Taiwan recorded its best-ever performance in the Global Competitiveness Report released Sept. 7 by Geneva-based World Economic Forum, reflecting the nation’s improving business and regulatory environment.

With a score of 5.26 points, up 0.05 from last year, Taiwan ranked 13th among 142 economies surveyed by the WEF. Singapore, Switzerland and Sweden took the top three places.

“This result indicates that Taiwan’s global competitiveness remains strong,” Christina Y. Liu, minister of the Council for Economic Planning and Development, said Sept. 7. “We expect the overall ranking to move up next year.”

Taiwan topped eight of the report’s 111 indicators, including patent and industry cluster numbers, as well as local market competitiveness. “This is a remarkable achievement given the scale of Taiwan’s economy,” Liu said.

As the fourth best performer in Asia, Taiwan trails only Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong. South Korea, the island’s arch rival in many key high-tech sectors, fell two spots to 24th in the world.

Taiwan trailed South Korea in 2008 when the pair ranked 17th and 13th, respectively, but gained the upper hand 12 months later and has not looked back since. The gap between the two countries is now 11 places, according to the CEPD.

The WEF ranking is the third vote of confidence in Taiwan’s business competitiveness issued by respected international organizations. In its latest report, U.S.-based Business Environment Risk Intelligence rated Taiwan, along with Norway, as the world’s third best place to invest, following Singapore and Switzerland.

On May 17, Lausanne-based International Institute for Management Development awarded Taiwan sixth spot in this year’s World Competitiveness Yearbook. (JSM)

Write to Meg Chang at meg.chang@mail.gio.gov.tw

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ROC President Ma Ying-jeou sets forth guidelines for gender equality policies in seven key areas Sept. 2. (CNA)
ROC President Ma Ying-jeou said the government will continue striving to achieve gender equality by making policies in seven key areas more equitable.

Guidelines drawn up by the Ministry of the Interior cover public policies, employment, the family, culture and education, personal safety, health care, technology and the environment, Ma said Sept. 2.

With regard to public policies, the Cabinet is set to establish a new department to promote gender equality and safeguard women’s rights in 2012, and increase the number of seats reserved for women in elections.

On the job front, the government will provide more training and encourage the private sector to create a friendlier working environment with childcare services, maternal leave and family care leave.

Subsidies for child rearing, as well as improvements in preschool education and care for the elderly, to provide for all stages of life, are policy goals related to the family and the nation’s population structure, given Taiwan’s very low birth rate, Ma said.

Measures in other areas, according to the president, include balancing the distribution of female and male students in different fields of study, overcoming traditional gender prejudices in marriage and inheritance customs, and strengthening police and judicial protection of female and child victims of abuse.

In addition, the government is formulating a long-term care law, and will work to reduce gender divisions in technical fields so that women have more input into decision making regarding the environment, energy, engineering, transportation, disaster management and government-sponsored research, Ma said.

“Women’s issues cannot be solved by relying on just one government agency,” the president said. “Every ministry should work toward the goal of gender equality.” (THN)

Write to Grace Kuo at morningk@mail.gio.gov.tw

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Frederic Laplanche, new head of the Taipei-based European Economic and Trade Office, is looking to increase the EU’s profile in Taiwan and boost robust trade relations. (Courtesy of EETO)

The new de facto EU ambassador to Taiwan said raising the region’s profile and boosting trade ties are top priorities during his appointment as head of the Taipei-based European Economic and Trade Office.

“Europe, in my opinion, is not visible enough in Taiwan,” Frederic Laplanche said Aug. 31 at his first official news conference since assuming the post in late July.

As the largest economy, trading partner and market in the world, it makes perfect sense for the EU to boost its standing in Taiwan, Laplanche said. This can be achieved by working closely with the local press, other EU member state offices and organizations such as the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei, he added.

On the subject of Taiwan-EU economic ties, Laplanche described the relationship as “robust” and “healthy,” and sees plenty of room for improvement. Signing an economic cooperation pact would be a step in the right direction, but this cannot be accomplished until outstanding trade issues have been cleared up, he said.

According to Laplanche, these issues include difficulties European companies encounter in bidding for ROC government procurement projects, double testing on automobiles and lifting the ban on ham imports.

The EU is Taiwan’s leading source of foreign direct investment and fourth largest trading partner, with bilateral trade growing 31.4 percent in 2010 to US$4.86 billion.

Concerning Taiwan democracy and human rights, Laplanche said these remain areas of great interest for the EU, and he will continue working to promote the abolition of the death penalty.

Laplanche said other primary objectives during his term include increasing science and technological cooperation and tackling shared global challenges, such as climate change. (JSM)

Write to Rachel Chan at rachelchan@mail.gio.gov.tw

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Brussels-Bamako, 7 September 2011 – As from today, Brussels Airlines connects Mali to Brussels Airport. Flights to the capital Bamako are twice weekly.

The inaugural flight from Brussels to Bamako was celebrated this morning in a ceremony attended by Brussels Airlines co-CEOs Bernard Gustin & Michel Meyfroidt, the Ambassador of Mali in Belgium, Brussels Airport CEO Arnaud Feist, as well as numerous other representatives from the Malian community and the travel industry.

