 The global tourism institution-EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY has appointed Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia, as the new academician member of the institution rector of world tourism. It is the first time since 2014 when a non-head of state was accepted to this great honor. Dr. Thong Khon makes part of the latest series of world leaders of tourism and development accepted in the leadership position in the European Tourism Academyin order to strengthen the leadership and the director on world tourism, announced H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President. The global tourism institution-EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY has appointed Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia, as the new academician member of the institution rector of world tourism. It is the first time since 2014 when a non-head of state was accepted to this great honor. Dr. Thong Khon makes part of the latest series of world leaders of tourism and development accepted in the leadership position in the European Tourism Academy in order to strengthen the leadership and the director on world tourism, announced H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President. To date 200 top tourism leaders, heads of states, prime ministers, leaders of parliaments are involved in the development of a new world tourism concept, in supporting the global tourism institutions: European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy in charting the course towards an inclusive tourism based on culture, heritage and environment protection. Dr. Thong Khon is one of the longest serving ministers of tourism in the world, taking up the job in 1998 and is the current Hon. Minister of Tourism of Cambodia and Head of National Olympic Committee. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Phnom Penh-the new WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM. Read more: ♦ THE GUIDE AROUND PHNOM PENH ♦PHNOM PENH: THE CITY OF WATERS! ♦ A VISIT TO PHNOM PENH! HIGHLIGHT OF A PERFECT CITY! ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ He is a member of the Cambodian People`s Party and is a doctor in communication and social science of the University of the Sunshine Coast and Doctor in Arts (Tourism) of Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyabur (Thailand). Among his achievements that make him one of the world`s top ministers are: obtaining for The Kingdom of Cambodia the WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in 2016 and paving the way for the nation most impressive tourism growth in Cambodia`s history. Under his leadership the Ministry of Tourism succeeded in registering the city of Phnom Penh on the list of WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, the first city in Indochina to receive this honor. He was instrumental in launching the strategy of promoting tourism in Cambodia`s littoral provinces and islands, in creating the Mekong paved road in Phnom Penh. He launched successful programmes for monitoring tourism quality, the Clean Cambodia initiative, and hosted the international conference on city culture in 2015. Under his leadership The Ministry of Tourism obtained for H.E. Academician Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia the official role as GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS in recognition of his achievements in raising Cambodia from the horrors of war and desolation to peace and development. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ More about Global Ambassadors of Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals can be accessed here: ♦ THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG ♦ EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY ♦ EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE AND SDG ♦ TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS ♦ CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ With the selection of Minister Thong Khon as the newest academician in the world`s tourism academy, Cambodia becomes the first country in the world to have two leaders in the European Tourism Academy structures. We mention also that Dr. Thong Khon is the first non-head of state that is selected in the global tourism body since 2014, a honor that speaks volumes about his achievements and strong personality. The designation ceremony was held in Phnom Penh under the presidency of Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Hor Namhong, representative of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, and visiting H.E. Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade. ABOUT THE EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY Founded in 2005, the European Tourism Academy (ETA) is the research and academic institution of the global tourism organization-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE. European Tourism Academy (ETA) is internationally acclaimed for acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism on the world stage, in supporting the Agenda 2030 implementation and United Nations research initiatives. European Tourism Academy is part of the Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals (PASDG). European Tourism Academy (ETA) provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its members. In partnership with private and public sector members, European Tourism Academy (ETA) enhances the sustainable growth, value, and quality of travel and tourism, provides leadership and counsel on an individual and collective basis to its member organizations. European Tourism Academy (ETA) is rapidly expanding his activities for marketing, public relations, investments, branding, promoting, and establishing niche markets.   Lecture by His Excellency Dr. Thong Khon Minister of Tourism At the Congratulatory Ceremony on the Designation of “H.E. Dr. THONG KHON, Minister of Tourism as a Member of the European Tourism Academy” Friendship Building of the Office of the Council of Ministers, July 31, 2018. Highly Respectful!
The first of all, on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and myself, I have great honors to respect and deeply congratulate for H.E Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, attended as preside over in Congratulatory Ceremony on Designation of myself as a Member of the European Tourism Academy at this time. Taking this time, I would like to thank the European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy, in particular, H.E Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, as president for previously awarding the Kingdom of Cambodia as the Best Tourism Destination in the world and designed Samdech Techo Prime Minister as an honorary member of the European Tourism Academy in 2016, as well as “Global Ambassador for Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals” on the last 09 December 2017, and today I myself have great pleasure with the most profound and privilege to be designed by European Council on Tourism and Trade as a member of European Tourism Academy. I would like to thank Excellencies, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, Gentlemen, and Professors, Tourism experts, distinguished national and international guests for spending value time attending in the meaningful ceremony for me and my family today.
Under sound and wise leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padie Techo HUN SEN Prime Minister, Cambodia now enjoys fully peace, political stability, security, order and development on all the fields. In 2017, Cambodia reached about 7% of economic growth of gross domestic product and gross domestic product for per capita in a year increased to 1,443 US dollars. Optimistic Cambodian economic growth index can be possible depended on participation from development on all the fields including tourism sector too. Tourism sector is considered as Green Gold by the royal government of Cambodia contributing to socio – economic development, jobs creation and poverty alleviation for the people as well as playing vital role as on the site exportation and support to regional integration. Obviously, in 2017, Cambodia received about 5, 6 million international tourists, increased by 11, 8%, brought about 3, 638 million us dollars deducted to national economy, contributed 13% to gross domestic product (GDP), and created about over 620, 000 direct jobs. While, during 05 months early of 2018, Cambodia received about 2. 