EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE PRESENTS 2015 TOURISM LEADER-ETHIOPIA

on this issue

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

AWARD CEREMONY 2015 P.5 GUIDE TO ETHIOPIA P.11

MINISTER ATO AMIN ABDUL-KADIR VISION ON TOURISM P.19

Upcoming event`s P.40

KAZAKHSTAN CONGRATULATES

ETHIOPIA -WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR

2015

For the second year in a row, the

capital of Kazakhstan-Astana, the host

of World Expo 2017 will host the bulk

of the celebration, in Central Asia, to

honour ETHIOPIA- WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.

Ethiopia is this year African coun-

try to receive the highest honour of

European Council on Tourism and

Trade, as a prime class destination for

luxury tourism and a favourite cultural

destination on African continent.

Astana celebration`s will start after

European Council on Tourism and

Trade delegation will handover

the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINA-

TION FOR 2015 prize to authorities of

Ethiopia.

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM AND TRADE

Quarterly Journal of Tourism Information General Manager: Nicolae Nicolae

ISSUE 13 , YEAR 2015, SPECIAL EDITION: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

2015 - WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION AWARD CEREMONY HELD IN ADDIS ABABA

ETHIOPIA

3

ETHIOPIA

2015


HARAR-UNESCO city of peace

4

ETHIOPIA

2015


HARAR-UNESCO city of peace

5

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 IS

ETHIOPIA

We have all gathered here, on the venue of

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CERE-

MONY to celebrate one of humanity most im-

portant achievements in the last centuries: and

this is undoubtedly tourism.

Tourism had become, from just a tool for enjoy-

ment and ludic preoccupation, a major part of

human life.

Tourism is today an intricate part of our life, the

need to share experiences, to search for un-

known territories, to go further and further.

Tourism is inscribed in our fiber and it defines

us, it make us human.

Tourism is now a major economic factor that

helps countries to be developed and enrich

themselves in more than just the economic

point of view.

Countries and people’s are rediscovering them-

selves by tourism.

Cultures are resurrected, history is brought to

life and people are enjoying new opportunities

via tourism development.

An ambassador was considered, a few centuries

ago, as a tourist entrusted with gathering

knowledge and information’s about distant

lands and in offering the image of his country to

other people. Today, in XXI century, all tourists

are diplomats, building bridges of information,

understanding and cooperation by simple ex-

perience of travel. In this new world, where

tourism is economy, is diplomacy and is shaping

people’s and nations destiny, there is no more

important moment as the moment when world

tourism is choosing his World Best Tourist Des-

tination.

In some years our choice is driven by consumer-

ist arguments, and this is normal as tourism is

after all a major economic factor, but some

time our decision must lead the way for tourists

to discover and rediscover new lands and new

cultures and must be a signal of re-emphasizing

the need to put history, patrimony, cultural

legacy at the fore of our decision.

We must never forget the fact that: the main

duty of tourism is to enrich the soul and capture

the imagination of traveler.

This is the rationale, the driving force, under-

lined by our decision to hail Ethiopia as the

World Best Tourist Destination for 2015.

Tourists that will select, in this year and in the

years to come, Ethiopia as their pristine desti-

nation, will have the chance of immersing

themselves in the land from where humanity

once sprinkled.

Here is where our grandmother to all, started

her journey, almost 4 million years ago.

On July 10, 2015, in Addis Ababa, the representatives of world tourism, headed by European Council on

Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr.Anton Caragea, had delivered the official opening speech for ETHIOPIA - WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015. This is the full text of Council President on this occa-

sion

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

proclaimes ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015.

6

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015 IS ETHIOPIA

Her name was Lucy-Dinkenesh -she is won-

derful (in translation)- as is the tender Ethio-

pian name .

Here, in Ethiopia, tourists can reconnect

with God, as both the Kingdom of Axum and

his later hair-Lalibela made a point of honor

in creating the Christianity cradle of Africa.

Here you can see God powerful deeds by the

presence and ingenuity of Ethiopian people

as in the stoned carved churches of Lalibela.

The legend goes that the angels themselves

help the people build them and tourist with

see that these angels still have a name and a

face, in the faces of people of Ethiopia.

The legacy of Muslim creeds can also be

found in the Sheik Hussein Religious, Cultural

and Historical Site and many others holy

sites in Harar.

All this is making Ethiopia the ideal destina-

tion for people’s searching their connection

with God, in quest for their peace of mind

and soul or maybe just the beauty of reli-

gious artifacts.

Should I just recall that: this is the unique

place where you can go in search of the Arch

of the Covenant, as a modern Indiana Jones

or just as a traveler searching for spiritual

adventures? Because thus is Ethiopia today:

a spiritual adventure, a discovery trip that

must not be overlooked and that is richly

deserving the appellative of World Best

Tourist Destination.

I will not linger too much on detailed de-

scription of all the UNESCO heritage

sites existing in Ethiopia or on the long list of

region and cities awaiting their inscription

on world heritage list.

I will just emphasize how rare is a country

offering such a diversity of cultural, historical

and natural beauties as Ethiopia.

Here in Ethiopia you can find the cradle of

humanity, cradle of religions, cradle of cul-

ture and why not? Cradle of agriculture.

We must not forget that thirty-six of world

crops are originating from Ethiopia as their

starting point in our food.

Let just imagine a world without coffee. I

know is difficult, but without Ethiopia the

long way of coffee would have not existed.

Ethiopia is not a distant place, you can dis-

cover it in any cup of cafe, in any taste of

wheat or barley, they all must whisper to

you: come to Ethiopia, come to where hu-

manity started, come home !

Yes, in our decision to crown the jewel of

Africa-Ethiopia as World Best Tourist Desti-

nation we did not forget for a moment that

we are not encouraging people to go in a far

or distant place.

No! We are just telling them to come home,

to rediscover their roots, their house-

Ethiopia.

We must also mark down Ethiopia as an

example for tourism revenues distribution

and to encourage tourist, travelers or just

prospective tourists to invest in local artisans

creations. Tourism revenues are helping

communities to develop, are helping people

restarting their lives, protecting cultural

Anton Caragea-President of European

Council on Tourism and Trade looking

over Axum-the first capital of Ethiopian

empire (300 a.Chr.).

7

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN

2015 IS ETHIOPIA

landscape and historical legacy.

Coming as a tourist in Ethiopia is not just a self rewarding ad-

venture, but is also an opportunity to make a responsible tour-

ism, a fair trade tourism, supporting local communities and

poor rural areas. It is a perfect example of social tourism, that

we must command and support and specially promote.

We are hailing Ethiopia also a Favorite Cultural Destination for

2015 and with good measure also, as we just inscribed as in-

t a n g i b l e

cultural and

t o u r i s m

p a t r i m o n y

heritage the

E t h i o p i a n

coffee cere-

m o n y a n d

shimgalina-

the specific

E t h i o p i a n

concept of

learning and

amicability.

The coffee

ceremony is

not only celebrating the first coffee planted and presented to

the world by Ethiopian people, but is also a ceremony destined

to showcase the hospitality, the traditions, the desire to offer

the best to travelers and passerby alike.

In this ceremony, we can observe the people character and

way of treating with dignity and care their guests. I must

also remark another component of intangible cultural and

tourism patrimony heritage of Ethiopia- the concept of

shimgalina, offering another mark of inter-community dialogue

and acceptance, of tolerance and friendship, that explains in

full how Ethiopia can unite people’s, can give them the sense

of historical unity and bind them together in love. This concept

is also a fundament of Ethiopian history and development, a

secret to ingratiate in a polite and correct manner, that makes

tourist feel at home in this wonderful country.

As Ethiopia is in itself a succinct compendium of humanity his-

tory and traditions, I could go one for hours, underlining the

many reasons why

crowning Ethiopia to-

day as World Best Tourist Destination it is just a normal act of recogni-

tion.

The recognition of a country so rich in culture and promises for tomor-

row, a nation that it becomes the embodiment of the tourism for the

future, of the tourism for knowledge and experiences, of tourism that is

leaving us richer in conscience and soul. The story of Ethiopia continues

and is writing today a new and

remarkable page: the page of

tourism and cultural success,

the page of Ethiopia as WORLD

BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

FOR 2015.

Your Excellency Mr. Prime Min-

ister and European academician

-Hailemariam Desalegn,

It is my great honor and privi-

lege to hand over this title as an

international recognition for all

the people of Ethiopia, all

united in the service of protect-

ing and preserving historical

and civilization patrimony of

your country, in fostering tourism and culture, in the service of the peo-

ple of ETHIOPIA.

As I often say and hope, that this title must be regarded as a challenge,

as from now on we are expecting your country and people exertions in

the benefit of the world culture and tourism.

I hope that: this lofty rostrum will be transformed in a support for devel-

oping the international recognition of FEDERAL DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

OF ETHIOPIA, for a social oriented tourism and development and in a

base for further success for THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD himself – ETHIO-

PIA.