As of today, Mali is once again linked to the European capital. Since 2001, there have been no flight connections between Belgium and the large north-western African country. Thus, the launch of a new scheduled service by Brussels Airlines has been warmly welcomed by the Malian government and community. The number of bookings to/from Bamako has been encouraging so far. “This investment in services to Mali illustrates our belief in the economic progress of the country,” said Brussels Airlines co-CEO Bernard Gustin. “With the opening of Bamako, we continue to strengthen our presence on the African continent. As of today, we offer no less than 21 scheduled destinations in Africa.”

Smooth connections via Brussels Airport to Mali

Brussels Airlines passengers from all over Europe can travel easily to Mali via smooth transfers at Brussels Airport. Flights from France (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse), United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Scandinavia and many other countries are well-timed to allow for a smooth connection to this new long-haul destination. Flights to Bamako depart from the Brussels Airlines Africa terminal which is located right next to the Schengen terminal, thus allowing for smooth transfers.

This new route is flown in an Airbus A330-300 aircraft with both a business and economy class configuration, as well as a cargo capacity.

Flights are on Wednesdays and Sundays. The outbound flight departs at 10:40 from Brussels and arrives in Bamako at 14:40 local time. The return flight departs from Bamako at 21:30 local time and arrives at Brussels Airport at 05:30 in the morning.
Just like on any other Brussels Airlines flight, passengers on flights to/from Bamako will be able to accumulate miles with our frequent flyer programme Miles & More.

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Hong Kong, September, 2011 – Crystal is launching its luxe collection of worldwide 2012 cruises with compelling Book Now fares, available for a limited time.

Until October 31, 2011, all sailings will continue to feature 2-for-1 prices and free round-trip air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways (or generous air credits).  On select sailings, travelers can also enjoy additional Book Now Savings – with as much as HK$ 31,200 (US$4,000)/couple in fare reductions.

While many travel agents and consumers are accustomed to promotion extensions, Crystal promises that every cruise will be reviewed at the end of October.  On November 1, cruise fares will rise for select sailings.

“We are introducing the 2012 travel year on Crystal Cruises with the best pricing on the best itineraries, offering extraordinary service and enrichment on the vacation product that so many discerning luxury travelers regard as the very best experience in the world,” says Jack Anderson, senior vice president, marketing and sales.  “Book now means exactly what it says.  We want to ensure that those who book early enjoy the best pricing.”

In 2012, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will visit 182 ports-of-call in 59 countries on 60 itineraries worldwide.  Destination choices include the western and eastern Mediterranean, Black Sea, North Cape, western Europe, Greek Isles, Baltic & Russia, China, Japan, southeast Asia, Australia, South Pacific, South America, New England/Canada, Panama Canal, British Isles, Canary Islands and Mexican Riviera on itineraries of seven to 94 days.

Crystal Cruises’ ocean resort experience always includes a host of complimentary amenities, from enlightening enrichment speakers and fitness classes to pampering pillow menus and specialty restaurant dining featuring the cuisine of Nobu Matsuhisa and Piero Selvaggio.  In the spring of 2012, vacations on the award-winning Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will also include complimentary fine wines and premium spirits throughout the ship, open bar service in all lounges, and pre-paid gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff.  Crystal’s passion for taking care of guests in an inviting environment of extraordinary space, quality and choices has earned the company more “World’s Best” awards than any other cruise line, resort, or hotel in history.

For additional information or booking, please contact Miramar Express at +852 3960 0388 or email mecruises@miramarexpress.hk; also visit the luxury line’s website at  www.crystalcruises.com.

The Crystal Difference

Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony are the two highest rated ships in the world, ranked #1 and 2, respectively.  Aboard the ultra-luxurious vessels, refined elegance meets casual simplicity.  With an emphasis on innovative product differentiation, the renowned Crystal experience is distinguished by warm, gracious service, abundant space, extensive choices and superior quality.  Recently celebrating a record 17th year being voted “Best Large-Ship Cruise Line” by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, and 16th consecutive year as “World’s Best” by the readers of Travel + Leisure, Crystal has been recognized as #1 more than any other cruise line, hotel or resort in history.

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Eurostar, the high-speed passenger service linking the UK and mainland Europe has today launched a free mobile application allowing passengers to book journeys on-the-go and receive tickets direct to their phones.

The Eurostar iPhone app, which is available for Android devices as well as iPhone, allows passengers to book and manage journeys between the UK and Paris, Brussels and Lille. Passengers who book journeys using the Eurostar App will immediately receive a mobile ticket with an electronic barcode on their device. The mobile ticket can then be simply scanned at check-in.

Members of Eurostar’s Loyalty Programmes (Eurostar Frequent Traveller and Eurostar Plus Points) can also use the App to earn points when they book and to view their point balances at the touch of a screen. Other functions of the Eurostar mobile app include; live service updates to keep passengers informed of disruptions and a personal profile page, which provides an option to store address details and seating preferences.

In addition, to facilitating booking amendments at the touch of a screen, the Eurostar App’s simple Express Exchange functionality offers Business Premier travellers the flexibility to change their journey details to fit around their busy schedules.

