emphasize the educational vision in promoting natural area protection and development, touristic opportunities, conservationist education programs and international aid. All this all the pillars of developing and insuring financial independence and sustainability for natural protected areas, concluded professor dr. Anton Caragea.

The discussion concluded with the UNDP Country Representative presentation of the UNDP plans main features: The natural environment is the foundation on which poverty reduction efforts and sustainable development must be built. Poor people everywhere depend critically on environmental assets and energy resources for their livelihoods and well-being. It is widely recognized that recent and ongoing global shocks, food, fuel, financial, climate change, have linkages, if not in some cases direct lineage, to environmental issues related to the use and management environmental systems and services. Therefore, mainstreaming environment and sustainable development, including climate change, in national development planning and implementation is central to UNDP`s poverty reduction and Millennium Development Goal mission.

Between 25 November -4 December 2011 an european media delegation chaired by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations, attended the 40-th National Day Celebration of United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi, at the invitation of United Arab Emirates National Media Council .

Prof.dr. Anton Caragea and Minister of Tourism and Chairman of Organizing Committee for UAE 40-th National Day Celebration: H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon

The presence of an European delegation at United Arab Emirates National Day became a regular event in the last years and a proof of the deepening ties between Europe and United Arab Emirates.

The European delegation held meetings with: H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan – UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Omar Abdullah, Department of Economic Development of UAE, Central Bank Governor – H.E. Sultan Nasser Al Suwaidi , H.E. Saqr Ghobash, Minister of Labor, H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon – Chairman of the UAE 40-th National Day Committee , Dr. Sultan Al Jabber CEO- Masdar City , H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak , General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Environment Agency.

 Professor dr.Anton Caragea and the President of Abu Dhabi Development Fund

Also european media delegation attended the open speech and meeting with people of Dubai of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai and was invited at launch by H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan – Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research at his palace.

 Professor dr.Anton Caragea and General Director of National Media Council of United Arab Emirates – Ibrahim Alabed.

Beside the dense official meetings program, the European delegation enjoyed a sophisticated cultural program destined to offer a glimpse of United Arab Emirates extraordinary achievements in the latest 40 year of independence.

The highlights of the cultural program included a participation at an Omani Classic Music Concert, hosted at Emirates Palace by H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan , a visit to Burj Khalifa –the world tallest building from Dubai , a safari experience of dune traveling , a visit at Zayed University where Prof.dr. Anton Caragea held a dialogue with the students, professors and academic core of the university and a visit at the splendid Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

 Professor dr.Anton Caragea and Dr. Sultan Al Jassim-Vice-President of Zayed University.

The visit of the european media delegation in United Arab Emirates is yet another demonstration of the ever deepening ties between European Union and United Arab Emirates in fields of culture, media, economy and political dialogue.

It is a rare occasion and a friendship declaration when European delegation attend National Day Celebration of another country and this is a supplementary demonstration of the brotherly spirit that unites European Union and United Arab Emirates( UAE). Finally the European presence on 2 December-the National Day of Emirates is an evidence of Europe`s people support for the UAE outstanding achievements and positive model offered to the world, stated prof.dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations upon his return.

 Dr. Sultan Al Jaber CEO of Masdar Green City presenting the future development plans to European delegation.

 The Governor of Central of UAE – H.E. Sultan Nasser Al Suwaidi.

 H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak , General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Environment Agency.

 H.E. Omar Abdullah, Department of Economic Development of UAE.

 Dubai – aerial view from Burj Khalifa – the world tallest constructing in Dubai .

 Emirati traditional dance performed for European delegation.

Grand Zayed Mosque – a monument of islamic art and ingenuity in the heart of Abu Dhabi

On the occasion of United Arab Emirates celebrations of 40 years of independence and outstanding achievements , H.H. Sheikh Kalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of United Arab Emirates addressed to the people of United Arab Emirates and journalist assembled for this occasion in Abu Dhabi the fallowing message:

His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan – President of United Arab Emirates

“Sons, daughters, brothers and sisters, Men and women of the Emirates, Salam Alaikum Warahmatullah Wabarakatu.

We celebrate today the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the UAE. Our country has made remarkable achievements that have catapulted it to the ranks of advanced nations, thanks to the sincere and tireless efforts spearheaded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow founding fathers who toiled in silence to initiate a march whose aims fit with our genuine national values and principles. We will pursue their approach in shouldering this responsibility with diligent work to achieve further progress and prosperity for the homeland and its citizens.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

On this great day, we offer our heartfelt congratulations and profound appreciation to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and to my brothers, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of Emirates, for their support and for the care they give to the march of the Union, protecting the country, defending its gains and meeting the aspirations of its children.

This Union that is with us today in terms of political achievement and socio-economic reality was neither a gift or a grant nor an easy achievement. Rather, it was the fruit of a good tree planted by our fathers who dreamed of the idea with hope, took care of it with their dedication to raise the flag of the Union as high as they could and strengthened its pillars. They are really the spirit of the Union; from their life and history, generations will draw lessons and will continue to carry the responsibility under the eyes of a glorious nation that takes pride in its past, its giving present and promising future.

In the 40 years that have passed, the State has channeled all of its efforts and potential to serve the country and its citizens. More than this, it has invested all of its resources and energies in the building of a federal, pioneering modern state in which the values of solidarity, coherence and unity have been deepened, the concepts of work, dedication and participation have been promoted and in which the sense of belonging and pride in the achievements of the glorious federal march has been upheld.

Men and women of the Emirates,

Your State has earned a prominent place in the international community thanks to what has been achieved over the past four decades in all walks of life. We have succeeded in building a robust federal government and active local governments. Our State today is ranked as one of the best countries in the world in terms of the efficiency of its services, its general policies and the credibility of the government with regards to local community.

The UAE is, moreover, acknowledged as one of the most secure and stable countries, as a lavish investor in education and in the provision of qualifications for its people. Our judicial system has also received appreciation for its integrity and for the trust placed in it.

The UAE has the second largest Arab economy, thanks to the robust and sound economy and prudent policies that are based on openness and diversification of sources of income. The UAE Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose from Dh6.5 billion in 1971 to Dh1,248 billion by the end of 2011. GDP per capita rose in 2011 to Dh174,000 per annum. The value of foreign trade went up from Dh13 billion in 1971 to Dh1,737 billion in 2011 while the share of non-oil sectors in GDP rose from 30% to 71% in the same period. The State has a viable small and medium enterprise sector (SME). The industrial sector has made remarkable achievements especially in terms of the increase in the number of enterprises. Large industrial complexes have been created, drawing in massive investment that has boosted the State’s strategy for developing the productive base of the economy and diversifying sources of income.

Yas Island Project is attracting investors from all over the world.

The UAE has become an attractive hub for businessmen from all corners of the world and a magnet for foreign investment. With its high quality investment climate and the diverse and enormous investment opportunities that are available, the UAE leads the Arab World in indicators of the macroeconomic environment, the securities market, the corporate and institutional environment, and international financing.

Although we concentrated on development of the oil and gas industries as the backbone of our economy and of the energy industry in our country, the State, at the same time, pursuing economic diversification and in order to meet the growing demand for energy, is setting out to invest heavily in renewable energy and nuclear power so as to reduce the consumption of conventional energy sources and to increase oil and gas exports. This approach is clearly evident through the Masdar Initiative and through the UAE being chosen as the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Our belief in education and knowledge as pillars of development and progress has been the motive that us led us to devote more care to regular education and higher education. Statistics show that from only 74 public and private schools in 1971, with 32.800 students, the number had risen to 1,186 schools in 2011, with around 800,000 students. There are also 76 federal and local government and private higher education institutions throughout the emirates, working in coordination and cooperation to provide diverse, high quality learning opportunities for our children in all fields of knowledge.

The government has paid special attention to the health sector and has worked diligently to provide high quality qualitative curative and preventive services as well as care for mothers and children. The UAE can boast of now having more than 92 government hospitals and 246 centres for primary healthcare and maternity and child care, compared to only 7 hospitals and 12 health centres in 1971. This is in addition to dozens of private hospitals and thousands of specialist clinics. The government is planning to upgrade and modernise the health sector so that it will become one of the best worldwide in terms of quality of practices, services, medical professionals, the percentage of Emiratisation, along with a broader contribution by the private sector.

Sheikh Zayed Great Mosque from Abu Dhabi a symbol of cultural vitality of United Arab Emirates.

As for the housing sector, the government has built and distributed thousands of low-cost houses and built modern fully-serviced cities across the country. Since 2007, the Ministry of Public Works has been implementing a national housing plan which aims to meet requirements of citizens over the next 20 years. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme and other similar government-sponsored agencies are also undertaking ambitious housing projects. We have also made prepared a national housing strategy which is now being undertaken in full coordination with other local housing initiatives.

It is appropriate at this point to express our appreciation for the role being played by the national committee which follows up implementation of the Presidential initiative to upgrade the basic infrastructure in various parts of the country. The budget for these projects, aimed at improving the standards of services crossed AED 7 billion. Financial support will continue to flow so as to deliver the objectives of these initiatives.

Our foremost concern from the outset has been to build an infrastructure base that serves our development goals in all domains. For that purpose, the government has built road networks, sea and air ports and has expanded these facilities to serve the country’s ambitions in terms of the economy, trade, finance and tourism. It has also launched a range of initiatives projects in terms of culture and information so as to advance its strategic policy to become a regional hub for media, culture and arts, as well as a bridge for civilisational interaction between civilisations. Capitalising on its state-of-the-art complexes and facilities, the UAE has become an important centre for regional and international sports events.

The government has made immense efforts to protect the environment, to improve water and natural resources management, to conserve biodiversity, animal species, and endangered marine and terrestrial flora, to protect and develop fisheries and to establish more nature reserves. What was done in this field under the stewardship of the founding father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a magnificent achievement that has earned our country a prominent regional and international standing in the sphere of the environment.

His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan- the founding father of UAE

In all development fields in the country, including the increasing contribution of women in the workforce and the provision of full social care to all segments of society with special attention being given to youth, and, in particular, the vulnerable (the handicapped and the elderly), the indicators of the progress achieved have prompted many international organisations to rate our country as one of the most prosperous and as one of those delivering the best welfare services worldwide.

Building on this, we will continue with our plans to further develop our human resources and build their capacity and skills, since we believe that the human being is the target, the end, the engine and the means of development. We will also continue to encourage national qualified professionals to take their natural place in the present renaissance drive to ensure a more bright, promising future.”

Brothers and sisters,

“The Union whose 40th anniversary we celebrate today is a social and collective responsibility. It is a project for renaissance and a continuous action plan. The selection of the ‘Spirit of the Union’ as a theme for this year’s celebration is a true expression of the genuine experiment which veritably embodies the originality, values and special nature of the reality of the UAE.

Keeping the Union’s spirit alive is something that can be achieved through the empowerment of the UAE citizen who is the top national priority and the focus of the vision for the future that guides all strategies and policies that the government will adopt, in all sectors, over the next ten years.