It is my privilege to handover to Your Excellency, as the most represen-

tative leader of people and tourism of FEDERAL DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

OF ETHIOPIA the award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR

2015.

OFFICE OF THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

H.E. Prime Minister and Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, Minister

of Culture and Tourism-Ato Amin Abdulkadir and European Council on

Tourism and Trade President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea in the cen-

ter of Ethiopian government and European Council on Tourism and

Trade visiting delegation.

8

PRIME MINISTER AND ACADEMICIAN

HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN EXPRESS HIS

CONVICTION IN THE BRIGHT FUTURE OF ETHIOPIA

WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

On the rostrum of

World Best Tourist Des-

tination for 2015 Prime

Minister Hailemariam

Desalegn has held a

powerful speech ex-

pressing his confidence

in Ethiopia`s tourism

sector development.

On this important world

tourism ceremony

H.E. Hailemariam De-

salegn was recognized

by European Tourism

Academy as a World

Leader of Tourism and a

member of honor of

E u r o p e a n T o u r i s m

Academy by Academician

Mircea Constantinescu

and in the presence of

European Council on

T o u r i s m a n d

T r a d e P r e s i d e n t .

The Premier received

the insignia`s of Euro-

pean Council on Tourism

and Trade from Euro-

p e a n P r e s i d e n t -

Professor Dr. Anton Car-

agea at a public function

held at the National Pal-

a c e y e s t e r d a y .

ECTT declared Ethiopia

as the perfect winner of World Best Tourist

Destination and Favorite Cultural Destina-

t i o n D i s t i n c t i o n f o r 2 0 1 5 .

“This grant further motivates Ethiopia to

offer more noteworthy social and vacation

destinations and administrations to sightseers over

the world,” PM Hailemariam said subsequent to

accepting the grant. The legislature of Ethiopia is

resolved to ensure and safeguard authentic and

social legacies and “we trust it is in this acknowl-

edgment of this one of a kind game plan in addition

H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, Minister of Culture and

Tourism – Amin Abdulkadir, H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Hailemariam

Desalegn, are directing the proceedings for World Tourism Awards Cere-

mony for 2015..

LONG LIVE ETHIOPIA ! WOLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION !

H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, and H.E. ECTT

President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and ECTT Chairman Mihai Prun-

dianu and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

to other things that ECTT chose to

stretch out to Ethiopia the world

best traveler destination recom-

pense.”

The stream of vacationers to Ethio-

pia has developed altogether amid

the most recent decade as the na-

tion had the capacity give better

administrations that urged travel-

ers to invest longer energy and

investigate Ethiopia’s surprising

and wonderful attractions, he said.

Ethiopia will keep on developing

the tourism area and utilization it

as a methods for political participa-

tion with different nations, he said.

Prime Minister Hailemariam De-

salegn accepted for him

the honorary membership of Euro-

pean Tourism Academy insig-

nia and on behalf of people

of Ethiopia accepted the diploma

and the globe as official signs of

World Best Tourist Destination and

Favorite Cultural Destination desig-

nation.

9

EUROPE HAS A NEW

ACADEMICIAN: PRIME

MINISTER HAILEMARIAM

DESALEGN, ANNOUNCES

EUROPEAN TOURISM

ACADEMY DIRECTOR– DR.

MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU

On 10th July 2015, in an official ceremony,

Academician Mircea Constantinescu-Director

of European Tourism Academy, had presented

H.E. Prime Minister of Ethiopia-Mr. Haile-

mariam Desalegn with the insignia of honor

and the certificate of honorary member of the

academy.

The decision was taken on 25 June 2015 by the

Academic Board of European Council on Tour-

ism and Trade and announced in an official

letter as a result of: Government of Ethiopia

recognizing the importance of tourism as a key

facilitator for the country development and

international promotion, creating exemplary

structures like Tourism Transformation Council,

investing in infrastructure and capacity building,

creating a special team under Your Excellency

leadership for destination promotion and man-

agement and protecting the cultural, natural

and historical patrimony of the country.

The full text of the admission in an academic

institution is called laudation (from latin word-

presentation) and we have the pleasure of pre-

senting you with the text of laudation by Acade-

mician Mircea Constantinescu for H.E. Haile-

mariam Desalegn-Prime Minister of F.D.R of

Ethiopia.

Mr. Prime Minister,

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear

friends,

We are here to award to H.E. Hailemariam De-

salegn, Prime Minister of the Federal Democ-

ratic Republic of Ethiopia the title of Honorary

Member of European Tourism Academy.

Analyzing the curriculum vitae along with the

activity of the Prime Minister Hailemariam we

discover a complex person, a man of many tal-

ents, entirely dedicated to the development of

his country, to the well being of the people of

Ethiopia, dedicated to building a favorable im-

age of Ethiopia in the midst of the international

community.

His bachelor's degree in civil engineer-

ing, from Addis Ababa University, was funda-

mental for building a solid scientific education,

giving him access to a high level knowledge and

expertise.

The master degree, with Tampere University of

Technology in Finland, gave him an European

and international perspective upon the transfer

of knowledge, expertise and technology.

Upon his return to Ethiopia, he served in differ-

ent academic and administrative capacities,

including the dean of the Water Technology

Institute, for 13 years.

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn loves his country

and the people of Ethiopia. He learned how

important the water resources are for a coun-

try, how important the expert management of

such a vital resource is for the well being and

the successful development of Ethiopia.

But for him it was not enough. He wanted

more…He wanted to acquire knowledge of sci-

entific management of the country, of its hu-

man resources and natural resources as well.

And he acquired all this, earning a MA in Organ-

izational Leadership in California.

We will not analyze here the political activity of

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, but taking actively

part in the politi-

cal life of his

country, it gave

him the opportu-

nity to work with

people of Ethio-

pia, to be in the

middle of Ethio-

pia’s people, to

efficiently com-

municate, and

being able to

EYE ON IT

Conference on OSCE

congratulates ETHIOPIA for

being named

WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION FOR 2015

Bucharest Conference on Organiza-

tion for Security and Cooperation in

Europe is expressing his satisfaction

at the thawing of relations be-

tween Europe and Ethiopia-most

developed East African state.

Ethiopia has being recognized as

the most economically dynamic

country in Africa, a beacon of de-

mocracy and development in the

region and now was recognized as

the World`s Best Tourist Destina-

tion. On 25 June 2015, the Euro-

pean Council for Tourism and Trade

(ECTT) based in European Union ,

unanimously selected Ethiopia as

the World Best Tourist Destination

for 2015 and favorite cultural desti-

nation for 2015. Among several

countries, Ethiopia has obtained

the award in recognition for its

tourism potential, acumen reform

of tourism industry and indelible

cultural and historical patrimony.

10

implement at the high level management of the country activities, reflecting the reality

of Ethiopia and the wishes of Ethiopian people.

His activity as Minister of foreign affairs was indeed a success. As a diplomat he pre-

sented to the world the image of a peaceful country, of many resources and beauties,

with people that praise hospitality, open in a friendly manner to the international com-

munity.

There is no wonder that with all these credentials he was able to excellently perform

as Prime Minister, running an activity at the top level, for the benefit of Ethiopia and

Ethiopian people.

In the country’s general framework, tourism is a complex activity, and H.E. understood

that tourism is not only for tourists to enjoy the natural beauties and the cultural heri-

tage of Ethiopia.

Tourism is for also the people of Ethiopia, is for the development of the local communi-

ties, so that everyone will be able to enjoy all that a beautiful and resourceful country

may offer.

As a final remark, he was working for many years at the highest level of the African

Union, was able to have a general overview, as well as a personal contribution, to the

most important African institution, bringing together people and countries, managing

the trend for ever growing development and international recognition of the African

continent. In recognition of his contribution to the development of Ethiopian tourism,

EUROPE HAS A NEW ACADEMICIAN

PRIME MINISTER HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN ,ANNOUNCES EUROPEAN TOURISM

ACADEMY DIRECTOR

DR. MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU

We are WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION is the hymn of Ethiopia !

A perfect song for a perfect destination!

Academician Mircea Constantinescu-EUROPEAN TOURISM

ACADEMY and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei on the

venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.

ETHIOPIA-ADDIS ABABA

The newest member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY –

Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn presents to the

public the official Academician Degree.


we are proud to hand over The Medal Of Honor to his

Excellency Hailemariam, Prime Minister of the Federal

Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and to recognize him as

the newest academician member of the European

Tourism Academy.

11

Academician Mircea Constantinescu-EUROPEAN TOURISM

ACADEMY and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei on the

venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.


EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION TRIP

ETHIOPIA

2015 WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

12


DELEGATION TOURING THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL

ETHIOPIA-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2015

On the landmark occasion, of the universal proclamation

of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, a top ranking dele-

gation from European Council on Tourism and Trade was in-

vited for a discovery tour of Ethiopia, the receiver of this year

most influential tourism designation.

