NEAR news vol.44 (ENG) by NEARGOV

NEAR

News

NEAR Leading the Era of Northeast Asia 2012. 3-4

Vol. 44 Gimje Horizon Festival, Jeollabuk-do Province, Korea

Special Contribution Suggestion for the Mutual Growth of Northeast Asian Regions NEAR This Month NEAR Activities / Secretariat News / NEAR Member News Feature Report The Most Beloved Tree of the Russian People “Beryoza” NEAR Member Tour Jeollabuk-do Province, Korea

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR News â&#x20AC;&#x153;NEAR Newsâ&#x20AC;? was launched in 2005 to serve as a messenger between NEAR member regions and promote sharing of information. The bi-monthly magazine is published and distributed to NEAR members and other relevant organizations free of charge, containing information on NEAR activities, news from members, international issues, contributions and announcements (also available free at http://www.neargov.org). You can take part in creating NEAR News anytime by contributing articles and creative ideas (Contact the NEAR Secretariat).

9 Vol. 44

NEAR is... an international organization founded in Sept. 1996 in Gyeongju, South Korea by 29 regional governments in four Northeast Asian countries, including South Korea, China, Japan, Russia. Since the adoption of the NEAR Charter based on mutual prosperity, NEAR has carried out extensive exchange and cooperation projects in various fields ranging from economy and trade, education & cultural exchanges, environment, disaster prevention, cross-border cooperation, science & technology, ocean & fisheries to tourism. Today, with the participation of North Korea and Mongolia and the accession of new member governments, NEAR encompasses 70 member regions in six countries as an organization representing Northeast Asia dedicated to regional diplomacy & cooperation.

NEAR is open to all. Any local government located in the Northeast Asian region sharing the founding purpose of NEAR can join us through the NEAR General Assembly.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR This Month

Special Contribution

Suggestion for the Mutual Growth of Northeast Asian Regions

Yoshiaki NISHIMURA, Chairman of the Board of Trustees & Director-General The Economic Research Institute For Northeast Asia (ERINA)

NEAR NEWS Vol. 42

This year, on 7-8 February, the 2012 Northeast Asia International Conference for Economic Development (NICE) was held in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It is more than twenty years since the 1st one formerly known as the International Forum on the Japan Sea Rim Region was held in 1990. During the almost two decades, Northeast Asia, except for North Korea, has experienced a dramatic social transformation. With the progress of free market economy, economic agents such as business firms have become to play a direct role in the economic growth and cohesion of this region, which, in the economic aspect, makes a decisive difference between today’s Northeast Asia and that of twenty years ago. Today, even the foreign economic relations between Northeast Asian countries are controlled by the same standard called market mechanisms. However, if you take a general view of Northeast Asia, in terms of the status of market economy, there are several distinct differences between each country which are caused by historical and geographical reasons. First, there is a considerable difference in quality between market economies like Korea and Japan which have been formed over a long period of time and transition economies which have undergone quicker paced transition from a centrally planned economy to a free market. Differences are not only in their legal systems and actions of law enforcement agencies, but also in the morals of main economic agents. Second, they don’t have easy access to the information on each other’s market and economic agents. Third, difference in the accessibility to the market due to geographical reasons: For example, landlocked countries like Mongolia have no direct access to seaports, which hinders access to and from foreign markets. Fourth, there are capital-rich countries with well-developed capital markets and those with less developed. Fifth, difference in the market size: In contrast to the huge Chinese market, the consumption and labor markets of Mongolia and Far East Russia are less attractive. Sixth, each country has different market conditions ranging from natural resources, advanced technology, well-developed logistics and infrastructure. To sum up, from the perspective of market conditions, each country in Northeast Asia is significantly different, but equally under the influence of globalization of the market economy. However, such distinctions mean the existence of strong complementarity at the same time. In other words, there is potential for Northeast Asian central and regional governments to promote mutual economic development and benefit each other through mutual solidarity and concerted efforts. With this being said, I would like to introduce some suggestions made at the recent NICE and other international conferences participated by ERINA. First, differences in market systems, morals of economic agents and business customs between countries and regions give rise to various problems in business transactions and investment activities. In particular, when it comes to SMEs with less capital, such transactions are too risky for them, and hence, difficult to expect practical, comprehensive economic cooperation to develop. Therefore, central or regional governments in Northeast Asia need to focus efforts on creating a level playing field with fair and equitable market conditions so that businesses can engage in safe transactions. In particular, we may expect that neighboring regional governments would establish a standing cooperation organization to make this happen. Second, two decades have already passed since the beginning of the transformation into a free market economy, but the economic agents of Northeast Asia still don’t understand each other well. They do not know where to find what type of business partners and have no idea what kind of business potential to see. Therefore, it is necessary to create a business information network which covers the whole Northeast Asian market to help them better identify suitable business partners. Third, it is desirable to develop international logistics infrastructure from inland regions to the Pacific. Not only physical infrastructures including roads and railways must be constructed, but also institutional ones must be improved such as removing institutional barriers to cross-border movements. This is a task to be undertaken by related regional and central governments through concerted efforts and cooperation. Fourth, when it comes to Northeast Asia, countries or regions with small markets and low capital accumulation are rich in natural resources, whose development can be of strategic importance for their economic growth. However, they often lack the technology, logistics infrastructure and the capital to realize such an economic development strategy. This is when international financial cooperation comes into play in solving financing problems. For this reason, NICE suggested to set up a “Northeast Asia Development Fund” to attract private money. The above-mentioned efforts at least should be taken into account to realize the mutual growth of Northeast Asian regions. However, above all else, the very prerequisite for such efforts is the solidarity and political will for cooperation among Northeast Asian regional governments. To meet this prerequisite, we have to think about fundamentally improving how they communicate with each other.