Empowerment of the citizen is our project for the next ten years of the Union – a project through which we will lay the ground for a more confident and strong national personality and whose driving force and cornerstone will be an active Emirati who is proud of his stable and coherent family and of his well-founded, dynamic community where security and justice prevail, where the values of voluntary work and of initiative are highly recognised, with a forward-thinking, modern learning system, an advanced, high quality health services, a knowledge-based sustainable and diversified economy, an integrated infrastructure, a sustainable environment, well-conserved natural resources and, finally, an eminent status on the international stage.

These pillars were the same that guided our founding fathers to lay the foundations of this State. And in meeting the demands and aspirations of the people, they agreed upon a constitutional framework for a federal system of governance that deals with people on an equal footing, that guarantees their freedoms, that unlocks their potential, that mobilises their resources, and that provides them with more opportunities through powerful federal institutions that perform their work in integration with local governments and in full coordination with other segments in society.

Our prime concern will be to deliver this vision and make it a living reality in a manner that realizes the aspirations of both the leadership and citizens for a more secure and prosperous future. The Council of Ministers will be responsible for transforming these aspirations into program that have specific targets and transparent standards. The Council of Ministers has already finalised the strategic framework of the UAE Vision 2021.

Honourable citizens, We are progressing confidently towards a decade that will be spearheaded by the sons and daughters of the UAE. I have a word for all leaders : heed the voices of the people, take them into consideration while you are planning, setting goals and making decisions. In a world that has diverse organs of mass communications and platforms for social contacts, it is necessary for governments to seek the best and effective tools of communication with the citizen everywhere, to listen to his voice, to learn about his trends and to respond to his aspirations. This requires that we should pay attention and that we should listen.

Abu Dhabi today – a modern city build for people.

Based on that, we assert that broadening popular participation is a firm national trend and an irrevocable option which we have chosen with our full will. We will continue to take it further forward, gradually and steadily, in response to the aspirations of our people for a homeland for which they can come forward together to serve and develop its society. We have successfully completed the second phase of the gradual approach we adopted as a method to expand the popular participation in elections and to empower the Federal National Council (FNC) and increase its powers and enhance its role.

This phase was crowned with the election of a new FNC which has commenced its sessions as a more vocal organ of the national will. We hope that the Council will perform its role in complete cooperation with the executive authority as a responsible platform for national issues and with a positive impact in decision-making.

Dear sons of UAE,

There is no distinction between one citizen and another in our State…… all are equal in rights and duties and the main purpose of government activity is to improve the quality of life, to ensure sustainability of reasonable living standards for citizens and to ensure that all enjoy equal opportunities and fair privileges in a sound societal and family ambience where all feel justice and stability. This is what we are pursuing through many development initiatives in sectors like housing and services across the emirates.

Within the context of these initiatives, education will receive a top priority, getting a major allocation in the federal budget for 2012 which will enable it to secure the required potential to develop its structure, to upgrade its output and to link it with the needs of development and the job market.

On top of this, the conditions of employees in education will be improved, and new advanced curricula will be introduced that deepen the sense of belonging and identity, promote the values of moderation and incorporate the latest developments in systems, science, technology and languages.

Out of our keenness to raise a generation that is capable of carrying responsibility and of pursuing the drive for development, the government has launched a set of integrated policies to build the capacity of our youth and to create an environment that will equip them to take part in economic, social, cultural, political and sports spheres and will stimulate them to actively engage in voluntary work and community development.

Towards this end, we have created a ministry to take care of their affairs and have established the General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare. Child care has seen spectacular progress with the creation of the Higher Council for Maternity and Childhood.

Emirates Palace- a landmark of capital of UAE-Abu Dhabi.

Similarly, we have made the empowerment of woman a pressing national priority. Thanks to sound planning, our State has an honorable record in terms of the rights of women; our women enjoy full rights, able to take part in all activities without discrimination. All the doors are open for the UAE woman to make more progress.

Brother Emirati men and women,

“Our country is forging ahead steadily in making progress and our national economy has weathered the storm of the global economic crisis thanks to its vibrancy, resilience, diversity and its sound legislative environment. Our economy today remains on track and flourishing, buoyed by the stellar performance of some economic sectors, the improvement in liquidity, and the increase in surpluses.

However, while expansion and diversification of the economic base and rise in growth rates are all important leading indicators, they are not an end in themselves. Rather, they are means towards the higher end, which is the happiness of man, the coherence of family, the solidarity of society, and the sovereignty of the state. This is the development model approved by the UAE Vision 2021, as a sustainable model of human society, whose target is to empower the society and to build the capacities, skills and knowledge of its members.

It is our roadmap for the future and the main way to address the challenges faced both by the State and by society. On the top of these are national identity, the imbalance in the job market, low productivity and the weak rates of replacement and Emiratisation.

We have already taken serious measures in that direction by establishing the Federal Council for the Demographic Structure, the National Qualifications Authority and the Khalifa Emiratisation Fund as well as other agencies. We hope the initiatives of these bodies will serve as a realistic prelude for tackling these challenges we are facing, like Emiratisation, the reduction of foreign workforce, increasing of the opportunities for training and the qualification of the national workforce in a manner that hones their skills and puts more demands on them.

While recognising the role and contribution from the business sector over the past forty years, it must be noted that this sector should display more commitment today in terms of corporate social responsibility, so as to expand its participation in nation building, in protecting the local community, in increasing productivity and in the provision of investment in development and training and in attracting national human resources by creating more job opportunities for them.

Dear Emirati men and women,

Our State is adopting a national security and defence strategy based on enhancing and supporting arrangements for maintaining public security and the rule of law along with developing skills and raising the efficiency of human element, in addition to our commitment to combating terrorism and all forms of alien organised crime and to dealing in a serious way with whatever harms internal security and stability.

With God’s grace, the UAE is today acquiring the ability to defend our national gains and to protect our vital interests. We have given our armed forces special attention as a protective shield for the sovereignty, independence and security of the homeland. These forces have efficiently kept international security and peace and have proven their high efficiency in delivering aid to brotherly and friendly countries. Our armed forces will remain a source of our pride and a depository of our trust.

Dear brother and sisters,

The current transformation in the Arab World has proven the soundness of the principles and pillars upon which our State has been based since its birth, which call for respect for the human being and his dignity, guaranteeing his rights as the backbone of stability of our communities and the essence of the security of the State.

We have built our foreign policy principles and practices on moderation, the maintenance of security and stability, the adoption of peaceful means to settle internal and external disputes, on recourse to international legitimacy, on respect for the rule of law and the aspirations of peoples, establishing relations of cooperation with all countries of the world which treat the UAE with all respect and appreciation and are keen to extend bridges of friendship with all its dimensions and forms.

The commitment to these values have been clearly evident through the approach we have followed in supporting the GCC joint action. We are keen to continue working with our brothers in the GCC to complete political, economic, security and social integration. And, as part of our membership of the GCC, we are closely monitoring the situation in our sister Bahrain, asserting our full support for the efforts being made by its leadership to promote national dialogue in a way that preserves its security and unity.

As we follow developments in a number of sisterly Arab countries, we affirm our respect for the choices of their peoples and express our support for the ongoing efforts to overcome this situation in a manner that preserves unity and cohesion and meets the aspirations of their peoples. We will also continue our full support to our Palestinian brothers and to their efforts to restore their legitimate rights and to declare their independent state. We are also committed to offer everything that will help to ensure that stability, security and development prevail in friendly Islamic countries.

As part of our international responsibility, our State is working seriously to enhance and coordinate humanitarian assistance and relief programmes and to provide aid development to developing countries, along with its contribution to international efforts for peace-keeping, reconstruction, disaster and crisis management, as well as responding to appeals for humanitarian relief.

This is confirmed by the UAE’s distinguished partnership in maintaining international peace and security, its effective contribution in various UN activities and its agencies and its pledging of assistance to the tune of billions of dollars. We remain committed to our principled policy to prohibit the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to engage with the international community to spare the world from the dangers of nuclear proliferation.

Brothers and sisters, The security and stability of the State is a trust and keeping it is a responsibility which doesn’t tolerate leniency or hesitance. Our gallant Armed Forces and our Police and security forces have been and will remain the strong protective shield and line of defence to earn the trust of and maintain the security and stability of the country and its citizens. We salute those commanders, officers and personnel on this glorious day for their dedication and faithfulness in performing their duty and for what they do to upgrade our national defence and security capabilities.

We also pay tribute to the children of the loyal UAE people for showing solidarity, allegiance, a unity in their ranks and a deep consciousness. We also greet residents from sisterly and friendly countries who are living among us.

Together, we have gone through major steps and have witnessed years replete with achievements and success. And we, with the aid of God, will stay the course of the triumphal march, steadfast and in full confidence, so as to reach that for which we aspire – a promising future of prosperity and well-being.

We pray to the Almighty that He may keep our country strong and secure and that He may grant us the determination and strength to protect it as an oasis of security, stability and prosperity.

On 1 December 2011 an European media delegation, headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and attending United Arab Emirates National Day Celebration, was received by H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.

The delegation headed by professor Dr. Anton Caragea witnessed the extraordinary and charged with love atmosphere of the meeting between Dubai Ruler and Vice-President of United Arab Emirates and the people of Emirates .

H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid-Vice-President of United Arab Emirates, prime -Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed his guests by reciting a short poem in which he reflected his nationalistic feelings of the UAE’s 40th National Day and his pride in the second of December which forms a turning point for the UAE people and leadership.

Addressing the audience, especially the young people who were born after the union, Sheikh Mohammed said that the age of 40 is the age of maturity, that’s why God sent down His revelation on his Prophet Muhammad ( peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) when he reached 40 years.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the 40th national day is the stage of maturity for our country which has made great achievements at the national, cultural and humanitarian levels. Through these achievements, he said, the UAE has not only vied with others but has also set an example for others to follow and learn from its long experience.

He added that contrary to what others, who live in prosperity and luxury today, believe, the way was not planted with flowers, but it was full of challenges and dangers in addition to other outside influences, which without Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid’s resolve and national sense such a union would not have been possible.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to point out that the most important achievement made during the time of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid and sustained today by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is man, especially the youth who represent the highest percentage of the UAE citizens. He added that the youth are the future and we, as leaders, rely on them and their ability to shoulder the responsibility and take the initiative to build their future and the future of the generations to come to achieve the national goals, hopes and aspirations of their people.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed hope that when the UAE celebrates its 50th national day it will be ranked as one of the best countries the world in all fields; our people, amongst the most civilized and forward looking of nations, by God’s guidance and the support of its leadership.

Speaking about his wishes before the establishment of the modern state many of which, he said, have been achieved today, Sheikh Mohammed said that when he had visited European and non European countries for study or tourism and saw great achievements in those countries ‘ infrastructures, armies, cultural and educational institutions and others; he wished such achievements would be made at home.