The visit took place between 9 to 15 July, 2015 and included an

important political and diplomatic dimension, with European

Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor Dr. Anton

Caragea holding discussions with Minister of Trade-Yaekob

Yalla, Minister of Foreign Affairs-Berhane Gebre-Christos

and H.E. Amin Abdulkadir – Minister of Culture and Tourism of

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and an inclusive and

profusely dialogue with Prime Minister of F.D.R. Ethiopia- Aca-

demician Hailemariam Desalegn.

The inclusive dialogue, concentrated on promoting bilateral

trade, investment and economic cooperation, supporting busi-

ness people and firms from both regions in cooperating and

promoting the exchange of techniques, skills and economic

goods.

During the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT)

official visit to Ethiopia, ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton

Caragea, met with Prime Minister Hailemariam De-

salegn, Foreign Minister, Tedos Ghebreyesus, State Minister,

Berhane Gebre-Christos, Yaekob Yalla, Minister of Trade and

Minister of Culture and Tourism, Amin Abdulkadir, to create a

climate favorable for tourism and trade development and for

awarding to the people and Government of Ethiopia, the

world most important recognition for tourism advancement-

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015.

(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 9-15 July 2015).

Lalibela, the holiest Christian city in Africa and the sec-

ond Jerusalem, as is worldly known

Ethiopia tourism is having a perfect future ! with the

hand shake between Prime Minister of Ethiopia-

Hailemariam Desalegn and ECTT President-Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea.

Gala dinner for European Council on Tourism and Trade

(ECTT) President and his high ranking delegation. (from

right to left): Minister of Culture and Tourism – Amin

Abdulkadir, H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Haile-

mariam Desalegn, H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia-

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

13




On diplomatic arena a

cooperation and further

developing of honorary

consul’s network across

the world, was estab-

lished, with a view to

foster tourism, cultural

and economic coopera-

tion.

Creating a network of

Ambassadors for Tourism

and Culture, promoting

tourism and the image of Ethiopia, where also tabled, based on

other successful examples of actions of tourism promotion

carved by European Council on Tourism and Trade.

During his official visit, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea met for an

extensive dialogue Prime Minister Desalegn Hailemariam, who,

on the occasion of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CERE-

MONY FOR 2015, was presented with the WORLD LEDERS OF

TOURISM LETTER of European Council on Tourism and Trade,

calling on Heads of States and Government to “promote peace

and world development via the tourism sector”.

ECTT and Ethiopia have agreed to reinforce their collaboration

in the areas of tourism promotion, management of tourism

product development, and cultural marketing strategies, as

agreed in the discussions between Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

and the Minister of Tourism and Culture of Federal Democratic

Republic of Ethiopia, Mr. Amin Abdulkadir.On July 10, 2015

European Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor

Dr. Anton Caragea had presented the World Best Tourist Desti-

nation for 2015 insignia to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Acade-

mician Hailemariam Desalegn.

The President also presented the main speech of the world

tourism ceremony titled: Ethiopia-the land chosen by God!

European Tourism Academy Director- Academician Mircea

Constantinescu, announced also that after receiving the letter

destined to World Leaders of Tourism-Prime Minister Haile-

mariam Desalegn will represent Ethiopia, as the newest honor-

ary members of European Tourism Academy.

ETHIOPIA IS THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD ! and WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 proclaimed President

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, Minister

of Culture and Tourism – Amin Abdulkadir, H.E. Prime Minis-

ter – Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, are directing the

proceedings for World Tourism Awards Ceremony for 2015.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European

Tourism Academy is presenting the Honorary Academician

Title to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Hailemariam Desalegn.

14




The ceremony for

World Best Tourist

Destination for 2015

included also folk

dances, Ethiopian

traditional coffee

ceremony and aca-

demic presentations,

supported by leading

figures of Ethiopian

cultural establish-

ment. The cere-

mony for World Best

Tourist Destination

in 2015 was live broadcasted and viewed by more than 200

millions viewers and will continued to be presented across

Europe for the next year.

From 10th July, the European Council on Tourism and Trade

President and his delegation embarked in a cultural and tour-

ism program visiting Axum-the first capital of Christian Africa

and the centre of a world power in 100 to 400 BC that con-

trolled trade across the Read Sea.

In Axum, the delegation visit the royal tombs, the Church of the

Arch of Covenant, the Saint Mary Imperial Basilica, where the

emperors of Ethiopia were crowned.

Specially for European delegates, were opened the gates of the

imperial museum, containing the priceless treasures of ten

Ethiopian emperors from garments, to crown adorned with

jewels and the robes used for imperial investiture.

From Axum, the old imperial city, the delegation led by Presi-

dent Anton Caragea has being directed to Gondar, the capital

of Ethiopia from XVII century to XIX century.

Here they have a chance to admire the fiery Amharic dances, in

a wonderful welcoming ceremony, offered by the local authori-

ties, enjoyed the fabulous gondarine cuisine at famous Four

sisters’ restaurant and toured the imperial city.

Axum Bible used for imperial

ceremonies

Axum Cathedral: the place of coronation for Emperors of

Ethiopia. The last emperor to be crowned here was Haile

Selassie I

Dances and flowers: welcoming at Gondar airport, Euro-

pean delegates with Mayor Getinet Amare.

European Tourism delegation is touring the outstandingly

preserved Imperial compound of Gondar- Ethiopian empire

capital from 17 to 19 century. Behind is the the world fa-

mous Fasil Ghibli-Palace of Emperor Fasilades

15




Gondar is also world renamed for his architecture and for

housing almost ten emperors, in a period of glory for Abyssinia,

as Ethiopia was known in that time.

Garnering Portuguese influence, with Indian and English archi-

tectural designs, Gondar is nicknamed as African Camelot for

his strange, but perfect architecture.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates were re-

ceived with a religious ceremony in Lalibela, the holiest Chris-

tian city in Africa and the second Jerusalem, as in worldly

known.

More than 5000 pilgrims, priests and deacons, welcomed Presi-

dent Dr. Anton Caragea and offered to him and his delegation,

special ceremonial robes, to mark their entrance in the holy

city.

On this occasion, President Anton Caragea held his gratitude

speech known as: To The People of Lalibela, a discourse that

quickly captured the imagination of the inhabitants of Lalibela.

An impressive tour of six of the eleven rock hewn churches was

conducted, including the famous grave of Saint Lalibela, the

church of Medhane Alem (Our Saviour) and Holy Cross Church.

In the final leg of the trip, European Council on Tourism and

Trade President and his party were treated with a wonderful

welcoming to the bustling and sunny south of Ethiopia and

with his famous Lake District city of Hawassa.

The delegates were welcomed to music and a fire display by

the head of Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Re-

gional State of Ethiopia and enjoyed a tour of Lake Hawassa, a

discovery of the city landmarks and a special night show that

touched their hearts.

The Rift Valley Lakes of Ethiopia are an internal sea, that can be

perfectly used for tourism and leisure.

A special surprised was offered by HE. Minister of Culture and

Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir, who arranged for ECTT

President Dr. Anton Caragea delegation a special discovery

tour of Harar-the fourth most holy Islamic site.

Welcoming in Lalibela with flowers and the beautiful

children of Ethiopia: Anton Caragea- European Tourism

President and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

European Tourism President-Dr. Anton Caragea address-

ing to priests, pilgrims and believers at Lalibela-the capital

of Christian Africa. .

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare

you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!-

President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

16




The city comprises more than 82 mosques and 4000 saints

tombs known in the Islamic world as Medinat Al Awliya- the

city of saints and a UNESCO heritage site.

The delegates were welcomed with a coffee ceremony and a

tour of famous city enclosure, known as Jugal, and a visit to

famous French poet Arthur Rimbaud house in Harar.

The visit, to extraordinary city of Harar, was the perfect gift for

our delegates, appreciated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The European delegation official visit to Ethiopia is a sign of the

country inclusive development, political, clout and prominence

in Africa and a mark of the country taking the rightful place

that is deserved amidst the most cultural and historical devel-

oped country in the world, concluded his remarks, President


The Government of Ethiopia had succeeded in developing the

country tourist infrastructure, in insuring security for tourism

facilities and is proposing for the next year`s a number of stra-

tegic decisions to further develop the country’s tourism sector.

The Government of Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn is

anticipating that tourism will become the main country foreign

currency earner with the necessary investment in infrastruc-

ture, on destination promotion and product development,

through the recently established Tourism Transformation

Council.

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare

you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!-

President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea. .

Boat trip along the Hawassa lake shores

Mihai Prundianu, ECTT Trade Chairman pose for a

photo in front of famous Harar landmark Grand Jami

Mosque.

Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of Bureau for Culture and

Tourism of SNNPRS

Sidamo Cultural Tower

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea

European Council on Tourism and Trade President at

Lalibela Airport

17

VISIT TO GONDAR-THE PERFECT MEDIEVAL CITY OF

ETHIOPIA

On 11 of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and

Trade delegates where recieved in the medieval capital of

Ethiopia: Gondar (Gonder).