6 million international tourists, increased by 13.5%, compared to the same period in 2017. By prediction, Cambodia is expected to gain about 6, 2 million international tourists in 2018 and 7 million in 2020, bringing about 5 billion us dollars in revenue, creating about 1 million job opportunities. In 2030, Cambodia will be able to receive about 14 million international tourists by bringing about 10 billion us dollars to total revenue, creating about 2 million jobs opportunities. Particularly, domestic tourists, tourist growth is constantly increasing from years to years (4% – 5% average. Obviously, 2016, domestic tourists accounted for over 10, 2 million, increased to 10, 8 million in 2017 and over 11 million in 2018, as vision we expect to have about 19 million domestic tourists in 2015. These results derive from Win Win Policy of Samdech Techo Prime Minister, who makes Cambodia enjoys fully peace, national unification, national conciliation and territory, security and social safety throughout the nation which is a major foundation for development on all the fields, in particular strongly supporting from Cambodian people nationwide for the royal government, led by Cambodia People Party, having Samdech Techo Prime Minister as leader throughout supporting election for the party to get landslide victory in election of the 6th national assembly election on the last recent 29 July 2018, which this election got highly assessment from national and international observers as well as delegation of European Council on International Relations that this election was conducted in free, fairs and justice manners. – Respectful H.E Deputy Prime Minister! – Excellences, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, Gentlemen Distinguished National and International Guests! Subsequent development of Cambodian tourism sector is not interrupted from increasing attractiveness of Cambodia, as attractive tourism destination both regionally and globally as well as leading based on policies and strategies in accurately and comprehensively manners. Basing on this growth, seriously and inclusively consideration are necessary, especially there have been development plans and tourism management with inclusively in the same time the world has been constantly encountering new evolution's both socio – economic and environmentally and natural disaster. In this sense, cross – sector systematic tourism sector is able to impact and suffer bad influences from global issues. All of these problems are the results of global population increase in which according to prediction of United Nation in the upcoming 2050, the global population will increase to about 9. 8 billion and 2/3 of these numbers are expected to live in city and surrounded areas by they will use the powers about 67% – 76% of total powers and will release 75% of carbonic in worldwide. In response to these issues, consideration on concept of “Clean and Green” is the most necessary and significant in time the world is moving ahead in green era. Standing on this spirit and basing on strategic principle of the royal government, Cambodia has been being continued developing tourism to be clean and green tourism destination, providing service with qualification and warm for tourists basing on principle of sustainable, responsible and institutional development on the basic of wonder of Angkor Temple, Preah Vihear Temple, tangible and intangible heritage properties, natural resources, beautiful beaches, the most beautiful bay in the world, beauty of Mekong river, foods, customs of living with smiling and naturally attractiveness of Cambodian people in accordance with nickname of (Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder – Feel the Warmth). – Respectful H.E Deputy Prime Minister! – Excellences, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, Gentlemen Distinguished National and International Guests! In the attractive strategies and get ready for receiving international tourists, as well as enhancing domestic tourist movement, the ministry of tourism has been improving management and developing existing tourism destinations, creating tour packages with proper price along with calling investments on producing further new tourism products to be more variety, creative and prosperous both national level and prioritized tourism destinations. During the last 5 years of fifth legislation, the Ministry of Tourism, National Committee for Clean City Assessment and National Committee on Tourism Professionals have made its efforts in fulfilling their duties in the name of officials of the royal government with high responsibility, leading competitive movement “Clean city, Clean resorts, Good services and Best hospitality” playing vital role in tourism reformation plan by focusing on 4 prioritized angles:
In fact, the above 4 angles reformation plan implementation is not only increasing attractiveness of Cambodia to be as outstanding tourism destination for international tourist market but also contributing to enhance effectively domestic tourist movement. At the same time of continuing to attract international tourists, the Ministry of Tourism high valued on significant role of domestic tourists in supporting sustainability of tourist growth in Cambodia, in particular contributing to socio – economic development by standing on 6 factors as following:
3.Domestic tourists are as best mean facilitating to social intensify by enable the people with low income who are not able to make trip oversea for having chances in making trip and rest at regional resorts;
Taking this time, I would like to high value on and thank for cooperation and efforts made by all related institutions and parties; both state, private, community people and tourists, supported and participated with the Ministry of Tourism in accomplishing Cambodia tourism development which will be benefits for us in the present and for next generations. – Respectful H.E Deputy Prime Minister! – Excellences, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, Gentlemen Distinguished National and International Guests! Today, I do have proud of and most privilege to be recognized and high valued on previous works throughout accomplishing in assigning me as a member of European Tourism Academy, and this is a proud and a privilege for Cambodia tourism which we all accomplished. The today successful achievement is really derived from sound and wise leadership of Samdech Techo HUN SEN Prime Minister which is a great merit for me. Along with this, this success cannot be interrupted from participation of colleagues with high responsibility and all level officials of the Ministry of Tourism as well as the supports and good cooperation of all related institutions, private sector, development partners and the people. The membership whom I got is for the Ministry of Tourism and the whole Cambodia tourism industry. The assigning me was made at the same time Cambodia has been catching opportunity from tourism development both ASEAN region, Asia Pacific region and the worldwide. In this regards, I do have optimistic believe that via membership of European Tourism academy, we will be able to share, to exchange views, knowledge, practice and further new researches on the preparation and promote policy implementation and Cambodia tourism development strategic plan. Along with this, the Ministry of Tourism, with cooperation from Microfinance Institutions, put out loan program for students in tourism which enable students to get loan for studying in low rate. And today, to participate in preparing policy and develop Cambodia tourism development strategic plan to be more effective, the ministry of tourism prepared to form “professional network and professors in tourism sector” by assembling experts, professors in tourism in order to contribute to share knowledge, experience, good practices, as well as using their skills in contribution in other capacity buildings, training human resource on tourism with competency and real professional. – Respectful H.E Deputy Prime Minister! – Excellences, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, Gentlemen Distinguished National and International Guests! Once again, I myself and my family would like to deeply thank for His Excellency Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, attended as highly testimony in congratulatory ceremony on my assignation as a member of European Tourism Academy this time. In name of the Ministry of Tourism, I would like to deeply thank for His Excellency Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade and his colleagues who always support to Cambodia tourism development, and would like to thank for participation of Excellences, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, and Gentlemen, Professors, Experts, Distinguished national and international guests in the meaningful ceremony for me and my family today. At the end, I would like to wise Excellency Deputy Prime Minister, Excellences, Lok Chumteav, Ladies, and Gentlemen, Distinguished national and international guests to meet with 4 blessings: Long life, Health, Happiness, and Strength. Thanks you!   Prime Minister of Cambodia-Academician HUN SEN the author of the famous hunseneconomics and the artisan of the country incredible development had succeeded in placing his country on the top of tourism development. The Kingdom of Cambodia has many reasons to celebrate as the World Bank has just ranked the country as the world`s sixth economy as growth rate in 2018 topping many other nations and established investment destinations. The main reason for World Bank rating was the country incredible tourism developments in the last years starting with the Kingdom being selected as WORLD`S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION a moved that brought a supplementary 1 million tourists in 2016/2017 and the capital Phnom Penh being selected as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM another landmark that brought a new 1,5 million tourists to the Asian Kingdom. These successes had brought about and a flash flood of investments with more than 3 billion poured into the country tourism sector since Cambodia acquired the WORLD`S BET TOURIST DESTINATION status. After Phnom Penh was selected WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM the American giant Marriott announced it will open a Courtyard Hotel by Marriott is slated to open its doors in 2018 with a total of 189 rooms, all-day dining, a dynamic lobby cafe, and a sky bar. Recently in the wake of Phnom Penh being announced as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, David Udell, Hyatt Hotels’ Group President-Asia Pacific, said: “As Phnom Penh becomes known as a destination for art, culture, tourism