NEAR Activities

NEAR This Month

NEAR Activities The Sub-Committee on Disaster Prevention Held on 12-15 March The 10th Sub-Committee on Disaster Prevention was held on 12-15 March in Kobe City, Hyogo

KIM Hong-Yeon, Disaster Management Division, Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea)

‘‘

Ningxia Begins Full-scale Preparation for the 9th NEAR General Assembly Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region officially

During this Sub-Committee, our discussion

kicked off preparation for the 9th NEAR General

was focused on the disaster reduction efforts

Assembly 2012 scheduled for July by visiting

including disaster prevention officers from 17

after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake

foreign embassies and organizations in China.

member regions in China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia

(1995) and the Great East Japan Earthquake

Recently, Assistant Director Zhou Xikang of the

and Russia and NEAR Director General KIM Jong-

(2011). It was especially meaningful to

Ningxia Foreign Affairs Office visited the

Hak. After joining a lecture on the disaster prevention

participate in the simulation drills at the Disaster

Korean, Japanese, North Korean, Mongolian and

strategy of Hyogo at the Hyogo Anti-Disaster Center,

Reduction and Human Renovation Institution

Russian Embassies as well as the Beijing Office

participants made a study-visit to Disaster Reduction

and Hyogo Prefectural Emergency Management

of the Council of Local Authorities for

and Human Renovation Institution, E-Defense, Miki

and Training Center. I would like to once again

International Relations, a joint network of

Disaster Prevention Park and Kobe Fire Department

extend condolences to the affected families and

Japanese local authorities, to ask for support and

among many other facilities to learn developed

thank Japanese authorities for sharing their

cooperation for more regions in respective

systems for immediate response to disaster and the

experiences and helping us learn lessons.

countries to participate in the General Assembly.

Prefecture, Japan, participated by 33 attendees

importance of long-term disaster management plans.

Recently, Korea has had huge human and

The 9th Chair Region and the NEAR Secretariat

property losses from flooding and landslides

plan to further step up communication efforts to

caused by constant heavy rains. My visit to

bring the conference into success.

Hyogo confirmed the importance of early establishment of preventive and relief measures by disaster management authorities in the most vulnerable areas. Also important is to enhance Disaster prevention officers from China, Korea, Mongolia and Russia visited the Hyogo Anti-Disaster Center

the awareness of local citizens through education, information sharing and emergency

‘‘

drills. It is “us” who should protect the safety of me, my family and my region.

NEAR Director General KIM Jong-Hak performs CPR on a dummy.

Assistant Director Zhou Xikang of the Foreign Affairs Office of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region speaking at the 8th NEARWorkingCommittee

The NEAR Working-level Workshop on 29-31 May in Gyeongju and Yeosu

Xiao Rongcheng, Red Cross Society of Changsha, Hunan Province (China)

‘‘

I thank Hyogo Prefecture for organizing this

event through which I was able to get deeper understanding about disaster prevention and reduction measures. It was especially insightful to know we can really reduce the damage caused

The NEAR Working-level Workshop is to be held from the 29th to 31st May in Gyeongju City

The Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change Postponed to August

(Gyeongsangbuk-do Province) and Yeosu City

The Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change which

gathering of working-level officials of member

(Jeollanam-do Province), Korea. The annual

‘‘

by earthquakes depending on our self-help and

was originally set to be held in May in Daegu Exhibition

local authorities will comprise: Activity Report

mutual aid.