The ceremony of welcoming the european delegates, attend-

ing WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY for 2015,

was directed by the city mayor-Mr. Getinet Amare.

Taking opportunity of this felicitous occasion Mayor Getinet

Amare wanted to give a message to all the world tourists: to

come to his wonderful city and to enjoy the heartland of

Ethiopia: city of Gonder.

Here is the full text of his speech:

Your Excellency Professor Anton Caragea President of Euro-

pean Union Trade and Tourism Council.

Respected Gusts

First of all I would like to express my heart felt gratitude on

behalf of the city administration and the people of Gondar for

adjusting your precious time for visiting this city which is the

center of marvelous culture and heritage.

Gondar was founded in 1636 by Emperor Fasiledes.

Starting this time on wards in became the center of modern

architecture. As a result the first and the largest castle was

built by the name of king Fasileded – “Fasil Castle”.

Different castles and churches were built accompanied the

grandest castle within an area of 70,000 meter square.

The birth of such a modern architecture and start of urbaniza-

tion enabled Gondar to be the center of arts, Orthodox Church

education, crafts man ship, trade and exchange which stepped

up Gondar in to a ladder to become and serve as a capital city

of Ethiopia for more than 200 years.

Gondar the home of a world heritage site since 1978 is 748

kilometers away to the North West direction from the capital

city Addis Ababa.

Many of Ethiopian’s impressive tourist sites are within a few

hours drive. Bahr Dar, the Island monasteries of Lake Tana and

the spectacular Blue Nile falls are within 180 kms to the South

Gondar.

The Semien Mountains National Park ( a world heritage site )

with its breath taking scenery and rare and endemic wild life is

of only 140 kms to the north of Gondar.

Its altitude ranges from 1900-4620 meters above sea levels it is

the highest peak in Ethiopia and the fourth largest mountain in

Africa.

Besides Gondar has an easy asphalted road network access to

both Lalibela ( the most striking feature and world heritage

site ) to the west, Axum ( the world heritage site ) to the north

and Gedarif ( the Sudanese city ) to the east respectively cur-

rently Gondar has a population of about 368,435 and hence I

warmly want to say welcome !

I want to assure you that we are very much happy and feel

proud for the reason that our Prime minister,, His Excellency

Hailemarim Desalegn recived an award of “world Best Tourist

Destination Ethiopia – Favorite cultural Destination for 2015”

Mayor Getinet Amare and European Councilon Tourism

and Trade President holding “Fasil Castle” iron model.

Amhari dances at Gondar

18

VISIT TO GONDAR

THE PERFECT MEDIEVAL

CITY OF ETHIOPIA

for his recognized dedication to boost tourism development in

Ethiopia.

Obviously the current global experience witnesses that tourism

is growing to the extent of becoming one of the world’s largest

economic sectors.

Its role is so significant in improving gross income and produc-

tion and in stimulating various economic activities ,creating

more employment opportunities and reducing poverty in addi-

tion tourism development undoubtedly paves the situation for

the development of investment , trade and exchange .

Having this in mind , we are required to guide our strategic and

operational plans in a way that help us to maximize our benefit

from the sector ; and simultaneously we are also required to

work hard to improve and develop the necessary infrastruc-

ture, related facilities and addressing the needs of tourists.

So , we hope ! Planned and controlled expansion and growth of

tourism will be achievable through enhancing and maintaining

common interest and partnerships.

Wish you a pleasant stay in Gondar.

Getinet Amare

Hawassa is one of the most beautiful cities in Ethiopia, ex-

ploring the city is an enjoyable and worth while experience

for both foreign and domestic tourists say`s Mrs. Almaz

Beyero-Head of SNNPRS Tourism and Culture Bureau.

On 12th of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and

Trade delegation landed in Hawassa, for a short stay in the

city of diversity, as the capital of South Nations, Nationali-

ties and Peoples Regional State is widely known.

At the arrival rostrum the high guests where welcome with

a wonderful display of hospitality by Mrs. Almaz Beyero-

Head of the local Bureau for Culture and Tourism and mem-

bers of the tourism department and local mass media. The

delegation enjoyed a tour of Haile Resort on the outskirts of

the city, a boat ride on Hawassa Lake and a tour of the city

landmarks with a special lay over at Sidama Nation Tower-

Sidamu Summuda. On the occasion of the visit of European

tourism body delegation Mrs. Almaz Beyero presented a

welcoming speech destined to present the city tourists at-

tractions and to lure more prospective tourists to the city.

We present the full speech of Hawassa Tourism and Culture

Office Head:

Your Excellency Professor Anton Caragea President of

European Council for Tourism and Trade

Distinguished Members of the European Union Tourism and

Trade Council,

Your Excellency Ato Amin Abdulkadir, Minister of Culture

and Tourism of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Mayor Getinet Amare and European Councilon Tourism

and Trade President holding “Fasil Castle” iron model.

VISIT TO HAWASSA

THE LAKE DISTRICT OF

ETHIOPIA

Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of Bureau for Culture and

Tourism of SNNPRS

19

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Re-

gional State, on behalf of the People of the Region, and on my

own behalf, I would like to take this opportunity to warmly

welcome you all to our region.

The region is one of the nine national regional states of Ethio-

pia.

Our region encompasses diversified nations and nationalities,

variety of land features and water bodies, and a wide range of

Ecosystems.

It is home for 56 nations and nationalities that speak more

than 50 languages categorized under four language groups.

These nations and nationalities have characteristic cultural

values and an outstanding cultural performance that can at-

tract the feelings of any outsider. Moreover, our diversity is

exceptional by being our beauty and the power of our unity.

Geographically, the region is situated in southern half of the

country very close to the international boundary, Kenya and

South Sudan. The Great East African Rift valley, the promi-

nent geographic feature of the region, is the home of more

than four lakes that are accountable for enormous aquatic

diversity. The significant altitudinal variation and consequent

climatic variation of the region results in ecological diversity.

Biological diversity in different life forms are maintained and

protected in 7 national parks, 2 wildlife reserves, the croco-

dile ranch and many more protected areas.

The region has unforgettable historical resources. It is known

for old aged monasteries, mosques, palaces, caves, defen-

sive walls, megalithic stele sites as well as archeological and

paleo-anthropological sites.

These historical heritages makes the region the owner of

three UNESCO registered World Heritage Sites, one bio-

sphere reserve and in which the best gift to the

world , coffee is originated.

There are many more intangible as well as tangible heritages

that are in the pipeline to be registered as World Heritage

Sites, the two are already registered under the tentative list.

Your Excellency

Distinguished guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

The regional government has been doing its best to develop,

promote and properly utilize its cultural, natural and histori-

cal resources for the benefit of its people through tourism

development and other means’s.

As a result, the tourism sector has shown significant growth

in the past two decades.

Especially in the last one year the regional government de-

veloped tourism transformation plan and estab-

lished Tourism Transformation Council in all administrative

levels to integrate tourism in its all development agendas.

Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of Bureau for Cul-ture and Tourism of SNNPRS and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation at

Hawassa

VISIT TO HAWASSA

THE LAKE DISTRICT OF ETHIOPIA

20

Consequently, the region is able to witness positive develop-

ment in the sector.

The selection and awarding of our country as The World Best

Tourist Destination for 2015 by The European Tourism and

Trade Council appropriately comply with our ongoing effort.

This award not only insures the recognition we have at the

international level but also used as a spring-board on our effort

to transform the sector.

Therefore, the regional government is very grateful for what

you did and I hope your support will continue till of our plan

gets real.

Finally, I welcome you all again, and I wish you to have a nice

and pleasant stay and enjoy the original taste of coffee, the

hospitality of our people and their culture in our region, our

city, Hawassa.

ALMAZ BEYERO-Head of SNNPRS Tourism

A coffee ceremony and a musical display of Harari tradi-

tions where the secret weapons displayed by the Director of

Harar Tourism Bureau-Muhyadin Ahmed to conquer the

imagination of european tourism delegation visiting Harar.

It seems that the gamble has pay off and the delegates

were enthused by the city cultural potential.

Harar-the city of peace and harmony, as is his UNESCO

sobriquet, received the visit of European Council on Tourism

and Trade President and his delegation on July 13, 2015.

Harar was built-in 7th century and is enjoying UNESCO world

heritage status for his outer-wall called Jugal and build

around 1552 and encompassing 82 mosques and 400 shrines

that made the city being called Medinat al Awliya (City of

Saints).

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation had the

chance to visit the famous five gates of the city, toured Ar-

thur Rimbaud famous house in the city, the palaces of Ras

Tafari Mekonnen ( future Emperor Haile Selassie ) and tradi-

tional harari houses.

The delegation toured also famous Grand Jami Mosque and

visited lodging facilities at Harar Ras Hotel.

Harar is today a living museum of Africa, a city of unique

features and a perfect place for the culture and history lov-

ers, concluded at the end of the short, but impressive visit,

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- European Council on Tourism

and Trade President.

Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of Bureau for Cul-ture and Tourism of SNNPRS and European Council on Tourism and Trade President .

VISIT TO HAWASSA

THE LAKE DISTRICT OF

ETHIOPIA

TOUR OF HARAR

UNESCO CITY OF

ETHIOPIA

21

ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR– MINISTER OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

OF ETHIOPIA

THE MAN WHO BROUGHT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

AWARD TO HIS COUNTRY

During the official visit of European Council on Tourism and

Trade Delegation to Ethiopia, World Best Tourist Destination

for 2015, the official meeting between HE. ECTT President-

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and HE. Minister of Culture and

Tourism of Ethiopia-Amin Abdulkadir has taken place.

Minister of Culture and Tourism-Ato Amin Abdulkadir presents

Lucy-the oldest hominide to European Council on Tourism and

Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea and Senator Ionel Agrig-

oroaei.

On 9th of July 2015, H. E. Minister Amin Abdulkadir has wel-

comed the European high ranking officials at their arrival on

Ethiopian soil.

The minister express his country appreciation for European

support, in electing Ethiopia asWorld Best Tourist Destina-

tion and Favourite Cultural Destination for 2015, a moment

that will mark the full maturity of Ethiopian tourism industry.

European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor

Dr. Anton Caragea, graciously acknowledged the warm wel-

coming and stated that: now Ethiopia has emerged as the most

rapidly developing African country, one of the world top level

economic powers and a symbol of African development.

I am pleased and honoured to be in Ethiopia-the Center of Afri-

can tourism, concluded President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

On 14 July 2015, a new round of talks was held between the

two tourism leaders at the end of European Council on Tourism

and Trade top level delegation visit to Ethiopia-World Favourite

Cultural Destination.

European Council on Tourism and Trade President remarked

that Ethiopia had succeed in the world competition for World

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

Ato Amin Abdulkadir - Minister of Tourism and Culture surrounded with affection by

the staff of Addis Ababa Museum of History and President Dr. Anton Caragea meeting with Lucy-the oldest woman in the world .

22

ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR– MINISTER OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

OF ETHIOPIA

THE MAN WHO BROUGHT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

AWARD TO HIS COUNTRY

Best Tourist Destination for all the right reasons and is today a

paradise for travellers, an oasis for culture and history seekers

and a perfect luxury and discovery destination.

Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia -Amin Abdulkadir

had presented his ambitious plans for fostering Ethiopia’s place

on international tourism markets and presented his desire to

continue the cooperation with European tourism body for

years to come.

Among minister plans are: to obtain for a city in Ethiopia the

designation of World Capital of Culture and Tourism, to start a

step by step and state by state developing process of tourism

in Ethiopia.

HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdul-

kadir and H.E. ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea,

discussed a long term agreement of support and cooperation

envisaging: holding of conferences, exhibitions, promotion

activities and decided to concentrate in electing in 2016

a World Capi-

tal of Culture

and Tourism

from Ethiopia,

i n o r d e r t o

create a two-

t h r e e y e a r s

long campaign

for Ethiopia-

the land cho-

sen by God!

During his semestrial press conference Ambassador Tiberius Puiu

from European Council on Tourism and Trade Presidential Bureau

praised Ethiopia`s Minister of Tourism and Culture, achievements

and efforts, during the first month of Ethiopia holding the WORLD

BEST TOURISM DESTINATION crown status.

H.E. Mr. Ato Amin Abdulkadir- Minister of Tourism and Culture of

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia activity was highly

evaluated.

The Minister announced that Ethiopia has set target to secure

seven billion USD revenues from tourism at the end of the second

five-year Growth and Transformation Plan Period (GTP).

The plan is to increase the revenue the nation collected from

foreign tourists at the end of the first GTP, the just concluded

Ethiopian fiscal year, by threefold, Amin Abdulkadir Minister of

Tourism said.

Opening new destination for tourists, expanding infrastructure

networks and promoting tourist destinations are among the few

things to be done in order to meet the target, he said.

The Minister of Culture and Tourism evaluated also the hotels in

Addis Ababa in a larger project to evaluate more than 400 hotels

across Ethiopia.

Thirty-eight hotels in Addis Ababa awarded five to one star, in the

rating underway for the past few months. The classification was

made based on 12 international criteria. Bedrooms, bath and rest

rooms, guest rooms, restaurants, kitchen, sustainability of hotel

service, security and employ treatment, are amongst the reasons.

If this fervent activity will continue we will have to hail Minister

Amin Abdulkadir as the most active African tourism minister,

concluded his presentation Ambassador Tiberius Puiu, on behalf

of Presidential Bureau of European Council on Tourism and

Trade.

AMBASSADOR TIBERIUS PUIU CONGRATULATES MINISTER ATO AMIN AB-DULKADIR FOR HIS EFFORTS IN MAINTAIN-

ING ETHIOPIA AT WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION STATUS

23

DIPLOMATIC DIALOGUE BETWEEN MINISTER OF FOREIGN

AFFAIRS OF ETHIOPIA AND EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM

AND TRADE LEADERSHIP

The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade -

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea participated in a dialogue and

friendly consultation session, with State Minister of Foreign

Affairs of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia-Berhane

Gebre Christos, during the President official visit to Addis

Ababa.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined that keeping the in-

tense pace of this dialogue was a priority and declared that it

would further enhance the bilateral relationship, including by

identifying new cooperation opportunities.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined the consistency of

economic cooperation, supported by the dynamic presence of

European companies in Ethiopia and by the increasing trade

between the two countries and our mission is to provide all the

support they need to have opportunities for increased invest-

ment and business”, emphasized Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

In his turn, Ethiopian Minister appreciated the dynamics of

bilateral cultural and economic relations.

Minister Berhane Gebre Christos recalled the very important

role of the European lobby for his country in international or-

ganizations and for Ethiopia being nominated as WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015, an action that will have a

significant contribution to his country’s economic develop-

ment. “I thanked Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for the support

that the European personalities provide for the Ethiopian

world stage profile and for supporting my countries initiative in

the world of tourism”, stated Berhane Gebre Christos.

The Ethiopian official also thanked President Dr. Anton Caragea

for its constant and sustained support that it provides Ethiopia

for the latter’s accession to the tourism structures, World Best

Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism

international competitions and expressed confidence that Presi-

dent Dr. Anton Caragea would further support Ethiopia, in view

of a positive decision in this file for World Capital of Culture and

Tourism nomination.

In this context, he congratulated President Dr. Anton Caragea for

the successful mandate and his Chairmanship of the Tourism and

Trade Council.

During the talks, the two personalities extensively exchanged

views on the current developments in Africa and Europe, particu-

larly in the context of the Somali crisis and the issue of migration.

There was also an exchange of views on matters of interest on

the international agenda, economic cooperation, cultural and

diplomatic strengthening of ties.

Friendly dialogue between European Coun-cil on Tourism and Trade delegation, lead by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Ministry of

Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia team, lead by State Minister Berhane Gebre Christos.

24

TRADE AND ECONOMY TABLED AT THE MEETING BETWEEN

MINISTER OF TRADE OF ETHIOPIA AND EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON

TOURISM AND TRADE DELEGATION

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea European Council on Tourism

and Trade President was received on , 9 July 2015, by the

Minister of Trade of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethio-

pia, Yaekob Yalla, during his visit to Ethiopia.

The two officials reviewed the progress in the bilateral rela-

tions, insisting on economic cooperation and trade.

They expressed their firm belief that additional joint effort

and intensified bilateral political contacts could boost the

economic exchanges and help map out new investment and

business projects of mutual interest.

As promising areas for bilateral economic cooperation, they

mentioned the textile industry, the energy sector

(hydroelectric plants, coal mining), agriculture and the phar-

maceutical industry.

The Professor Dr. Anton Caragea urged Ethiopian business

personalities to visit Europe and identify opportunities for

economic cooperation.Moreover, he underscored that a rise

in commercial exchanges could also be determined through

the good offices of an European -Ethiopian Business Council.

He also assured the Ethiopian side that business people

across Europe are aware of the huge Ethiopian market’s po-

tential (with around 90 million`s consumers), given the

wealth of natural resources, the strategic geographical posi-

tion and this year’s positive democratic and economic devel-

opments.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined the consistency of

economic cooperation, supported by the dynamic presence

of European companies in Ethiopia and by the increasing

trade between the two countries and our mission is to pro-

vide all the support they need to have opportunities for in-

creased investment and business”, emphasized Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea.

Yaekob Yalla-Minister of Trade of Ethiopia receives European insignia from European Council on Tourism and Trade President-


Friendly dialogue between European Coun-cil on Tourism and Trade delegation lead by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Ministry of

Trade of Ethiopia team lead by Minister Yaekob Yalla.

25


GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2015

26

PREPARATION FOR EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM

AND TRADE

GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2015

Increased regional cooperation, visa facilitation and the better

promotion of European tourism are some of the topics, in fo-

cus, at the 8th Meeting of the European Council on Tourism

and Trade, to be held in Bucharest, Romania, 25-26 June 2015.

