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

on this issue
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
AWARD CEREMONY 2015 P.5

GUIDE TO ETHIOPIA P.11

MINISTER ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR VISION ON TOURISM P.19
Upcoming event`s P.40

KAZAKHSTAN
CONGRATULATES
ETHIOPIA -WORLD BEST
TOURIST DESTINATION FOR
2015

2015 - WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION AWARD CEREMONY
HELD IN ADDIS ABABA
ETHIOPIA

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 country 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 DESTINATION FOR 2015 prize to authorities of
Ethiopia.

ETHIOPIA
2015
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
HARAR-UNESCO city of peace

ETHIOPIA
2015
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
HARAR-UNESCO city of peace

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 IS

ETHIOPIA
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 occasion

We have all gathered here, on the venue of

other people. Today, in XXI century, all tourists

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CERE-

are diplomats, building bridges of information,

MONY to celebrate one of humanity most im-

understanding and cooperation by simple ex-

portant achievements in the last centuries: and

perience of travel. In this new world, where

this is undoubtedly tourism.

tourism is economy, is diplomacy and is shaping

peoples and nations destiny, there is no more

Tourism had become, from just a tool for enjoy-

important moment as the moment when world

ment and ludic preoccupation, a major part of

tourism is choosing his World Best Tourist Des-

human life.

tination.

Tourism is today an intricate part of our life, the

need to share experiences, to search for unknown territories, to go further and further.
Tourism is inscribed in our fiber and it defines
us, it make us human.

In some years our choice is driven by consumerist 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
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea
proclaimes ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST
TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015.
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 peoples are rediscovering themselves 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 informations about distant
lands and in offering the image of his country to

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, underlined 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 destination, 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.

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015 IS ETHIOPIA

Her name was Lucy-Dinkenesh -she is won-

deserving the appellative of World Best

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

Tourist Destination.

pian name .
I will not linger too much on detailed deHere, in Ethiopia, tourists can reconnect

scription of all the UNESCO heritage

with God, as both the Kingdom of Axum and

sites existing in Ethiopia or on the long list of

his later hair-Lalibela made a point of honor

region and cities awaiting their inscription

in creating the Christianity cradle of Africa.

on world heritage list.

Here you can see God powerful deeds by the

I will just emphasize how rare is a country

presence and ingenuity of Ethiopian people

offering such a diversity of cultural, historical

as in the stoned carved churches of Lalibela.

and natural beauties as Ethiopia.

The legend goes that the angels themselves

Here in Ethiopia you can find the cradle of

help the people build them and tourist with

humanity, cradle of religions, cradle of cul-

see that these angels still have a name and a

ture and why not? Cradle of agriculture.

face, in the faces of people of Ethiopia.

We must not forget that thirty-six of world
The legacy of Muslim creeds can also be

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

Anton Caragea-President of European

Council on Tourism and Trade looking
over Axum-the first capital of Ethiopian
empire (300 a.Chr.).

wheat or barley, they all must whisper to

you: come to Ethiopia, come to where humanity started, come home !

found in the Sheik Hussein Religious, Cultural

Yes, in our decision to crown the jewel of

and Historical Site and many others holy

Africa-Ethiopia as World Best Tourist Desti-

sites in Harar.

nation we did not forget for a moment that

we are not encouraging people to go in a far

All this is making Ethiopia the ideal destina-

or distant place.

tion for peoples searching their connection

with God, in quest for their peace of mind

No! We are just telling them to come home,

and soul or maybe just the beauty of reli-

to rediscover their roots, their house-

gious artifacts.

Ethiopia.

Should I just recall that: this is the unique

We must also mark down Ethiopia as an

place where you can go in search of the Arch

example for tourism revenues distribution

of the Covenant, as a modern Indiana Jones

and to encourage tourist, travelers or just

or just as a traveler searching for spiritual

prospective tourists to invest in local artisans

adventures? Because thus is Ethiopia today:

creations.

a spiritual adventure, a discovery trip that

communities to develop, are helping people

must not be overlooked and that is richly

restarting their lives, protecting cultural

Tourism revenues are helping

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN

2015 IS ETHIOPIA
landscape and historical legacy.

many reasons why

crowning Ethiopia to-

Coming as a tourist in Ethiopia is not just a self rewarding adventure, but is also an opportunity to make a responsible tour-

day as World Best Tourist Destination it is just a normal act of recognition.

ism, a fair trade tourism, supporting local communities and

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

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

we must command and support and specially promote.

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

We are hailing Ethiopia also a Favorite Cultural Destination for

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

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

and is writing today a new and

tangible

remarkable page: the page of

cultural and

tourism and cultural success,

tourism

the page of Ethiopia as WORLD

patrimony

BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

heritage the

FOR 2015.

Ethiopian
coffee cere-

Your Excellency Mr. Prime Min-

mony and

ister and European academician

shimgalina-

-Hailemariam Desalegn,

the specific
It is my great honor and privi-

Ethiopian

lege to hand over this title as an

concept of
learning and
amicability.
The coffee

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 center of Ethiopian government and European Council on Tourism and
Trade visiting delegation.

ceremony is

international recognition for all

the people of Ethiopia, all
united in the service of protecting and preserving historical
and civilization patrimony of

not only celebrating the first coffee planted and presented to

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

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

ple of ETHIOPIA.