Convention Center, Daegu Metropolitan City, Korea has been

2012 of the Secretariat; capacity-building lecture on

postponed to 28-30 August. “Daegu will organize the

foreign cooperation by the Economic Research

inaugural meeting of the Sub-Committee back-to-back with

Institute for Northeast Asia (ERINA); Presentations

the International LED & Display Korea, the biggest trade fair

by regional representatives; discussion on

in Korea for Led Industry, not only to form a partnership to

introducing new partnership projects, and etc. Also,

fight climate change, but also to expand opportunities for

participants will make a study-visit to the EXPO

policy exchange and business cooperation among participating

2012 Yeosu Korea in Jeollanam-do Province, as

regions,” said an official of the coordinator region.

part of the “Discover the Region” program.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR This Month

Secretariat News / NEAR Member News

Secretariat News Secretary General Kim Visited R20 General Assembly

The Secretariat Welcomes Establishment of People.com.kr

Secretary General KIM Jae-Hyo visited Geneva,

Beijing. During his talks with JIE Hae-Bum, Director of the Institute of Northeast Asian Studies of Chosun

NEAR Director General KIM Jong-Hak attended

Daily, Korea’s one of the major daily newspapers

Switzerland on 6-11 March to participate in the Pre

the founding ceremony of People.com.kr Co. Ltd.,

and the sponsoring organization of this event, Mr.

Rio+20 Conference “The Road to Rio: Regions

which operates the Korean website built by

Kim congratulated the successful launching and

Building the Green Economy” and the General

People’s Daily, the official newspaper of the

agreed to forge closer cooperation between the two

Assembly of Regions of Climate Action (R20) at

Communist Party of China. As part of the

organizations.

the invitation of the organization. On the sidelines

ceremony, participants took part in a special lecture

of the conference, he met with his R20 counterpart

and exchanged views on recent social and

and the President of the Assembly of European

economic developments in China and the agenda of

Regions (AER) to confirm the leading role of

“Lianghui (The Two Meetings)” or the Chinese

regions in fighting climate change and agreed to

People’s Political Consultative Conference

promote partnership with the two organizations.

(CPPCC) and plenary sessions of the National

Seon of Gyeongsangbuk-do Province made an

People’s Congress which began from 3 March in

official visit to the Secretariat to discuss how to

Vice Governor of Gyeongsangbukdo Visited NEAR Secretariat Vice Governor for Political Affairs LEE In-

make the most of NEAR to promote partnerships

*R20 (Regions of Climate Action): R20 is a non-profit organization founded in 2011 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and other global leaders in cooperation with the United Nations to help states, provinces, regions and other sub-national governments around the world develop, implement, and communicate low-carbon and climate resilient economic development projects, policies, and best practices. R20 Headquarters is located in Geneva, Switzerland. *AER (Assembly of European Regions): AER is the largest independent network of regions in the wider Europe, founded in 1985 to promote the principle of subsidiarity and regional democracy. It brings together more than 250 regions from 35 countries and the General Secretariat is located in Strasbourg, France.

between Northeast Asian regions. At the luncheon meeting, Secretary General Kim and Vice Governor Lee talked about NEAR’s key achievements in 2011 as well as major plans for 2012. “NEAR have produced many results by promoting exchange and cooperation between member regions in various fields, including economy & trade, environment, science & technology,” said Lee while asking the Secretariat to do its best not only to promote the NEAR Secretary General KIM Jae-Hyo, Honorary Chair Arnold Schwarzenegger of R20 and President Michele Sabban of AER (from left)

win-win growth of regions, but enhance the international profile of NEAR.

NEAR Member News Hunan Province - China

Important Events: World Chinese Business

The 7th Central China Investment and Trade Expo Upcoming in Hunan

Six Provinces of Central China and

Leader Summit; The Symposium between the Multinational Companies; Development Forum of New Energy and New Material

When: 18-20 May, 2012

Industries; Seminar of the Cultural Creative

Where: “1+3” mode (most activities to be held in Changsha City, and

Industries; Mayor Forum on Sustainable

some activities in Zhuzhou, Xiangtan and Zhangjiajie cities) Organized by: Chinese Ministry of Commerce, Hunan Dept. of Commerce, People’s Gov. of Changsha, People’s Gov. of Zhuzhou, People’s Gov. of Xiangtan and People’s Gov. of Zhangjiajie Theme: “Opening-up, Rising & Green Development”