Talking further about his dreams and wishes, Sheikh Mohammed went on to say that he dreamed of a strong country, strong people, strong leadership, strong economy, and strong achievements, adding that when he saw the fighter planes during the Dubai Air Show, he wished his country would have this kind of weapon; now I tell you that our factory in Al Ain manufactures spare parts for these planes; this national factory is part of my national dreams.

Talking with pride about the perseverance and heritage of the fathers and ancestors, Sheikh Mohammed said that the people and the leadership of the country inherited perseverance from our fathers and forefathers, who have suffered hardship to keep alive and provide their children with food and drink. They used to dive in the dangerous sea to bring the fish to their children. They lived with all kinds of challenges in the Arabian Peninsula from which they started their journey to the world spreading Islam; they are the pioneers who defended their island and their land. I would like to tell you, young people, that despite all the challenges achievements were made and you, in the UAE, are harvesting the fruit of the challenges your fathers and forefathers had endured and overcome.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid-Vice-President of United Arab Emirates

Sheikh Mohammed went further to touch on the invasion of the Gulf region by foreign powers, which brought about devastation and havoc to the land and the sea, and destruction and exploitation of the riches and which adopted other colonial and abhorrent methods, forcing the people of the region to fight those occupiers and expel them to attain independence. After liberating their land from the enemies, our grandparents returned to fishing and diving for pearls. As a result, the pearl industry flourished and the people felt a kind of prosperity. Those people survived and resisted until they have become in line with developed countries, able to have influence on and make change in the world’s economic and political map.

He warned the youth against despair, calling on them to equip themselves with patience, perseverance and determination to achieve their ambitions through reviving the heritage of their grandparents and ancestors.

Sheikh Mohammed briefed his guests about the differences and difficulties the rulers of the emirates faced before signing of the Union’s constitution and the declaration of the state of the United Arab Emirates. In this regard, he said that the late Sheikh Zayed and the late Sheikh Rashid met in a tent in the Al Sameeh area on the borders between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, accompanied by some other people and I was among those who witnessed the meeting and the signing of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rahshid on the draft constitution, despite the reluctance of the rest of the rulers of the Emirates; Ras Al Khaimah was the last to sign.

He touched on the role of the British in fueling negative feelings among some rulers, using the method of “divide and rule”, taking advantage of the marginal disputes that prevailed during the consultations and meetings held by Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid with the other rulers; Sheikh Zayed managed lastly through his expertise, patience, wisdom and patriotism to convince them to join him and his brother, Sheikh Rashid and sign on the interim constitution, and then, he announced the Union on the second of December, 1971 at the Union House in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to relate to his guests the various challenges , which faced the union, which without the perseverance and insistence of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, our dream to live today under one leadership and one flag and have a stable, sovereign and an independent country, would not have been possible.

Commenting on what others write and say about the country and its people, denying us our values, culture, history and heritage and claiming that we are merely an oil country and luxury loving people, Sheikh Mohammed responded: yes, we are a rich and an oil producing country; nevertheless, we have our own civilization, Arab and Islamic culture and a history that is rich in achievements.

We possess all elements of a decent life based on equality, justice, humanity, and we reach out to all people of the world who need our support. “Concluding his lecture, Sheikh Mohammed recited some love and nationalistic poems, adding an atmosphere of intimacy to the gathering and knocking down barriers between His Highness and the young people who were happy with this talk and proud of their leader, wishing him and the UAE leadership all good health and glory.

Between 22-23 November 2011 was taking place the visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria H.E. Mourad Medelci.

Professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations welcomes to European Council on International Relations headquarters, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci.

The visit, perfect realized by the efforts of Algerian Embassy staff in Romania headed by the dedicated ambassador Habib Chawki Hamraoui was an outstanding succes in perfecting European-Romanian-Algerian dialogue and in reshaping the traditional friendship between Europe and Algeria.

The dens program of the visit included a productive dialogue with Romanian prime-minister Emil Boc , a meeting with romanian minister of Foreign Affairs –Theodor Bachonski ,a dialogue with professor dr. Anton Caragea and the board of director`s of European Council on International Relations ,attending the inauguration of the new premises of Algerian Embassy in Romania , the opening of Romania-Algeria Economic and Business Forum, attending a working launch with Mr. Emil Constantinescu , President of Romania ( 1996-2000) and prof.dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

At the Economic and Business Forum Romania-Algeria the European Council on International Relations had sent a 25 members strong economic delegation headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and representing investors and important economic firms from Europewith a combined economic powered over 400 millions euro`s.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci , Mr. Emil Constantinescu-President of Romania (1996-2000) and Professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

The Romania-Algeria Economic and Business Forum was unanimously considered as an impressive success because is the first major economic forum between Romania and North Africa region held in the last 10 years and also the first successful romanian-arab economic forum held in the last decade.

Was also generally praised the invitation launched at the Economic and Business Forum by H.E. Mourad Medelci - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria: “We wish to resume our bilateral relations, in a constructive spirit, and ground them on development and cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, civilian and military cooperation, cultural cooperation. ( The financial situations of our country allow us to fund, from our country’s budget, a five-year program (2010-2014) worth 280 billion dollars. This context is favorable and I would like to stress that in the framework of this programme, European Council on International Relations firms have already proved their competence in fields like constructions, hydraulic infrastructure and education. Therefore there is real potential for development and cooperation between the two states,” said the head of the Algerian diplomacy.

After the Economic and Business Forum a dialogue was held between Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

On the time of the discussion an honest asesssment of the situation from Middle East and North Africa region was made and also a discussion about the ripple effects in the region had taken place. H.E. Minister Mourad Medelci had declared that the analyses of prof.dr.Anton Caragea over the events in the region are read, analyzed and highly appreciated in Alger and are given all the importance.

Fallowing the discussion, a launch honoring Europea-Algeria friendship in the company of H.E. President of Romania Emil Constantinescu (1996-2000) and the architect of this successful visit, Algerian Ambassador Habib Chawki Hamraoui was held. Over 100 guests from cultural, academic and economy fields where present at the launch together with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci and Professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

Professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations and Algerian Ambassador Habib Chawki Hamraoui

The two day visit culminated in the Official Ceremony of bestowing DOCTOR HONORIS CAUSA to Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations and the professors and Rectores of Spiru Haret University of Romania.

The extraordinary achievements in trilateral relation Europe-Romania-Algeria obtained by the visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria- H.E. Mourad Medelci are a testimony of the efficacy of hard work realized by tireless Ambassador of Algeria : Habib Chawki Hamraoui had declared for press at the end of the working launch professor dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE AND ACHIEVEMENTS by Professor Anton Caragea PhD, MA, FINS

United Arab Emirates are celebrating the 40-th anniversary of independence and is having a lot of things to be proud of.

In only 40 years United Arab Emirates had registered an impressive economic growth, a huge development in infrastructure and is now among the most developed country in the world. But the impressive development is not only contained to economic development or standard of living but also is based on a concerted effort in building a civil society and a strong democracy.

Among news successes of UAE we must count: involvement of women’s in all political and governmental sectors, the equality of payment and treatment between men’s and woman’s and an inclusive political project that offers a strong voice to Federal National Council- the UAE Parliament in all country affairs. When 40 years ago Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan announced this visionary experiment uniting 7 emirates along a geopolitical destiny who would believe in such a glorious destiny. What was the secret of this astonishing experience?

The vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was an enduring one and based on the popular consensus and a geopolitical destiny appreciates prof.dr.Anton Caragea.

A visionary leadership.

One of the secrets of United Arab Emirates astonishing development is a shared vision that unifies along time the leaders and the peoples. Never in these 40 years was this contact and shared vision between leaders and peoples severed. This bond, this mutual trust and cooperation that allows leaders of UAE to build in full confidence of the people approval is one of the secrets of this solid construction of United Arab Emirates.

The vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was an enduring one and based on this popular consensus and a geopolitical destiny. United Arab Emirates succeeded thanks to this vision to exploit in the benefit of the people the large reserves of gas and oil building a modern country and not spend it on military adventure as other states has done. Also the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan vision enabled UAE to build a modern education and health system , one of the best in the region from a country with virtually no hospital and school only 40 years ago. The importance of education in UAE construction must not be overlooked, if today we have a successful experience of democracy building and open society this is based on sustained educational investment that offered to UAE citizens a vision of the world.

Finally the vision of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is brilliantly continued by the President of UAE H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan efforts in constructing Abu Dhabi and UAE as a success story. The new vision includes the solar energy exploitation, the green energy revolution, constructing the first ever green city: Masdar and building UAE as a society of XXI century. In Dubai H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of UAE also constructed a visionary project of attracting tourism and financial markets in an economic construction based on efficiency and rapid development. If one of the secrets of UAE success story is a continuous visionary and people connected leadership , we must also look at the history of this development and the geopolitical destiny of United Arab Emirates.

The vision of late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is brilliantly continued by the President of UAE H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan say`s prof.dr.Anton Caragea.

UAE a country with a geopolitical destiny

In 1968 Great Britain announced his intention to evacuate the former Trucial states , as the Golf states area where known at that time. This decision spell problems for the region, in north the Iran of the Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi was looking forward for this moment to assert his authority on all the banks of the Golf , tacking under control the Golf and the vital energy supply line of this space.

No other formula was acceptable; any of the adjacent country that will have take under control the area will also enjoy a monopoly over the trade and energy route of the region. From the emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan understood this geopolitical game and acted bravely. In 1971 uniting 7 emirates he proclaimed the United Arab Emirates (the initial plan included also Bahrain and Qatar but the negotiation has failed and only 7 emirates join Sheikh Zayed plan) an alliance destined to keep free the trade and energy supply area of the Golf . How difficult will be this task was clear from the first moment when the Shah of Iran send his army and occupied 3 island of the coast of the UAE. Despite this tense moment UAE survived and oil exploitation boosted the area.

An economic model under pressure?

Today controversial financial news are arriving from all over the world regarding financial crisis and difficulties but United Arab Emirates seems to have found the way out of the crisis into a new time of development and successes and this because we must never forget the strong fundaments of the UAE economy.

First off all UAE are enjoying a reserve of oil and gas lasting for at list 100 years from now, offering a steady income of more than 50 billion euro annually .This numbers could be misleading, the common perception is that UAE is depending on oil and gas but this perception is false, more than 64% of the GDP is offered by non-oil sectors. Long before the crisis hit the UAE decided to develop the non oil sectors like trade, finance, real estate, manufacturing and this sector survived to economic crisis offering to UAE the status of a country non-depending on natural reserves exports. Today UAE are enjoying in a crisis year a steady growth, investments are continuing to come and a massive financial reserve makes a stable currency and a low inflation economy.

This economic model is not under question, UAE are still on growth and on geopolitical climate of the region investing here is still a wise move.

H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of UAE also constructed a visionary project of attracting tourism and financial markets to UAE economy.

Energy revolution.