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

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

the best to travelers and passerby alike.

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

In this ceremony, we can observe the people character and
way of treating with dignity and care their guests.

the benefit of the world culture and tourism.

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 peoples, can give them the sense
of historical unity and bind them together in love. This concept

I hope that: this lofty rostrum will be transformed in a support for developing 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 ETHIOPIA.
It is my privilege to handover to Your Excellency, as the most represen-

is also a fundament of Ethiopian history and development, a

tative leader of people and tourism of FEDERAL DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

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

OF ETHIOPIA the award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR

tourist feel at home in this wonderful country.

2015.

As Ethiopia is in itself a succinct compendium of humanity history and traditions, I could go one for hours, underlining the

OFFICE OF THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

PRIME MINISTER AND ACADEMICIAN

HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN EXPRESS HIS
CONVICTION IN THE BRIGHT FUTURE OF ETHIOPIA
WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015
to other things that ECTT chose to

On the rostrum of
World Best Tourist Des-

stretch out to Ethiopia the world

tination for 2015 Prime

best traveler destination recom-

Minister Hailemariam

pense.

Desalegn has held a

The stream of vacationers to Ethio-

powerful speech ex-

pia has developed altogether amid

pressing his confidence

the most recent decade as the na-

in Ethiopia`s tourism

tion had the capacity give better

sector development.

administrations that urged travel-

On this important world

ers to invest longer energy and

tourism ceremony

investigate Ethiopias surprising

and wonderful attractions, he said.

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn was recognized

Ethiopia will keep on developing

by European Tourism
Academy as a World
Leader of Tourism and a
member of honor of

the tourism area and utilization it

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 Ceremony for 2015..

as a methods for political participation with different nations, he said.

European Tourism

Prime Minister Hailemariam De-

Academy by Academician

salegn accepted for him

Mircea Constantinescu

the honorary membership of Euro-

and in the presence of

pean Tourism Academy insig-

European Council on

nia and on behalf of people

T o u r i s m

of Ethiopia accepted the diploma

Trade

a n d

President.

and the globe as official signs of

World Best Tourist Destination and

The Premier received

Favorite Cultural Destination desig-

the insignia`s of Euro-

nation.

pean Council on Tourism

and Trade from European

President-

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea at a public function

held at the National Palace

yesterday.

ECTT declared Ethiopia

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 Prundianu and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

as the perfect winner of World Best Tourist

destinations and administrations to sightseers over

Destination and Favorite Cultural Destina-

the world, PM Hailemariam said subsequent to

tion

accepting the grant. The legislature of Ethiopia is

Distinction

for

2015.

resolved to ensure and safeguard authentic and

This grant further motivates Ethiopia to

social legacies and we trust it is in this acknowl-

offer more noteworthy social and vacation

edgment of this one of a kind game plan in addition

ratic Republic of Ethiopia the title of Honorary

Member of European Tourism Academy.

EYE ON IT

Analyzing the curriculum vitae along with the

activity of the Prime Minister Hailemariam we
discover a complex person, a man of many talents, entirely dedicated to the development of
his country, to the well being of the people of
Ethiopia, dedicated to building a favorable image of Ethiopia in the midst of the international

EUROPE HAS A NEW

ACADEMICIAN: PRIME
MINISTER HAILEMARIAM
DESALEGN, ANNOUNCES
EUROPEAN TOURISM
ACADEMY DIRECTOR DR.
MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU

community.
His bachelor's degree in civil engineering, from Addis Ababa University, was fundamental for building a solid scientific education,
giving him access to a high level knowledge and

Conference on OSCE
congratulates ETHIOPIA for
being named
WORLD BEST TOURIST
DESTINATION FOR 2015
Bucharest Conference on Organization for Security and Cooperation in
Europe is expressing his satisfaction

expertise.

at the thawing of relations be-

The master degree, with Tampere University of

tween Europe and Ethiopia-most

Technology in Finland, gave him an European

developed East African state.

and international perspective upon the transfer

On 10th July 2015, in an official ceremony,

of knowledge, expertise and technology.

Ethiopia has being recognized as

Academician Mircea Constantinescu-Director

Upon his return to Ethiopia, he served in differ-

the most economically dynamic

of European Tourism Academy, had presented

ent academic and administrative capacities,

country in Africa, a beacon of de-

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

including the dean of the Water Technology

mocracy and development in the

mariam Desalegn with the insignia of honor

Institute, for 13 years.

region and now was recognized as

and the certificate of honorary member of the

academy.

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn loves his country

and the people of Ethiopia. He learned how

the World`s Best Tourist Destination. On 25 June 2015, the European Council for Tourism and Trade

The decision was taken on 25 June 2015 by the

important the water resources are for a coun-

Academic Board of European Council on Tour-

try, how important the expert management of

(ECTT) based in European Union ,

ism and Trade and announced in an official

such a vital resource is for the well being and

unanimously selected Ethiopia as

letter as a result of: Government of Ethiopia

the successful development of Ethiopia.

the World Best Tourist Destination

recognizing the importance of tourism as a key

But for him it was not enough. He wanted

for 2015 and favorite cultural desti-

facilitator for the country development and

moreHe wanted to acquire knowledge of sci-

nation for 2015. Among several

international promotion, creating exemplary

entific management of the country, of its hu-

countries, Ethiopia has obtained

structures like Tourism Transformation Council,

man resources and natural resources as well.