Europe is the world’s most visited region and is the main

source of outbound tourism to other destination, accounting

for more than half of the world’s international travelers.

In 2014, international tourism in Europe had registered a ma-

jor contribution to the economic recovery in the region: inter-

national tourist arrivals grew by 3% to reach a record 584 mil-

lion, while international tourism receipts increased by 4% con-

tributing US$ 509 billion (383 billion euro) to the European

economies.

The 8th Meeting of the European Council on Tourism and

Trade will be held at the Romanian Parliament and Professor

Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism

and Trade will play host to representatives from 30 European

countries and other tourism stakeholders in the region to dis-

cuss policy priorities and set the agenda for ECTT in the world

in 2015-2016.

A special attention will be paid to one of the fastest-growing

segments of the global tourism industry, mega events

like WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and World Capital of

Culture and Tourism.

This paraphernalia designation can play a key role in the devel-

opment of tourism destinations, helping to improve their im-

age, opening new tourism markets, diversifying the product

offer, encouraging and fostering job creation and socio-

economic development.

The European leaders in charge of tourism and the interna-

tional experts will discuss about issues related to WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION status:

How to optimize the economic and social impacts of mega

tourism events (like WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and

World Capital of Culture and Tourism) on tourism destinations?

Legacy of mega tourism events- like WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION: How to best develop destination brands and

effective marketing strategies?

Strategic partnerships for the effective planning and develop-

ment of like WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION-mega events.

The main priorities for European tourism identified by the

European national tourism organizations include: the develop-

ment of cultural destinations and carving transnational prod-

ucts, in order to enhance regional cooperation declared Euro-

pean Tourism President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea..

ECTT President-Dr. Anton Caragea has wel-comed his guests on 2015 General Meeting of European Council on Tourism and Trade

on Palace of Parliament for electing WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015

27

THE LEADER OF EUROPEAN ACADEMY

MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU IS CLOSING THE 2015

WORLD TOURISM AWARDS COMPETITION

The European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards, created

with the help of European Tourism Academy, are recognised

as the flagship awards for the global tourism sector.

The awarded countries, cities and personalities are selected in

line with the policies, priorities and programme of work of

European Council on Tourism and Trade, including

the European Council on Tourism and Trade-Code of Sustain-

able Tourism and the principle standards set in the European

Council on Tourism and Trade development pledge.

This countries and personalities represent some of the best

examples of tourism leaders from around the world, that

through their exceptional actions and potentials initiatives

have placed themselves and their nations on the rostrum of

the sector.

European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Con-

stantinescu, officially announced the closing of competition for

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015.

We have received the final application and we have concluded

the peer revision and we will be ready to outline our recom-

mendation for the General Reunion of European Council on

Tourism and Trade at the end of June 2015.

We are sure that this year, like the previous year`s, our deci-

sion will elicit the enthusiasm of travelers from all around the

world and we hope that the winner for 2015 will enjoy the

same popularity as Laos: who received more than 3 million

tourists in the last period and Zimbabwe, who become the best

African destination, surpassing in growth all the heavy weights

of tourism in the region, concluded Academician Mircea Con-

stantinescu.

In total 31 countries placed their candidatures for WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015 and 16 cities placed

their hope on being designated as WORLD CAPITAL OF CUL-

TURE AND TOURISM.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu receives the final candidature for 2015 World Tour-ism Awards-World Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism.

28


GENERAL ASSEMBLY SELECTS

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD had become a

center of international tourism recognition in the last span of

time.

After obtaining the highest world tourism accolade in 2012,

the nation island of Trinidad and Tobago becomes the only

Caribbean nation that registered tourism increase in the re-

gion.

In 2013 People Democratic Republic of Laos registered a plus

of over 1,5 million tourists in the first year and a 7% increase

in GDP, due to mounting tourism revenues and Zimbabwe:

the 2014 winner rose from zero to hero, in tourism statistics

after snatching the world best tourism destination designa-

tion.

This string of tourism success stories made 29 countries to

start registering their candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION AWARD in 2015 more early than ever. (two

more countries adding their name to the list in a nick of time

making the total of candidatures to go up to 31).

The meeting of world tourism leaders had chosen the clear and

undisputed winner of tourism industry for 2015.

The country that achieved international recognition is The Fed-

eral Democratic Republic of Ethiopia crowned as WORLD BEST

TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.

On June 25, 2015 the General Assembly of the European Coun-

cil on Tourism and Trade (ECTT), has taken under consideration

the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

for 2015.

Academician Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European

Tourism Academy presented the list of candidates and the list

of reports and accompanying reports for each of the 31 coun-

tries registered candidatures.

Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu presented also the figures

regarding previous award winner for 2014-The Republic of

Zimbabwe who become the most sought after destination and

the number one country in Africa, in term of tourism growth

for last year.

Lao PDR- 2013 winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION-

also crossed the 3 million tourist bench mark, surpassing all the

countries in the region in terms of tourism, concluded Acade-

mician Mircea Constantinescu.

Afterword, the debate on the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINA-

TION FOR 2015 started at the indication of ECTT President-


28 countries representatives analyzed the candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DES-

TINATION IN 2015

On the front the voting urne Professor Dr. Anton Caragea MA, FINS, ETA present the report: ETHIOPIA:

THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD!

29




On the debate for the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

AWARD FOR 2015, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of

European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presented a

report titled: ETHIOPIA : THE PERFECT CULTURAL DESTINA-

TION; THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD !

He proposed ETHIOPIA as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION FOR 2015 and as receiver of the FAVORITE CUL-

TURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2015.

The report noted the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOUR-

IST DESTINATION FOR 2015 PRIZE to ETHIOPIA:

• The excellent preservation of humanity landmarks such as:

ruins of the city of Aksum- the heart of ancient Ethiopia, Fasil

Ghebbi- the residence of the Ethiopian emperors during the

16th and 17th century, Harar Jugol- 82 mosques, 102 shrines,

and unique interior design in the townhouses, Lalibela- holy

site encompassing eleven medieval stone carved churches

from the 13th century, Konso Cultural Landscape (containing

55 kilometers of stonewalled terraces and fortified settle-

ments), Lower Valley of the Awash-where humanity made his

first steps and where was found the Eva of all mankind-Lucy

fossil’s, Lower Valley of the Omo also containing fragments

pertaining to early humanity development and the fossils of

Homo Gracilis.

All this sites where recognized as being of world significance

and registered as UNESCO World heritage monuments.

• The rich cultural and historical legacy of Ethiopia is not con-

fined to the previous presented list: new prominent landmarks

are added such as: Sheik Hussein Religious, Cultural and His-

torical Site, Melka Kunture- Paleolithic site in the upper Awash

Valley, Gedeo Cultural and Natural Landscape, Bale Mountains

National Park, Sof Omar Cave- the longest cave in Ethiopia at

15.1 kilometres long; and the longest system of caves in Africa-

sacred for Islam and for local Oromo population.

In order to fully grasp the natural potential of Ethiopia natural

parks and natural reservations we must look at the potential of

Simien National Park garnering mountain peaks, deep valleys,

and sharp precipices dropping about 1,500 m.

• The ambitious plan drafted by the Government of Ethiopia

under the name of Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP).

Tourism as a tool for poverty eradication, for local community

development and for economic independence is a successful

strategy carved by H.E. Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn.

Community based, social oriented tourism, promoted by Prime

Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, is a perfect way of sharing

revenue, growing income and supporting marginal and rural

communities development. The way in which social-tourism

has become the base for local economic development, provid-

ing benefits to communities, makes social-friendly tourism, the

Palestine, Russian and Malaysian Ambassa-dors flanking President Anton Caragea and

Senator Florin Constantinescu

30




lesson that today-the REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA is offering to the

world.

• Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine nature and

the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological

preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places.

All these regions and national parks, are a model of achieving

ecological and green tourism that must be recognized through-

out the world.

The ongoing development and protection of cultural, reli-

gious and historical shrines of the Republic of ETHIOPIA ,

the transformation of Lalibela into a historical and spiritual

centre, offering to the visitors a glimpse into rich culture

and heritage of peoples of ETHIOPIA.

Lalibela is the land of faith and miracles that must be pre-

sented to the world as a center of religious and faith signifi-

cance equal to Jerusalem only in the world.

Lalibela must be the center of religious pilgrimage and cultural

tourism offering to world tourists the complex healing experi-

ence of cultural legacy, religious special atmosphere and faith

imbued air.

• The preservation of outstanding historical and cultural heri-

tage in the form of the former capital of the Kingdom of Ethio-

pia, the Gondar cultural complex , an ample palatial complex

from the 13th Century, offering a pungent presence of one of

the African greatest empire.

• Today, Gondar castle complex offers tourists bound for Ethio-

pia an open air museum with a rare collection of historical and

archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

• The REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA is also a perfect center for safari

and adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this

special kind of tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to

welcome the adventure seeker, its safety and peace, makes the

country, one of the world’s top adventure destinations.

