NEAR news vol.45 (ENG)

NEAR

News

NEAR Leading the Era of Northeast Asia 2012. 5-6

Vol. 45 NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012

NEAR This Month NEAR Activities / Secretariat News / NEAR Member News Feature Report NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012: A Stepping Stone for Solidarity and Collaboration that Leads to Mutual Development NEAR Member Tour Govi-Altai Province, Mongolia

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

NEAR News “NEAR News� 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).

6

12

Vol. 45

Three Gorges of the Changjiang River, Hubei Province, China

15

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

NEAR Activities

NEAR Activities NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012 NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012 was held on 29-31 May in Gyeongju and Yeosu City, ROK with an aim to enhance solidarity among NEAR members and further NEAR's mission and goals, participated

The Agenda of the 9th NEAR General Assembly

24 July Whole day Registration and VIP meeting (Tues.) 18:30~20:00 Welcoming Reception

ㆍCongratulatory Remarks by NEAR Secretary General KIM, Jae-Hyo ㆍPhoto Session

Japan, Korea and Mongolia). (Continued on page 12) 10:00~12:00

The opening of the 9th NEAR General Assembly Draws Near

Create Joint Prosperity” in Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China, co-organized by NEAR and the Government of Ningxia. It will discuss various agendas: the proposal by Jeollanam-do Province (Korea)

Yuehai Hotel

09:00~09:50 ㆍWelcoming Remarks by Ningxia Governor Wang Zhengwei

regions in four Northeast Asian countries (China,

July under the theme of “Forge Closer Cooperation,

ㆍActivity Reports of the 9th Chair(Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region) ㆍActivity Reports of the Secretariat and Sub-Committees (Secretariat) Presentations by NEAR Member Regions

12:00~13:30 Luncheon 25 July (Wed.)

Review of the Agenda of the 9th General Assembly ㆍProposal to host the General Assembly 2014 (Jeollanam-do Province) ㆍProposal on the extension of Gyeongsangbuk-do’ s term of office as the host of the Secretariat; long-term placement of the Secretariat in Gyeongsangbuk-do (Gyeongsangbuk-do Province) 13:30~18:00 ㆍProposal on the membership fee system (Secretariat) ㆍProposal on“PioNEAR”or Professional Internship Project of NEAR (Secretariat) ㆍFree discussion Closing Ceremony

to host the General Assembly 2014; proposal by

18:30~20:00 Dinner

Gyeongsangbuk-do Province(Korea) on the extension of

20:00~21:00 Cultural and Art Performance

its term of office as the host of the Secretariat and the long-

09:00~09:30 Opening Ceremony of the Northeast Asia Horticulture Industry Seminar

term placement of the Secretariat in Gyeongsangbuk-do;

10:00~12:00 Tree Planting Ceremony

Proposal by the Secretariat to adopt the membership fee system and many others. Various other events will be organized back-to-back with the meeting, including the Northeast Asia Horticulture Industry Seminar, a tree planting ceremony, cultural tours and art performances.

Venue

Opening Ceremony (Moderated by Vice Governor Li Rui)

by more than 80 working-level officials from 33

The 9th NEAR General Assembly is to be held on 24-27

Content

Date

Yuehai Hotel

TBC Yuehai Hotel TBC

26 July 12:00~13:00 Luncheon (Thurs.)

Familiarization Tour 13:00~18:00

1) Park of Customs and Culture in the Homeland of Chinese Hui People Sand Lake 2) Park of Customs and Culture in the Homeland of Chinese Hui People The Yellow River Altar

27 July (Fri.) Whole day Departure ※ The schedule can be adjusted as needed.

NEAR Delegation Embarked on a Tour of Northeast Asian Nations to Promote Participation in the 9th General Assembly Shimane and Tottori Prefecture of Japan and

Embassy in Mongolia and the headquarters of the

NEAR Secretariat and the Government of Ningxia

A joint delegation comprised of officials of the

Ulaanbaatar City, Bayankhongor and Uvurkhangai

Japan Local Government Center (CLAIR) to ask for

Hui Autonomous Region aimed at promoting NEAR

Province of Mongolia, most of which agreed that

cooperation in encouraging more regions to attend

members’ participation in the upcoming 9th General

their regions would be represented at the General

the meeting.

Assembly recently finished a two-week tour of

Assembly by senior officials at vice governor-level or

member regions in Korea, Japan and Mongolia.

higher, as requested by the Chair region.

officials is scheduled to head to Russian regions and

During the tour, which began on 16 April with an

Furthermore, the delegation visited the Chinese

organizations including the Primorksy Territory.