NEAR NEWS Vol. 42

Development of Year 2012 and etc. Official Website: www.expocentralchina.org.cn

NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region - China

Niigata Prefecture - Japan

Direct Flight from Yinchuan to Seoul Officially Launched

Sake Lovers Gather for Niigata Sake Festival 2012

A direct flight from Yinchuan, the capital city of Ningxia Hui Autonomous

"The Niigata Sake-no-Jin 2012," Japan's largest Sake event, was held for

Region to Seoul, South Korea officially launched on Mar. 24 with the signing

the eighth time on March 17 and 18 in Niigata City. The Toki Messe

ceremony participated by SONG Gi-Cheong, Consul of the South Korean

Convention Center, where the festival took place, was crowded with

Consul in Xian and Li Weidong, Vice Mayor of Yinchuan City. The Yinchuan-

visitors who welcomed its resumption, for it was suspended by the Great

Seoul route will serve as the first direct link between Ningxia and an overseas

East Japan Earthquake last year. Over 500 kinds of Niigata's local sake

country. It is reported that the Yingchuan Hedong Aiport achieved a comprehensive

recognized not only nationwide but also overseas were offered for tasting

improvement in upgrading the related facilities, human resources and translation

and purchase.

of traffic signs in Korean. The flight from Yinchuan to Seoul, which takes about

A number of foreigners

4 hours, will be operated by Jin Air, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Korean Air

were seen visiting the

Lines Co. Ltd. There will be two round-trip flights a week and up to 104 scheduled

festival which has recently

flights in a year.

been drawing increasing attention from the world. Greater expansion of overseas market for Niigata's local sake is expected with its growing export. Over 500 kinds of Niigata's local sake was introduced at the Niigata Sake Festival 2012

Yinchuan Hedong Airport, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Shandong Province - China Shandong Delegation Visited Korea and Japan to Promote Green Construction Projects

Ishikawa Prefecture - Japan Ishikawa Helps Youths to Spread Wings of International Friendship Ishikawa Prefecture has promoted comprehensive partnerships with Irkutsk

At the invitation by the Japan-China Economic Association and the Government

Region of Russia, Jiangsu Province of China and Jeollabuk-do Province of

of Gyeonggi-do Province of Korea, a delegation led by Deputy Director-

Korea in various fields, including youth exchange, and one of its outstanding

General Li Rong of the Shandong Foreign Affairs Office visited Japan and Korea

joint projects is “The 21st-Century Ishikawa Wings of Youth.” This program

from 28 Feb. to 8 March to make industrial visits and further joint projects.

aims to develop a global mindset and tolerance among young talents who will

The delegation consisting of 27 members including public officials of

shoulder the future of Northeast Asia. Well received by participating students,

construction, environment and energy departments of Shandong Province and

it gives opportunities to visit partner regions and experience the school life,

its cities as well as representatives of 17 construction design - and related companies

culture and home-stays. The youth exchange program is scheduled for 2012 as

learned Japan and Korea's policies on environment-friendly construction and

well and Ishikawa expects more interest and participation by youth who want

energy-saving strategy and technology for buildings. The industrial visits and

to have various experiences, transcend the barrier of language and culture and

discussions on joint projects with Korea and Japan laid the foundation for closer

extend the boundaries of friendship.

bilateral cooperation between businesses.

Deputy Director-General Li Rong speaks at the welcoming reception hosted by the Korea-China Economic Association.

Young students from Japan and Russia mingle with each other during “The 21st-Century Ishikawa Wings of Youth” program.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR This Month Hyogo Prefecture - Japan Hyogo and Gyeongsangnam-do Sign LOI on Friendly Relations and Cooperation Governor KIM Du-Kwan of Gyeongsangnam-do Province, Korea paid an official visit to Hyogo prefecture to meet with Governor Toshizo Ido and sign a Letter of Intent on Friendly Relations and Cooperation. Hyogo, which is inhabited by quite a number of Koreans from Gyeongsangnam-do, has been actively engaged in promoting exchanges between parliaments, youths and sports. Through this LOI, both parties agreed to strengthen cooperation and exchanges in human resources, culture and economy.

Governor Toshizo Ido of Hyogo Prefecture (center left) and Governor KIM Du-Kwan of Gyeongsangnam-do Province

Jeollanam-do Province - Korea Experience “The Living Ocean and Coast” in EXPO 2012 YEOSU KOREA The International Exposition Yeosu Korea 2012 (officially approved by the Bureau of International Expositions) is being held from 12 May to 12 August in Yeosu City of Jeollanam-do Province under the theme, “The Living Ocean and Coast.” The Exposition will be an opportunity for the international community to clearly understand the function and value of the ocean and coast, share knowledge on the proper use of them and recognize the need for cooperation to protect them. Exhibition of the Ocean, for the Ocean The Expo 2012 Yeosu will showcase Korea's top-notch shipbuilding technologies, marine-bio industries and offshore CO2 capture and storage technologies on top of the world's state-of-the-art marine technologies and equipments. Also, participants will be able to have a glimpse of futuristic underwater cities, explore global marine ecosystems and even learn the relationship between the ocean as a vital life force and humans who have thrived on its resources through time. Don't miss the chance to enhance your understanding on marine industrial technologies, ocean civilizations, marine cities and life!