• Keeping alive community blending traditions, allows tourists

and visitors to be part of the ETHIOPIA unique people’s ethnic

fabric, which offers the possibility for an enriching cultural ex-

perience, are all achievements that make the REPUBLIC OF

ETHIOPIA a perfect cultural class destination.

Mr. Mihai Prundianu, Chairman of the Trade Mission of the

ECTT, marked the necessity that, out of the regular order, to

have another African country declared as WORLD BEST TOUR-

IST DESTINATION in sign of continuity for last year and as

Concluding the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 ceremonies

Handshaking and smiles on the venue of European Council on Tourism and Trade:

tourism is going well ! is the motto.

31




appreciation mark forPresident Robert Gabriel Mugabe , the

current President of African Union and Zimbabwe Tourism

Minister-Walter Mzembi.

This year we have to select another African country to mark

Europe and world solidarity with Africa and Africa`s Union

President Robert Mugabe.

It is appropriate for Europe to express its commitment to, and

appreciation for, Africa by crowning ETHIOPIA as THE FAVOR-

ITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTI-

NATION FOR 2015 stated Chairman Mihai Prundianu.

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director of European Parliamentary

Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade and

Senator of Romanian Parliament stated the opinion of all pre-

sent at ECTT conference and declared that the REPUBLIC OF

ETHIOPIA is the deserving candidate, with a perfect record of

promoting social-friendly tourism, ecological and poverty re-

duction strategy based on tourism, and asking for a unanimous

vote in favor of the REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA.

President Dr. Anton Caragea asked for a vote and European

Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 TITLE TO RE-

PUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA and to declare REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA-

THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2015.

The meeting was also presented with the Official Invitation,

from the Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn of the REPUB-

LIC OF ETHIOPIA via the Minister of Culture and Tourism Mr.

Amin Abdulkadir, for a delegation of high ranking officials of

the European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Addis Ababa,

in person, to His Excellency Prime Minister of REPUBLIC OF

ETHIOPIA- HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN, European Academician

and outstanding personality in world tourism, today.

Concluding the debate, Professor Anton Caragea, President of

the European Council on Tourism and Trade marked the impor-

tance of the moment the most impressive world tourism prize

was entrusted to ETHIOPIA.

The safety of the country and the huge hospitality potential of

Ethiopia is revealed by the acceptance of the invitation for a

familiarization visit of high ranking members of European

Council on Tourism and Trade to the ETHIOPIA.

Ethiopia is, from today, a perfect, safe and outstanding place to

visit, the country`s gates are opened and all world tourism ex-

perts expressed their confidence in the potential and future of

tourism in ETHIOPIA, concluded Professor Anton Caragea,

President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade.

OFFICE THE PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM

AND TRADE (ECTT)

Smiles and the good EUROPEAN DIPLO-MATIC WINE from COTNARI on the venue of

European Council on Tourism and Trade

32

WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTION


RECOGNIZE AS WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM

HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN ETHIOPIA`S PRIME MINISTER

The Office of the President of European Council on Tourism

and Trade announced that H.E. Prime Minister of Ethiopia Mr.

Hailemariam Desalegn has being consecrated as a WORLD

LEADER OF TOURISM and as a member of European Tourism

Academy for his “recognition of the role and significance of

tourism on world stage”.

Here is the integral message addressed by H.E. Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea-ECTT President and Academician Mircea Con-

stantinescu in congratulation for Ethiopia`s tourism achieve-

ments.

We have the pleasure of informing you that: in unanimity, the

Academic Board of the European Council on Tourism and Trade

(ECTT) has elected you as a honorary member of EUROPEAN

TOURISM ACADEMY, in your capacity as a WORLD LEADER OF

TOURISM for your recognition of the role and significance of

tourism on world stage.

In XXI century Tourism had become more than an industry,

more than an integral part of the life of billions of people, tour-

ism had become an intricate part of the countries international

image, had become a part of diplomatic life and a public opin-

ion key factor.

Tourism, Travel, Trade and Investments are interconnected and

are uniting today`s countries, not only in a globalized world and

unified market, but are making every person in the world to

have two countries: the one of his birth and the one of his

choose.

The world recognizes that Trade, Travel and Tourism are part of

the international life and each and every one of our citizens

became a world ambassador and a central actor on world

stage.

No country, interested in development, international recogni-

tion, economic growth and a prosperous life for his citizens, can

remove herself from the international tourism and trade arena.

Trade and Tourism are the key pillars for countries and billions

of people, worldwide, in their efforts to achieve fully their live

potential.

European Council on Tourism and Trade, as a driving force in

the international promotion of tourism as a tool for develop-

ment and international cooperation, is selecting the world lead-

ers to become a part of his structure and to raise a unified voice

and position on the global tourism agenda.

Today, the Government of Ethiopia is recognizing the impor-

tance of tourism as a key facilitator for the country develop-

ment and international promotion, creating exemplary struc-

tures like Tourism Transformation Council, investing in infra-

structure and capacity building, creating a special team under

33

WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTION


RECOGNIZE AS WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM

HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN ETHIOPIA`S PRIME MINISTER

Your Excellency leadership for destination promotion and man-

agement and protecting the cultural, natural and historical

patrimony of the country.

The world leaders that are offering such a special attention to

historical patrimony of their country and use it, and preserve it

for the benefit of the future generation, who grasp the impor-

tance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, in-

ternational relations and raising national profile on world

arena, must be supported and commanded and offered as a

general example.

Your Excellency stated that your “aims are to build on Ethio-

pia’s natural, historical and cultural resources to strengthen the

tourism sector, identify pressing value-chain gaps and interven-

ing to allay these gaps based on tangible and scientific studies

jointly with the private sector and the international tourism

community.

Together, we will work hand in hand to make tourism one of

the leading economic sectors of our country and Ethiopia a top

destination in Africa”

This statement and practical measures put in place, made your

country succeeding in the 2015- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTI-

NATIONAWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE

CULTURAL DESTINATION for your rich past and cultural prow-

ess.

This is a momentous achievement for ETHIOPIA that is due to

your exertions.

In your new capacity, as the representative of ETHIOPIA on

world tourism and on international cultural stage, we hope

that the World will benefit now from your public exertions and

support in creating a new world community based on peace,

development and tourism as the pillars of international coop-

eration.

Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, MA, FINS, ETA

Academician Mircea Constantinescu PhD, Phil Dr.

34


FAMILIARIZATION VISIT ALONG SILK ROAD IN

KAZAKHSTAN

Silk Road has always being the destination of choice for luxury

and culture oriented tourists and a fabulous journey thru time

and spaces.

Between 20 to 29 April 2015 a European Council on Tourism

and Trade (ECTT) high level mission has toured Kazakhstan, in

order to help transforming the heart of Central Asia, as Kazakh-

stan is better known, in the new Frontier of Silk Road experi-

ences.

European Council on Tourism and Trade is the promoter of Silk

Road concept in Europe and the world, with an accent on pre-

senting the historical and tourist potential of Silk Road nations

of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

The ECTT President and his tourism and diplomatic delegation

had start the Silk Road discovery tour in Almaty, the city apples

as is world renowned, the candidate city for World Winter

Olympics in 2022.

The delegation had being presented by the Governor of the

region (Akim) with an overview of the city developments plans

and touristic opportunities.

ECTT President Anton Caragea recieves the SHYMKENT STAR from Akim of Shymkent-Mr. Darkhan Satybaldy

A rich cultural program was carved for European delegation

benefit with sightseeing including: State Museum of History,

Almaty Art Gallery, city landmarks and a tour of winter sports

facilities of Medeu and Shymbulak.

In an interview with Khabar Television, President-Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea praised Almaty development as the perfect gate

for tourists wanting to enjoy the rich culture of Kazakhstan and

to basket on perfect tourism facilities offered by city hotels.

The tour continued into the province of Chimkent (Shymkent),

where the delegation visited the historical landmarks, holds

constructive dialogues with provincial governors and inspected

tourist facilities of the area.

The highlight of the visit was the on-site discovery tour of in-

credible city of Turkistan (24-26 April) with the world famous

Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, Friday Mosque, Otrar an-

cient city archeological site, the splendid Aristan Bab Mosque,

and participation in a special ceremony honoring one of Ka-

zakhstan spiritual fathers (Aristan Bab) and Baba Ragham

Mosque.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea highly praised in a Television in-

terview Turkistan incredible mixture of culture, tradition, his-

torical patrimony and perfect tourism potential.

Turkistan is incredible, is vast and rich in everything that a cul-

tural program can offer to you and is well preserved.

Aristan Bab, monument from XIV century, an architectural landmark and religious

lynchpin in Kazakhstan

35

The tourists should flock to this place, as this is the main stop

over on Silk Road and Turkistan monuments had served as

templates for all later Silk Road construction.

One cannot say: I visited Silk Road, without spending quality

time in Turkistan, concluded President Caragea.