and business, we are confident that the globally recognized Hyatt Regency brand will resonate with business and leisure travelers visiting the country”. As a result, Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh, the new announced investment in WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM will have 250 rooms, restaurants, a rooftop swimming pool and bar, as well as a convention center. Finally, the high-end Rosewood Hotel is scheduled to open in 2018. It will be a deluxe property with 175 rooms and suites. Now the designation of the country as the 6th economy in the world in terms of opportunities, investment climate and growth will mark the nation as a hot spot for future investment in tourism and culture related sectors, stated European Council on Tourism and Trade President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea. These sectors will continue to boom, attracted by the country political stability, pro-business climate enacted by the Academician Hun Sen, the Kingdom Prime Minister and high honesty and probity of his government remarked also President Dr. Anton Caragea. Academician Mircea Constantinescu, European Tourism Academy Director mentioned also: these accomplishments are the direct result of the supervision of the GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS- Prime Minister HUN SEN and are proving our righteousness in proposing his policies as a world model. The global tourism institutions of European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy will continue to assist and foster this climate of confidence and flurry of developmental activities that made the country a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and now the world sixth economy.   The world has a voice in the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS: ACADEMICIAN HUN SEN, PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA. Phnom Penh has hosted a grandiose ceremony to honor culture, history, tourism as instruments for world development. On this occasion in recognition of the role of paragon of development of H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, the leaders of Parliamentary Assembly for Sustainable Development Goals, European Council on Tourism and Trade and European Tourism Academy elected him as the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS. In the presence of over 3,000 guests, diplomats, tourism and culture experts, the official ceremony for the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS has taken place. Tourism is in the world of today a linchpin in achieving and enhancing world development, creating much-needed employment and opportunities for growth and social inclusion and creating much needed economic resources to be used to protect and promote the cultural heritage.Tourism in the world of today is the new form of diplomacy, bringing people, nations, creeds and religions together, in order to foster mutual respect and tolerance. (Professor Dr. Anton Caragea) Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President in Cambodia in 2017 – WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and PHNOM PENH – WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.   Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President held a key note and empowerment speech explaining the main reasons for this election of Cambodia`s Prime Minister as a world leader in development and as a key figure in the global fight for sustainability and growth. EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE PRESIDENT PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA DECLARATION FOR GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS FOR HIS EXCELLENCY SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO HUN SEN, PRIME MINISTER OF KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA EUROPEAN ACADEMICIAN Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN- Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Your Excellency Mr. Thong Khon – Minister of Tourism, Esteemed members of Royal Government of Cambodia, Members of Parliament of Cambodia, Distinguished member’s diplomatic corps Dear guests, All protocol observed, We are meeting today for a historic moment, the nomination of the newest GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS in the person of H.E. Academician HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia. It is not by chance that we met here in Phnom Penh, recently sacred as World Capital of Culture and Tourism as this is absolutely the correct address to find the world newest global ambassador and the voice supporting world-wide peace and development and fostering tourism as a tool for promoting people to people exchanges, peoples diplomacy and deep-rooted understanding and dialogue. It is absolutely befitting that Cambodia will help the international community to have a voice in development and peace and that Khmer people give us the perfect example in building a new world, a better one. It is not the first time that the world is looking to Cambodia for leadership and a path to glory and growth. Fourteen centuries ago the world looked in awe to Khmer Empire for guidance, for a world example of civilization. Angkor become a university for all the people of Asia and Indochina, from here spring up the giant temples, the powerful legends about daring goods protecting humanity, here was carved the delicate art of dance that will charm and enticed the world and become known across the ages as the Khmer civilization and made Cambodia to act as a beckon of culture and light to the world. Prime Minister Hun Sen is a son of this proud history and in my long discussions with him I always appreciated his interest and desire in keeping alive the ancient cultural traditions and protecting the world heritage sites of Cambodia ( I will remember you all his determination in liberating the ancient temple of Preah Vihear and restoring it to The Kingdom of Cambodia patrimony without shedding a drop of blood, only by diplomatic skills and passion). His love for the people of Cambodia, his tireless dedication for their well being made Cambodia what it is today: a center of world economic development with an annual growth rate of 7%, the most attractive market for investors, the most rapid job creator economy in the region and a country that has become a leader in tourism development. Phnom Penh has been transformed from the ghost city of 1979 into the host of World Economic Forum for 2017 and elevated to the status of World Capital of Culture and Tourism. A country than in 1979 has received zero tourists was transformed into the Kingdom of Wonder, World Best Tourist Destination of today, a welcoming home to more than 5 million travelers today. If this is not an example in tourism development, then I don’t know what qualifies for one.  Official presentation to the world of the new GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS. Cambodia is clearly showing us that in the XXI century what is important is not the size of the territory or the populace, but the will, skill and determination to contribute to the world development. You can find out more about these topics here: ♦ THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY FOR SDG ♦ EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY ♦ EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE AND SDG ♦ TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS ♦CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ♦ GLOBAL AMBASSADORS FOR TOURISM AND SDG What is more important and maybe sometimes the people of Cambodia may overlook, captured by the unimaginable transformation in their life’s, is that Prime Minister Hun SEN has given them more than national pride, or independence or growth or a stable job or has helped millions to be lifted out of poverty. Yes he did all that.. but he did something more for the people of Cambodia, he gives them a sense of direction, of stability in a troubled world, he gives them the conscience that every day will be a better one, that every day things will be done better and more diligent, in a word he gave to the people of Cambodia the diamond of HOPE. This is what we need in the world of today from a GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS: to help us restore hope to the world. Hope that the reconstruction is possible. There are so many to be reconstructed in the world of today, so many nations plagued by wars, terrorism and destruction or plagued by climate change-related disasters need advice and guidance. And who knows better to rebuild that Prime Minister Hun Sen? I will give you some figures to understand something about the man who has taken Cambodia from zero to hero: from 2 billion GDP in 1979 to 54 USD billions today, from 50 USD per capita to 3.488 USD today, from zero foreign investments to 1,7 billion investment`s yearly. From cities reduced to rubble by US bombardments and millions of peoples without home or hope, from abandoned temples and hamlets all needed to be rebuilt, to be restored in the country and with no help, the government led by Prime Minister Hun Sen created this miracle, the Cambodian miracle. Having the shining example of Cambodia of today before our eyes these are the best qualification description and credential for a future GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS. Cambodia of today, a country that is rapidly modernizing, that has become a center of encounter and dialogue for all the people for the world, that was transformed in an example of development and that is generously opening his