On the 3rd June, a second delegation of Ningxia

official meeting with BAE, Yong Tae, Vice Governor for Administrative Affairs of Jeollanam-do Province (Korea), Secretary General Tan Zhaohua of Ningxia People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries conveyed an invitation letter from Ningxia Governor Wang Zheng Wei, offering updated information on the conference agenda and programs.

The delegation visited Jeollanam-do, Gyeonggi-do and Gyeongsangnam-do Province of Korea, Hyogo,

4

NEAR NEWS Vol. 45

The Joint delegation of the NEAR Secretariat and the government of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region met with Kazuo Kanazawa, Vice Governor of Hyogo Pref. (third from left of the left photo) and D. Togtokhsuren, Governor of Uvurkhangai Prov. (center of the right photo)

NEAR Activities / NewsSecretariat News

NEAR This Month

The 2nd Sub-Committee on Mineral Resources Development & Coordination to Be Held on 1-3 August in Magadan

The Inaugural Meeting of the Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change Scheduled for 28-30 August in Daegu

Sub-Committee on Educational & Cultural Exchange 2012 1) “Northeast Asia Wings of Exchange in

The 2nd Sub-Committee on Mineral Resources

The 1st Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change will

Development & Coordination will be held on 1-3

be held on 28-30 August in Daegu Metropolitan City, Korea,

August in Magadan Region, Russian Federation, where

under the theme of “Northeast Asia United through Energy.”

various topics will be discussed, including laws and

The inaugural meeting of the Sub-Committee will be

2012” is to be held on 3-8 August, where youths

regulations for mineral resources exploration and

organized back-to-back with the International LED &

from Northeast Asian countries visiting Shimane

investment, locations and potential of mineral reserves,

Display Korea, the biggest trade fair in Korea for LED

Prefecture will stay together with local students

establishment of partnerships among representatives of

industry, not only to form a partnership to fight climate

through a home-stay program. They will be engaged

mining companies and many others. Magadan

change, but also to expand opportunities for policy exchange

in discussions on environment and welfare,

cordially invites officials from the departments related

and business cooperation among participating regions.

experience the traditional culture of Shimane and

to strategic economic development and mining

Daegu Metropolitan City, one of Korea’s top three

industry of NEAR member regional governments and

cities with a population of 2.5 million, has given great

executives of mining and investment companies.

efforts to realize a green Solar City for the first time in Korea by promoting renewable energy industries

Contact The Economic Committee of the Administration of Magadan Region Vinter Valeriya Borisovna, Vice Chairwoman of the Economic Committee and Chief of the Dept. of Productive Forces Development and Investment Policy T. +7-4132-629308 F. +7-4132-629308 E-mail: valery@regadm.magadan.ru Ivan Ivanovich Ponomarenko, Seconded Staff from Russia (Magadan Region), NEAR Secretariat T. +82-54-223-2325 F. +82-54-223-2309 E-mail: ii.ponomarenko@gmail.com NEAR Secretariat YOO, A-ram (Korean, English)

T. +82-54-223-2318 E-mail: aram_yoo@hotmail.com

LEE, Hye-Jung (Chinese)

T. +82-54-223-2320 E-mail: cham0284@gmail.com

CHOI, Soo-Gyoo (Japanese)

T. +82-54-223-2317 E-mail: s.g-c@hotmail.com

Khishigjargal (Mongolian)

T. +82-54-223-2384 E-mail: hi_hishgee@yahoo.com

KIM, Sang-Hyun (Russian)

T. +82-54-223-2319 E-mail: ruskii@hanmail.net

Shimane 2012” “Northeast Asia Wings of Exchange in Shimane

introduce their own culture to each other.

2) “International Culture Palette of Northeast Asia”

and greening urban landscape and environment. It will

Aimed at contributing to cultural exchanges and

also organize the World Energy Conference known as

building networks among Northeast Asian regions,

the “Olympics of Energy” in 2013.

Shimane Prefecture will hold the "International

Date: 28-30 August (Tues.-Wed.)

Culture Palette of Northeast Asia on 7-11 October

Venue: EXCO, Daegu

where traditional culture and art troupes from

Schedule

Northeast Asian regions are invited to conduct performances and build friendship with prefectural

Date

Schedule

residents. This year marking the 40th anniversary of the normalization of Japan-China relations, art

Day 1 (28. Aug.) Arrival, Check-in, Welcome Reception Sub-Committee Meeting Day 2 (29. Aug.) (Theme: “Northeast Asia United through Energy”)

troupes from Jilin Province, with which Shimane signed an agreement of friendship, will be invited to cement ties between the two countries.

Industrial & Cultural Tour: EXCO Green Energy Facilities, Shincheon Solar Power Day 3 (30. Aug.) Plant, Daesung Group Solar Thermal Power Plant and etc.