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

the award in recognition for its

investing in infrastructure and capacity building,

creating a special team under Your Excellency

izational Leadership in California.

leadership for destination promotion and management 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 wordpresentation) and we have the pleasure of presenting you with the text of laudation by Academician Mircea Constantinescu for H.E. Hailemariam 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 Desalegn, Prime Minister of the Federal Democ-

We will not analyze here the political activity of

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, but taking actively
part in the political life of his
country, it gave
him the opportunity to work with
people of Ethiopia, to be in the
middle of Ethiopias people, to
efficiently communicate, and
being able to

tourism potential, acumen reform

of tourism industry and indelible
cultural and historical patrimony.

10

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!

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-

Academician Mircea Constantinescu-EUROPEAN TOURISM

ACADEMY and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei on the
venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.
ETHIOPIA-ADDIS ABABA

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 community.

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 countrys 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 heritage of Ethiopia.
Tourism is for also the people of Ethiopia, is for the development of the local communities, so that everyone will be able to enjoy all that a beautiful and resourceful country
may offer.

The newest member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY

Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn presents to the
public the official Academician Degree.
ETHIOPIA-ADDIS ABABA

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,

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.

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EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION TRIP
ETHIOPIA
2015 WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

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DELEGATION TOURING THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL
ETHIOPIA-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2015

During the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT)

official visit to Ethiopia, ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton
Caragea, met with Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, 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 advancementWORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015.
(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 9-15 July 2015).

profusely dialogue with Prime Minister of F.D.R. Ethiopia- Academician Hailemariam Desalegn.

Ethiopia tourism is having a perfect future ! with the

hand shake between Prime Minister of EthiopiaHailemariam Desalegn and ECTT President-Professor Dr.
Anton Caragea.

The inclusive dialogue, concentrated on promoting bilateral

trade, investment and economic cooperation, supporting business people and firms from both regions in cooperating and
promoting the exchange of techniques, skills and economic
goods.

Lalibela, the holiest Christian city in Africa and the second Jerusalem, as is worldly known

On the landmark occasion, of the universal proclamation

of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, a top ranking delegation from European Council on Tourism and Trade was invited 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

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 Hailemariam Desalegn, H.E. ECTT President Professor Dr.
Anton Caragea , Minister of Foreign Affairs of EthiopiaTedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

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DELEGATION TOURING THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL
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On diplomatic arena a

European Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor

cooperation and further

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

developing of honorary

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

consuls network across

mician Hailemariam Desalegn.

the world, was established, with a view to

foster tourism, cultural
and economic cooperation.
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.

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 Ceremony for 2015.

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 Hailemariam Desalegn will represent Ethiopia, as the newest honorary 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.

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 CEREMONY FOR 2015, was presented with the WORLD LEDERS OF
TOURISM LETTER of European Council on Tourism and Trade,
calling on Heads of States and Government to promote peace
and world development via the tourism sector.
ECTT and Ethiopia have agreed to reinforce their collaboration
in the areas of tourism promotion, management of tourism
product development, and cultural marketing strategies, as
agreed in the discussions between Professor Dr. Anton Caragea
and the Minister of Tourism and Culture of Federal Democratic
Republic of Ethiopia, Mr. Amin Abdulkadir.On July 10, 2015

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European

Tourism Academy is presenting the Honorary Academician
Title to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Hailemariam Desalegn.

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EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

DELEGATION TOURING THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL
ETHIOPIA-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2015
The ceremony for

Specially for European delegates, were opened the gates of the

World Best Tourist

imperial museum, containing the priceless treasures of ten

Destination for 2015

Ethiopian emperors from garments, to crown adorned with

included also folk

jewels and the robes used for imperial investiture.

dances, Ethiopian
traditional coffee
ceremony and academic presentations,
supported by leading
figures of Ethiopian
cultural establishment.
Axum Bible used for imperial
ceremonies

The cere-

mony for World Best

Tourist Destination

in 2015 was live broadcasted and viewed by more than 200

Dances and flowers: welcoming at Gondar airport, European delegates with Mayor Getinet Amare.

millions viewers and will continued to be presented across

Europe for the next year.
From Axum, the old imperial city, the delegation led by PresiFrom 10th July, the European Council on Tourism and Trade

dent Anton Caragea has being directed to Gondar, the capital

President and his delegation embarked in a cultural and tour-

of Ethiopia from XVII century to XIX century.

ism program visiting Axum-the first capital of Christian Africa

and the centre of a world power in 100 to 400 BC that controlled trade across the Read Sea.

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

a wonderful welcoming ceremony, offered by the local authorities, enjoyed the fabulous gondarine cuisine at famous Four
sisters restaurant and toured the imperial city.

Axum Cathedral: the place of coronation for Emperors of

Ethiopia. The last emperor to be crowned here was Haile
Selassie I

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.