gates for all the nations in search of cultural enlightenment, historical research and patrimony exploration. PHNOM PENH is today a center for world diplomacy, where crises are settled and statesman’s are finding new ways for cooperation, a center of innovation and inventivity, a place where tradition and new, culture and technology are blending in a perfect way. This is the true calling card for a leader for XXI century, for a GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, for a man for whom development goals are not just a piece of paper or words to ring hollow, but are a lifetime work, are part and parcel of his existence and activity. This year in local democratic and free elections, the people of Cambodia have the perfect occasion to pass judgment and express support to Prime Minister Hun Sen vision and they did this admirably, as a testimony of their indelible trust in his foresight. Now we have the privileged and the honor of voting for Prime Minister Hun Sen, the man who created a free and democratic Cambodia, a country where all are equal under the sun of Angkor and where hope still survives. Now we have entrusted him with the highest honor that we can give: to be our voice, to represent humanity aspirations for a better world, to be our world ambassador, leader and creator of visionary policies. I must emphasize that: the recognition as GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS is addressed also to the people of Cambodia. H.E Prime Minister HUN SEN is the democratically elected voice of the people of Cambodia and he represents the will of the Cambodian people, the will of unity, his industriousness, his energy in building a better and powerful and independent Cambodia, this is the marvelous people of Cambodia that we honor today.  Last year, I was having a special feeling when I remarked that the world needs Academician HUN SEN exertions and contribution, well this year this appeal becomes more real than ever. In a recent declaration, Prime Minister Hun Sen said he is contemplating staying in the service of his nation for at least ten more years. Well, we need him for at least twenty more, to steer us on the path of development goals completion and fruition and to help us build a better world, a world of peace and understanding, a world of hope. Your Excellency, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Prime Minister HUN SEN we entrust you with the responsibility of GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS reminding you our commitments: to support humanity, to leave no one behind and no one excluded, to build a better world for us all. These are the bonds that unite us, give form to our aspirations, to our belongings, and this is the language of humanism and human dignity, the language of an AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS. Prime Minister HUN SEN the world recognized you as THE NEW GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS. May you lead the world in the right direction!   Director of The EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY, Academician Dr. MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU presents the arguments for PHNOM PENH: THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM. On December 9, 2017 in the presence of over 3.000 guests, diplomats, tourism and culture experts, members of the Parliamentary Assembly for the Sustainable Development Goals, members of the Royal Government of Cambodia and of the Royal Parliament of Cambodia and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates and many others high level guests attended the official ceremony for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM handover for PHNOM PENH has taken place. In the pomp and ceremony of the event the Director of The EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY, Academician Dr. MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU outlined the reasons and the arguments for the inscription of Phnom Penh as one of the world landmark cities. Here is the full text of the presentation:  WORD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM - PHNOM PENH OFFICIAL STATEMENT Academician MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU Director of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN- Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Your Excellency Dr. Thong Khon – Minister of Tourism, Esteemed members of Royal Government of Cambodia, members of Parliament of Cambodia, distinguished member’s diplomatic corps Dear guests, All protocol observed, Today is a historical day, is the day when we inscribe the name of another model city on the humanity list of WORLD`S CAPITALS OF CULTURE AND TOURISM. In carving up the World Capital of Culture and Tourism Program 11 years ago, European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) set for themselves the ambitious task of establishing a world list of cities and regions that are encompassing the legacy of humanity, that are harboring traditions and costumes unique or hosting natural treasures considered to be of outstanding and universal value. We are ensuring their presence in the limelight so that we and the future generations can enjoy the world’s patrimony wealth and it’s variety. The international community must give much more support to the activities promoting the heritage, which is central to our civilizations and this is the main role of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM designation. During last year`s THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM program enlarged and enriched his focus becoming a part of THE AGENDA FOR HUMANITY and a part of the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda being part and parcel of the global efforts destined to eradicate inequalities, ensure growth, develop education and cultural opportunities for all and supporting investment and development and integration policies where there are more needed. From an essentially global cultural and tourism program we have evolved in line with the world commitments and concerns onto a world level development program. On this note I must salute the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia commitment to fulfilling the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations and for ensuring that Phnom Penh it is and continues to be a placed for development, creativity, encouragement of free enterprise and initiative and inclusiveness for all who come to this beautiful city. Inscribing PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM we recognize that culture and history are not resource consumers, but are major economic and development factors, that help countries to develop and enrich themselves in more ways than just simple economic value. Culture is undoubtedly a fundamental part of our life, is marking our identity and is facilitates our encounter, our dialogue, it helps us to share experiences, to search for unknown territories, to go further and further, is inscribed in our fiber and it defines us, is make us human.   Registering PHNOM PENH as a WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM we are taking act of the Government of Prime Minister Academician HUN SEN commitments and incredible achievements of the last 30 years in carving cultural and heritage protection programs, in ensuring a permanent growth in the quality of patrimony protection and consolidation, in ensuring the preservation and fostering of religions, traditions and cultural and traditional activities. Today, PHNOM PENH is fulfilling the trademarks of what we are calling the cultural landscape marked by the existence of “mixed properties”, blending natural properties and cultural properties. It designates areas where there has been a harmonious interaction between man and nature over a long period, linked to a particular culture, and which provides evidence of a traditional way of life in which nature and culture are profoundly interlinked. Cultural landscapes are described in Article 1 of the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage as representing “the combined works of nature and man”.   PHNOM PENH is such a generous area: encompassing the natural setting provided by the confluence of three rivers: the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap, the world unique river that is flowing upwards the stream for six months a year. This perfect natural landscape has become the setting of a rich cultural city that encompasses religious monuments and heritage treasures like: Wat Ounalom the 1443 shrine built for a sacred hair of the Buddha and considered the seat of Cambodian Buddhism who will celebrate 575 years of continuously and uninterrupted religious activities. Another landmark is the famous Wat Phnom, built in 1372 and restored and reconstructed in 1434, 1806, 1894 and 1926 and has become a symbol of the capital city Phnom Penh and regularly used for prayer, small offerings, and meditation. It is a specially charged place connected with the legendary figure of grandmother Penh and from 15th century King Ponhea Yat built the capital in Phnom Penh around this sacred mountain used for keeping the cremated ash of the King. The mountain of Wat Phnom has been transformed in the last 700 years in a place that is uniting Buddhist statues of the Angkorean era with art crafts from the medieval and modern area and also a royal necropolis hosting the stupas for keeping cremated ash of the Royal families. Other religious places and cultural landmarks are Wat Langka who is reputedly one of Phnom Penh’s five original Wats (1422). Established as a sanctuary for the Holy Writings and a meeting place for Cambodian and Sri Lankan monks, the Wat was named in honor of these meetings. Wat Botum Padei also one of the oldest religious buildings still in use in the city from 1422 and is compound, is crowded with ornate and colorful stupas, including the towering ‘Buddha’s Relic Stupa.   