The panoramic view of the Expo 2012 Yeosu Korea

NEAR NEWS Vol. 42

NEAR Member News

Low-carbon, Green Expo The entire site of EXPO 2012 Yeosu is designed to form a model city displaying the low-carbon lifestyle of the future. All preparations and events will leave a limited carbon footprint, and the Energy Park will become the test-bed for renewable energy. The entire Expo site will be constructed with environmentally-friendly methods and recycled materials to produce the least amount of waste possible. Floating ocean forest and a mini-sized environment-friendly fish farm are on display around the expo site while visitors can drink water produced by desalination facilities at the “Sky Tower,” the tallest structure innovatively created by renovating an abandoned pair of cement silos. At the Energy Park, Korea’s largest one, visitors will see how new and renewable energy is generated, indulge in hands-on activities and learn principles of green energy production. It features a photovoltaic power plant, energy manufacturing facilities, online electric bus, bike water cannons (visitors can generate electricity by pedaling a bike), recycled rockets and many others. Furthermore, the Expo is brimming with cultural programs, with 40 performances and events taking place every day for the entire period of 93 days - 3,700 events in total! A flavor of culture and art will be found in official events, exhibition contents and seminars. The International Exposition Yeosu Korea 2012 When : 12 May 12 August, 2012 (93 days) Ticket Prices(Standard Day Pass) : Adults KRW 33,000 / Youth KRW 25,000 / Seniors and Children KRW 19,000 Website : www.expo2012.kr Once-stop Cal l Center : T.+82-1577-2011

Gyeongsangbuk-do Province - Korea Gyeognsangbuk-do Governor Tours Europe and Africa to Promote World Water Forum and Saemaul Movement Governor KIM Kwan Yong embarked on a tour to Europe and Africa on 1522 March to participate in the 6th World Water Forum and promote the Saemaul Movement* in poverty-stricken areas. In France, Kim attended the 6th World Water Forum and a special handover ceremony held in Marseille as Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and Daegu Metropolitan City were announced as the co-hosts of the next forum in 2015. In Ethiopia, he met with high-ranking government officials and looked around the sites of the Saemaul Project, which Gyeongsangbuk-do has carried out since 2010 in Africa to combat poverty under the slogan, “Keep Company on the Road to Co-existence and Prosperity of Humankind.”

Gyeognsangbuk-do Governor Tours Europe and Africa

NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

“By organizing the world festival of water, one of the key industries for low-

held on 4-7 July, the 5th Children of Asia International Sports Games 2012 will

carbon & green growth, we will be able to become the center of world water

be held in Yakutsk City, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) on 4-16 July. The

industry and create more quality jobs,” said Kim. He also confirmed that

Children of Asia Games aims to develop children's sports and to strengthen

Gyeongsangbuk-do would continue to provide development assistance by

the ideas of Olympism and international sports cooperation. Under the

spreading Saemaul and volunteer works, which would in turn help create a

auspices of the International Olympic Committee and UNESCO, the event

business environment favorable to Korean companies.

will unite young people from all around the world to participate and compete

*The Saemaul Movement or the New Village Movement is a political initiative launched by the late South Korean president PARK Chung-Hee to modernize the rural South Korean economy.

in 20 different sports in the cities of Yakutsk, Mirny and Neryungri. This year, three new sporting disciplines will be introduced: swimming, sambo and freestyle wrestling for persons with disabilities.

Ulaanbaatar City - Mongolia The 3rd International Investment Conference On the 23rd March, the 3rd International Investment Conference was organized

Primorsky Territory - Russia Pacific International Tourism Expo to Be Held in Vladivostok

by the municipal government in Ulaanbaatar City, participated by 40 domestic and foreign investors. The conference was opened by the welcoming remarks

The 16th edition of the Pacific International Tourism Expo (PITE) will be

of Mayor Munkhbayar and Mongolian Prime Minister Batbold with

held on 25-27 May in Vladivostok, Russia, organized by the Department

Mongolian, English and Chinese as working languages. The morning session

of International Cooperation and Tourism of Primorsky Territory.

comprised presentations and discussion on the current water supply system of

Representatives of world-leading tourism companies from Russian regions

Ulaanbaatar, introduction of new public transport services and mid- and long

and 10 foreign countries will participate. Primorsky expects PITE to

term projects to solve car congestion. In the afternoon, various large-scale

provide an important platform to identify new business partners and

projects of the Mongolian capital were introduced, including the construction

promote cooperation between neighboring countries and regions.

of national parks and the naturalization of beavers in the Tuul River.