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 famous Fasil Ghibli-Palace of Emperor Fasilades

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EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

DELEGATION TOURING THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL
ETHIOPIA-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2015
Gondar is also world renamed for his architecture and for

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

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

conducted, including the famous grave of Saint Lalibela, the

as Ethiopia was known in that time.

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

Garnering Portuguese influence, with Indian and English architectural designs, Gondar is nicknamed as African Camelot for
his strange, but perfect architecture.

Welcoming in Lalibela with flowers and the beautiful

children of Ethiopia: Anton Caragea- European Tourism
President and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates were received with a religious ceremony in Lalibela, the holiest Christian city in Africa and the second Jerusalem, as in worldly
known.
More than 5000 pilgrims, priests and deacons, welcomed President Dr. Anton Caragea and offered to him and his delegation,

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare

you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

special ceremonial robes, to mark their entrance in the holy

city.

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 Regional State of Ethiopia and enjoyed a tour of Lake Hawassa, a
discovery of the city landmarks and a special night show that

European Tourism President-Dr. Anton Caragea addressing to priests, pilgrims and believers at Lalibela-the capital
of Christian Africa. .

touched their hearts.

The Rift Valley Lakes of Ethiopia are an internal sea, that can be
perfectly used for tourism and leisure.

On this occasion, President Anton Caragea held his gratitude

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

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

Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir, who arranged for ECTT

quickly captured the imagination of the inhabitants of Lalibela.

President Dr. Anton Caragea delegation a special discovery

tour of Harar-the fourth most holy Islamic site.

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DELEGATION TOURING THE INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL
ETHIOPIA-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2015
facilities and is proposing for the next year`s a number of strategic decisions to further develop the countrys 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 infrastructure, on destination promotion and product development,
through the recently established Tourism Transformation
Council.

Boat trip along the Hawassa lake shores

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.

Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of Bureau for Culture and

Tourism of SNNPRS

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare

you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea. .

Mihai Prundianu, ECTT Trade Chairman pose for a

photo in front of famous Harar landmark Grand Jami
Mosque.

Sidamo Cultural Tower

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 developed country in the world, concluded his remarks, President
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
The Government of Ethiopia had succeeded in developing the
country tourist infrastructure, in insuring security for tourism

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

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

Trade delegates where recieved in the medieval capital of

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

Ethiopia: Gondar (Gonder).

education, crafts man ship, trade and exchange which stepped

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

The ceremony of welcoming the european delegates, attend-

of Ethiopia for more than 200 years.

ing WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY for 2015,

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

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

kilometers away to the North West direction from the capital

Taking opportunity of this felicitous occasion Mayor Getinet

city Addis Ababa.

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

come to his wonderful city and to enjoy the heartland of

Many of Ethiopians impressive tourist sites are within a few

Ethiopia: city of Gonder.

Here is the full text of his speech:
Your Excellency Professor Anton Caragea President of European Union Trade and Tourism Council.
Respected Gusts
First of all I would like to express my heart felt gratitude on
behalf of the city administration and the people of Gondar for

Amhari dances at Gondar

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.

Mayor Getinet Amare and European Councilon Tourism

and Trade President holding Fasil Castle iron model.

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

the highest peak in Ethiopia and the fourth largest mountain in

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.

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

Starting this time on wards in became the center of modern

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

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

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

built by the name of king Fasileded Fasil Castle.

warmly want to say welcome !

Different castles and churches were built accompanied the

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

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

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

18

VISIT TO GONDAR

VISIT TO HAWASSA

THE PERFECT MEDIEVAL

CITY OF ETHIOPIA

THE LAKE DISTRICT OF

ETHIOPIA
Hawassa is one of the most beautiful cities in Ethiopia, exploring the city is an enjoyable and worth while experience
for both foreign and domestic tourists say`s Mrs. Almaz
Beyero-Head of SNNPRS Tourism and Culture Bureau.
On 12th of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and
Trade delegation landed in Hawassa, for a short stay in the
city of diversity, as the capital of South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State is widely known.

Mayor Getinet Amare and European Councilon Tourism

and Trade President holding Fasil Castle iron model.

At the arrival rostrum the high guests where welcome with

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

Mrs. Almaz Beyero-Head of Bureau for Culture and

Tourism of SNNPRS
a wonderful display of hospitality by Mrs. Almaz BeyeroHead of the local Bureau for Culture and Tourism and members of the tourism department and local mass media. The

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

delegation enjoyed a tour of Haile Resort on the outskirts of

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

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

from the sector ; and simultaneously we are also required to

landmarks with a special lay over at Sidama Nation Tower-

work hard to improve and develop the necessary infrastruc-

Sidamu Summuda. On the occasion of the visit of European

ture, related facilities and addressing the needs of tourists.

tourism body delegation Mrs. Almaz Beyero presented a

welcoming speech destined to present the city tourists at-

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

tractions and to lure more prospective tourists to the city.

tourism will be achievable through enhancing and maintaining

common interest and partnerships.

We present the full speech of Hawassa Tourism and Culture

Office Head:

Wish you a pleasant stay in Gondar.