The free Eurostar App helps travellers;

- Make bookings for up to six travellers between Paris, Brussels, Lille and the UK on the go
- Check-in using mobile ticketing (NB: mobile tickets are not yet available for multiple bookings)
- Review booking(s) and journey details
- Amend booking using the Express Exchange functionality for Business Premier tickets
- Collect and review loyalty points on-the-go
- Access service updates and FAQs

Eurostar has also launched a mobile version of eurostar.com, to give its customers an enhanced online experience when using their mobile devices to access the website. The mobile website offers a simplified homepage, the ability to book and manage journeys as well as access to loyalty point balances and service updates.

Nick Mercer, Commercial Director for Eurostar commented: “Our aim is to make using our services as easy and seamless as possible. So with the majority of our customers now owning a smartphone, we are really pleased that we are able to provide a new suite of services that make booking and checking in even easier for them.

“The new Eurostar App and mobile website represent the start of many exciting mobile developments for Eurostar, which will help ensure we become the first choice operator of short haul travel from the UK to Europe.”

The Eurostar App, which was created by Backelite, is available for free from the App Store on iPhone or the Android Market on Android devices.

For more information on the new Eurostar app and to find other Eurostar deals such as cheap Eurostar tickets, interested parties can visit www.eurostar.com or call 08432 186 186.

About Eurostar:

Eurostar is the high-speed train service linking St Pancras International, Ebbsfleet International and Ashford International to Paris, Brussels, Lille, Calais, Avignon and the French Alps.

Eurostar was established in 1994 as a partnership between three railway companies: SNCF, SNCB and LCR (London and Continental Railways). On 1 September 2010, Eurostar became a single, unified corporate entity owned by three shareholders: SNCF, SNCB and LCR.

The current Eurostar train was first introduced into service in 1994 carrying 750 passengers and operating at speeds of up to 300kph. Since then, the fleet of 28 trains has carried more than 115 million passengers between London and the Continent. Following their refurbishment these trains will continue to form a core part of the Eurostar fleet, offering convenient London Paris train travel.

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Radisson Blu hotel in Krakow has won the “Leaders of Sustainable Development” contest that was organized by Forbes Magazine in Poland. Fulfilling the criteria of eco-certification BS8901 has been revealed as one of the seven most important initiatives in Poland.

Located in the heart of the city, the Radisson Blu hotel Krakow was appreciated by the Forbes magazine for being the world’s first hotel with prestigious BS 8901 Certification. It was worked out by British Standard International in 2007. Today, it is the most demanding certification in the area of sustainable meetings and events management and is based on three priorities:

- Reducing negative impact on natural environment
- Positive impact on local community
- Reduction of production and exploitation costs

Forbes’ jury appreciated the pro-social and pro-ecological aspects of this achievement, and drew attention to the hotel’s competitive advantage, based on CSR actions and integrated business strategy. Attainment of BS8901 inspired Radisson Blu Hotel Krakow to create its unique offer for business – the Green Conference Package. These are the meetings organised according to the rules of sustainability.

Nino D. Rosenlund, General Manager at Radisson Blu hotel in Krakow said: “The Green Conference Package we offer is not only applicable to the companies deeply involved in CSR activities but also for those which just want to start building their responsible business strategy. We organise these meetings in our eight Krakow conference rooms, in luxury restaurants or, for really big groups, in the spacious underground parking area. I think that in a year or two such responsible and sustainable meetings in many countries will be a standard, not the exception.”

Depending on the clients, the hotel organises meetings according to the strict rules. These include responsible waste separating, using recycled materials, responsible transportation and food planning. Additionally, all products are ordered locally, the hotel works with regional suppliers and supports local community. After the meeting, the client receives a “Green Meeting Certification” and the CO2 emissions report. The client has also has the option to plant trees that will quickly eliminate the event’s negative impact on the environment.

These principles help to reduce negative impact on environment and have a positive impact on the local community and reduce costs of production and exploitation costs. They are all included in the client document “Sustainable Meeting Policy”. It applies both parties – the Krakow accommodation and the client – at every stage of the meeting organization.

About The Rezidor Hotel Group

The Rezidor Hotel Group is one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world. The group features a portfolio of more than 400 hotels in operation and under development with 88,800 rooms in over 60 countries, including hotels in Krakow, Ankara hotels, an airport hotel Paris and Amsterdam hotel.

Rezidor operates the brands Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inns & Suites in Europe, Middle East and Africa, along with the Club Carlson loyalty programme for frequent hotel guests. Under a worldwide licence agreement with the iconic Italian fashion house Missoni, Rezidor also operates and develops the new lifestyle brand Hotel Missoni.

In November 2006, Rezidor was listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. Carlson, a privately held, global hospitality and travel company, based in Minneapolis (USA), is the majority shareholder.

The Corporate office of the Rezidor Hotel Group is based in Brussels, Belgium.

For more information on Rezidor, visit www.rezidor.com

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Adria Airways has been a member of Star Alliance since 2004. In connection with Star Alliance partners Adria Airways offers access to a global network of flights on 27 airlines, which offer more than 21,200 daily flights to 1,185 airports in 185 countries.

Customers travelling on the Star Alliance network now have access to all Alliance related travel information through their iPhone. The Navigator app delivers up to the minute information about flights and enables passengers to make informed travel choices. The new app includes also airport information – comprehensive information including maps, lounges – location and facilities of the more than 970 lounges which eligible Star Alliance customers can access across the globe and city guides.