Wat Koh another one of the city’s five original Wats, established in the early 15th century and Wat Neak Kravorn situated in a perfect picturesque skyline of Boeung Kak lake. PHNOM PENH is not only the seat of rich cultural and religious objectives but is also presenting a long list of tourism centers from the famed Russian Market, Old Market, Central Market, Night Market and a large array of traditional markets, to the incredible riches of the National Museumhaving on display more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from the 7th to the 13th century. Treasures include sculptures, 19th-century dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins. I will just note on the lines the incredible cultural potential of Phnom Penh the fact that: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIAwas voted as a WORLD`S FAVORITE MUSEUM for the incredible treasures encompassing more than 14.000 priceless artifacts and for the perfect ways that are displayed and imbuing the visitors with the message of culture. Phnom Penh is far from being just a huge open-air repository of temples, stupas, palaces and incredible museums it is also a place where the energy of his peoples is channeled into huge celebrations like Moon Festival, Water Festival, Royal Ploughing Day, Khmer New Year or famed Buddha Day-Visakh Bochea Day.   It is a city that it embraces with warmth and gentle attention the soul of the travelers and it’s the real gate to Asia and the unique gem that shines over us with the light of culture and distinction. I also take this moment to congratulate the Ministry of tourism on the initiative to create a special walking riverine prospect offering for tourists the opportunity to stroll around the banks of the famous Mekong. Initiatives like this are creating the image of a friendly and traveler welcoming city, an image that Phnom Penh so richly deserves. The positive answer was clear keeping in mind the impressive history of the city, the enormous cultural and heritage potential of Phnom Penh and the plans put in place by the Government of H.E. Prime Minister HUN SEN in order to carve out an ever better future for the peoples of the city and for those who come to share the life of the gem of Asia: the incredible PHNOM PENH – the city of waters, the gift of Cambodia to the world. Your Excellency Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia HUN SEN, It is my privilege to handover to Your Excellency, as the most representative leader of people and tourism of KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA the award for PHNOM PENH – THE WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM.   Academician Mircea Constantinescu: EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY Director announces the end of 2017 World Tourism Awards competition. European Tourism Academy has just closed the candidature list for 2017 WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition. As of June 1st, 2017 no more countries candidature will be accepted, announced Academician Mircea Constantinescu, European Academy Director. The candidature files has already being perused and we are proud to announced that a number of 41 countries entered their candidature for the world most prestigious tourism award out of which 38 were considered complete, in line with the requirements and entered the final stage of the competition. This year we will implement a new system of candidature files analysis that will see working groups, per continents, selecting the final winners for continental candidature and the selected one country per continent will be submitted for evaluation for European Council on Tourism and Trade General Assembly slated for July 29th, 2017. Under the former election model all candidates where directed for world tourism leaders for final evaluation, resulting in a huge load of work and decision that required two days of debates and discussion, while under the new procedure the results can be determined in the first day, concluded outlining the improvements Academician Mircea Constantinescu.  Academician Ionut Costea: I hope that 2017 will be the year of African tourism!I trust that 2017 will be the year for Africa, stated Academician Ionut Costea the responsible for the European Council on Tourism and Trade ECTT Africa team candidature evaluation. Our team will try to evaluate and propose to world tourism institution of ECTT the best candidates destined to bring WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD to Africa. Africa needs recognition, tourism credentials and support and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD is the best notoriety provider and tourism confidence building instrument in the world and the only way to insure African tourism in promoted on international stage remarked Academician Costea.  I hope that 2017 will be one more time the year of Asian tourism in the spot light declared academician Mircea Constantinescu.After the incredible success of Cambodia as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 that succeeded in garnering more than 1,6 million tourists supplementary in 2016/2017 and being officially the world leader in tourism growth in 2016 in absolute numbers and in volume, registering a world record. The shining example of Kingdom of Cambodia and of Prime Minister Academician Samdech HUN SEN, who made tourism a tool for peace and development unmatched in the region, should be copied by the rest of Asian countries. We hope that: the new WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION will be an Asian country and a new world example on international forum and we will try to put forward the best name and candidature file for European Council on Tourism and Trade General Assembly decision.  It`s Latin America time to shine in the world at European Council on Tourism and Trade awards for 2017, stated Academician-President Ion Iliescu.It is Latin America hour for 2017, confidently declared Romanian President (1990-2004) Academician Ion Iliescu. Our team will put forward the best tourist destination of Southern and Central America and as I personally visited and traveled in many countries of the region, I trust that it is time for Europe to support the region tourism development and to make the countries to grow from zero in tourism to hero status and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD is the perfect vehicle to achieve this, concluded former Romanian President. On July 29th, 2017 the world tourism community will propose the name of the new victor of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and the world example in tourism development. Let us wish all the contenders success in the last leg of their journey towards WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status!  A new world leader in tourism will emerge out of 2017 WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION competition.More PR links on the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARDS FOR 2017 you can find here:
EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE EUROPEAN NEWS EUROPEAN TOURISM NEWS EUROPE HOSTS CONGRESS ON ETHICS AND TOURISM-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE ANNOUNCES4/24/2017
 European Tourism and Academy and World Tourism Institute - European Council on Tourism and Trade are proudly announcing the hosting in Europe of the Congress on Ethics and Tourism. This gathering is aiming at highlighting the necessity to foster an ethic and development oriented tourism is more relevant as this year we are marking The International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development to be celebrated throughout 2017. The main target of the event will focus on the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in promoting a more sustainable tourism sector. The tourism and ethics experts gathering will discuss the global sustainability agenda, particularly issues of governance and corporate social responsibility (CSR), responsible tourism consumption patterns, universal accessibility and effective management models for natural and cultural resources in line with tourism ethic manual. On the agenda of the conclave must be also included tourism practices that contribute to socio-economic empowerment of local communities and individuals and spread the benefits of tourism development, notably to women, youth, indigenous people and persons with disabilities. The assembly will further highlight the competitive advantages of investing in a more inclusive and diverse tourism sector. The meeting is more important as it is ascribed to the necessity of creating a large current of opinion in respecting the value of travel advisories, in creating a safe environment for tourism and placing the safety and well being of tourism always at the fore, stated European Council on Tourism and Trade President. The instructions to amalgamate in this year European Tourism Academy decision regarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM the issues of ethics and safeness with even more scrutiny than usual will be carried out to the fullest stated Academician Ionut Costea. The GLOBAL TOURISM ETHIC COVENANT can be read out here. EUROPEAN GUIDE FOR TOURISM PRACTICES can be assessed via this link.