Your Excellency Professor Anton Caragea President of
Getinet Amare

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

19

VISIT TO HAWASSA
THE LAKE DISTRICT OF ETHIOPIA
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 prominent geographic feature of the region, is the home of more
than four lakes that are accountable for enormous aquatic
diversity. The significant altitudinal variation and consequent
climatic variation of the region results in ecological diversity.
Biological diversity in different life forms are maintained and
protected in 7 national parks, 2 wildlife reserves, the crocodile ranch and many more protected areas.
The region has unforgettable historical resources. It is known
for old aged monasteries, mosques, palaces, caves, defensive walls, megalithic stele sites as well as archeological and
paleo-anthropological sites.

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

These historical heritages makes the region the owner of

three UNESCO registered World Heritage Sites, one biosphere reserve and in which the best gift to the
world , coffee is originated.
There are many more intangible as well as tangible heritages
that are in the pipeline to be registered as World Heritage

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

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

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

Your Excellency

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 Ethiopia.

Distinguished guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
The regional government has been doing its best to develop,
promote and properly utilize its cultural, natural and histori-

Our region encompasses diversified nations and nationalities,

cal resources for the benefit of its people through tourism

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

development and other meanss.

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

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-

These nations and nationalities have characteristic cultural

veloped tourism transformation plan and estab-

values and an outstanding cultural performance that can at-

lished Tourism Transformation Council in all administrative

levels to integrate tourism in its all development agendas.

20

VISIT TO HAWASSA

TOUR OF HARAR

THE LAKE DISTRICT OF

ETHIOPIA

UNESCO CITY OF
ETHIOPIA
A coffee ceremony and a musical display of Harari traditions 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

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

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.

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

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

heritage status for his outer-wall called Jugal and build

The selection and awarding of our country as The World Best

around 1552 and encompassing 82 mosques and 400 shrines

Tourist Destination for 2015 by The European Tourism and

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

Trade Council appropriately comply with our ongoing effort.

Saints).

This award not only insures the recognition we have at the

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation had the

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

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

to transform the sector.

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

Tafari Mekonnen ( future Emperor Haile Selassie ) and tradi-

Therefore, the regional government is very grateful for what

tional harari houses.

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

The delegation toured also famous Grand Jami Mosque and

visited lodging facilities at Harar Ras Hotel.

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

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

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

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

city, Hawassa.

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

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- European Council on Tourism

ALMAZ BEYERO-Head of SNNPRS Tourism

and Trade President.

21

ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR MINISTER OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

OF ETHIOPIA
THE MAN WHO BROUGHT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
AWARD TO HIS COUNTRY
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.

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!
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 PresidentProfessor 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 Agrigoroaei.
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 asWorld 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

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 .
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

22

ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR MINISTER OF CULTURE AND TOURISM

OF ETHIOPIA
THE MAN WHO BROUGHT WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION
AWARD TO HIS COUNTRY
AMBASSADOR TIBERIUS PUIU
CONGRATULATES MINISTER ATO AMIN ABDULKADIR FOR HIS EFFORTS IN MAINTAINING
ETHIOPIA AT WORLD BEST TOURISM
DESTINATION STATUS
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.
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.

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

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia activity was highly
evaluated.

Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia -Amin Abdulkadir

The Minister announced that Ethiopia has set target to secure

had presented his ambitious plans for fostering Ethiopias place

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

on international tourism markets and presented his desire to

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

continue the cooperation with European tourism body for

The plan is to increase the revenue the nation collected from

years to come.

foreign tourists at the end of the first GTP, the just concluded
Ethiopian fiscal year, by threefold, Amin Abdulkadir Minister of

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

Tourism said.

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

step by step and state by state developing process of tourism

Opening new destination for tourists, expanding infrastructure

in Ethiopia.

networks and promoting tourist destinations are among the few

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 twothree years
long campaign
for Ethiopiathe land chosen by God!

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.

23

DIPLOMATIC DIALOGUE BETWEEN MINISTER OF FOREIGN

AFFAIRS OF ETHIOPIA AND EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM
AND TRADE LEADERSHIP
The Ethiopian official also thanked President Dr. Anton Caragea
for its constant and sustained support that it provides Ethiopia
for the latters accession to the tourism structures, World Best
Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism
international competitions and expressed confidence that President Dr. Anton Caragea would further support Ethiopia, in view
of a positive decision in this file for World Capital of Culture and
Tourism nomination.
In this context, he congratulated President Dr. Anton Caragea for
the successful mandate and his Chairmanship of the Tourism and
Trade Council.
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

During the talks, the two personalities extensively exchanged

views on the current developments in Africa and Europe, particularly in the context of the Somali crisis and the issue of migration.

Gebre Christos, during the President official visit to Addis

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

Ababa.

the international agenda, economic cooperation, cultural and

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined that keeping the in-

diplomatic strengthening of ties.

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 investment and business, emphasized Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.
In his turn, Ethiopian Minister appreciated the dynamics of
bilateral cultural and economic relations.
Minister Berhane Gebre Christos recalled the very important
role of the European lobby for his country in international organizations and for Ethiopia being nominated as WORLD BEST
TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015, an action that will have a
significant contribution to his countrys economic development. I thanked Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for the support
that the European

personalities provide for the Ethiopian

world stage profile and for supporting my countries initiative in

the world of tourism, stated Berhane Gebre Christos.