The European tourism body-ECTT tour experience concluded in

Almaty, with a press conference, highlighting the importance

of European-Kazakhstan tourism cooperation and opportuni-

ties for Kazakhstan to join European Council on Tourism and

Trade.

Kazakhstan had embarked in a huge promotion campaign on

world tourism stage, in preparation of World Expo 2017 to be

held in Astana, and Silk Road program developed with Euro-

pean Council on Tourism and Trade can be extremely beneficial

for the country tourist potential, suggested the European Tour-

ism Academy Director-Mircea Constantinescu.

This is even more relevant, as European Council on Tourism

and Trade support was instrumental in Astana successful bid

for World Expo 2017 and today this cooperation is continuing

and enriching in perspective.

Europe and Kazakhstan, shoulder to shoulder in tourism pro-

motion, can develop and give a world resonance to the Silk

Road Program for XXI Century, was the opinion of European

Council on Tourism and Trade leader-Professor Dr. Anton Car-

agea.

European Delegation leaders at the gates of Turkistan

The tourism and cultural relations between Europe and Turk-

menistan had entered into a new phase with the presence of

the 5th European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) delega-

tion in Turkmenistan.

The delegation toured Turkmenistan touristic facilities and hot

spots in the framework of the annual ECTT visit during 6 to 12

April 2015.

Under the leadership of H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea,

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, the Euro-

pean tourism delegation had marked the continuous develop-

ment of the tourism cooperation between Europe and Turk-

menistan. During the latest five cultural delegation` s European

Council on Tourism and Trade has contributed with ideas and

information’s to important tourism, cultural and academic

events held in Turkmenistan under the President Gurbanguly

Berdimuhamedov supervision such as: Oguznama International

Conference , Ethnography Congress of Turkmenistan , Interna-

tional Congress of the 15 Anniversary of Turkmenistan Neutral-

ity , Turkmenistan in the Epoch of New Revival and finally the

International Congress dedicated to life and work of world

Turkmenistan President –Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON

TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION VISIT

ALONG SILK ROAD IN

KAZAKHSTAN

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON

TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION VISIT

IN TURKMENISTAN

36

renamed Turkmen poet: Nurmuhammet Andalip.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism

and Trade delegation visited the world heritage UNESCO site of

Kunya-Urgench where they participated at the festivity dedi-

cated to the great Turkmen poet Nurmuhammet Andalip works

and visited the world renowned monuments of Sultan Tekesh,

Sultan Ahmad and famous Sufi philosopher Nedjmedin Kubra.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation was

received by Turkmen Parliament Presidency and hold talks at

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Economy of Turk-

menistan.

The parties had agreed on intensifying the bilateral relation,

the tourism relation`s between Turkmenistan and European

Council on Tourism and Trade being considered as excellent

and was emphasized the need to foster economical coopera-

tion dimension on bilateral relations.

During the dialogue with Turkmen authorities H.E. Professor

Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism

and Trade was presented with the framework of State Commit-

tee for Tourism of Turkmenistan who was established in 2012

and to the significance of the Committee for the Awaza Na-

tional Tourist Zone.

President Anton Caragea received by the President of Parliament of Turkmenistan

During next year (2016) visit to Turkmenistan H.E. Professor Dr.

Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and

Trade promised that the familiarization trip will concentrate on

Awaza tourist potential and will direct an awareness campaign

for this region.

Turkmenistan Minister of Foreign Affairs who hosted the Euro-

pean Council on Tourism and Trade familiarization trip to coun-

try express his appreciation for the long term support and com-

mitment offered by European Council on Tourism and Trade

for tourism activities in Turkmenistan and for promoting the

high standing of the country in the world and for promoting

Turkmenistan as a safe and cultural first class destination in the

world.


FAMILIARIZATION VISIT IN TURKMENISTAN

Turkmenistan and Ashgabat –the perfect places on Central Asia visited by European

Council on Tourism and Trade President

37

Photo montage by Nicolae Nicolae

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE DELEGATION VISIT IN ETHIOPIA

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2015 July 2015

38

Breaking News: Ethiopia voted world best tourist destination for 2015 by European Council on Tourism & Trade

THE WORLD SPEAKS ABOUT ETHIOPIA


The country has been praised for its out-standing natural beauty, dramatic land-scapes and ancient culture, leading the European Council on Tourism and Trade to select it out of 31 countries as this year's top holiday spot. Visitor numbers in the country have in-creased by 10% over the last decade, ac-cording to the Ethiopian Ministry of Cul-ture and Tourism. Last year, more than 600,000 tourists visited Ethiopia, at-tracted by its fertile national parks, 3,000 year-old archeological history and nine UNESCO world heritage sites. Tourism contributed an estimated 4.5% to the country's GDP last year, generating nearly a million jobs and over two billion dollars in revenue, according to the World Bank..

In its application for the award, the Ethiopian government identified tour-ism as a key area if it is to tackle poverty. “Ethiopia is the deserving fully this prize.. The country’s highlights include the monolithic rock-hewn churches at Lali-bela; the Simien Mountains National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site that is home to a number of endangered species, including Ethiopian wolf and walia ibex; and the otherworldly Danakil Depression, with its colourful sulphur and salt lakes.

Outstanding natural beauty, dramatic landscapes and ancient culture have given Ethiopia the title of the World’s Best Tourism Destination for 2015. The European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) made the announcement recently, awarding the honour to Ethiopia from a total of 31 nominated countries. Ethiopia has nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, which were heralded by the com-mission, attributing to their success.

Ethiopia will keep on developing the tour-ism area and utilization it as a methods for political participation with different nations, he said. Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn accepted for him the honorary member-ship of European Tourism Academy insig-nia and on behalf of people of Ethiopia accepted the diploma and the globe as official signs of World Best Tourist Desti-nation and Favorite Cultural Destination designation.

39

Turkmenistan and Ashgabat –the perfect places on Central Asia visited by European

Council on Tourism and Trade President

THE WORLD SPEAKS ABOUT ETHIOPIA


Ethiopia has been adjudged winner of the 2015 World Best Tourist Destination award and the Favourite Cultural Destination Dis-tinction for 2015 by the General Assembly of the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT). According to the council’s report issued last month, the reasons for awarding World Best Tourist Destination Prize to Ethiopia were the excellent preservation of humanity land-marks such as the ruins of the city of Aksum, the heart of ancient Ethiopia; Fasil Ghebbi, the residence of the Ethiopian emperors dur-ing the 16th and 17th centuries; Harar Jugol, 82 mosques, 102 shrines, and unique interior design in the townhouses; Lalibela, the holy site encompassing 11 medieval stone-carved churches from the 13th century; the Konso Cultural Landscape (containing 55 kilome-tres of stonewalled terraces and fortified settlements); the Lower Valley of the Awash where humans took his first steps and where was found the Eva of all mankind, Lucy’s fos-sils; the Lower Valley of the Omo which also contains fragments pertaining to early hu-man development and the fossils of Homo Gracilis. All the sites were recognized as being of world significance and registered as UNESCO World heritage monuments.

It is time to brush up on your Amharic, the national language of Ethiopia, because the African nation has been named as the World's Best Tourism Destination for 2015. It was given the award by the the Euro-pean Council on Tourism and Trade, who praised its outstanding natural beauty, dramatic landscapes and ancient culture. Thirty-one countries were considered for the illustrious award this year, with Ethio-pia coming top of the pile.

On the landmark occasion, of the univer-sal proclamation of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, a top ranking dele-gation from European Council on Tourism and Trade was invited for a discovery tour of Ethiopia, the receiver of this year most influential tourism designation.

Remarkable landscapes, a wealth of wildlife viewing opportunities and fasci-nating historical sites are drawing an in-crease number of foreign visitors. Upmarket tour operators Kuoni and Scott Dunn have both tipped the destination as a place to visit in 2015, while an African safari contact recently told me: "Everyone in the industry seems to be heading to Ethiopia for their holidays."

40

European Tourism

Academy is welcoming a new member

MR. HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN

Prime Minister of Federal Democratic Republic of

ETHIOPIA

September 2015—Professor Dr. Anton Caragea will lead an ECTT

delegation to Danube Delta-World Natural Protected Area

September 2015—WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

CEREMONIES in Tbilisi, Georgia

September 2015—WORLD TOURISM DAY celebration at European

Council on Tourism and Trade. Diplomatic trip.

October 2015– INTERNATIONAL TOURISM FAIR of European Council on

Tourism and Trade

November 2015—INTERNATIONAL WINE FAIR 2015 and selection of

EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2016

December 2015—The General Meeting of ECTT in Bucharest –Palace of

Parliament

Upcoming Events for European Tourism Industry

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND

TRADE (E.C.T.T.)

22 Franceza Street

Bucharest,Romania

0040213157730 ph

0040213157730 fax

[email protected] email

www.ectt.webs.com

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE PRESENTS 2015 TOURISM LEADER-ETHIOPIA

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