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Customers will have access to Wi-Fi on more than 250 Delta Connection two-class RJs by early next year; adding to more than 550 mainline Wi-Fi connected aircraft

ATLANTA, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today became the first airline in the world to provide in-flight Internet service onboard its regional aircraft with the launch flight of a Wi-Fi-equipped Bombardier CRJ700 operated by Delta Connection carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines. Delta had previously announced its plan to expand the number of Delta aircraft – which currently includes its entire domestic fleet of more than 550 aircraft – with onboard Wi-Fi to an additional 250 regional jet aircraft operated by Delta Connection carriers.  Delta will be the first carrier to deploy Wi-Fi across its entire mainline and two-class regional fleet, a total of more than 800 aircraft.

The first regional jet equipped with Wi-Fi departed from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport with scheduled stops in Omaha, Neb., Des Moines, Iowa and White Plains, N.Y. throughout the day. To celebrate the occasion, all passengers on the inaugural flight of the Wi-Fi-equipped regional jet will receive complimentary Gogo access. The first passengers departing Atlanta received complimentary 30-day Wi-Fi service courtesy of Delta and Gogo that can be used for future travel. Passengers will be encouraged to tweet using #DeltaRJWifi on today’s flights to receive randomly selected gifts from Delta and Gogo.

“With the addition of Gogo in-flight Internet service on Delta Connection two-class regional aircraft, more than 81,000 additional customers daily will be able to stay connected just like they do onboard Delta’s mainline fleet,” said Bob Kupbens, Delta’s vice president – eCommerce. “We continue to innovate and lead the industry with customer-centric technology so customers can do things such as track their bags, check the status of their next flight, check email or connect with social networks while in flight.”

Installations of Wi-Fi on Delta Connection jets will be complete by early next year. Once complete, all customers flying on Delta domestic flights with a First Class cabin will enjoy Wi-Fi access, including service on every Delta Shuttle flight between New York-LaGuardia and Boston, Chicago-O’Hare and Washington, D.C.

Delta began installing Wi-Fi on domestic mainline aircraft in 2008, becoming the first airline to announce plans for in-flight Internet service on all domestic aircraft. With its mainline aircraft and the addition of regional jets to the Wi-Fi program, more than 80 percent of Delta’s entire domestic fleet will feature Gogo in-flight Internet access. Customers can stay connected using Gogo in-flight Internet with free access to delta.com or Delta’s mobile applications.

Delta Connection aircraft featuring First Class cabins include Embraer 170, Embraer 175, Bombardier CRJ700 and Bombardier CRJ900 models operated by Delta Connection. The aircraft feature between nine and 12 seats in First Class and between 56 and 64 seats in Economy.

In addition to Wi-Fi, Delta has taken a number of steps to fully align service on Delta Connection and mainline flights. Recent improvements have included adding First Class cabins to 82 additional CRJ700 jets; introducing meal service in First Class on regional jets; and adding china, linen and silverware to Delta Connection First Class cabins.

Delta’s regional jet Wi-Fi investments are the latest in the airline’s previously announced plan to invest more than $2 billion in enhanced global products, services and airport facilities through 2013.  In addition to installing Wi-Fi and upgrading its domestic fleet, Delta will offer full flat-bed seats on more than 140 widebody aircraft, feature personal, in-seat entertainment for both BusinessElite and Economy class customers on all widebody flights, and complete new terminal facilities for international customers at its two largest global gateways – Atlanta and New York-JFK.

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year, and was named by Fortune magazine as the most admired airline worldwide in its 2011 World’s Most Admired Companies airline industry list. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 339 destinations in 59 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry’s leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 13,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline’s service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, a world-class airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 50 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. Delta is investing more than $2 billion through 2013 in airport facilities and global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.

Terms and Conditions

Additional restrictions may apply. Offers subject to change. Use of the Gogo Inflight Internet service is subject to terms of use available at gogoinflight.com.

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BRUSSELS (September 7, 2011) – A member of the Warwick International Hotels Collections, The Warwick Barsey Hotel, located on the prestigious Avenue Louise, Brussels, announces the creation of a new meeting room accommodating up to 120 guests. The location of the hotel, between the edge of the Bois de la Cambre and luxury shops and close to Place du Chatelain, the “Soho” of Brussels, is an ideal location for both business and leisure.

Meeting & Conference Space

Already equipped with two meeting rooms accommodating 10 or 30 people, the Warwick Barsey Hotel is expanding its offer with “Barsey 3,” a conference space suitable for up to 120 guests in a theater style setting. The Warwick Barsey Hotel, famous in Brussels for quality entertainment within the restaurant and bar where famous DJs play during weekends, is adding one more valuable option for its guests. The hotel has positioned itself as an expert for small to medium size events in the European capital.

Rooms and Suites

The Warwick Barsey Hotel has 99 rooms and suites, all decorated by French designer Jacques Garcia. Each is adorned with colorful tapestries featuring mahogany furnishings, thanks to the inspiration of the French designer, which balances trends and comfort. Moreover, each room is very well prepared by the attentive staff so that you will feel “at home,” cozily located in the heart of the European capital.

http://www.warwickbarsey.com/

About Warwick International Hotels

WIH was founded in 1980 with the purchase of Warwick New York, a hotel originally built by William Randolph Hearst for his Hollywood friends. The WIH Group now includes 50 prestigious Hotels, Resorts & Spas worldwide located in city centres and resort destinations in the United States, Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, the South Pacific and Bali. More details are available at  www.warwickhotels.com.