This economic model could not be understood if we not see the UAE participation in a new energy revolution. Rich in oil and gas UAE is not forgetting that this wealth will eventually ceased to exist or will become to expensive to exploit or to ecological detrimental, so they choose to invest in solar energy. With 365 day a year with clear sky the UAE could not only suffices his one energy demands but also be a world suppliers of green energy and technology. Investing in projects like Masdar City, a city that will supply 100% percent of the necessary energy from green sources UAE is proving that there is life after fossil energy. Investing in this energy of the future not only will assure UAE energy demand but also will be an important part of the economic growth , already in Germany an important solar plant property of UAE is launching a bid to make green energy for European Union.

Gulf Cooperation Council – a body with a geopolitical mission.

In 1971 Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan already wanted an inclusive state, but this option could not be put into life at that time . Today this vision is alive by the creation of Golf Cooperation Council ( GCC) uniting the Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia , Qatar and Oman. Today GCC is assuring the survival of the mission of keeping open for trade and energy supplies the waters of the Golf . The efficacy of GCC was proven in the Iraq-Iran war in the eighties and in Iraq –West tension after the 1991 Gulf War.

United Arab Emirates not only constructed a powerful and modern navy able to keep open the waters and make safe the supplies but also became the symbol of a strong allied of the western democracy , capable to support democracy building mission, peace keeping activities and investing in reconstruction projects in war torn countries. Sheikh Khalifa bin Sultan Al Nahyan (the son of deceased Sheikh Zayed and the continuator of his vision) declared that the geopolitical mission of UAE is to promote a unity of the Golf area and his example is an example of hope: unity is a conviction and a belief.

Now after 40 year from the UAE independence proclamation, in what it was at that time a small city: Abu Dhabi, the world is having a positive model. A powerful economy, a unity of 7 emirates without tensions or conflicts, a political balanced system of federal states and of unify governments, a balance of democracy, efficiency, respect for Islam and open society in a delicate area.

We have an example of a Golf state that is building a future society and we have the proof that oil is not necessary a curse (as many can believe) if we can build on it and we not make it the only reason for life. Oil is just a mean to an end.

United Arab Emirates are just teaching us this lesson.

KAZAKHSTAN: 20 YEARS OF FULFILLED PROMISES  say`s Professor Anton Caragea - European Council on International Relations President

The Presidium of International Academic Conference on Kazakhstan : Presidents of Romania : Emil Constantinescu and Ion Iliescu , H.E. Kairat Aman -Kazakhstan Charge d`affairs , prof.Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on International Relations , prof.dr. Viorel Lefter, prof.dr. Mircea Constantinescu , Deputy Catalin Nechifor 

On 15 November 2011 Bucharest, capital of Romania, hosted the International Academic Conference: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. PEACE AND CONSTRUCTION. The Conference was hosted and organized by the European Council on International Relations and Kazakhstan Diplomatic Mission in Romania and had enjoyed the presence of President of Romania Mr. Ion Iliescu and President of Romania Mr. Emil Constantinescu , representatives of Romanian Parliament, Romanian Government and European Union academics etc.

Professor dr. Anton Caragea -President of European Council on International Relations.

The conference was opened by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- President of European Council on International Relations who presented the speech: KAZAKHSTAN – 20 YEARS OF FULFILLED PROMISES, outlining the transformation of Kazakhstan from an energy dependent country into a world energy supplier, a powerful state, with consolidated democracy, market economy, social development and exporter of stability in Central Asia region.

 H.E. Kairat Aman – Charge d`affairs of Kazakhstan speaking at : KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE.

The speech of Professor Anton Caragea was fallowed by welcoming remarks of H.E. Kairat Aman , Charge d`Affairs of Kazakhstan Mission, who presented the astonishing accomplishments of Kazakhstan in reaching economic development , social and cultural enlightenment of his population and constructing a powerful democracy based on people consensus.

President Emil Constantinescu of Romania ( 1996-2000) praising Kazakhstan consolidated democracy.

Professor Dr. Emil Constantinescu, President of Romania (1996-2000), presented a report entitled: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. 20 YEARS OF DEMOCRATIC CONSTRUCTION, emphasizing the democratic credential of Kazakhstan , the success of holding free and fair elections, constructing a powerful civil society at the highest democratic standards.

 President of Romania Ion Iliescu ( 1990-1996; 2000-2004 ) speaking about Kazakhstan and world economy.

Mr. Ion Iliescu, President of Romania (1990-1996; 2000-2004), had presented a report titled: KAZAKHSTAN AND WORLD ECONOMY GLOBALIZATION. The report is pressing on the impressive successes of Kazakhstan in the last 20 years: reconstructing Silk Road in transport and energy supplies lines, in promoting regional economic cooperation and in developing social and cultural status of people of Kazakhstan.

President Nursultan Nazarbaev has constructing a powerful and successful Kazakhstan, that everybody could be proud, concluded President Ion Iliescu.

 Member of Romanian Parliament : Catalin Nechifor congratulating Kazakhstan as a bridge between Europe and Asia.

The other speeches where held by Catalin Nechifor , member of Romanian Parliament and Vice-President of Romania –Kazakhstan Friendship Parliamentary Group and by Dr. Mircea Constantinescu- Director of European Diplomatic Academy of European Council on International Relations. The two key note speeches had reflected the astonishing successes of Kazakhstan latest 20 years of independence : democracy, development , high standard of living , security and promoting international cooperation via international organization presided by Kazakhstan such as: Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe (2010) and Organization of Islamic Conference (2011).

First chair line: H.E. Ambassador of Nigeria – Mba Ama Mba , H.E. Ambassador of State of Palestine Ahmad Aqel , H.E. Ambassador of United Arab Emirates – Yacoub Yousef Al Hosani , H.E. Ambassador of Macedonia – Ljupco Arsovski

Second chair line: H.E. Ambassador of Sudan – Yasir Abdelsalam Ahmed

The impressive academic manifestation had enjoyed a large presence of Diplomatic Corp accredited in EuropeanUnion and Romania, mass media organizations and over 500 academics from Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation , Romanian Academy of Sciences , European Council on International Relations , Romanian Academy of Economic Science, European Diplomatic Academy etc.

The most outstanding representatives of Diplomatic Corp accredited to Romania attended the International Conference on Kazakhstan.

The International Academic Conference: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. PEACE AND CONSTRUCTION was the most important conference dedicated to Kazakhstan Independence celebration in European Union and was an example of the interest generated by Kazakhstan on world stage and of brotherly relations between European Union, Romania and Kazakhstan.

Professor dr. Anton Caragea presiding over European Council on International Relations - European Diplomatic Academy saluted 20 Years of independence of Kazakhstan.

Discussion before the conference.

Friends of European Union and Kazakhstan. Ambassadors presents on the venue of the International Conference on Kazakhstan 20 years of independence.

The year 2011 is marking the 20 years anniversary of Kazakhstan independence. In the short time span of only two decades Kazakhstan had succeeded an impressive transformation into a country that is today the main energy supplier from Central Asia, a renamed military and politic stability supplier for the area and a country with outstanding diplomatic results as the leader of Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 2010 and of Islamic conference Organization in 2011.

President Emil Constantinescu of Romania , Honorary Member of EUCIR and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- European Council on International Relations ( EUCIR ) President.  

This seasoned and sophisticated nation building example will be under scrutiny by the European intellectual elite on 15 November 2011 International Academic Conference: KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEAR OF INDEPENDENCE. PEACE AND CONSTRUCTION.

The Conference hosted and organized by the European Council on International Relations and Kazakhstan Diplomatic Mission in Romania will benefit from the presence of President Ion Iliescu , who 20 years ago signed the diplomatic recognition of Kazakhstan and President Emil Constantinescu who developed Romania- Kazakhstan relationship.

Among the prestigious key note speakers we can count: Mr. Catalin Nechifor – Vice-President of Romania-Kazakhstan Parliamentary Friendship Group, Dr. Petru Lificiu, Vice-President of National Energy Agency (ANRE), Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- President of European Council on International Relations and Professor Mircea Constantinescu – Director of European Council on International Relations etc.

Mr. Ion Iliescu -President of Romania and Honorary Member of EUCIR and professor Dr. Anton Caragea -President of EUCIR.

The International Academic Conference will also receive special congratulatory message from Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan H.E. Yerzhan Kazykhanov , message delivered by H.E Kairat Aman , Head of Kazakhstan Diplomatic Mission in Romania , other messages will be presented by the Vice-Rector of Romanian Economic Science Academy –Professor Dr. Viorel Lefter and by European Council on International Relations.

The International Academic Conference KAZAKHSTAN 20 YEAR OF INDEPENDENCE will highlight important moments in the development of Kazakhstan such as:

- The introduction in exploitation of new gas and oil fields and export of energy towards important areas as: Caucasus, Caspian Sea and Europe that transformed in a few years Kazakhstan in a major source of energy for the emerging economies of Asia and Europe.

- The courageous decision to dismantle the nuclear arsenal of former Soviet Union army left in the country and to relinquish the production and stockpiling of nuclear weapons, closing down the important Semipalatinsk nuclear research and test site.

- The declaration of acknowledging the independence and territorial integrity of Kazakhstan , signed by Russia , China , United States of America under the united Nations supervision.

European Council on International Relations stance in organizing an European high standard event about Kazakhstan it is not only a testimony not only of unprecedented development in the last years of the diplomatic and economic relationships between the European Union and Kazakhstan but also a testimony to European Union ability to efficiently mobilize and organize the European intellectual elite and to host international resounding events destined to boost the EU bridging towards Central Asia.

Between 15 and 23 October 2011 a six member delegation from European Council on International Relations ( EUCIR) headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of EUCIR had paid an official visit in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Profesor Dr. Anton Caragea President of European Council on International Relations speaking in Port of Spain ceremony. 

The European delegation was invited to attend the World Travel Award Ceremony held in Port of Spain, where Trinidad and Tobago received the title of Best Destination for 2012. European Council on International Relations had being instrumental in awarding this title and the right to organize this International Tourism Festival and Prime Minister Kamla Pershad Bissessar had publicly expressed appreciation for professor Anton Caragea vote, as Europe representative, in favor of Trinidad and Tobago.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Prime-Minister Kamla Parshad Bissessar.  

The European Council on International Relations delegation held talks on developing relations on tourism, industry and culture with Republic of Trinidad and Tobago with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Tourism – Rupert Griffith, Minister of Trade and Industry, Minister of Energy, President of Parliament of Tobago-Hon. Orville London and Minister of Science and Technology–Senator Fazal Karim etc.

Dr. Petru Lificiu , ECTTand EUCIR  Vice-President speaking at Port of Spain Ceremony. 

The agreements reached varied from: the announcement of visa requirements being lifted for all type of passports and all type of travel for European Union citizens for a stay of 90 days, agreements for jointly established post university courses on diplomacy and tourism and agreements on tourism cooperation and on mutual investment protection.

On the side line of the official meetings professor Anton Caragea meet General Manager Russell George of Hyatt Hotel Chains discussing ways for fostering tourism investment of Hyatt in Europe.