Day 4 (31 Aug.) Departure

※ Detailed schedule to be announced.

Secretariat News Announcement of New Staffs Seconded from NEAR Members to the Secretariat

The list of staffs seconded from NEAR members to work at the Secretariat from May 2012 to April 2013 is finalized.

Region

Name

Heilongjiang Province

Zhang Boyang

Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Ma Yisha (will work by October 2012)

Japan

Hyogo Prefecture

Takahisa Ikegami

Mongolia

Bayankhongor Province

Davaasambuu Erdenebileg

Russia

Magadan Region

Ivan Ivanovich Ponomarenko

Country China

(From left) Zhang Boyang, Ma Yisha (China), Takahisa Ikegami (Japan), Davaasambuu Erdenbileg (Mongolia) and Ivan Ivanovich Ponomarenko (Russia)

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

5

NEAR This Month

NewsSecretariat News / NEAR Member News

Secretary General Kim Met with Khabarovsk Governor Vyacheslav Ivanovich Shport Secretary General Kim met with Governor Vyacheslav Ivanovich Shport of Khabarovsk Territory on 30 May in Changwon City of Gyeongsangnam-do Province along with Mikhail Bondarenko, Head of the Trade Mission of the Russian Federation in ROK and Dianov Vyacheslav, Director General of the Department of International Relations of Khabarovsk. Invited by Secretary General Kim to the 9th NEAR General Assembly on 24-27 July in China, Governor Shport said that while he would not be able to attend in person this time, a Khabarovsk delegation would be organized instead and that more attention would be allocated to NEAR activities.

(From left) Bondarenko Mikhail, Head of the Trade Mission of the Russian Federation, Vyacheslav Ivanovich Shport, Governor of Khabarovsk Territory and KIM Jae-Hyo, Secretary General of NEAR.

NEAR Member News Henan Province - China

Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the National Development and Reform Commission, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, the People’s Government of Heilongjiang

2012 Private Enterprises Recruitment Week launched at Henan Province

Province, the People’s Government of Zhejiang Province and the People’s Government of Harbin Municipality, and co-sponsored by governmental departments and trade promotional institutions from

On May 8, the “Private Enterprises Recruitment Week” was launched at the Zhengzhou Human Resources Center, hosted by the Department of Human Resources and Social Security, the Department of Education, the Federation of Trade Union and the Federation of Industry and Commerce of Henan Province.

over 10 countries including the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Russian Federation and the Association of the Promotion of International Trade of Japan.

Since its first session in 1990, 1.8 million exhibitors and visitors from more than 80 countries and regions attended the fair with over US ＄100 billion contract volume concluded.

The Vice-Chairwoman of Henan CPPCC and Chairwoman of the Henan Federation of Industry and Commerce Liang Jing as well as the Deputy DirectorGeneral of the Department of Human Resources and Social Security Wang Jinfa attended the opening ceremony.

The recruitment event will be organized for a week in 18 municipalities and 10 counties under the theme of “Progress Can Be Made at Private Enterprises,” with an aim to help not only college graduates, but migrant workers and jobseekers.

Press Conference of the 23rd China Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair held in Beijing

Hubei Province - China Wuhan Hosted the 2012 BWF Thomas and Uber Cup The opening ceremony of the “Private Enterprises Recruitment Week”

Back in 3 June 2011, at 2 p.m., Wuhan City of Hubei Province was declared the host of the 2012 Thomas Cup and the Uber Cup by the Badminton World

Heilongjiang Province - China The 23rd China Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair The 23rd China Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair will be held on 15-18 June at the Harbin International Conference Exhibition Center.

The China Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair (Harbin Trade Fair) is a large-scale, national-level international fair approved by the Chinese government. It is co-hosted by the Ministry of

6

NEAR NEWS Vol. 45

BWF President KANG Young-Joong (second from left) and Deputy Director-General Zhang Jin of Hubei Sports Administration (first from left) posed right after Wuhan was declared the host of the 2012 BWF Thomas and Uber Cup.

NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

Federation(BFW) at a press conference in Qingdao. Accordingly this year, the 2012 BWF Thomas and Uber Cup are held in China for the first time in the

set sail fromTsuruga to Vladivostok on July 25.