The 15th Pacific International Tourism Expo Ulaanbaatar Mayor Munkhbayar (center right) and Mongolian Prime Minister Batbold(center left) participated in the 3rd International Investment Conference.

Republic of Sakha(Yakutia) - Russia

Pacific International Tourism Expo 2012 Dalexpocenter Co., Ltd Contact: +7 (423) 245-1502, 23-00-518 Website: www.dalexpo.vl.ru

The 5th Children of Asia International Sports Games 2012 As part of the International Sport Forum “Russia-Country of Sports” to be

Kamchatka Region - Russia Kamchatka Governor Officially Paid Visit to Korea A Kamchatka delegation led by Governor Ilukhin Vladimir Ivanovich paid an official visit to Korea on 3-9 April. After holding an investment conference on 3 April, the delegation visited Shihwa Tidal Power Plant, Hyundai Steel in Dangjin and Chungju Hydroelectric Power Plant. The seven days visit was ended with a business meeting with

National teams make their entrance to the stadium at the 4th Children of Asia International Sports Games

Korean CEOs on the 8th.

Ilukhin Vladimir Ivanovich, Governor of Kamchatka Region

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR This Month

Events of NEAR Member Regions

May

Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

2012. 5.

15 Region

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Jeju Special Self-governing Province (Korea) Jeju Godmother Sulmundae Festival 15 May Jeju Stone Park Peace & Cooperation Division, Jeju Special Self-governing Province T. +82-64-710-6263 F. +82-64-710-6259

Khabarovsk Territory (Russia) International Band Festival “The Amur Waves-2012” 28 May - 3 Jun Khabarovsk City Cultural Dept., Khabarovsk Territory T. +7-4212-32-50-66 F. +7-4212-32-50-66 mkhk@kultura27.ru

June 2012. 6.

NEAR NEWS Vol. 42

Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions

NEAR This Month

Wednesday

Thursday 9

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When Where Contact

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23 Region Event

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When Where Contact

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18 Region Event

Daegu Metropolitan City(Korea) Colourful Daegu Pre-Championship Meeting 16 May Daegu Stadium Organizing Committee of the Colourful Daegu Pre-Championship Meeting T. +82-53-803-9000 F. +82-53-803-9159

Irkutsk Region(Russia) The 2nd international forum “Baikal hospitality” 24-26 May Irkutsk City Tourism Bureau, Irkutsk Region T./F. +7-3952-34-28-23

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When Where Contact

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Busan Metropolitan City (Korea) Busan International Motor Show 2012 (BIMOS 2012) 24 May-3 Jun BEXCO, Busan Metropolitan City BEXCO Busan T. +82-51-740-7391 F. +82-51-740-3540

Region Event

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When Where Contact

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E-mail

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30 Region Event

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When Where Contact

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Hunan Province(China) The 7th Central China Investment and Trade Expo 18-20 May Hunan Province Dept. of Commerce of Hunan Province T. +86-731-82287058 F. +86-731-82287058

24 Region Event

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Jeollanam-do Province (Korea) International Exposition Yeosu Korea 2012 12 May-12 Aug New Port area in Yeosu Organizing Committee of the EXPO 2012 Yeosu Korea T. +82-1577-2012 http://www.expo2012.kr

Primorsky Territory (Russia) Pacific International Tourism Exhibition(PITE) 25-27 May Vladivostok City T. +7-423-220-8340 +7-423-240-0952 F. +7-423-220-9259 intnlcmt@primorsky.ru

Irkutsk Region(Russia) International Opera Music Festival “The Breath of Baikal” 30 May-3 Jun Irkutsk City Dept. of Culture and Archives, Irkutsk Region T. +7-3952-20-30-55 F. +7-3952-20-30-55

Region

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Event

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When Where Contact

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Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region (China) The 4th China (Ningxia) International Culture, Arts and Tourism Expo 1 Jun -31 Oct Yinchuan City Cultural Dept. of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region T. +86-951-6024977 F. +86-951-6024977

6/15 Region Event

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When Where Contact

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Heilongjiang Province (China) The 23rd International China Harbin Fair for Trade and Economic Cooperation 15-19 Jun Harbin City Administration Office of China Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair T. +86-451-82340100 F. +86-451-82340226

6/23 Region Event

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When Where Contact

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Altai Territory (Russia) International Youth Forum “ATP. Siberia” 23 -30 June Altai Territory Bureau of Education and Youth Projects, Altai Territory T. +7-3852-63-59-22 F. +7-3852-35-35-59

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

Feature Report

A Night at Golgulsa - Templestay

The Most Beloved Tree of the Russian People

“Beryoza”

“Beryoza” or the birch tree is the national tree of Russia, widely spread all across the country. From the root, leaves, bark, tar to the lumber, it has many practical uses in the lives of the Russian people. In particular, birch leaf has a wide variety of medicinal applications. With over 100 species, birch has played an important role in the cultures of many peoples, including the Slaves, the Skandinavians and the Finno-Ugric people.