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The new M.E.C.S. (Maritim Event & Catering Service) brochure published recently presents all the services that Maritim offers outside its hotels, in German and English

Maritim Hotelgesellschaft mbH has specialised in the arrangement of all kinds of meetings, conferences and events since the very beginning, and has been an expert in the organisation and execution of meetings of all sizes and styles – both in-house and externally – for over 40 years now. Maritim also offers this expertise for events taking place outside of the hotel at all its 32 locations in Germany, and has published a new catalogue outlining these services.

In the glossy 12-page M.E.C.S. brochure, examples of the scope of services offered are detailed in an appealing and inspiring manner. These are merely suggestions, however, as each meeting is unique and guests’ wishes are as diverse and individual as the Maritim service team is flexible and professional. Whatever the occasion, a wedding in a romantic castle, a company meeting with dishes in the company colours, or a party outdoors or in one’s own home, Maritim takes charge of everything from A to Z. Every wish is catered for according to the motto “Everything from a single source” – from the search for a suitable location to the planning and execution, decorations, catering and serving staff. “With this service, we strive to make the host feel like a guest at their own event. They can simply relax and count on our professional reliability,” explains Regional Director, Bernhard Dohne, who believes in the concept’s success.

Maritim Hotelgesellschaft mbH is Germany’s leading hotel group and is present in almost all major German cities, including Berlin, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Würzburg, Nuremberg, Stuttgart and Munich. Events can also be planned and managed by our professional team in Timmendorfer Strand, Travemünde, Bad Sassendorf, Braunlage and Gelsenkirchen at any time.

For more information on the Maritim Events & Catering Service, please visit: www.maritim.com.

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 Sourced from: Freesun News

Taipei, May 11 (CNA) The European Parliament reiterated its support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization WHO) Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

MOFA spokesman James Chang said that the European Parliament statement should serve as the basis that members of the EU welcome Taiwan’s attendance at the 64th session of the World Health Assembly (WHA), which will be held in Geneva from May 16 to 24.

The Taiwan mention was part of a lengthy resolution passed by the European Parliament to list out a common set of foreign and security policies. The resolution stated that the parliament supports “Taiwan’s meaningful participation as an observer in relevant international organizations and activities, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) , the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).”

The parliament’s support comes amid controversy over a letter issued by WHO Secretary-General Margaret Chan last September, asking its recipients to refer to Taiwan as “the Taiwan Province of China”.

The letter was disclosed by an opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator who urged the Taiwan delegation to walk out on WHA as a protest against such a denigration of nationality.

Earlier Wednesday, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Shen Ssu-tsun said that Taiwan had already lodged a formal protest with the WHO through its representative office in Geneva over the “province of China” reference.

(By Nancy Liu)

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 Sourced from: Freesun News

Taipei, May 11 (CNA) The European Parliament reiterated its support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization WHO) Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

MOFA spokesman James Chang said that the European Parliament statement should serve as the basis that members of the EU welcome Taiwan’s attendance at the 64th session of the World Health Assembly (WHA), which will be held in Geneva from May 16 to 24.

The Taiwan mention was part of a lengthy resolution passed by the European Parliament to list out a common set of foreign and security policies. The resolution stated that the parliament supports “Taiwan’s meaningful participation as an observer in relevant international organizations and activities, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) , the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).”

The parliament’s support comes amid controversy over a letter issued by WHO Secretary-General Margaret Chan last September, asking its recipients to refer to Taiwan as “the Taiwan Province of China”.

The letter was disclosed by an opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator who urged the Taiwan delegation to walk out on WHA as a protest against such a denigration of nationality.

Earlier Wednesday, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Shen Ssu-tsun said that Taiwan had already lodged a formal protest with the WHO through its representative office in Geneva over the “province of China” reference.

(By Nancy Liu)

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The European Parliament unanimously passed a resolution May 11 supporting the further strengthening of Taiwan-EU trade and economic ties.
The parliament strongly backs the enhancement of Taiwan-EU economic ties and the signing of a bilateral economic cooperation agreement, the resolution stated.

In response, the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it welcomes the parliament’s gesture and urges EU member states to do more in making the trade pact a reality.

According to the resolution, the granting of visa-free entry for ROC nationals to 35 European countries will help bolster Taiwan-EU trade and investment relations, as well as people-to-people contacts.
The European Parliament also reaffirmed its backing for Taiwan’s participation as an observer in international organizations such as the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, World Health Organization and International Civil Aviation Organization.

“We deeply appreciate the EU throwing its weight behind Taiwan and look forward to this support continuing in the future,” the MOFA said. (JSM)

· Publication Date：05/12/2011
· Source： Taiwan Today
· By Elaine Hou

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Speech by President Ma Ying-jeou
Republic of China (Taiwan)
Video Conference with
Center for Strategic & International Studies
Washington, D.C.

May 12, 2011

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This year, this renowned exhibition hosted more than 3,000 exhibitors from 189 countries and regions, including several new destinations, such as Abu Dhabi, Azerbaijan, Bhutan, Botswana, El Salvador, Iraq, Korea, Mexico, Monaco, Nicaragua, Venezuela and USA. Argentina, Colombia, Cuba, Taiwan and Singapore also returned to the show after a year’s absence.