On board, tourists will be introduced to the history of the Eurasian

recent 10 years. “Just like Davis Cup, the Thomas Cup and the Uber Cup are

International Railway and the “port of humanity” Tsuruga, which was the only

the most prestigious events among the world’s men’s and women’s badminton

port to welcome Jewish refugees with “life saving visas” in 1940. Also, menus

team championships. Our dream to host the 2012 Thomas Cup and the Uber

made of fresh and local ingredients produced in Fukui Prefecture, the

Cup came true,” said Zhang Jin, Deputy Director-General of Hubei Sports

birthplace of the Koshihikari rice brand, will be served as well. Come to Fukui

Administration, hoping to “take this opportunity to introduce Wuhan to the

and experience one of the best moments of your life! ※ 1) The Eurasian International Railway trains used to make three round

world and promote the development of Hubei’s sports field”

trips a week between Tokyo (Shimbashi) and Tsuruga (Kanegasaki) offering direct connection between European countries and Tokyo

Yamagata Prefecture - Japan

via the Siberian Railway from 1912 to 1940.

More Koreans Joining the Cheering Squad for Yamagata The “Yamagata Safflower1) Society” was founded in October 2010 initiated

by Yamagata Prefecture Seoul Office as a unique society compared to others, because anybody regardless of nationality or residence, can become a qualified member if she/he has a connection to the region.

The gathering began with a simple idea, but already celebrates its third anniversary this year with 51 members, including 33 Japanese and 18 Koreans. Regular meetings are held four times a year and the Tokyo branch was established by members who returned to Japan. Even though Koreans

The Pacific Venus cruise will set sail from Tsuruga to Vladivostok on July 25

make up quite a large part of membership, most of the dialogues are in Japanese. It is expected that the “Yamagata network of people” regardless of age, nationality and occupation will continue to grow and be utilized for

Shimane Prefecture - Japan

strengthening Korea-Japan exchange and cooperation. ※ 1) Safflower is the prefectural flower of Yamagata widely cultivated

Japan Myth EXPO in Shimane 2012

in the region.

Since one thirds of the myths in the Kojiki, the oldest chronicle of Japan, took place in Izumo, (in the eastern part of) Shimane Prefecture, it is assumed that powerful ancient kingdoms and cultures thrived in this region.

As part of the “Shimane-the Land of Gods” project to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of Kojiki, Shimane will organize the “Japan Myth EXPO in Shimane 2012” from 21th July to 11th November. Close to the main venue Izumo Taisha Temple and the Izumo Historical Museum, a special exhibition site will be open to feature

At the regular meeting of the Yamagata Safflower Society on 26 April, 2012

“Concept Projection Room (TBC),” “Shimane

Fukui Prefecture - Japan

Attractions Stage,” “Local Specialty and Gourmet

“Tsuruga-Vladivostok Cruise” Will Take You to the Closest Europe from Japan

Corner,” and etc. Relevant municipalities and private organizations are making

From the establishment of its first railway in 1882, to the opening of sea 1)

concerted efforts so that

lanes to Vladivostok in 1902 and the Eurasian International Railway in 1912

visitors may experience

linking between its Kanegasaki Station and Tokyo’s Shinbashi Station as the

various attractions of

terminus of the railways connecting Europe to the Japan’s heartland, Tsuruga

Shimane.

Bird view of the special exhibition site of the Japan Myth EXPO in Shimane 2012

City flourished as a crucial transportation hub and link to Europe in the late 19th century. In commemoration of this history, the Pacific Venus cruise will

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

7

NEAR This Month

NEAR Member News

Chungcheongbuk-do Province - Korea

Chungcheongbuk-do Province - Korea

The 8th Jecheon International Music & Film Festival

Gyeongsangbuk-do Attract Tourists from China through Customized Marketing

The 8th Jecheon International Music & Film Festival (JIMFF) will be held on 915 August in Jecheon, Chuncheongbuk-do Province. As Korea’s only and Asia’s

Gyeongsangbuk-do Province (Gyeongbuk) has succeeded to attract 2,500

first festival that incorporates both music and film, JIMFF introduces about 110

Chinese tourists with a customized marketing strategy. From 29 April to 3 May, a

music films from all around the world and over 80 live concerts captivating about

Gyeongbuk tourism promotion delegation held promotional meetings in Jilin and

135,000 filmgoers and music lovers every year. Under the concept “harmony

Liaoning Province of China to present tourism products customized to the Chinese

among movies, music and nature” it strives to be a celebration of film and

market and visited leading tourist agencies to conduct sales calls. The customized

presentation of exhilarating music, both to be enjoyed by audiences of all

tourism products include School Trip Packages to the most beloved tourist

generations and tastes among the beautiful landscapes of Jecheon.

destinations among Chinese people, such as Gyeongju, Moongyeong, Andong and

The festival presents a series of programs that combine film and music in new and innovative ways, including a section dedicated specifically to movie music and a program which introduces new trends and currents in contemporary music and

Yeongju, Traditional Culture Experience Tour, World Cultural Heritage Tour, Hallyu Dream Festival Package Tour, Festivals Tour Packages and etc.