NEAR NEWS Vol. 42

A Night at Golgulsa - Templestay

Feature Report

1. A house built of birch logs 2. Birch sap is extracted from a birch tree 3. A Russian bathhouse built of birch 4. An experience in a Russian sauna usually consists of whipping oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own or each other's body with the venik 5. Chaga mushrooms grows wild on birch trees

Medicinal Qualities

Effects on Body Systems

Chaga Mushroom

Birch has a wide variety of medicinal

The venik helps with muscle and joint pain

Chaga is a woody mushroom that grows on

applications; different parts are often used for

after physical exercise. It cleans the skin,

birch trees with a black, scarred outer surface

different purposes. Bark extract is effective

accelerates the healing of rashes, wounds and

that looks like burnt charcoal. Chaga normally

against anti-biotic-resistent infections. Birch

scratches

takes 20 years to mature before it is harvested.

leaf is an excellent agent against kidney and

tree veniks also have a relaxing and uplifting

Shortly after harvesting the mushrooms, the

urinary tract disorders, such as bladder

effect on your emotional state.

birch tree host usually dies off - because all of

infections. It also alleviates dermatological

Its special virtue is that it widens the small

its life-giving nutrients were consumed by

ailments and effective in treating skin and

bronchi, aiding in the removal of phlegm and

them. In Russian folk medicine chaga is used

uterine cancer. Birch tea made from the leaves

improves the ventilation of the lungs - good for

to treat cancers, often stomach and lung

and bark aids in the treatment of digestive

asthmatics and smokers. Also, venik leaves

cancer, and it is likewise considered effective

disorders in children.

release phytoncides - a biologically active

for other common stomach diseases.

and it smells wonderfully. Birch

substance that kills or depresses the growth Venik Massage

and development of pathogens.

Russian sauna, called banya, is a very old tradition in Russia and an essential part of it is

How to Use Venik

the venik - a leafy, fragrant bundle of birch tree

The Venik has to be properly prepared before

twigs. In a Russian bathhouse, you will find

use. It must be soaked for a minimum 20

these veniks or birch brooms soaked in

minutes in warm water, followed by 10 minutes

buckets of warm water. Bathers slightly whisk

in hot water until the leafs become soft.

themselves or each other with it and the hot

Several venik massage techniques include

part of the venik is compressed to the body,

waggling, compression, stroking, lashing,

which makes it possible to provide an intensive

rubbing and stretching.

heat therapy and increase sweating. The best time to â&#x20AC;&#x153;harvestâ&#x20AC;? veniks is at the beginning of

| Venik | The venik is a leafy, fragrant bundle of birch twigs.

June - on the Trinity Day - 49 days after Easter. The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR Member Tour

Amur Region of Russia

Visit Jeonbuk Year Promotion Hall

Jeollabuk-do Province, Korea

Come and Visit Jeollabuk-do and Discover the Hidden Charms of Korea!

‘‘

Dear honorable NEAR member regions, Greetings from Jeollabuk-do. This year is Visit Jeonbuk(Jeollabuk-do) Year. Jeollabuk-do is the hometown of Korean culture and has a strong traditional Korean atmosphere. We are also preparing to be a future economic hub of Northeast Asia through the Saemanguem reclamation project, which has the longest sea wall in the world. We can say that our province is one which you can experience the past, present and future of Korea.

‘‘

You can have many beautiful memories in Jeollabuk-do. Please come and visit us, and discover the 2012 different hidden charms of Jeollabuk-do.