The European Council on International Relations delegation had also an impressive cultural program including touring the islands of Trinidad and Tobago , fort George , Mount George , Rain Forest Reserve, Maracas Beach etc. and participating in Divali Festival official opening etc.

The visit has concluded with an official meeting of European Council on International Relations delegation with Prime Minister Kamla Parshad Bissessar, the main political figure of the island.

Prime minister stressed the importance of the first high level talks between European Council on International Relations and Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and important agreements reached by the parties and praised European Council on International Relations visionary decision of supporting Trinidad and Tobago international candidature.

Professor Mircea Constantinescu- Director of European Academy speaking.

In his response Professor Dr. Anton Caragea highlighted the impressive development of Trinidad and Tobago in tourism industry, economic sustainable development and energy market regulation. Trinidad and Tobago is a safe country, democratically advanced and an interesting market for investments and European Council on International Relations is glad to have a strong partner on the other side of the Atlantic .

The visit was an important diplomatic success in European Council on International Relations desire to foster relations with the nations of South America region and was the first high level visit in the latest years in a South American country.

 Traditional dances for European Union delegation

European Council on International Relations delegation participated in Divali Celebration

Official discussion with European delegation

Address of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev

State-of-the nation address of Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev

Dear compatriots!

Dear deputies and members of the Government!

Ladies and gentleman!

This year is especially valuable for us. We have approached the 20th anniversary of our independence. We have conquered significant tops along this way, which led dependent people to independent days of present time. As you remember, in 1997, in my first address to the people of Kazakhstan, I said: “By 2030, our next generations will live in a country which would not be left in the wayside of global events”. At that time, there were many people who were doubtful about these words. However, we have achieved this desired goal not in 33, but in twelve years! The Summit, recently held in Astana, convened the heads of the 56 states and governments and is an outstanding evidence of this. And even before this major and glorious achievement, we have reached many goals. We have become one of the three states in the world, which convened its compatriots, “scattered as millet” in different times of history. In these years, more than 800,000 compatriots came back from foreign states and the number of population increased by one and a half million. We have built a beautiful and prosperous Astana in the wide steppe of Sary-Arka. We have established the capital, which became the symbol of our dynamic development, on the banks of Yessil River.

Only the nation which lives in harmony and understanding will reach the fruitful future.

Today, Kazakhstan’s international reserves are about 60 billion USD.

Prosperity requires cooperation, and unity is the token of wealth.

In the years of independence, more than 120 billion USD in foreign investment were attracted in the economy of our country.

We also export more than 200 kinds of products to 126 countries of the world.

Today, one third of the national wealth is created by small and medium-sized businesses.

The agricultural sector is also developing.

In 2010, the GDP increased by 7 percent, industrial production – by 10 percent, while the growth in manufacturing industries reached 19 percent.

An average monthly salary increased from 53,000 in 2007 to 80,000 tenge (KZT) in 2010.

In terms of the national wellbeing, last year Kazakhstan made 26 steps forward and took the 50th place among 110 countries.

Overall, an average monthly salary increased by 5.5 times and the average pension increased fourfold.

We overcame the crisis, which shook the world, and bravely stepped onto a straight path of development.

We set ourselves ambitious goals, and we achieved them.

About 500 public health facilities were built during the years of independence.

The material and technical foundation of the medical institutions has significantly improved.

In developing education, our country takes leading positions among 129 countries.

Funds allocated to education increased tenfold during the last decade.

A total of 750 new schools were built in these years.

Also, 5,302 preschool facilities, 1,117 nursery schools and 4,185 centres were opened.

A new University, which in the new century will become the centre of science and knowledge, was opened in Astana.

In such a short period of time, we have become the country with many trophies and a strong nation.

All this was done to give our people opportunities to think globally.

1. Accelerated Economic Modernization – Continuing the Programme of Accelerated Industrial and Innovative Development

Dear people of Kazakhstan!

We enter the twentieth year of Independence.

In December 1991, having chosen the strategic goals of sustainability and success, we moved forward, creating new programmes of development for each new stage.

We set ourselves ambitious goals, and we achieved them.

I will give only one integrated index of the country’s progress.

In 1994, Kazakhstan’s GDP per capita was slightly above 700 USD.

By January 1, 2011, it has reached per more than 12 times and exceeded 9,000 USD.

We had planned to reach such a level only by 2015.

The international experience shows that during their first 20 years of independence, no other country was able to achieve such a result.

For example, GDP per capita in South Korea in the first twenty years of its sovereign development has increased threefold, in Malaysia – twofold, in Singapore – fourfold, in Hungary – fivefold, and in Poland – fourfold.

In my address to the people in January 2010, I announced the Programme of Accelerated Industrial and Innovative Development.

There are already concrete results of the first year of its implementation.

We have already launched 152 enterprises, creating 24,000 jobs for the people of Kazakhstan.

In total, about eight hundred different enterprises were established in the country.

We have begun the process of active reconstruction and development of chemical and light industries; we have made a breakthrough in agricultural processing.

Until 2014, we plan to implement 294 investment projects worth 8.1 trillion KZT.

161,000 new permanent jobs will be created and 207,000 new jobs will be available for the period of construction.

The main outcome of the first year of the first industrial five-year plan is the commencement of serious structural changes in the economic growth thanks to the real economy sector.

I will reiterate the purpose of the Strategic Plan for the next decade.

By 2020, we must achieve the following indices:

Overall GDP growth will be no less than 30 percent.

Growth in processing industries will exceed or reach the level of extractive industries.

The National Fund assets will comprise no less than 30 percent of the GDP.

Domestic and foreign investments in non-raw materials economy sectors will increase by at least 30 percent.

The share of small and medium-sized businesses in the GDP will comprise 40 percent.

The population will grow to 18 million people.

The share of qualified specialists will make 40 percent.

The unemployment rate will stay under 5 percent.

Labour productivity in agriculture by 2014 will increase twofold, by 2020 – fourfold.

An unprecedented project to develop beef husbandry will be implemented in the agricultural sector.

Already in 2016, meat exports will comprise 60,000 tons, which is equivalent to exports of four million tons of grain.

For this purpose, the state will allocate 130 billion KZT as credits.

This will allow creating more than 20,000 jobs in the countryside, and will provide a source of income for more than one hundred thousand villagers.

This will allow increasing the number of breeding stock and breeder cattle of all kinds.

All this will stimulate the growth of production in related industries: agricultural engineering, chemical and food industries, feed production, and equipment repairs.

The government, the Akims [governors] of all regions should deal with this most important part of rural industrialization.

Competitiveness of our economy should be based on efficient technologies, which ensure reduction of energy consumption.

In order to develop non-raw materials sectors, I charge the Government with developing and adopting the Comprehensive Plan for Energy Efficiency.

Industrialization forms a new paradigm for regional policy.

The Government together with the Akims should develop and approve a Programme for Development of Regions.

All of this is part of our thought-out plans.

We are still in the beginning of our way.

If we want to live better and richer, we must implement this work.

I am a supporter of the principle: a strong business means a strong state.

For the first time, we adopted the Law “On State Control and Supervision”.

The uniform principles and procedures for monitoring by all state agencies are now established.

This is done in order to further reduce the administrative pressure on businesses.

Within the framework of reform of the law-enforcement system 16 laws were adopted.

Legal mechanisms for protection of property were introduced; humanization of criminal legislation on crimes, which do not pose a grave threat to society, was carried out; the scope of non-confinement punishments, as well as preventive measures alternative to arrest, was expanded.

Due to this, only this year about two thousand people convicted for crimes of small and medium gravity would be released from prison.

The staff of the law enforcement system was reduced per 15 percent.

Their structure was optimized.

The functions unusual for law-enforcement agencies were transferred to the private sector.

Significant changes are taking place in the judicial system.

An uncompromising fight against corruption is under way.

Currently, according to international experts, the anticorruption legislation in Kazakhstan is recognized as one of the most effective.

In total, for the last two years more than 40 officials at the national level, more than 250 officials at regional and city levels, including 39 Akims and their deputies, were charged with criminal offence.

Criminal cases were filed against a minister of environment protection and a minister of healthcare, a chairman of the statistics agency, vice ministers of the ministry for emergency situations and the ministry of defence, the chairmen of the “Kazakhstan Temir Zholy”, “KazMunayGaz” and “Kazatomprom” companies, resulting in convictions.

In three years, our country’s rating in the global anticorruption index has improved by 45 points.

According to this index, we are at the top positions throughout the CIS.

This work will continue without compromise.

In the World Bank report, in 2010 Kazakhstan was recognized as the leader of reforms in the interests of businesses.

In the global ranking of countries with the most favourable business climate, Kazakhstan takes the 59th place among 183 countries of the world.

In general, the facts of unreasonable interference of state bodies in the activity of economic entities were minimized.

Last year, the Customs Union of Kazakhstan, Russia and Belarus was launched.

According to the results of the 10 months of 2010, the volume of trade with Russia and Belarus increased by 38 percent.

Exports of Kazakhstan’s goods to the Customs Union countries increased 52.4 percent. At that, contribution from customs duties to our budget increased by 25 percent.

All these facts objectively show that the Customs Union is a very pragmatic and concrete project, which solves the economic problems of our countries.

We have advanced to the maximum extent possible in the creation of a Single Economic Space.

It will provide a huge market for Kazakh producers.

It is a stimulus for our businesses to produce competitive goods and services.

2. Social modernization – a new social policy

We have clearly defined our plans for industrialization and technological development of economy.

The main objective of our programmes is to improve people’s wellbeing.

Therefore, I pay special attention in this Address to social modernization.

I have adopted three major state programmes: development of education, health and languages.

By May 1, I instruct the Government, together with Akims, to develop and adopt principally new programmes on:

 new employment strategies;

 modernization of housing and public utilities;

 providing the population with quality drinking water.

These programmes are aimed at solving everyday problems of millions of ordinary people of the country.

They will improve the quality of life of the people of Kazakhstan.

I will concentrate on the main aspects of the new social policy.

2.1. Education.

We must continue to modernize education.

As of today, the computerization of schools is totally completed.

They are equipped with multimedia classrooms, interactive equipment.

The introduction of a 12-year secondary education model is under way.

Lifelong learning should be the motto for all the people of Kazakhstan.

We intend to completely update the content of vocational and technical education.

Today, for one million people in developed countries there are from one to six universities.

The total number of universities in Kazakhstan is 149.

200 scientific councils forge candidates and doctors of science.

Only one out of 60 candidates and one out of 37 doctors then work in the sphere of science.

From this year on, these councils will cease functioning.

Now, we will pursue training of Masters and PhDs.

We are obliged to provide a new level of development of university education and science.

Today, on the basis of the new Nazarbayev University an innovative model of higher education institution oriented at market demands is being formed.

It aims to become a model for all universities in Kazakhstan.

20 intellectual schools founded on my instructions throughout the country will become the main base for training gifted children for best universities.