 President Dr. Anton Caragea –European Council on Tourism and Trade, Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy presents Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen with ACADEMICIAN regalia. President Dr. Anton Caragea –European Council on Tourism and Trade, Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy delivered a joint eulogy in the Phnom Penh Peace Palace on the occasion of the award of the prestigious title of ACADEMICIAN to Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen. World Tourism Institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, took part in the ceremony awarding the ACADEMICIAN title to Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen in the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, together with European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Constantinescu and European Council on Tourism and Trade high ranking delegates: Pavel Avramoiu, Ioan Matei, ECTT Chairman -Mihai Prundianu. European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Constantinescu presents LAUDATIO for the new world academician Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen.   Peace Palace in Phnom Penh offered the glamorous setting for ACADEMICIAN eulogy for Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen. The Kingdom of Cambodia Prime Minister has been awarded the HONORARY ACADEMICIAN title for “ in clear appreciation of your influential vision in carving cultural and heritage of Cambodia as conducive instruments in building tourism and in insuring development for your people.This outstanding vision has being transformed in a general politic and enacted under your leadership as a world instrument for development during 2015- World Conference on Tourism and Culture ”. The Presidents of the two world tourism institutions – all of whom are themselves previous recipients of the Academician title – were invited to address a joint eulogy for this year’s laureate. In his part of the speech, President Anton Caragea underlined that Prime Minister of Cambodia -Samdech HUN SEN made it possible for the international community to carve out the first world level instruments in developing tourism, creating the basis of sustainable tourism on the pillars of cultural richness, religious tolerance and historical platform. In the new millennium Cultural and Historical Tourism becomes the beacon on which the life of billions of people’s is improved and enriched.Cultural tourism is today a part of nation building and an intricate part of the nation’s international image. In today`s world, a nation cannot project his external dimension, and cannotimagine his diplomatic activity in the absence of promoting his historic patrimony and boost his cultural prowess.All this policies being transformed in every day dimensions of international activity are fundamentally linked to your visions, your thoughts and your actions. You have succeeded in engraving your name on the golden list of cultural protectors, offering a special attention to historical patrimony of your country and use it, and preserve it for the benefit of the future generation. Your Excellency is part of the special HUMANITY PROTECTORS. Leaders that are grasping the importance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, international relations and raising national profile on world arena.These leaders must be supported and commanded and offered as a general example, concluded his remarks ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea. The award ceremony was preceded by a long discussion of the high ranking delegation with Prime Minister of Cambodia -Samdech HUN SEN.It was followed by a joint press conference of President Dr. Anton Caragea Academician Mircea Constantinescu-Academy Director and Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, country elected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD`S FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2016. President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Academician Mircea Constantinescu also wrote a joint articles on this occasion, articles published in several European and world newspapers. They highlight the message of hope that Cambodia has sent to the world as the country: was lifted from the brink of extinction to another horizon of hope and future development and Khmer people is building today the new temples of Phnom Penh: a steel and glass city that will echo the buildings of the past.This statement of confidence in the bright future of Khmer nation and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the 2016- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for your nations incredible weight of culture, history prowess and contribution to humanity legacy.This is a new momentous achievement for CAMBODIA, a moment that is due to your exertions. The membership in the European Tourism Academy is awarded every year to honour exceptional work performed in the service of world culture, tourism development and protection of historical patrimony. World Tourism Institute head, President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea conferess with H.E. Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo -Academician Dr. Hun Sen.  A congratulatory acolade between European Tourism Academy leader, MIRCEA CONSTATINESCU and Academician Dr. HUN SEN leader of the Cambodian people and World Leader for Tourism and Development. Laudatio for H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen,Prime Minister of Royal Government of Cambodia EUROPEAN ACADEMICIAN Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen,Prime Minister of Royal Government of Cambodia, Members of the Cambodian Parliament and members of the Cambodian Government, Honorable audience, Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends, We traveled for almost 24 hours, flying more than 10.000 km in order to bring to you, the people of the Cambodia, our message of friendship, peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, a message from the very heart of the Europe. We are here to award to His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen, the title of HONORARY MEMBER of European Tourism Academy, member of theUnited Nations Academic Initiative. For me this laudatio is a very special and heartfelt occasion. We are talking here about the life and the activity of a great national and international personality that mark indelibly the past and present of Cambodia and will continue to give an impetus to the future of Cambodia and the global world destiny. The life and the activity of your extraordinary Prime Minister spans for almost the last five decades and is closely connected to the history of the Cambodian nation and to the fight, existence and hopes of the Cambodian people. During this period of time Prime Minister Hun Sen was one by one: strong fighter, versatile diplomat, powerful and visionary leader, playing on the internal and international arena an ever-growing role. So it was clear from the beginning that an award for such an outstanding personality should encompass his entire activity. On the other side, some remarkable points in His Excellency biography should be revealed:
This made him to be a MAN OF ACTION
These traits made him to be a MAN OF DIALOGUE.
This succesful coronation of the prescribed curriculum made him a MAN OF REFLECTION. Finally, he also had the intuition and the knowledge that the economic development, the fight against poverty might be closely linked to the tourism and to the preservation of the cultural heritage. We must note here a long and painstaking activity of coordinating culture, tourism and development for more than 40 years, activity reflected not only in more than 200 of speeches, works and allocutions but also in achievements that are speaking for themselves: from the ashes of civil war Cambodia is proclaimed today by the international community as a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION. From a country ravaged by the conflicts and hunger, the glory of Cambodia`s past was resurrected, ancient temples like Preah Vihear restored to the nation and the country crowned today as a FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in the world. What a road, what a journey, made possible by the efforts of His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen. We may tell you many remarkable things about the complex personality and the successful activity of your beloved and remarkable Prime Minister, but we wanted to keep this Laudatio focus on the main points that shaped the life and the career of Academician Dr. HUN SEN. To give the complete story of such a brilliant life will take us weeks and months. I will just ask our newest academician to uphold, as he did his entire life, the fundamental principles of United Nations Academic Initiative and of European Tourism Academy: to support education, to foster education, to encourage global action and citizenship via education development, to uphold the system of higher education, to advance peace, sustainability and development on world arena. These are Your Excellency noble obligations as a member of European Academy. May they always guide your actions! These procedures being concluded, according to the centuries old academic protocol, I have the distinct pleasure to award the Title of MEMBER OF HONOR and the Medal of Honor of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY to His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Royal Government of Cambodia.  The Board of European Tourism Academy announces that H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia is a new WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT part of EUROPEAN ACADEMY The EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY announced today the election of H.E.SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO HUN SEN-Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia in the highest academic fora in recognition of his distinguished and continuing achievements in original research, policies and activities. This international recognition come for his role in promoting fair tourism, cultural legacy heritage, hosting 2015 World Tourism and Culture conference and for decision to uphold the principles of European Tourism Academy: to support education, to foster education, to encourage global action and citizenship via education development, to uphold the system of higher education, to advance peace, sustainability and development on world arena. The full text of the EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY leaders can be read here: Your Excellency, It is with pleasure and clear sense of proud that we inform you that: in full 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 IN TOURISM DEVELOPMENT in clear appreciation of your influential vision in carving cultural and heritage of Cambodia as conducive instruments in building tourism and in insuring development for your people. This outstanding vision has being transformed in a general politic and enacted under your leadership as a world instrument for development during 2015- World Conference on Tourism and Culture. In 2015, Your acumen and diplomatic astuteness made it possible for the international community, in the World Conference on Tourism and Culture forum of UNESCO and UNWTO to carve out the first world level instruments in developing tourism, creating the bases of sustainable tourism on the pillars of cultural richness, religious tolerance and historical platform. In the new millennium Cultural and Historical Tourism becomes the beacon on which the life of billions of peoples is improved and enriched. Cultural tourism is today a part of nation building and an intricate part of the nation’s international image. In today`s world, a nation cannot project his external dimension, and cannot imagine his diplomatic activity in the absence of promoting his historic patrimony and boost his cultural prowess. 