MITT 2011, the is Russia’s leading travel exhibition and one of the top five travel exhibitions in the world. This year’s event was a huge success attracting more than 79,900 visitors, once again, proving that the show is an effective and efficient way to build awareness amongst the local tourism trade and consumers.
V. Mutko, the Minister of Sport, Tourism and Youth Policy of the Russian Federation, expressed the significance of the exhibition, “MITT is an important event for tourism professionals in Russia. It is at this exhibition that industry professionals have the opportunity to obtain comprehensive information about the market, learn about offers for the spring/summer season, receive professional advice, and communicate personally with the leaders of the tourism industry. This prestigious and expertly organised exhibition is increasingly attracting the attention of the global tourism community.”

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Ukraine International Travel and Tourism Exhibition Ukraine’s leading travel and tourism event saw 18% rise in visitor numbers

UITT is the largest and most important travel industry event in Ukraine. Annually it attracts key international travel industry players looking to promote their services and increase their presence in the Ukrainian market. This year the event brought together 680 exhibitors covering an area of 12,000sqm gross. The destinations on display attracted more than 20,500 visitors to the event.

This year, the range of tourism products at the exhibition was greater than in previous years, with new sectors focusing on promising areas such as medical tourism, cruise lines, domestic tourism,information technologies in the tourism industry and insurance. 2011 also saw several new destinations, among the exhibitors were the Tanzania National Tourism Board, the Jurmala Regional Tourism Board (from Latvia) and the Sri Lanka National Tourism Board. Canada (Dubman Tours) Portugal (Lendatravel), UK (BSI) and USA (Team America, American Best Getaways and New Tours) were also represented at the show for the first time.

The Head of Sales for ITE Travel Exhibitions, Maria Badakh, reflects on this year’s event: “This year’s UITT exhibition featured a wide range of destinations tempting Ukraine’s increasing population of travellers. As the markets recover, there are huge opportunities to gain market share in a country known to offer an excellent return on investment. The exhibition is the best place to find out more and meet partners.”

To book your space for UITT 2012 please email: travel@ite-exhibitions.com

www.uitt-kiev.com

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Starting from June 7, Latvian national airline airBaltic will offer direct flights from Vilnius to Stockholm and Berlin in cooperation with its partner Skyways.

The new flights will be operated daily, except Saturdays, and provide convenient direct access for passengers travelling to/from Stockholm Arlanda and Berlin Tegel airports. Full schedule and tickets for these flights are available at www.airbaltic.com, as well as at the online travel agency www.airbaltictravel.com.

airBaltic passengers are offered the new flights as part of a cooperation agreement with Skyways. The existing cooperation agreement offers frequent and convenient service for passengers travelling to Skyways domestic destinations in Sweden, including Halmstad, Jonkoping, Kristianstad, Karlstad, Sundsvall. Skyways passengers in turn have better access to airBaltic’s destinations in Europe, Russia, CIS and the Middle East.

airBaltic serves 80 destinations from its home base at Riga, Latvia. From every one of these, airBaltic offers convenient connections via North Hub Riga to its network spanning Europe, Scandinavia, Russia, CIS and the Middle East.

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• Health minister’s protest letter to WHO
• President asks European Parliament to help with WHO
• 2009 watershed year for Taiwan’s participation in WHA: official
• Calling Taiwan a ‘province of China’ totally unacceptable: MOFA
• Taiwan’s health minister lodges WHO protest

05/17/11 13:37:25

Taipei, May 17 (CNA) Taiwan’s Health Minister Chiu Wen-ta lodged a strongly-worded letter of protest on May 16 to the World Health Organization (WHO) in regard to a leaked WHO memo dated last September that asked its recipients to refer to Taiwan as a province
of China.

The letter dated May 14 was made public by the Department of Health in Taipei on Tuesday.

In his written protest to WHO Director-General Margaret Chan, Chiu stated that the error is “absolutely unacceptable” and requested the international body “immediately look into this grave matter and redress such a mistake.”

The minister handed the letter to WHO’s legal counsel Gian Luca Burci in the presence of six representatives of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies at the 64th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva.

The full context of the letter is as follows:

Dear Dr. Chan,

It is with the utmost dissatisfaction that I am writing to file a formal protest over the improper procedures and erroneous terminology of political nature laid out in the leaked memo of September 14, 2010–”Application of the International Regulations (2005) (“IHR”) to the Taiwan Province of China”–issued by Dr. Anne Marie Worning, Executive Director of your Office.

The Department of Health of Chinese Taipei is the highest and sole authority in charge of protecting and promoting the health rights of the 23 million people in Taiwan, and any effective application of the IHR in Taiwan as well as its adjacent islands and waters can only be carried out by my Department. As such, we were included into the implementation network of the IHR and asked to designate a “Point of Contact in Taipei” according to Dr. Bernard P. Kean’s letter to us dated January 2, 2009 (a copy of the letter and our response letter, i.e., a typical binding exchange of letters, attached) . Therefore, the improper procedures and erroneous terminology as described in the memo have unwarranted political implications that are not only inconsistent with the reality, but also hinder the implementation of the IHR.