As a result of such efforts, a total of 2,500 group tourists were secured, including

cinema. A number of live concerts and musical performances such as “One

1000 school trip participants, delegations composed of 500 parents of Chinese

Summer Night” and “JIMFF Live Stage” are also held on an outdoor stage right on

students studying in Korea, and 1,000 participants of the cultural events marking

the picturesque shores of Lake Cheongpung.

the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Korea-China diplomatic ties. To achieve the goal of attracting 1.5 million inbound tourists this year, Gyeongbuk is committed to put continued efforts into promoting its tourism sector by providing tailor- made products for the customers of each country and expanding local networks.

Gyeongsangbuk-do Tourism Promotion Meetings were held in China

Ulaanbaatar City - Mongolia The 3rd International Morin Khuur Festival Held in Ulaanbaatar The 3rd International Morin Khuur (Horse Head Fiddle) Festival was held from 29 April to 2 May in Ulaanbaatar City as part of the policy of the Mongolian The official poster of the 8th edition of JIMFF (by photographer CHO, Nam -Ryong) matches the concept of the festival which pursues the beauty of nature and the powerful energy of youth.

Through the poster, JIMFF expresses its will to develop a bond of sympathy with the audience as well as to solidify its place as the unique music festival in Asia.

8

NEAR NEWS Vol. 45

Government to spread the recognition of the traditional instrument. More than 200 horse head fiddle musicians, researchers, scholars and craftsmen from various countries participated in the main event, including Mongolia, the Republic of

NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

Buryatia (Russia), China, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Germany, USA and Korea,

Khabarovsk Territory - Russia

especially with a record-high number of musicians from China and Japan (30 from each). In particular, the Japanese team brought out a concert level performance

Khabarovsk Delegation Paid Official Visit to Korea

celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Mongolia-Japan diplomatic relations.

The International Morin Khuur Festival is held every year to raise the profile of

A delegation of Khabarovks Territory headed by Governor Vyacheslav Ivanovich Shport comprising more than 40 members, including high-ranking

Mongolian culture and arts overseas and promote the research capabilities of

administrative officials and representatives of 12 Russian companies paid an

scholars and the artistry of musicians. Morin Khuur is one of the Masterpieces of

official visit to Korea from 29 May to 1 June to hold a trade and investment

the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity identified by UNESCO.

conference. After participating in the main event organized on 29 May at the Seoul Plaza Hotel by the Government of Khabarovsk Territory, the Trade Mission of the Russian Federation in ROK and the Korea-Russia Business Council, the delegation visited Busan Metropolitan City and Chanwon City of Gyeongsangnam-do Province on the next day.

Vyacheslav Ivanovich Shport

The 3rd International Morin Khuur (Horse Head Fiddle) Festival

Bayankhongor Province - Mongolia Bayankhongor and Ningxia Signed Agreement of Friendship and Cooperation The delegation of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region (China) who visited Mongolia on 22-26 April to promote the 9th NEAR General Assembly met with G. Amarsanaa, Governor of Bayankhongor Province to conclude a Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. The treaty is expected to enhance active cooperation between the two regions which share many things in common including geographical and climate conditions.

Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Bayakhongor Province concluded a Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation (from left, Tan Zhaohua, Secretary General of Ningxia People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and G. Amarsanaa, Governor of Bayankhongor Province)

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

9

NEAR This Month

Events of NEAR Member Regions

Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

8

July 2012. 7.

9 ■ Region ■ Event ■ When ■ Where

Gyeongsangnam-do Province (Korea) The 4th EAS Congress 2012 9-13 July Changwon Convention Center, Changwon

■ Contact

COEX Convention Team T. +82-2-6000-8134 F. +82-2-6000-8190

■ E-mail ■ Website

info@eascongresskorea.org http://eascongresskorea.org/eng/

■ Region ■ Event

Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) (Russia) The 2nd International Festival “The Meeting of UNESCO Masterpieces on Olonkho Land”

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

4-16 July Yakutsk City Dept. of Culture of Republic of Sakha T. +7-4112-42-06-08 T. +7-4112-42-11-63

■ E-mail

mincult@sakha.gov.ru

15

10

16

22

17

23

24 ■ Region ■ Event

Jeollanam-do Province (Korea) The 12th Yeosu International Youth Festival

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

24-29 July Yeosu City Tourism Dept. of Yeosu City Gov. T. +82-61-690-2042

■ Website

http://festival.yeosu.go.kr/home/festival

August 2012. 8.