2015 WORLD TOURISM AND CULTURE CONFERENCE OF UNESCO and UNWTO had brought Cambodia to the fore of world heritage cultural preservation.   US President Barack Obama. with H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia All this policies being transformed in every day dimensions of international activity are fundamentally linked to your visions, your thoughts and your actions. Tourism, Travel, Trade and Investments are interconnected and are uniting today`s countries, in a globalized world and unified market. Today, the presence of historical patrimony and cultural dimension in the world are entitling all the persons in the world to have access to double citizenship`s: one generated by the simple birth and the second one growing form the love other nation`s cultures and history, this one by free choice. 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. Nations that wish to attain their full potential and reach the picks of development, international recognition, economic growth and a prosperous life for his citizens can’t remove themselves 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 had become, and strides to remain, the driving force in the international promotion of culture, and patrimony and encapsulate tourism as the main vector in development and international cooperation. Our world encompassing achievements and activities would not have being possible without the decisive contribution, in our tireless efforts, by the world leaders, ready to become a part of our world tourism institution and able to firmly raise their voices in the spirit of culture, international cooperation and advancing the position of tourism on global world agenda. Under Your Excellency leadership, the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia has for a long time recognized and abated the importance of culture and tourism as key facilitators for the country development and international promotion. Your leadership has succeeded in creating an exemplary and powerful poverty reduction strategy- Royal Government’s Rectangular Strategy which focuses on promoting Economic Growth, Employment, Equity and Efficiency. The Cambodia-Diamond of the Mekong development activities, investment protection and facilitation, economic growth and wealth spreading to the nation is the creation of your life long experience and devotion to your people. Open sky policies related to easy visa access, unifying ASEAN travel space and tourism integration had benefited the peoples and nations of the regions and have proven once more that: tourism is a tool for dialogue and understanding in the world, for promoting peace and engagement worldwide. As a true leader of the people, devoted father of the nation, you have carved, exemplary structures as the “One village- One product” for Siem Reap region and your government has being heavily investing in infrastructure and capacity building, protecting the cultural, natural and historical patrimony of the country. You have succeeded in engraving your name on the golden list of cultural protectors, offering a special attention to historical patrimony of your country and use it, and preserve it for the benefit of the future generation. Your Excellency is part of the special HUMANITY PROTECTORS. Leaders that are grasping the importance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, international relations and raising national profile on world arena. These leaders must be supported and commanded and offered as a general example. Your Excellency stated: “Let me reassure that the Kingdom of Cambodia a country with independence, neutrality, peace, freedom, democracy and human rights as you all have seen, shall be existing with no end.” Your Excellency has being true to his word and commitment and by protecting and promoting the incredible legacy left to us by the Khmer Kings of Angkor had helped the incredible resurgence of the Khmer people in XXI century. Cambodia was lifted from the brink of extinction to another horizon of hope and future development and Khmer people is building today the new temples of Phnom Penh: a steel and glass city that will echo the buildings of the past. This statement of confidence in the bright future of Khmer nation and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the 2016- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for your nations incredible weight of culture, history prowess and contribution to humanity legacy. This is a new momentous achievement for CAMBODIA, a moment that is due to your exertions. Your Excellency, In your new capacity, as the representative of CAMBODIA 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 cooperation. Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, MA, FINS, ETA PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE Academician Mircea Constantinescu PhD, Phil Dr.ETA DIRECTOR EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY More PR and photos can be found here: EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE ON FLICKR EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE ON PINTEREST 
The call for applications, for the 9th European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION is now closed, announced Academician Mircea Constantinescu head of European Tourism Academy. The ECTT Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2016 is celebrating, this year, the round number of 20 million tourists, that visited countries placed on the list of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in the last five years. The Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, established in 2000, are the flagship recognitions for national and the global tourism. They recognize cultural achievements, tourism potential, social role of tourism, knowledge incorporated in tourism development, in accordance with European Council on Tourism and Trade committment for the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda. The name of winner nation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade – Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION will be unveiled on Friday, 10 June 2016, in a gala dinner in Bucharest, Romania. Last year, the ceremony hosted 220 high-level participants from more than 27 european countries, including ministers, ambassadors and tourism industry CEOs. The European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION, to be held on 10th June 2016, will highlight the importance of culture, historical patrimony and artistic creation in tourism and showcase the knowledge and achievements of all ECTT Awards finalists. European Tourism Academy leader hand it to European Council on Tourism and Trade President his office recommendation regarding the name of the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 contest.   Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has marked for the academician presents the importance of the continous development registered by Ethiopia in the last year after being declared as a world example in tourism by WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD designation. In the message addresed to Prime Minister of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia-H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, President Dr. Anton Caragea stated european leaders appreciation for prime minister efforts directed towards transforming Ethiopia in a world recognized symbol of freedom and a center of spreading hospitality and friendship via tourism development. President Anton Caragea marked European decison to congratulate Academician Hailemariam Desalegn on the reappointment as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, a move that was normal and expected as Your Excellency succeeded admirably in implementing the First Growth and Transformation Plan, developing Ethiopian economy beyond all expectations and crowned achievements by bringing to ETHIOPIA the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION status. All this achievements are a far cry from the former image of famine and underdevelopment that where associated with Ethiopia and this is making them even more notable. 2015 had also meant challenges, like the unexpected drought, but your government tackled this issue with diplomacy and a care that must be appreciated. After the reading of the official message to Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Academician Mircea Constantinescu outlined the new measures and outcomes established by THE ETHIOPIAN TOURISM STRATEGY carved by Minister of Culture and Tourism: Ms. Aisha Mohammed Mussa. The objectives stated are achievable and based on the determination to significantly increase the number of tourists during the 2nd Growth and Transformation Plan (2015–2020). The Ministry of Culture and Tourism plans to triple foreign visitors to more than 2.5 million by 2020. This would make Ethiopia one of the top five tourist destinations in Africa. Last financial year, 770,000 tourists visited Ethiopia and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism hopes to increase this to one million, and the revenue earned to well over US$3billion by the end of this Ethiopian budget year, by July 2016. To attain this the Ministry has identified five main focus areas for the GTP 2 agenda. These are: natural and cultural heritage conservation and development; culture and tourism products marketing; service excellence; improve culture and tourism research and information systems; and enhance cooperation and collaboration with development partners. Based on these focus areas, the Ministry now has clearly defined goals for the next five years. Ethiopia‘s Minister of Culture and Tourism, Aisha Mohammed Mussa, recently explained some of the details behind the extra impetus the Government is adding to the development and promotion of the tourism sector in order to achieve and indeed surpass the ambitious growth targets it has set for 2020, the end of the Growth and Transformation Plan. Indeed, she hopes that these aims can be exceeded if tourist sites can be developed quickly enough and promoted accordingly. She admits to being very ambitious in her vision. The Government‘s interest in the sector has been underlined by the drawing up of a Sustainable Tourism Master Plan; by the revitalization of the Ethiopian Tourism Organization, to concentrate mainly on destination marketing and promotion, as well as destination development in terms of service, quality and access; and by setting up of the Ethiopian Tourism Transformation Council, chaired by the Prime Minister. Ms. Aisha pointed out the Ministry was now working on different websites to promote Ethiopia as a favorite tourist destination-the title granted by European Council on Tourism and Trade. It was also working on changing the tourism brand and trying to build a completely new communications‘ campaign. This is going to be launched before March. Concluding the presentation of the New Tourism Strategy of Ethiopia, Academician Mircea Constantinescu addressed to President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea the imbold to continue to offer his support to Ethiopian tourism development.  New Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia Ms. Aisha Mohammed Mussa
 European Tourism Academy has become, from November 2015, a member of UN Academic Impact initiative, a global network of universities that support UN values and goals.