The World Health Assembly (WHA) is the supreme body of the WHO. In 2009, when for the first time we were invited to attend the Assembly in an observer capacity, our delegation appeared in the list of participants under the heading “Chinese Taipei, ” and was seated behind a plate bearing Chinese Taipei. The fact that that designation was altered without our consent and knowledge in the WHO’s internal memo is most regrettable and does not conform to the WHA’s long tradition of being a professional institution of transparent and consistent practice. I hereby request that you immediately look into this grave matter and redress such a mistake that is absolutely unacceptable to us.

Despite these unfortunate circumstances, I nonetheless wish to express my gratitude to you for inviting me to attend the 64th WHA. I also wish to assure you that my delegation will continue to make substantial contributions to discussions at the Assembly and to the
work of the WHO, just as we have for the past two years.

I look forward to hearing a response from you soon.

(By Nancy Liu)

President asks European Parliament to help with WHO

05/17/11 12:43:59

Taipei, May 17 (CNA) President Ma Ying-jeou said Tuesday that the World Health Organization (WHO) should not have two sets of standards, and has requested the help of the European Parliament to demand the use of “Chinese Taipei” as the name for Taiwan.

The president asked Charles Tannock, head of the Friendship of Taiwan Group in the European Parliament, the legislative arm of the European Union, to help ensure Taiwan is referred to properly at the WHO.

His words came against the background of a controversy over a letter issued by WHO Secretary-General Margaret Chan last September, asking its recipients to refer to Taiwan as “the Taiwan province of China.”

The letter was recently disclosed by an opposition Democratic Progressive Party legislator who urged the Taiwan delegation to walk out on the World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision-making body of the WHO, as a protest against such a denigration of its sovereignty.

The president said that Taiwan has taken part in the WHA as an observer under the name of “Chinese Taipei” since 2009, unlike in the past, when Taiwan was only invited to technical meetings.

He only learned recently about WHO’s letter asking recipients to address Taiwan as a “province of China.”

“Upon learning the news, I myself and our health minister currently at the Geneva meeting have lodged strong protest, ” the president said, adding that as an organization with such high stature, the WHO should not have different standards.

Ma said Taiwan has requested that the WHO respect its name of ”Chinese Taipei” for the past three years, which he said was a name confirmed after an exchange of notes.

“The WHO should address us as ‘Chinese Taipei,’ instead of ’Taiwan, China’. We hope you can help us with the proper name in this regard, ” the president told Tannock and his 10-member delegation.

(By Lee Shu-hua and Lilian Wu)

2009 watershed year for Taiwan’s participation in WHA: official

05/17/11 04:43:19

Taipei, May 16 (CNA) Three years ago, Taiwan was invited to attend the World Health Assembly (WHA) as an observer for the first time, a development that has made at least six differences in terms of Taiwan’s participation in world health affairs, a senior
government official said Monday.

Government Information Minister Philip Yang called 2009 “the watershed year” of Taiwan’s participation in the WHA as he listed six differences that were made in that year.

First, the title was different. Before 2009, the term “Taiwan, China” was used to attend WHA activities. From 2009 on, the title was changed to “Chinese Taipei.”

Second, the status was different. Before 2009, Taiwanese were invited to join WHA activities in the capacity of private citizens or specialists or experts. In 2009, the government was invited as an observer.

Third, the levels of government officials were different. Before 2009, the highest ranking Taiwan official that got invited to WHA sessions were department directors-general of government ministries.

Beginning in 2009, Taiwan’s minister of health was invited.

Fourth, the sessions or meetings were different. Before 2009, Taiwan was asked to attend only technical meetings. From 2009, Taiwan was invited to attend WHA, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) highest decision making body.

Fifth, the channels of communication were different. Prior to 2009, when Taiwan needed to communicate with WHO over matters related to implementing the International Health Regulations (IHR) , the correspondence had to go through Beijing. Since 2009, Taiwan has communicated with WHO directly over IHR-related matters for more than 200 times.

Sixth, the coverage of health-related issues was different. For example, when the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) epidemic hit some Asian countries in 2003 including Taiwan, it could not get any information from WHA. In 2009, when H1N1 flu virus struck, Taiwan was able to obtain all relevant information and acquire vaccine strains from the world body.

Yang said Taiwan has since 13 years ago been striving to join the WHO. It was since 2009 that Taiwan has been invited to attend WHA activities as an observer under the title of Chinese Taipei.

When all things are compared, it is easy to see that since 2009, Taiwan’s substantive participation in WHA has not just improved people’s wellbeing in the health area, but also maintained the dignity of the country, Yang added.

(By Emannuelle Tseng and S.C. Chang)

Calling Taiwan a ‘province of China’ totally unacceptable: MOFA

05/17/11 01:43:51

Taipei, May 16 (CNA) Taiwan’s Health Minister Chiu Wen-ta told a World Health Organization (WHO) official Monday that calling Taiwan a province of China — as it did in a September, 2010 letter — was ”totally unacceptable,” according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In a press release, MOFA said Chiu made the protest in person when he delivered a strong-worded letter of protest to WHO’s legal counsel Gian Luca Burci in the presence of six representatives of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies based in Geneva.

Chiu was protesting a letter issued by the WHO secretary-general’s office in September 2010 that instructed its various agencies to use “the Taiwan province of China” whenever
referring to Taiwan.

The effects of correspondence between the WHO and Chinese Taipei in 2009 regarding the implementation of the International Health Regulations (IHR) should prevail over those of the secretary-general’s 2010 letter, Chiu said to Burci.