Friendly dialogue between European Council 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 Ethiopia, Yaekob Yalla, during his visit to Ethiopia.
The two officials reviewed the progress in the bilateral relations, insisting on economic cooperation and trade.
They expressed their firm belief that additional joint effort
and intensified bilateral political contacts could boost the
economic exchanges and help map out new investment and
business projects of mutual interest.
As promising areas for bilateral economic cooperation, they
mentioned the textile industry, the energy sector
(hydroelectric plants, coal mining), agriculture and the pharmaceutical industry.

Yaekob Yalla-Minister of Trade of Ethiopia

receives European insignia from European
Council on Tourism and Trade PresidentProfessor Dr. Anton Caragea.

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 markets potential (with around 90 million`s consumers), given the
wealth of natural resources, the strategic geographical position and this years positive democratic and economic developments.
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea underlined the consistency of
economic cooperation, supported by the dynamic presence
of European companies in Ethiopia and by the increasing
trade between the two countries and our mission is to provide all the support they need to have opportunities for increased investment and business, emphasized Professor Dr.
Anton Caragea.

Friendly dialogue between European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation lead by
Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Ministry of
Trade of Ethiopia team lead by Minister
Yaekob Yalla.

25

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

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 focus, 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 worlds most visited region and is the main
source of outbound tourism to other destination, accounting
for more than half of the worlds international travelers.
In 2014, international tourism in Europe had registered a major contribution to the economic recovery in the region: international tourist arrivals grew by 3% to reach a record 584 million, while international tourism receipts increased by 4% contributing US$ 509 billion (383 billion euro) to the European

ECTT President-Dr. Anton Caragea has welcomed 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

economies.
effective marketing strategies?
The 8th Meeting of the European Council on Tourism and
Trade will be held at the Romanian Parliament and Professor

Strategic partnerships for the effective planning and develop-

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 discuss 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

ment of like WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION-mega events.

Culture and Tourism.

The main priorities for European tourism identified by the
This paraphernalia designation can play a key role in the development of tourism destinations, helping to improve their image, opening new tourism markets, diversifying the product
offer, encouraging and fostering job creation and socioeconomic development.
The European leaders in charge of tourism and the international 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

European national tourism organizations include: the development of cultural destinations and carving transnational products, in order to enhance regional cooperation declared European Tourism President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea..

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 Sustainable 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 Constantinescu, 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 recommendation 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 decision 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 Constantinescu.
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 CULTURE AND TOURISM.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu receives

the final candidature for 2015 World Tourism Awards-World Best Tourist Destination
and World Capital of Culture and Tourism.

28

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

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 region.
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 designation.

28 countries representatives analyzed the

candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015

This string of tourism success stories made 29 countries to

start registering their candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST

for last year.

DESTINATION AWARD in 2015 more early than ever. (two

Lao PDR- 2013 winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION-

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

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

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

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

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 Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia crowned as WORLD BEST

mician Mircea Constantinescu.

Afterword, the debate on the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 started at the indication of ECTT PresidentProfessor Dr. Anton Caragea.

TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.

On June 25, 2015 the General Assembly of the European Council 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 countries 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

On the front the voting urne Professor Dr. Anton

Caragea MA, FINS, ETA present the report: ETHIOPIA:
THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD!

29

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

GENERAL ASSEMBLY SELECTS
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015
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 DESTINATION; THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD !
He proposed ETHIOPIA as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST
DESTINATION FOR 2015 and as receiver of the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2015.
The report noted the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST 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

Palestine, Russian and Malaysian Ambassadors flanking President Anton Caragea and
Senator Florin Constantinescu

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 settlements), Lower Valley of the Awash-where humanity made his
first steps and where was found the Eva of all mankind-Lucy

The rich cultural and historical legacy of Ethiopia is not confined to the previous presented list: new prominent landmarks
are added such as: Sheik Hussein Religious, Cultural and Historical 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 Africasacred 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

fossils, Lower Valley of the Omo also containing fragments

pertaining to early humanity development and the fossils of
Homo Gracilis.

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

All this sites where recognized as being of world significance

revenue, growing income and supporting marginal and rural

and registered as UNESCO World heritage monuments.

communities development. The way in which social-tourism

has become the base for local economic development, providing benefits to communities, makes social-friendly tourism, the

30

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

GENERAL ASSEMBLY SELECTS
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015

Handshaking and smiles on the venue of

European Council on Tourism and Trade:
tourism is going well ! is the motto.
lesson that today-the REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA is offering to the
world.

Concluding the WORLD BEST TOURIST

DESTINATION FOR 2015 ceremonies
The preservation of outstanding historical and cultural heritage in the form of the former capital of the Kingdom of Ethiopia, the Gondar cultural complex , an ample palatial complex

Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine nature and

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

the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological

the African greatest empire.

preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places.

Today, Gondar castle complex offers tourists bound for Ethio-

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

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

ecological and green tourism that must be recognized through-

archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

out the world.

The REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA is also a perfect center for safari

The ongoing development and protection of cultural, reli-

and adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this

gious and historical shrines of the Republic of ETHIOPIA ,

special kind of tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to

the transformation of Lalibela into a historical and spiritual

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

centre, offering to the visitors a glimpse into rich culture

country, one of the worlds top adventure destinations.

and heritage of peoples of ETHIOPIA.