European Tourism Academy received this honor in recognition of the decade long exertions on promoting the eleven principles of development: the basic principles carved out by the United Nations Charter, human rights like freedom of inquiry, opinion, and speech, offering educational opportunity for all people regardless of gender, race, religion or ethnicity; the freedom to pursuit the higher education; commitment to building capacity in the higher education systems across the world; encouraging global citizenship through education, advancing peace and conflict resolution through education, addressing issues of poverty through education, promoting sustainability through education, promoting inter-cultural dialogue and understanding, and the “unlearning” of intolerance, through education. The ‘EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY” is the world center of higher education and research that wants to be at the forefront of cultural transformations and with the ambition to give answers to the challenges and visions of our time. The Academy explores such diverse topics as cultural and tourism planning in the digital era , new processes of diplomacy , urban cultural strategies , complex systems and data management , the future of the city in terms of sustainability energy and capital, new strategies for the world economy . The ‘EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY” is acting under the control of President Office of European Council on Tourism and Trade. United Nations Academic Impact is a United Nations initiative to align institutions of higher education, scholarship and research with the United Nations and in the compliance with Sustainable Development Goals . In the words of United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “The Academic Impact aims to generate a global movement of minds to promote a new culture of intellectual social responsibility. It is animated by a commitment to certain bedrock principles. Among them: freedom of inquiry, opinion and speech; educational opportunity for all; global citizenship; sustainability; and dialogue.”  Only an year after Zimbabwe was crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 the country economy is booming on the support of the staggering tourism revenue increase. Visitors are flocking to Victoria Falls in record numbers, after the visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and his retinue and this is a sure sign that Zimbabwe tourism is turning a corner, an industry leader says. Latest figures reveal hotel occupancy rates at Victoria Falls are hitting an all time high, sitting at 77.6 per cent last month, compared to 62.6 per cent during August last year. Ross Kennedy said the boom in tourists had impacted across all sectors, from 2 star to 5 star accommodation, and big hotels to exclusive boutique properties. Most performance benchmarks, including revenue earned and visitor numbers, had been smashed during the month of August. The figures are based on industry data across ten Victoria Falls hotels, including the Elephant Hills Hotel, Kingdom Hotel, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Hotel and the A’Zambezi. Bookings for 2014 and 2015 were very healthy and the number of different countries where visitors are coming from is steadily growing, further enhancing demand and reputation, he said. The data showed most visitors to the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge were from the United States, followed by Australia, the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe. “It all adds up to a bright picture ahead,” Mr Kennedy said. “In comparison to current world tourism trends, these statistics are simply staggering, and a powerful reminder of the positive impact that a strong tourism industry can have on an economy.”   Amin Abdulkadir-Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia presented with the promotion T-shirt for summer 2015 marking Ethiopia as World Best Tourism Destination for 2015. During the official visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade Delegation to Ethiopia, World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, the official meeting between HE. ECTT President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia-Amin Abdulkadir has taken place. On 9th of July 2015, H. E. Minister Amin Abdulkadir has welcomed the European high ranking officials at their arrival on Ethiopian soil.The minister express his country appreciation for European support, in electing Ethiopia as World Best Tourist Destination and Favourite Cultural Destination for 2015, a moment that will mark the full maturity of Ethiopian tourism industry. . European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, graciously acknowledged the warm welcoming and stated that: now Ethiopia has emerged as the most rapidly developing African country, one of the world top level economic powers and a symbol of African development.I am pleased and honoured to be in Ethiopia-the Center of African tourism, concluded President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea..On 14 July 2015, a new round of talks was held between the two tourism leaders at the end of European Council on Tourism and Trade top level delegation visit to Ethiopia-World Favourite Cultural Destination. European Council on Tourism and Trade President remarked thatEthiopia had succeed in the world competition for World Best Tourist Destination for all the right reasons and is today a paradise for travellers, an oasis for culture and history seekers and a perfect luxury and discovery destination. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia -Amin Abdulkadir had presented his ambitious plans for fostering Ethiopia’s place on international tourism markets and presented his desire to continue the cooperation with European tourism body for years to come.Among minister plans are: to obtain for a city in Ethiopia the designation of World Capital of Culture and Tourism, to start a step by step and state by state developing process of tourism in Ethiopia. HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir and H.E. ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, discussed a long term agreement of support and cooperation envisaging: holding of conferences, exhibitions, promotion activities and decided to concentrate in electing in 2016 a World Capital of Culture and Tourism from Ethiopia, in order to create a two-three years long campaign for Ethiopia-the land chosen by God! Minister of Culture and Tourism-Amin Abdulkadir, Prime Minister and European Academician-Hailemariam Desalegn and European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Dr. Anton Caragea (from right to left)-Presiding of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 ceremony.  |
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