I instruct the Government:

 to develop a mechanism of transition of the universities to the innovation activity;

 to introduce new financial and economic instruments to support education for improving the quality and accessibility of education;

 for the levels of technical and higher education, to develop a savings system similar to that which is now realized by “Zhylstroisberbank” in mortgage construction. The people of Kazakhstan should have new opportunities to save funds for educating their children by means of obtaining interest bonuses from the state;

 to establish a National Council for preparation of vocational and technical personnel with the participation of representatives of business associations and employers.

All the work in the education system should be aimed at achieving the following results.

Proportion of children covered by preschool education by 2015 will comprise 74 percent, and by 2020 – 100 percent.

As a result of the “Balapan” programme, adopted on my instructions, in 2010, 35 nursery schools were built, 1,534 mini-centres were founded, and 137 private kindergartens were established.

Due to the return of previously privatized preschool institutions, 172 kindergartens were re-opened.

Coverage of children by pre-school institutions increased from 30 to 55 percent.

By 2020, we will make a complete transition to a 12-year model of education.

For this purpose, by 2015 we will build no less than two hundred schools at the expense of the republican budget and the same number – at the expense of local budgets.

By 2015, 50 percent of educational institutions will use electronic training, and by 2020 their number will increase to 90 percent.

By 2020, the share of universities, which will pass an independent national accreditation of international standards, will comprise 30 percent.

The share of universities implementing innovative and research activity and introducing the results of scientific research into production will grow to five percent.

No less than two universities will be registered in the rating of the world’s top universities.

Quality education should be the basis of industrialization and innovative development of Kazakhstan.

2.2. Healthcare

All these years we have done everything necessary to improve the health of the people of Kazakhstan.

Healthcare financing has increased from 1.9 percent of the GDP in 2002 to 3.2 percent in 2010.

Today, for the first time, the most complex medical surgeries are done across the country.

A total of 150 tele-medical centres connected with the leading international hospitals were established.

Twenty years ago we could only dream about this.

As a result of the work done, we can note a 25 percent growth in birth rate, an 11 percent decrease in death rate, and the speeding of the population growth by 1.7 times.

By 2013, the Unified National Healthcare System will be fully introduced.

We must seriously deal with preventive medicine and improve the quality of primary medical care.

According to international assessment, about five percent of the population with the basic types of diseases use about 70 percent of all health services.

Under well-organized prevention activity, the diseases may be prevented at early stages.

Therefore, Kazakhstan should implement a set of national health surveillance programmes of targeted groups of population.

First and foremost, it relates to children, adolescents, and women of reproductive age.

A particular emphasis should be placed on expanding access to medical assistance for rural residents.

In the past year, a new social project was launched – two specialized treatment and diagnostic trains called “Densaulyk”.

They have examined and treated tens of thousands of people in the remotest corners of our country.

This kind of transport medicine is critical for Kazakhstan, and we will develop it.

This year another train will be launched.

It is necessary to bring the number of mobile medical complexes (auto clinics) up to 50 units.

We must produce them in Kazakhstan.

I instruct the Government to provide no less than 16 helicopters for air ambulance needs by 2015.

I also instruct to expeditiously explore the issue of creating medical and rescue points along highways.

They should be placed on emergency hazardous sections of major roads of nationwide significance.

Emergency medical services should be equipped with multi-profile mobile and airmobile hospitals.

I am confident these measures will save thousands of lives of our citizens.

Special attention should be paid to reduction of the level of morbidity and mortality of tuberculosis and HIV in the correctional system.

As a result of these tasks, by 2015 life expectancy of the people of Kazakhstan will increase to 70 years, and by 2020 to 72 years or more.

It is necessary to promote healthy lifestyle, use the created sports base everywhere.

By 2015, 350 medical clinics, medical and obstetric centres and clinics will be built.

2.3. Languages

My fellow people of Kazakhstan, peace and harmony in our multilingual and multi-faith society are our common achievement.

It is gratifying to note that the people of Kazakhstan, showing respect and dignity, began studying the state Kazakh language, which gave the name to the native land where we live and lead our country to wellbeing.

Now, the overwhelming majority of adults are fluent in the state language.

And this is a great achievement of independence.

Our task is to make sure that by 2017 the number of people in Kazakhstan who have mastered the state language reaches at least 80 percent. And by 2020 – no less than 95 percent.

In ten years, 100 percent of high school graduates will speak the state language.

We do our best to achieve that.

We will also develop Russian and languages of other ethnic groups in Kazakhstan.

I have always said that knowledge of three languages is an obligatory condition of one’s wellbeing.

Therefore, I believe that by 2020 a share of our population speaking English should be no less than 20 percent.

2.4. New Employment Strategy

For two years, within the framework of the anti-crisis “Road Map” programme, we have ensured employment of the population, reduced the level of unemployment and improved infrastructure in our cities and villages.

These programmes have received broad support and gratitude of the people of Kazakhstan.

Today, it is necessary to increase labour market efficiency, since the new economy requires a new generation of skilled personnel.

Self-employed population is a huge pool of talent for our economy.

We build new businesses so that the people of Kazakhstan can work there.

They should be prepared for this, learn new professions.

I assign the Government, together with the Akims of regions, and cities of Astana and Almaty, until May 1, 2011, to develop a brand new programme on employment of the population.

The Government, together with the business community, should provide free training for the people willing to work at industrial sites.

It is necessary to provide the possibility of participation of every citizen of Kazakhstan in the large-scale industrialization of the country.

A while ago, I set a goal that the anti-crisis “Road Map” programme reach every family in Kazakhstan.

And this was successfully done.

Using this experience, now it is necessary to structure the work in such a way that industrialization is truly nationwide in scale, and a matter for each citizen of Kazakhstan!

For those citizens who choose to live in rural areas, the Government together with local authorities should work out a package of measures to promote rural entrepreneurship.

In the past year, the programme for rural territories development was completed.

Now, this work will continue under the Forecast Scheme of the territorial and spatial development of the country until 2020.

In urban areas with high development potential we will develop rural infrastructure, expand access to irrigation water, microcredit programmes and in-kind grants, and organize training in entrepreneurship.

Today, there is already a legal basis for microcredit organizations’ activity.

Today, there are almost twelve hundred of them on the market and they have given more than 110,000 loans to the population totalling more than 16 billion KZT.

However, in general, they go for consumer purposes at a rather high interest rate.

We need to change the situation and the emphasis towards employment rather than consumption.

Therefore, I charge the Government, along with financial regulators, to urgently develop appropriate legislation and a set of measures.

This year, we need to additionally provide three billion KZT.

In 2012-2015, we need to increase this funding up to 10-15 billion KZT annually.

A full one hundred percent of micro-credits granted from the state money should go to setting up one’s own businesses.

The implementation of a livestock development programme, which was mentioned above, will provide jobs for tens of thousands of villagers.

Therefore, a major outreach at all levels of the executive power and the Nur Otan party is required.

I instruct the Government from the next year to move to motivational cash payments.

The main issue is to overcome the dependency mindset.

An unemployed will receive a grant for obtaining a profession, not for being unemployed.

The problem of poverty must be addressed, rather than mitigated at the expense of governmental benefits.

The state will only help objectively disabled and needy people.

2.5. Modernization of Housing and Public Utilities

The best indicator of quality of life of citizens is the comfort level of housing.

Over the past 10 years, the housing fund expanded by 30 million square meters.

This means that more than one million of our citizens now live in new apartments.

This is an important result of our housing policy.

For many years, the public sector was financed by a leftover principle.

As a result, 72 percent of communications needed repair or replacement by 2008.

Within the framework of the “Road Map” in 2009 and 2010 we did a lot to repair housing facilities.

This work must continue.

It is necessary to conduct a large-scale modernization of water, heat, electricity and gas supply, and ensure creation of an optimal model of housing.

Proportion of facilities that require overhaul should be reduced from 32 to 22 percent by 2015.

The length of the upgraded network by 2015 on the whole across the country will comprise more than 31,000 kilometres.

The state, in coordination with international financial institutions and our banks, will offer private investors, businesses and individuals, special tools of co-financing repair and reconstruction of housing and public facilities.

The implementation of the Housing and Public Utilities’ modernization programme will allow creating up to 10,000 new jobs annually.

In general, 1.5 million people living in apartment buildings will take part in its implementation.

I instruct the Government to develop a mechanism for stimulating savings and co-financing repair and restoration of common property.

Only then will we be able to improve the living conditions and increase the citizens’ responsibility for the safety of their property.

2.6. Quality drinking water

The issue of providing quality drinking water to people in Kazakhstan is the most important task of improving people’s health, therefore, this will be our priority.

Work on ensuring quality drinking water started 8 years ago, and there are positive results.

Access to centralized water supply in rural areas rose to 41 percent, in cities – to 72 percent.

The number of people using imported water decreased fourfold.

At the same time, there are still many villages in need of improvement of water supply systems.

Deterioration of water networks in urban areas reaches 60 percent.

On average, across the country, the level of access to drinking water by 2020 should reach 98 percent, and water quality must meet all established sanitary standards.

I instruct the Government to develop effective incentives for maximum involvement of private capital in the hydro-economic sector.

It is necessary to make extensive use of potential of groundwater, apply a systematic approach in the construction of new water supply facilities.

In 2020, access to central water supply in urban areas should reach 100 percent. In the countryside, it should increase twofold, to 80 percent.

2.7. Increase of Revenues - a New Quality of Life

Dear people of Kazakhstan!

This year we will increase the amount of pensions, scholarships, salaries of public sector employees by 30 percent.

For two years in a row, we have been increasing them by 25 percent.

As it was planned in a People’s platform of the “Nur Otan” party, by 2012 the average size of pensions, salaries in the budgetary organizations and scholarships will increase twofold compared to 2008.

We had promised it, and we have done it!

On my instruction, a three-year budget provides the financial support of both industrial and innovative and social programmes, which I have reported.

Now everything depends on how the Government and local authorities will implement these tasks, how this activity will be organized.

This is the minimum that needs to be done in the next decade.

We should strive to overdo these plans.

This is the main social objective of the decade.

Dear people of Kazakhstan!

By my Decree, 2011 was declared the year of the 20th anniversary of Independence.

The State Commission has been established, and the National Action Plan has been approved.

This is a matter for everyone.

I task the Government to unite efforts of investors, business community and the people of Kazakhstan to implement it.

The motto of our jubilee is “20 Years of Peace and Creation”.

Throughout the years of independence fundamental values of the Kazakhstan Way have been formed: Freedom, Unity, Stability and Prosperity.

Dear people of Kazakhstan!

Dear deputies!

You and I have come across a difficult political collision due to the nation-wide initiative to hold a referendum on extending presidential powers until 2020.

I am sincerely grateful to all the people of Kazakhstan, as well as the initiators of this idea, for putting their signatures in support of the referendum.

On a wave of people’s will, by mid-January more than five million signatures were submitted to the CEC.

Within days the initiative on referendum has actually turned into the popular movement.