Chiu added that when referring to Taiwan, WHO should follow WHA’s practice by using the name of Chinese Taipei.

In his letter of protest to WHO Secretary-General Margaret Chan, the Taiwan minister pointed out that in a correspondence with Chinese Taipei in January, 2009 agreeing to accept Taiwan as part of the IHR operation networks, the WHO asked Taiwan authorities to designate a ”Point of Contact in Taipei.”

However, Chiu continued, the WHO, in an internal document dated September 2010, stated an inappropriate procedure for implementing the IHR involving Taiwan and used an erroneous term to refer to the country.

The term — “the Taiwan province of China” — is biased and full of political implications, he said. That term is not just completely contrary to the fact, but also hinders the implementation of the IHR, Chiu said.

That false term is “totally unacceptable” and Chinese Taipei would like to express a strong protest over its use, Chiu said in his letter.

The letter pointed out that Chinese Taipei has been invited to the World Health Assembly, the highest decision making body of the WHO, for three years in a row and WHA in all of its official documents has always used the name of Chinese Taipei.

The Chinese Taipei delegation to the WHA deeply regrets WHO’s use of the term “the Taiwan province of China” that contravenes WHA practices and it sincerely hopes that WTO would immediately correct it on the principle of consistency and transparency, said the letter.

Representatives of Taiwan’s allies based in Geneva also called on the WTO to properly handle this issue, saying the WTO’s term for Taiwan does not accord with the fact and does not show respect for the country.

Accepting Chiu’s letter on behalf of the secretary-general, Burci said he will quickly hand it over to Chan and the assembly will look into the matter later. He promised to keep in contact with Chinese Taipei over this matter.

Burci told Chiu that Taiwan’s performances in the past WHA sessions were impressive and he hoped to see more of Taiwan in theupcoming events.

(By S.C. Chang)

Taiwan’s health minister lodges WHO protest

Department of Health Minister Chiu Wen-ta lodged a formal complaint with the World Health Organization May 16 over its reference to Taiwan as a province of mainland China in a leaked internal memo.

“Describing Taiwan in such a manner is disrespectful,” Chiu said. “We expect the WHO to take immediate action in correcting its mistake.”

Chiu, who is attending the World Health Assembly in Geneva, made the remarks while presenting a three-page protest letter to WHO Legal Counsel Gian Luca Burci. In the document, the minister cited WHO Secretary-General Margaret Chan’s memo last September on implementing International Heath Regulations.

Describing the situation as unacceptable, Chiu called on the WHO to follow the WHA in referring to Taiwan as Chinese Taipei in all documentation as a matter of consistency.

In response, Burci agreed to pass the letter along to Chan and praised Taiwan for its contributions and ongoing participation in the assembly.

This year’s WHA, which runs May 16 to 24, represents the third time Taiwan has been invited to participate in the event as an observer. (JSM)

Write to Elaine Hou at elainehou@mail.gio.gov.tw

Source : Taiwan Today

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Geneva, May 17 (CNA) Taiwan was ranked the 6th in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2011 released Tuesday by the Switzerland-based business school, thanks mainly to its strong domestic economy and buoyant international trade.

The yearbook highlights Taiwan’s resilience along with “resistant” Switzerland — ranked just ahead of Taiwan at the 5th — in the face of the recession that hit the world in 2008-09.

Both Hong Kong and the United States were ranked at the top, with Singapore coming closely behind, followed by Sweden, Switzerland and Taiwan.

Canada ranked the 7th, ahead of Qatar, Australia and Germany in that order. From the 11th to the 20th were Luxemburg, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, Finland, Malaysia, Israel, Austria, China and the United Kingdom.

According to the yearbook, the recovery of financial markets pushed the U.S., which was ranked the 3rd in 2010, back to the top.

Taiwan was ranked the 8th last year. With the world 6th ranking, it is the 3rd in Asia, next only to Hong Kong and Singapore.

Among the major economies with a population of over 20 million, Taiwan has surged ahead of Canada and Australia, behind the U.S. only.

Among the four major indicators, Taiwan’s economic performance was placed the 8th among the 59 economies covered by the yearbook.

Last year, Taiwan placed the 16th in this indicator.

The ranking of Taiwan’s government efficiency fell from the 6th in 2010 to the 10th in 2011, with public finance and business legislation scoring poorly among the sub-factors that include fiscal policy and institutional framework.

In the “business efficiency” indicator, Taiwan performed brilliantly, ranking the 3rd as it did last year. The good ranking was due to impressive achievements in productivity and efficiency, management practices, and attitudes and values.

In the fourth major indicator — infrastructure — Taiwan ranked the 16th, a slight improvement from last year’s 17th placement. Sub-factors in this category include basic infrastructure, health and environment, and education.

Though Taiwan’s overall performance has pushed its ranking from the 8th to the 6th, the yearbook said the island country faces the following challenges in 2011:

– It needs to cultivate first-class talent and strengthen innovative R&D;

– It should work to ensure comfortable living standards and maintain a sustainable environment;

– It should continue efforts to promote normalization of cross-strait economic and trade relations;

– It needs to strengthen corporate governance; and

– It had better continue to implement financial and fiscal reforms.

(By Tsao Yu-fan and S.C. Chang)

enditem/sc

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