5 ■ Region ■ Event

Tuv Province (Mongolia) National Singing and Folk Dance Festival

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

5 August Tuv Province Administration of Tuv Province T. +976-1272-23711

26

10

NEAR NEWS Vol. 45

■ Region ■ Event

Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea) The 12th International Meeting on Information Display

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

27-31 August EXCO, Daegu IMID 2012 Secretariat T. +82-2-563-7992 F. +82-2-556-3396

■ Website

http://www.imid.or.kr/

6

7

27

28

Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions

NEAR This Month

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

11

12

18

13 ■ Region ■ Event

Uvurkhangai Province (Mongolia) Yak Festival / Sheep and Goats Celebration / Horse-breeder’s Celebration

■ When ■ Where

13 July / 18 July / 9 August Bat-Ulzii soum / Zuunbayan-Ulaan soum /Ulziit soum

■ Contact

Administration of Uvurkhangai Province T. +976-1322-22360

■ E-mail ■ Website

magnai0612@yahoo.com http://bishirtugei.over.blog.com

19 ■ Region ■ Event ■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

Altai Territory (Russia) The Day of Shukshin 19-22 July Altai Territory Cultural Bureau of Altai Territory T. +7-3852-24-96-96 F. +7-3852-24-89-43

■ E-mail ■ Website

komcul@itt.ru http://www.culture22.ru

25

26

1

■ Website

http://www.festival.busan.kr/ENG

29

Gyeongsangbuk-do Province (Korea) POSCO International Fire Works 27 July -4 August Bukbu Beach Tourism Promotion Dept. of Pohang City Gov. T. +82-54-270-2253

Chungcheongbuk-do Province (Korea) The 8th Jecheon International Music & Film Festival

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

9-15 August Jecheon City JIMFF Secretariat Seoul T. +82-2-925-2242 F. +82-2-925-2243

■ Website

http://www.jimff.org

30

Jeollanam-do Province (Korea) The 40th Gangjin Celadon Festival 28 July-5 August The area of Goryeo Celadon Porcelain Kilns, Gangjin County

■ Contact

The Gangjinkun Native Festival Promotion Committee T. +82-61-430-3193

■ Website

http://www.gangjinfes.or.kr/

3 ■ Region ■ Event

Toyama Prefecture (Japan) The World Festival of Children’s Performing Arts in Toyama 2012

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

31 July - 5 August Toyama City Civic Affairs, Environment and Culture Dept., Toyama Prefectural Gov. T. +81-76-444-4574 F. +81-76-444-4438

■ Region

Jeju Special Self-governing Province (Korea)

■ Event

Jeju International Wind Ensemble Festival 2012

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

10-18 August Jejudo Island The Organizing Committee of Jeju Int’l Wind Ensemble Festival T. +82-64-722-8704 F. +82-64-753-2208

9 ■ Region ■ Event

28 ■ Region ■ Event ■ When ■ Where

http://www.poscofs.com

2

8

21

27

■ Website

Busan Metropolitan City (Korea) The 17th Busan Sea Festival 1-9 August Haewoondae Beach The Organizing Committee for Busan Culture & Tourism Festival T. +82-51-888-3395 F. +82-51-501-6052

14

20

■ Region ■ Event ■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

■ Region ■ Event ■ When ■ Where ■ Contact

Saturday

4

10

11 ■ Region ■ Event

Shandong Province(China) The 22nd Qingdao International Beer Festival

■ When ■ Where ■ Contact ■ Website

11-26 August Qingdao City T. +86-532-85928906 http://www.qdbeer.cn

31

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

11

Feature Report

NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012: A Stepping Stone for Solidarity and Collaboration that Leads to Mutual Development

NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012: A Stepping Stone for Solidarity and Collaboration that Leads to Mutual Development

Day-1

Since 2006, working-level officials of five countries in charge of NEAR affairs have got together every year in spring. This year, more than 80 people representing 33

New, but at the Same Time Familiar Government officials from each country arrived one by one in Gyeongju, Korea. At the beginning of the reception,

regions from four countries attended the

an awkward silence seemed to hang in the air, probably because most of the delegated officials were new. However,

NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012,

excitement and expectation grew as smiles were exchanged, glasses were filled and toasts were made one after another by

including three regions from China, ten

the representatives of each country who “felt like home with new, but somehow familiar landscape and folks of Gyeongju.”

Japan, nine Korea and eleven Mongolia on 29-31 May to enhance solidarity and review

❶

the status of cooperation among NEAR members.

At the meeting, Shinsaku Suzuki, Visiting Fellow of the Economic Research Institute for Northeast Asia (ERINA) was invited to give special lecture, where he reviewed best practices of Japanese regions' foreign relations diplomacy shedding new light on how to promote mutual cooperation between Northeast Asian regions and proposed concrete methods and strategies for strengthening NEAR’s role. After presentations and discussions about shared concerns and issues, participants moved from Gyeongju city to Jeollanam-do Province and visited the Expo 2012 Yeosu Korea as part of “Discover NEAR Members” program.