During this campaign the “Nur Otan” party has organized a public Coalition of democratic forces “Kazakhstan – 2020”.

People’s initiative showed unquenchable civil activity of the people of Kazakhstan.

It has intensified the political, intellectual life of the country.

This indicates great potential for development and progress.

You know all circumstances of this issue very well.

By my decree, I declined the proposal of the Parliament on holding this referendum, as I was planning to take part in the 2012 presidential election.

The Parliament, using its constitutional power, adopted the Law on amendments to the Constitution.

I have sent it to the Constitutional Council which should determine whether it is constitutional.

Only after this, the final decision will be made.

It should comply with the Constitution and our laws; it should also include long-term interests of our people.

In any case, the will of the people is above all.

Herewith, I declare that in our foreign policy we will ensure stability of our commitments around the world to investors, the business community.

Our policy will meet the hopes and expectations of all our partners.

Kazakhstan will remain committed to swift and efficient development of the Customs Union among Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus.

We will develop our cooperation with the CIS countries.

We propose our European partners to jointly develop and adopt, in a multilateral format, a “Kazakhstan-EU: 2020” Energy Charter.

This would ensure the guarantee of stability of energy supplies to the European markets, and the development of pipeline systems.

We initiate holding of a special donor conference on Afghanistan this year in Almaty.

Earlier I have proposed the idea of a Stability Pact for the Caspian Region.

This international instrument can lay a firm foundation for stability throughout the vast region of the Central Asia and the Caucasus.

Kazakhstan will continue efforts on the settlement of conflicts which we began as part of our OSCE chairmanship.

We remain leaders in the sphere of global nuclear security.

Kazakhstan proposes the UN to adopt a Universal Declaration of a Nuclear-Weapon Free World.

I consider it important as well to develop and adopt the Interstate programme of assistance to Kyrgyzstan.

This year, Kazakhstan will assume the presidency of the Organization of Islamic Conference.

We have put forward the initiatives on strengthening the dialogue between the West and the Islamic world.

The presidency in the OIC should strengthen the Asian vector of Kazakhstan’s foreign policy.

The 10th anniversary summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) will be held in Astana this July.

The SCO was created with our active participation, and we must do our best to make it stronger.

All of this will be Kazakhstan’s important contribution to regional and global stability.

Dear audience!

Dear people of Kazakhstan!

You all know about the initiative of holding the referendum to extend the term of the office of the head of state.

The non-governmental organizations, representatives of the intelligentsia and deputies of the Parliament support this initiative.

I take this warm wish of the people as an appreciation of efforts to strengthen the independence and statehood of our country.

Love for the motherland means one has to meet all challenges that it sends.

My life is tied to the destiny of our country.

I was charged to take our independence and build the country during tough times.

Therefore, striving to justify the confidence, I took all responsibility upon myself.

I adopted difficult momentous decisions pouring all my heart into them.

For 20 years, I have been serving my country, sparing no efforts or experience.

In these years, all our achievements, which raised our status and reputation, have been our common success.

Therefore, I am grateful to the initiators and the people of Kazakhstan who expressed their wishes!

I have never had more happiness than to serve the interests of my country and welfare of my motherland.

We still have a lot of work.

Our most important value in this path is our cohesive unity.

I am sure that large-hearted people of my country who value unity will become a strong and prosperous nation.

There is a wise folk saying: “If the country has a blessing there will be wellbeing and its direction will be right”.

In this address, we summed up the results of the work, which had been done during a glorious stage and outlined a direction for the future.

I wish you all a great success in your noble work towards wellbeing in the interests of the country!

Let our noble activities, which brought us to these glorious days, be blessed, dear compatriots!

Thank you for your attention.

On 9th of October 2011 in a public séance of the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, gathering representatives of tourism organizations from EU members country it was debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2012.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of Tourism Academy had presented a report on the last year situation of the Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION that was dedicated to United Arab Emirates and it was used accordingly with rules and regulations and have being proving highly efficient in attracting new tourists and investor attentions as United Arab Emirates was the ONLY country in the region that registered an increase in number of visitors despite tensions in the region.

Prof.Dr. Anton Caragea - President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade and H.E. President of Tajikistan - Emomali Rahmon

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2012 professor dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) presented the report titled : TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO : A SUCCESS STORY IN TOURISM proposing TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012.

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 to TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the report outlined:

- Respecting cultural patrimony and traditions in offering to tourists a possibility to participate in impressive paraphernalia festivals such as: Holi, Hosay, Divali, Corpus Christi, Eid Al Fitr and special Tobago Heritage Festival Tobago Fest and Trinidad GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH etc.

Keeping alive spiritual traditions , integrating tourist and visitors in the atmosphere of the islands , offering possibility of an enriching cultural experience are achievements that transform Trinidad and Tobago in a spiritual destination of first hand.

- Promoting Trinidad and Tobago environmental protection, especially East Coast natural patrimony of wetlands, beaches and ecological and geographical biodiversity that make Trinidad and Tobago unique in the region. Supporting a new concept of tourism friendly to nature, with low nature impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

- Offering to tourists not only cultural experience or relaxation opportunities but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to observed in Tobago the impressive Forest Reserve are model achievements in ecological tourism that must be world appreciated.

- The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Trinidad and Tobago, the transformation of Port of Spain in an historical center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture of Trinidad and Tobago and Caribbean heritage.

- Offering to the tourist a large area of cultural and ecological impressive programs such as: Wildlife Photography in places such El Tucuche Reserve, Valencia Wildlife Sanctuary, Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Cave exploration (in splendid places such as Gasparee Caves).Cycling, Hiking (Argyle Waterfall –a special destination), Kayaking (Paria bay and Tobago area).

For all this reasons European Union Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 TITLE TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO and to declare TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATIONS in 2012.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO for a delegation of European high ranking official of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Port of Spain, in person, to His Excellency Minister of Tourism DR. RUPERT GRIFFITH.

Awarding the highest tourism distinction of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, the invitation for an working visit of high ranking members of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade in TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO are estimated by European tourism experts as a good example of close tourism relations and mutual appreciation between European Union and Trinidad and Tobago, said at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

On 9 October 2011 in a special gathering of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade prof.dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade and Dr. Petru Lificiu Vice-President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade had publicly unveiled the new sites destined to present ot the world up dated information`s on WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE.

The new sites provides useful information`s, up dated debates and news and are destined to emphasize the character of rewarding high quality tourism , cultural protection and environment values incorporated in the prizes of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

The sites offers to the visitors information`s on European Union Council on Tourism and Trade actions and values , criteria`s for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE awards and different useful dates for tourism and tourism industry professionals.

You can see the new sites here:

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE

On 9 October 2011 in a special gathering of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade prof.dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade and Dr. Petru Lificiu Vice-President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade had publicly unveiled the new sites destined to present ot the world up dated information`s of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE.

The new sites provides useful information`s, up dated debates and news and are destined to emphasize the character of rewarding high quality tourism , cultural protection and environment values incorporated in the prizes of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

The sites offers to the visitors information`s on European Union Council on Tourism and Trade actions and values , criteria`s for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE awards and different useful dates for tourism and tourism industry professionals.

You can see the new sites here:

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD

WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE

On 9th of October 2011 in a public séance of the European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, gathering representatives of tourism organizations from EU members country it was debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2012.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy had presented a report on the last year situation of the Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION that was dedicated to United Arab Emirates and it was used accordingly with rules and regulations and have being proving highly efficient in attracting new tourists and investor attentions as United Arab Emirates was the ONLY country in the region that registered an increase in number of visitors despite tensions in the region.

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2012 professor dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) presented the report titled : TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO : A SUCCESS STORY IN TOURISM proposing TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012.

Prof.dr. Anton Caragea receives a basket of flowers from H.E. Emomali Rahmon -President of Tajikistan.  

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 to TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the report outlined:

- Respecting cultural patrimony and traditions in offering to tourists a possibility to participate in impressive paraphernalia festivals such as: Holi, Hosay, Divali, Corpus Christi, Eid Al Fitr and special Tobago Heritage Festival Tobago Fest and Trinidad GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH etc.

Keeping alive spiritual traditions , integrating tourist and visitors in the atmosphere of the islands , offering possibility of an enriching cultural experience are achievements that transform Trinidad and Tobago in a spiritual destination of first hand.

- Promoting Trinidad and Tobago environmental protection, especially East Coast natural patrimony of wetlands, beaches and ecological and geographical biodiversity that make Trinidad and Tobago unique in the region. Supporting a new concept of tourism friendly to nature, with low nature impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

- Offering to tourists not only cultural experience or relaxation opportunities but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to observed in Tobago the impressive Forest Reserve are model achievements in ecological tourism that must be world appreciated.

- The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Trinidad and Tobago, the transformation of Port of Spain in an historical center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture of Trinidad and Tobago and Caribbean heritage.

- Offering to the tourist a large area of cultural and ecological impressive programs such as: Wildlife Photography in places such El Tucuche Reserve, Valencia Wildlife Sanctuary, Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Cave exploration (in splendid places such as Gasparee Caves).Cycling, Hiking (Argyle Waterfall –a special destination), Kayaking (Paria bay and Tobago area).

For all this reasons European Union Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2012 TITLE TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO and to declare TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATIONS in 2012.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO for a delegation of European high ranking official of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Port of Spain, in person, to His Excellency Minister of Tourism DR. RUPERT GRIFFITH.

Awarding the highest tourism distinction of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade, the invitation for an working visit of high ranking members of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade in TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO are estimated by European tourism experts as a good example of close tourism relations and mutual appreciation between European Union and Trinidad and Tobago, said at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Union Council on Tourism and Trade.

On 23 September 2011 Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations had opened the Conference and Exhibition on European Military Hardware and Equipment.

Professor dr.Anton Caragea opening the military conference. 

The Conference and Exhibition on European Military Hardware and Equipment was organized under the high patronage of European Council on International Relations and was gathering top level military equipment manufacturer members of European Council on International Relations defense department .

50 mm heavy machine gun -a star of the show-resented by Prof.dr.Anton Caragea 

In his opening statements, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had underlined the high research and quality amalgamated in European latest military products presented at the show. European defense industry is without a doubt capable in meeting all defense necessity and also to export high quality products for defense.

To be true to reality if in 1988 Europe was the top 3 manufacturer and exporter of defense products in the world today we are on a honorable place 7 or 8 in the world , a position that keeping in context the latest military technology development is an impressive efforts from European technicians and specialists.

Radar equipment.

European defense products has proven there efficiency in the latest 5 years conflicts and I have received congratulation from all over the world for our high quality and efficiency defense products ,Romanian brand names like: STAR 80L or CA-95 or air defense systems need no introduction in the world and here you can see this European technological marvels , concluded prof.dr.Anton Caragea .

The opening ceremony was followed by a tour of defense products exhibition and by a round table of European and Romanian military equipment producers chaired by professor dr.Anton Caragea.

CA95-the pride of the exhibition: the weapon that keeps the airspace safe.