Keeping alive community blending traditions, allows tourists

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

and visitors to be part of the ETHIOPIA unique peoples ethnic

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

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

cance equal to Jerusalem only in the world.

perience, are all achievements that make the REPUBLIC OF

ETHIOPIA a perfect cultural class destination.

Lalibela must be the center of religious pilgrimage and cultural

tourism offering to world tourists the complex healing experi-

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

ence of cultural legacy, religious special atmosphere and faith

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

imbued air.

have another African country declared as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in sign of continuity for last year and as

31

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

GENERAL ASSEMBLY SELECTS
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2015

Smiles and the good EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE from COTNARI on the venue of
European Council on Tourism and Trade
appreciation mark forPresident Robert Gabriel Mugabe , the
current President of African Union and Zimbabwe Tourism
Minister-Walter Mzembi.

THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2015.

The meeting was also presented with the Official Invitation,
from the Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn of the REPUBLIC 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,

This year we have to select another African country to mark

in person, to His Excellency Prime Minister of REPUBLIC OF

Europe and world solidarity with Africa and Africa`s Union

ETHIOPIA- HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN, European Academician

President Robert Mugabe.

and outstanding personality in world tourism, today.

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

Concluding the debate, Professor Anton Caragea, President of

appreciation for, Africa by crowning ETHIOPIA as THE FAVOR-

the European Council on Tourism and Trade marked the impor-

ITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTI-

tance of the moment the most impressive world tourism prize

NATION FOR 2015 stated Chairman Mihai Prundianu.

was entrusted to ETHIOPIA.

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director of European Parliamentary

The safety of the country and the huge hospitality potential of

Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade and

Ethiopia is revealed by the acceptance of the invitation for a

Senator of Romanian Parliament stated the opinion of all pre-

familiarization visit of high ranking members of European

sent at ECTT conference and declared that the REPUBLIC OF

Council on Tourism and Trade to the ETHIOPIA.

ETHIOPIA is the deserving candidate, with a perfect record of

promoting social-friendly tourism, ecological and poverty reduction 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 REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA and to declare REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA-

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

visit, the country`s gates are opened and all world tourism experts 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)

32

WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTION

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE
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

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.

LEADER OF TOURISM and as a member of European Tourism

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

Academy for his recognition of the role and significance of

the international life and each and every one of our citizens

tourism on world stage.

became a world ambassador and a central actor on world

stage.

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

Anton Caragea-ECTT President and Academician Mircea Con-

No country, interested in development, international recogni-

stantinescu in congratulation for Ethiopia`s tourism achieve-

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

ments.

remove herself from the international tourism and trade arena.

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

Trade and Tourism are the key pillars for countries and billions

Academic Board of the European Council on Tourism and Trade

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

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

potential.

TOURISM ACADEMY, in your capacity as a WORLD LEADER OF

TOURISM for your recognition of the role and significance of
tourism on world stage.

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

the international promotion of tourism as a tool for development and international cooperation, is selecting the world lead-

In XXI century Tourism had become more than an industry,

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

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

and position on the global tourism agenda.

ism had become an intricate part of the countries international

image, had become a part of diplomatic life and a public opinion key factor.

Today, the Government of Ethiopia is recognizing the importance of tourism as a key facilitator for the country development and international promotion, creating exemplary struc-

Tourism, Travel, Trade and Investments are interconnected and

tures like Tourism Transformation Council, investing in infra-

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

structure and capacity building, creating a special team under

33

WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTION

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE
RECOGNIZE AS WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM
HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN ETHIOPIA`S PRIME MINISTER
Your Excellency leadership for destination promotion and management 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 importance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, international 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 Ethiopias natural, historical and cultural resources to strengthen the
tourism sector, identify pressing value-chain gaps and intervening 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 DESTINATIONAWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE
CULTURAL DESTINATION for your rich past and cultural prowess.
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 cooperation.
Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, MA, FINS, ETA
Academician Mircea Constantinescu PhD, Phil Dr.

34

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION VISIT ALONG SILK ROAD IN
KAZAKHSTAN
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.

ECTT President Anton Caragea recieves

the SHYMKENT STAR from Akim of
Shymkent-Mr. Darkhan Satybaldy

The highlight of the visit was the on-site discovery tour of incredible city of Turkistan (24-26 April) with the world famous
Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, Friday Mosque, Otrar ancient city archeological site, the splendid Aristan Bab Mosque,
and participation in a special ceremony honoring one of Ka-

Silk Road has always being the destination of choice for luxury
and culture oriented tourists and a fabulous journey thru time
and spaces.

Aristan Bab, monument from XIV century,

an architectural landmark and religious
lynchpin in Kazakhstan

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 Kazakhstan is better known, in the new Frontier of Silk Road experiences.
European Council on Tourism and Trade is the promoter of Silk
Road concept in Europe and the world, with an accent on presenting 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

zakhstan spiritual fathers (Aristan Bab) and Baba Ragham

Mosque.

as is world renowned, the candidate city for World Winter

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

Olympics in 2022.

terview Turkistan incredible mixture of culture, tradition, his-

The delegation had being presented by the Governor of the

torical patrimony and perfect tourism potential.