12

NEAR NEWS Vol. 45

The delegations listen to the welcoming remarks of Secretary General Kim. “Toghtooyo!” Secretary General Kim and Director Myagmar Jargalsaikhan from Uvs Province clink glasses together. (“Toghtooyo" means cheers in Mongolian). ~ As a special treat after the reception, a short excursion to the downtown of Gyeongju was provided.

The Mongolian delegation poses at the Anapji pond (the palace complex of ancient Silla Dynasty)

Feature Report

NEAR Working-level Workshop 2012: A Stepping Stone for Solidarity and Collaboration that Leads to Mutual Development

Day-2 Working-level Workshop Meeting

“NEAR has played an important role in promoting global

In the following session, Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea)

cooperation in Northeast Asia. I believe it will be able to

shared its best practices in people-to-people exchange through

Shinsaku Suzuki, Visiting Fellow of the Economic Research

exercise more political and economic influence if opinions of

various internship and training projects aimed at nurturing

Institute for Northeast Asia (ERINA). Based on his 36-year

NEAR members converging on a basic principle are translated

global talents; Hyogo prefecture (Japan) expanding

experience working for the Niigata City Hall as a practitioner in

into a concrete project,” said Suzuki. Bringing the perspective

international exchange by hosting global events; Jeollanam-do

foreign policy and economy, he shared the international cooperation

of an outside specialist, he made insightful suggestions for the

Province (Korea) using sister city networks to improve poor

strategies and success stories of Niigata, which was able to launch

development of NEAR as follows: develop a follow-up system

English education in its rural areas; and Uvs Province

regular air and sea passenger services with sister cities, spread a

to submit recommendations to central governments after

(Mongolia) strengthening non-governmental exchange in

mindset of global citizenship, attract diplomatic missions through

important meetings; organize open meetings to the public;

trans-border areas by organizing festivals.

focused efforts on people networking and economic cooperation

establish a consultative body; select agenda items closely

projects. He also emphasized on the importance of nurturing global

relevant to Northeast Asia for Sub-Committees in order to

(China) reported on the preparation process of the 9th NEAR

talents, refurbishing international logistics infrastructure and creating

promote deeper discussion among member regions; raise the

General Assembly, while the Secretariat introduced

a business information network in order to promote closer

profile of NEAR by developing joint projects with private

participants to its new project of regional cooperation

collaboration between Northeast Asian regions.

institutions, research organizations and businesses and etc.

“PioNEAR” or “Professional Internship Program of NEAR.”

The next day the workshop was opened with a special lecture by

In the final session, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Shinsaku Suzuki, Visiting Fellow of the Economic Research Institute for Northeast Asia (ERINA) is giving a lecture on "cooperation between Northeast Asian regions for mutual growth."

Zhang Guangmin, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office, Henan Province Hidekazu Moriyasu, Director of the International Cooperation Division, Hyogo Prefecture, presents on the region's international relations strategy Yun So Yong, manager of the International Trade Division, Daegu Metropolitan City answers questions on its internship program KIM Jong-hak, Director General of NEAR Secretariat gives explanation about the “PioNEAR” program.

Day-3 Discover Jeollanam-do Province: “EXPO 2012 YEOSU KOREA” On 31 May, participants visited the Yeosu Expo in Jeollanamdo Province as part of NEAR Workshop’s “Discover the Region” program. The first destination was the Korean Pavilion, where they enjoyed a magnificent performance incorporating both video images and traditional arts performance about Korea's marine history and maritime capabilities. After viewing a performance about a dugong, the last of a family of marine mammals and a documentary film about the importance of preserving marine life at the Theme Pavilion, the delegation moved to the International Pavilion to have individual tours.

The panoramic view of the International Exposition Yeosu Korea 2012 The Korean and Japanese delegates who joined the cultural tour to Yeosu as part of NEAR Workshop’s “Discover the Region” program

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

13

NEAR Member Tour

Govi-Altai Province, Mongolia

Govi-Altai Province

Mongolia

Overview‘Govi-Altai province was established in

the south.

level, while the lowest point is the Nomin Desert at

1940 and it is the second biggest province in

A total of 10 biggest deserts of the 33 famous Gobi

583 m. The lowest and the highest temperature are

Mongolia, occupying 141,400㎢. The capital city

Deserts of Mongolia belong to the provincial territory.

-16~-24℃ degrees Celsius in wintertime and +20~+30℃

Altai is located 1001 km away from Ulaanbaatar, the

The province encompasses vast and beautiful three

degrees Celsius in summertime, respectively, and

capital city of Mongolia. Its population is over 56,000

major geographical zones including mountain ranges,

annual precipitation ranges from 48 to 110 mm.

and administratively divided into 18 units.

plain steppes and Gobi deserts.