The conclusions of the conference where an appreciation of latest ground assault and defense equipment produced by Europe that proved highly efficient and is offering our industry and military personal a clear advantage in any military action.

On 22 September 2011 it was unveiled the latest European standards clinic: Lara Life Med and it was publicly signed the partnership in providing high quality medical services between Lara Life Med and MedNord Klinik from Munich.

The presentation was enjoyed by a huge assistance of personalities of medicine research and practitioners, journalists, business men, members of Lara Life Med administration board and in the presence of diplomatic corp accredited to Romania and with special presence of ambassadors accredited to European Union.

LARALIFE MED CLINIC becomes European Council on International Relations medical partner.

On this joyful occasion Mrs. Laura Ciuhu , director of prestigious Lara Life Med Clinic had presented the main tasks on future agenda of development of this impressive medical project including: importing latest generation equipment , providing top quality medical assistance and in the near future opening an european standard hospital.

On this occasion Mrs. Laura Mihaela Ciuhu had received the international and diplomatic recognition of high quality standards of services rendered by Lara Life Med, by receiving the official quality title of official diplomatic partner of European Council on International Relations .

An impressive diplomatic and medical audience participated in the inauguration ceremony of LARA LIFE MED CLINIC.

The President of European Council on International Relations , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had presented the reasons for awarding the prestigious title and encouraging distinction for lofty initiatives to Lara Life Med Clinic.

Lara Life Med is representing a high standards in medical world by service provided , by large area of medical specializations and by latest medical technology amalgamated in the project and by providing support for European medical school development , had underlined among the reasons prof.dr.Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations.

For now one has announced prof.dr.Anton Caragea , Lara Life Med will be included in diplomatic presentations tours of European Union, in programs of medical exchanges and in institutional exchanges and by being presented as a first hand diplomatic partner in fostering a favorable image of European Union.

Professor dr.Anton Caragea-President of European Council on International Relation outlining European medical progress.   

The emotional ceremony of bestowing the title of official partner of European Council on International Relations to Lara Med Life was followed by the high quality medical lecture offered by Prof.dr. Norbert Pfuetzenreuter who based on impressive image and eloquent description emphasize the progress of endoscopic surgery, minim invasive, that are allowing to patient a quick health restoration and a rapid return to normal life (no blood loss, no major trauma etc.)

Prof.dr. Ralf Senner had presented in his outstanding report on morbid obesity treatment and collateral affections that had offered hopes to hundreds of europeans in difficult situation today.

An impressive moment was also the testimony of Beppe Iuliano , creator of success business and institutions, that prevailed over his personal drama of a poliomyelitis that left irreversible trauma`s and became a man with a valuable contribution to society.

His example had raised the audience for a standing ovation for a lesson on courage and will, offered by Beppo Iuliano.

Finally a video presentation of the latest medical gadgets operating in clinic had aroused the curiosity and enthusiasm of the audience who understood that Lara Life Med is beyond doubt a european level clinic that is providing to European and non-european citizens, the opportunity of high quality medical care.

The ceremony of inauguration of Lara Life Med was held under the High Patronage of European Council on International Relations.

On 22 September 2011, in a large ceremony, will be marked the opening of the most ambitious medical project in South East Europe, under the High Patronage of European Council on International Relations: LARA LIFE MED CLINIC .

LARA LIFE MED CLINIC Headquarters 

The project is the fruition of European cooperation between MedNord Klinik from Germany and Romanian Med Clinic and the new medical facility will offer at European Union standards medical assistance in Eastern Europe. The ambitious project is uniting the high proficiency of Romanian medical school and technical knowhow of German Medical environment.

European Council on International Relations had accepted to offer his High Patronage to the new institution as this is an example of trans-European cooperation, is offering medical services for benefit of all European Union members’ states and is improving transnational cooperation.

The 22 September 2011 ceremony will be hosted by UNICEF Ambassador Andreea Marin and H.E President of European Council on International Relations, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and will include a presentation of the new clinic and hospital that will offer services on lab analyses , work medicine , family medicine , cardiology, gastro , psychology , ORL, ophthalmology, nutritional disorders , neurology and frontier medicine ( non-invasive ).

The scientific part of the conference will be held by Professor Dr. Norbert Pfuetzenreuter, the founder of MedNord Klinik in Munich who will present the latest successes of endoscopic surgery (surgery without blood) and Prof.Dr. Ralf Senner from Munich Institute for Study of Nutritional Disorders who will present the latest achievements in over-weight patient’s treatment and recuperation.

The conference will conclude with the presentation of managerial team of this important medical project by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations. Mrs. Laura Ciuhu, head of managerial team will then formally present to the public the new managerial and medical team.

Minister of Energy - Petru Lificiu , Mrs. Laura Ciuhu-Director LARA MED LIFE , President of European Council on International Relations and H.E. Ambassador of Nigeria (from left to right).

The opening of LARA LIFE MED CLINIC is representing the fruition of a long time project of European Council on International Relations of fostering the cooperation between European Union member’s states and entities on all levels and on all fields of activity as only friendship and mutual knowledge could build a United Europe.

Between 24-30 August 2011 a delegation of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R), headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was invited for an official working visit by the Government of Republic of Tajikistan.

President of Tajikistan H.E. Emomali Rahmon and President of European Council on International Relations -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

The visit had being concentrated on developing the bilateral Europe -Tajikistan relation and it was the most important invitation addressed by Tajikistan authorities for an European Union delegation , a moment that was considered as historical in developing the relation between the two countries.

In the framework of dialogue where included subjects such as : tourism and transport cooperation, supporting hydro-energy sector development in Tajikistan with instructors, specialists and European material , taking in consideration the extensive European experience in the field .

European Council on International Relations held talks at Minister of Economy and Development of Tajikistan

Other discussion where held on topics like: opening in European country a branch of National Bank of Tajikistan , tajik investments in tourism sectors in Europe , import of aluminum from TALCO factory –the biggest aluminum factory in Tajikistan .

European delegation headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R) was received in official audience by H.E. President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan.

The president of Tajikistan had mentioned that his country is in a moment of economic development, social development and democratic construction, that makes Tajikistan to be interested in economic and political cooperation with other countries and he considers as a privileged partner for this development European Council on International Relations .

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R) had expressed his gratitude for the impressive welcoming organized for European delegation and appreciated that Tajikistan had succeeded in overcome the economic crisis, to build impressive energy projects such Rogun hydropower plant and to be a supplier of security and stability in the region and an example in the region.

LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD presented to H.E. President of Tajikistan

In the framework of the meeting, in an impressive ceremony , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations, bestow in a public ceremony, the most prestigious cultural and political award of Academic Committee of European Council on International Relations : LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD to H.E. President of Tajikistan – Emomali Rahmon .

The ceremony was lived broadcasted by national and international channels and attended by members of Parliament and Government of Tajikistan.

In the framework of discussion held at Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, with H.E. Minister Homrokhon Zarifi, the parties had agreed of a calendar of concrete cultural and academic exchanges program for 2011-2012 and set up the details for a Bilateral Economic Forum and a Tajikistan-Romanian Chamber of Commerce.

European Council on International relations delegation held talks at Ministry of Energy and Industry

The delegation headed by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea also sustained detailed and fruitful discussion and finalized agreements with Minister of Energy and Industry Mr. Sherali Gul , Minister of Investments , Minister of Tourism and Sport Mr. M . Nematov and Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mr. Farukh Hamraliev.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of EUCIR in dialogue with Tajikistan Parliament President and Prime Minister of Tajikistan.

In the visit program, a consistent cultural interlude was provided to European delegation, including visits to Hissar Fortress (UNESCO Heritage site- XI century), cities of Tursunzade, Kulyab, and Monuments dedicated to Great poet Mir Said Homodoni and Hulbur Fortress.

Final Press Conference held by professor Dr. Anton Caragea – President of European Council on International Relations ( EUCIR )

Concluding the visit, in a press conference, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations ( E.U.C.I.R) had appreciated that Tajikistan is offering to the world an example of an economy in full development , with impressive hydro power projects like Rogun that will benefit the all Central Asia region and beyond, with plans to exploits ore and precious stones mining fields that will make Tajikistan an attractive economy in full development , key elements that are underlined by a democratic and stabile political climate.

The future of Tajikistan is bright, if it continuing on the same path of President Emomali Rahmon vision of prosperity and development and of respects toward culture and civilization, had concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

On 25 august 2011 , in the framework of European Council on International Relations high ranking academic delegation visit in Tajikistan , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations and his delegation where received by H. E. President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan.

The Original Certificate of LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD

In an impressive ceremony, witnessed by 500 guests , Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations, bestow with a public ceremonial , the most prestigious cultural and political award of Academic Committee of European Council on International Relations : LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD to H.E. President of Tajikistan – Emomali Rahmon .

H.E. President Emomali Rahmon had received the official scroll signed by Academic Committee of European Council on International Relations, honoring the achievements of President of Tajikistan , followed by the Golden Crystal, symbolizing the accountability of the receiver and in the end by the trade mark of the award the Original Certificate of LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD.

Golden Crystal of LEADER OF XXI CENTURY AWARD entrusted to President of Tajikistan

The ceremony was lived broadcasted by national and international channels and attended among many others by members of Parliament and Government of Tajikistan.

After the ceremony an official audience was offered for Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on International Relations and his delegation.

President of Tajikistan-Emomali Rahmon and President of EUCIR – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

On this opportunity President of Tajikistan had made for European delegation a presentation of the situation in his country including : construction of a line of impressive hydro-energy power plant that will insure full energy independence for Tajikistan in the next three years and also will make Tajikistan the supplier of clean energy for the region , constructing high voltage line for energy exports toward Pakistan and Afghanistan , infrastructure projects , tourism and transport modernizations , reforestation programs .

In all this fields there are important bilateral cooperation opportunities for European Union expertise to be present, had appreciated President Emomali Rahmon.

Joint Press Conference of H.E. President of Tajikistan-Emomali Rahmon – LEADER OF XXI CENTURY LAUREATE and Professor Dr. Anton Caragea – EUCIR President.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on International Relations had underlined in his replay that: developing a bilateral fruitful relationship, based on mutual respect and understanding is welcomed by European side and the presence of a high level European Council on International Relations delegation, vast and complex, shows the commitment of our part in fostering the relations with Tajikistan.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of E.U.C.I.R receives a basket of flowers from H.E. President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon.

Tajikistan had overcome the horrors of civil wars, had succeeded to avoid the dramatic faith of Afghanistan and build a society of equilibrium, with a social market economy, offering to all the path of development. The vast plans, announced by President of Tajikistan, are a living proof of the right track of the country and we are appreciative for the expressed desire that Europe will be a gate for Tajikistan .

The dialogue had continued for an hour and a half, far more that the 30 minutes initially dedicated and after European Council on International Relations delegation had being invited to inaugurate the world tallest flag and then at on official banquet on the side of President Emomali Rahmon.