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

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

and touristic opportunities.

tural program can offer to you and is well preserved.

35

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON
TOURISM AND TRADE

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON
TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION VISIT
ALONG SILK ROAD IN

FAMILIARIZATION VISIT
IN TURKMENISTAN

KAZAKHSTAN
The tourism and cultural relations between Europe and Turkmenistan had entered into a new phase with the presence of
the 5th European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) delegation in Turkmenistan.

The delegation toured Turkmenistan touristic facilities and hot

European Delegation leaders at the gates

of Turkistan

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

April 2015.

The tourists should flock to this place, as this is the main stop
over on Silk Road and Turkistan monuments had served as

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

templates for all later Silk Road construction.

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, the European tourism delegation had marked the continuous develop-

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

ment of the tourism cooperation between Europe and Turk-

time in Turkistan, concluded President Caragea.

menistan. During the latest five cultural delegation` s European

The European tourism body-ECTT tour experience concluded in

Almaty, with a press conference, highlighting the importance
of European-Kazakhstan tourism cooperation and opportunities 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 European Council on Tourism and Trade can be extremely beneficial
for the country tourist potential, suggested the European Tourism Academy Director-Mircea Constantinescu.
This is even more relevant, as European Council on Tourism

Turkmenistan President Gurbanguly

Berdimuhamedov and European Council on
Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr.
Anton Caragea

and Trade support was instrumental in Astana successful bid

for World Expo 2017 and today this cooperation is continuing

Council on Tourism and Trade has contributed with ideas and

and enriching in perspective.

informations to important tourism, cultural and academic

Europe and Kazakhstan, shoulder to shoulder in tourism promotion, 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 Caragea.

events held in Turkmenistan under the President Gurbanguly

Berdimuhamedov supervision such as: Oguznama International
Conference , Ethnography Congress of Turkmenistan , International Congress of the 15 Anniversary of Turkmenistan Neutrality , Turkmenistan in the Epoch of New Revival and finally the
International Congress dedicated to life and work of world

36

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

FAMILIARIZATION VISIT IN 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 European Council on Tourism and Trade familiarization trip to country express his appreciation for the long term support and commitment 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

President Anton Caragea received by the

President of Parliament of Turkmenistan

world.

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 dedicated 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 Turkmenistan.

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 cooperation 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 Committee for Tourism of Turkmenistan who was established in 2012
and to the significance of the Committee for the Awaza National Tourist Zone.

Turkmenistan and Ashgabat the perfect

places on Central Asia visited by European
Council on Tourism and Trade President

37

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE

DELEGATION VISIT IN ETHIOPIA
WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2015
July 2015

Photo montage by Nicolae Nicolae

38

THE WORLD SPEAKS ABOUT ETHIOPIA

WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

Outstanding natural beauty, dramatic

landscapes and ancient culture have
given Ethiopia the title of the Worlds
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 commission, attributing to their success.

Breaking News: Ethiopia voted world best

tourist destination for 2015 by European
Council on Tourism & Trade

In its application for the award,

the Ethiopian government identified tourism as a key area if it is to tackle poverty.
Ethiopia is the deserving fully this prize..
The countrys highlights include the
monolithic rock-hewn churches at Lalibela; 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.

The country has been praised for its outstanding natural beauty, dramatic landscapes 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 increased by 10% over the last decade, according to the Ethiopian Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Last year, more than
600,000 tourists visited Ethiopia, attracted 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..

Ethiopia will keep on developing the tourism area and utilization it as a methods
for political participation with different
nations, he said.
Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn
accepted for him the honorary membership of European Tourism Academy insignia 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
designation.

39

THE WORLD SPEAKS ABOUT ETHIOPIA

WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

Turkmenistan and Ashgabat the perfect

Ethiopia has been
adjudged
winner
the by European
places
on Central
Asia of
visited
2015 World BestCouncil
TouristonDestination
award
Tourism and
Trade President
and the Favourite Cultural Destination Distinction for 2015 by the General Assembly of
the European Council on Tourism and Trade
(ECTT).
According to the councils report issued last
month, the reasons for awarding World Best
Tourist Destination Prize to Ethiopia were
the excellent preservation of humanity landmarks such as the ruins of the city of Aksum,
the heart of ancient Ethiopia; Fasil Ghebbi,
the residence of the Ethiopian emperors during 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 kilometres 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, Lucys fossils; the Lower Valley of the Omo which also
contains fragments pertaining to early human 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 European 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 Ethiopia coming top of the pile.

On the landmark occasion, of the universal proclamation of World Best Tourist

Destination for 2015, a top ranking delegation 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 fascinating historical sites are drawing an increase 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

Upcoming Events
for European Tourism Industry
September 2015Professor Dr. Anton Caragea will lead an ECTT
delegation to Danube Delta-World Natural Protected Area
September 2015WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM
CEREMONIES in Tbilisi, Georgia
September 2015WORLD 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 2015INTERNATIONAL WINE FAIR 2015 and selection of
EUROPEAN DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2016
December 2015The General Meeting of ECTT in Bucharest Palace of
Parliament

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND

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