Tip! Jeollabuk-do Jeollabuk-do is located in an area between 125 ~127 in longitude and 35 ~36 in latitude. It consists of 6 cities, 8 counties, 14 towns and 145 townships. Address : 225, Hyoja-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 560-871, Korea Contact : +82-63-280-2707

NEAR NEWS Vol. 42

Tourist Contact and Inquiries Visit Jeonbuk Year Tel: +82-63-282-1330 Homepage: http://www.gojb.net/ Jeonju Hanok Village Tel: +82-63-282-1330 Homepage: http://tour-eng.jeonju.go.kr/ Mt. Maisan Tel: +82-63-433-0012 Homepage: http://maisantapsa.co.kr Saemanguem Tel: +82-63-450-9100 Homepage: http:// smgc.go.kr

Amur Region of Russia

NEAR Member Tour

Michelin Green Guide’s Must Sees

1. Mt. Maisan of Jinan 2. Hanok Village of Jeonju 3. Dolmen park of Gochang

Festivals of Jeollabuk-do

4. Korea Food Festival 5. Muju Firefly Festival 6. Gochang Moyang Castle Festival 7. World Sori Festival

Discover the 2012 different hidden

special music festivals featuring Korean pop stars. We

finally, you will be fascinated by the beautiful camellia

charms of Jeollabuk-do. Experience the

are going to hold the World Pilgrimage Festival this

flowers in Seonwoonsa temple. Here in Gochang you

flavors and charms of Korea! We are

year, which we hope lead us to host the Asia

can also see the dolmen designated as a World

waiting for you! _ The 2012 Visit Jeonbuk Year

Pilgrimage Congress as well. The Beautiful Pilgrimage

Heritage by UNESCO.

has started. Jeollabuk-do has prepared its own special

Route will serve as an unprecedented symbol of

programs for visitors to help them find our charms and

harmony and understanding amongst diverse religions. Jeollabuk-do where the festival never

flavors. We offer various intriguing programs by

ends! _ We have a lot of festivals year round from

seasons and themes that focus on the “2012 Hidden Charms of Jeollabuk-do.” Diverse tour programs and

A Great Selection of Nature and Tourist

early spring to snowy winter. One of the representative

projects including the Street Festival, Visit Jeonbuk

Attractions _ You will be attracted by every tourist

festivals of Jeollabuk-do is the Jeonju World Sori

Week and art performances will be performed in

attraction in and around Jeollabuk-do. Saemanguem

Festival held from late September to early October

fourteen cities and counties in Jeollabuk-do. Night

region near Gunsan has emerged as one of the best

every year. It’s a global music festival where various

performances at Hanok Village will be worth a watch.

tourist attractions in Korea thanks to its beautiful

musicians from around the globe perform and play

We recommend you join the seventh Marine Sports

islands. It is also well known as the home town of

traditional music. Jeonju international Fermented Food

Festival, Taekwondo Demonstration Performance,

Korea literature. Plan Your Trip. Here are some

Expo is another festival which promotes the flavors of

Culture and Tour Guide Competition and Railroad

recommended travel routes.

Jeollabuk-do. This festival has been held in the biggest

Traveling Program.

First, in Jeonju, the capital city of Jeollabuk-do, you

farming area of Korea. It has also been designated as

can visit historic sites of Joseon Dynasty in the

the best Culture and Tourism Festival for seven years in

morning and try Bibimbap (a bowl of rice topped with

a row by the central government. Muju Firefly Festival

Jeollabuk-do appeared in Michelin

different kinds of veggies, sliced beef, egg and red

is considered to be an eco-friendly festival to show off

Guide! _ We have promoted our tourist attractions

pepper paste) for lunch. Second, if you are into

its natural features. Chunhyang Festival has made a

to the students of our nation. With signing an MOU

jewelry, visit the Jewelry Museum in Iksan where the

great contribution to succeeding and developing cultural

with Seoul Educational Office, we are planning to host

love story of Seodong and Sunhwa is still told to this

tradition. Moyangsungje (Moyang Castle Festival) is

150,000 students. We have launched the Jeonbuk Tour

day. Third, you can visit snow covered Muju - often

another festival that attracts a lot of people. People go

Bus and Railroad Traveling Program for visitors who

called the Alp’s of Korea. You can also go to Jinan

round in a circle around the castle placing small stones

reside in Seoul. We will attract 400,000 visitors to

where you will be amazed with the appearance of Mt.

on their head and wish their good health and longevity.

Jeollabuk-do this year and are going to give incentives

Maisan, as it looks like the ears of horse. Fourth, in

to tour companies which promote trips and

Jangsu, you can try the best apple and beef in an

international visits. The Michelin Green Guide, the

uncontaminated beautiful region. We recommend you

world famous tour guide book, rated Hanok Village,

visit Gimje for the Horizon Festival and Guemsansa

Dolmen Museum and Mt. Maisan the highest score.

Temple; Namwon for listening to old traditional love

For international visitors, we are planning to hold two

stories; Sunchang for Gochujang(red pepper paste);

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

3F Pohang Technopark, #394 Jigok-no (#601 Jigok-dong), Namgu, Pohang City, Gyeongsangbuk-do, ROK T. +82-54-223-2311~20 F. +82-54-223-2309 E-mail neargov@hotmail.co.kr Website www.neargov.org