Society and Economy Most of its population

Nature and Geography Govi-Altai province

The capital city Altai is sitiuted at an altitude of 2,181

is aged between 0 and 35, mostly children and young

is located in the west-southern part of Mongolia and

km above the sea level, which is the highest among all

people. Statistically, the number of men and women is

borders with Bayankhongor, Zavkhan, Khovd

Mongolian cities. The snow-capped peaks of the Sutai

close to equal and 50.8% are women. The major

provinces and the People’s Republic of China to

Mount are the highest point or 4,090 m above the sea

economic sector is animal husbandry and agriculture,

14

NEAR NEWS Vol. 45

Govi-Altai Province, Mongolia

NEAR Member Tour

The statue of Magsar Janchiv stands in the city of Altai ”One day in Mongolia,” the most famous masterpiece of Balduu Sharav Eej Khairkhan Uul (Mountain) The Nine Pots Lamiin Agui (Lama’s Cave) The top brand of Govi-Altai “Biger” (whiskey, champagne and wine) Tourist Route of the Eej Khairkhan Uul

while tourism sectors are developed recently. The

sections of this masterpiece of Mongolian art

Famous Local Brand Biger soum of Govi-

province has more than 1.6 million of livestock and it

illuminates many different aspects of Mongolian

Altai Province is famous for producing wine, oil and

occupies the second place in camel husbandry of

nomadic life including the various stages of felt

champagne made of vitamin tree fruit (Hippophae

Mongolia with 25,200 heads of camels. Various

making, erecting a Ger, and religous rituals. This

rhamnoides). In 1981, Biger’s vitamin fruit products

mineral resources have been explored, such as gold,

painting by B. Sharav shows Mongolian pastoral

were sent for the joint space flight of Soviet and

copper, molybdenum, aluminum and coal.

nomadic life as a robust colorful existance with great

Mongolian cosmonauts. The brand won a gold and

National Nature Reserves There are two

liveliness shown through its many fine details. It can

silver medal and Grand Prix in the Western Mongolia

major National Nature Reserves in Govi-Altai

be seen at the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts in

Exhibition, securing its place as one of the nation’s

province which belong to the Great Gobi. They

Ulaanbaatar.

best brands.

occupy a total of 98.266㎢ or 32 percent of the total provincial territory, inhabited by various rare animals and birds, including Gobi bear, snow leopard, wild

Must Visit Places in Govi-Altai!

Asian ass, mountain goats, wild Bactrian camel, Altai snow cock and etc.

Eej Khairkhan Uul (Mountain) - Eej Khairkhan Uul(2277m) is located in Tsogt soum of

Respected Historical Figures Govi-Altai

Govi-Altai province. It is famous for rocks and stones assuming fanciful shapes, and as a place

produced many historical figures who contributed to

inhabited by mountain goats, leopards, lynxs and wolves. The most famous natural feature of Eej

national development. Among them are Balduu

Khairkhan is a series of nine cascading pools of water known as the Nine Pots. The Nine Pots, with the

Sharav, a founder of modern art in Mongolia and

average width of 2-3 m, are always filled with rain water even in a draught season.

soldier Magsar Janchiv.

Lamiin Agui (Lama’s Cave) - “Lamiin Agui” or Lama’s Cave is the hermitage of a monk

Brave Soldier Magsar Janchiv In 1945,

known as Ravdan. He made a shelter for meditation by building a wall over the entrance of a natural

during the 2nd World War, Magsar Janchiv was

cave. Two beds made of piles of stones were found inside.

assigned a mission to repair a communication line.

Though shot several times on his way, he did not give up and died right after completing the mission at the young age of 22. His statue stands in the city of Altai in commemoration of the indomitable, courageous spirit.

Balduu Sharav The painting above (Picture 2) is “One day in Mongolia,” the most famous work of Balduu Sharav, who is often credited with the introduction of modern painting styles to Mongolia.

Bogd Khan (1869-1924), one of the most influential religious and political leaders in Mongolian history, one day ordered his court painter Sharav to depict a

Tourist Route of the Eej Khairkhan Uul 1. Tourist accommodation 2. Head of Stalin Rock 3. Table Rock 4. Sea Gull Rock 5. Baby Bear Rock 6. Hungry Mouth Rock 7. Elephant Rock 8. Silver Ingot Stone 9. Nine Pots 10. Theater Seats Rock 11. Penis Stone 12. Lamiin Agui 13. Kiss Stone 14. Buttocks Stone

grand overview of the timeless traditions of the dayto-day life of Mongolian people. Close scrutiny of

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

15

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 3F Pohang Technopark, #394 Jigok-ro (#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