NEAR news vol.46 (ENG)

NEAR

News

NEAR Leading the Era of Northeast Asia 2012. 7-8

Vol. 46 The 9th NEAR General Assembly (Photograph by Hou Zhigang)

Feature Report The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia NEAR This Month NEAR Activities / Secretariat News / NEAR Member News NEAR Member Tour Tottori Prefecture - Japan

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).

8

14

Vol. 46

Sha-hu, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region (Photograph by Hou Zhigang)

18

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, tourism, ocean & fisheries, Mineral Resources Development and Coordination, Energy and Climate Change, Women and Children, Bio-medical Industry to Agriculture.

Today, with the participation of North Korea and Mongolia and the accession of new member governments, NEAR encompasses 71 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

Feature Report

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012

A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia The 9th NEAR General Assembly was held in Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China between July 24-27 under the theme of “Forge Closer Cooperation, Create Joint Prosperity.� This year, over 162 people from 6 Chinese member regions, 6 Japanese member regions, 11 Korean member regions, 7 Mongolian member regions, 2 Russian member regions, diplomatic delegations from South Korea and North Korea, non-member regions, and observers attended the General Assembly. Some diplomatic delegations attended the NEAR General Assembly for the first time, and Representatives from DPRK participated for the first time in 8 years since the 5th NEAR General Assembly, which was held in Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo delivering congratulatory remarks at the opening ceremony of the 9th NEAR General Assembly

4

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

Heilongjiang Province, China, in September 2004, thus making the 9th General Assembly particularly meaningful.

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia

Feature Report

The Long-term Placement of NEAR Secretariat in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province Approved The plenary session on the morning of July 25 opened with the welcoming address from the 9th Chair of NEAR, Wang Zhengwei, Governor, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. This was followed by the Activity Report of NEAR and presentations by representatives from member regions.

Governor Wang Zhengwei presented the development direction for NEAR in a presentation titled “Prosperous Tomorrow Built by Enhanced Regional Cooperation.” Then 7 representatives from member regions presented the outstanding policies of their regions. Participants could recognize once again that the spirit of harmony and co-prosperity has an important impact on regional cooperation and development.

Respective delegates from member regions who are attending the General Assembly

The plenary session

1 2

In the afternoon, 5 agendas based on those discussed at the 8th Working Committee Meeting in 2011 were proposed at the 9th General Assembly. Following are the decisions.

1. We approved the application of the Jeollanam-do Province, Republic of Korea to host the General Assembly in 2014 2. We approved the application of the Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Republic of Korea for Extension of Term of Office and Long-term Placement of NEAR Secretariat.

3. We approved the application of Sejong Special Self-Governing City, Republic of Korea to be a new member of NEAR. 4. We approved the introduction of Professional Internship Program of NEAR (PioNEAR).

3

5. We voted against the introduction of the Membership Fee System proposed by the Secretariat.

The deliberation of the agenda of the General Assembly was followed by the Chair region, Ningxia Hui Autonomous region, signing the friendship exchange city agreement. The closing ceremony included the announcement of the “Ningxia Declaration” by Li Rui, deputy governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, and the ceremonial exchange of the NEAR flag between Ningxia, China and Jeollanam-do Province, Republic of Korea. Bae Yong-tae, deputy governor of Jeollanam-do Province, received the NEAR flag and expressed his gratitude for the support of member regional governments again. He pledged to fully prepare for the 9th NEAR Working Committee Meeting and the 1st Sub-Committee on Agriculture to be held in October 2013.

4

1. The Ceremonial exchange of the NEAR flag 2. The 9th Chair of NEAR, Wang Zhengwei, Governor, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China delivers the welcoming address 3. Governor of Gyeongsangbuk-Do Province, Kim Kwan-yong claps after the confirmation of the Long-term Placement of NEAR Secretariat 4. Bae Yong-tae, deputy governor of Jeollanam-do Province, delivering an address of thanks

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

5

Feature Report

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia

1

2

1, 2. Meeting between Xiang Zongxi, Chairman of the CPPCC Ningxia Committee, and the representatives of the NEAR secretariat

Inside the 9 General Assembly th

DAY 1 The 9th NEAR General Assembly

3 Meeting delegations from respective countries The Chairman of the CPPCC Ningxia Committee, Xiang Zongxi, met with and expressed welcome and gratitude to the representatives of NEAR Secretariat, Russia, Mongolia, Korea, and Japan from 4 p.m. on July 24 in the meeting room at the Yuehai Hotel. At the same time, the delegates from North Korea had a meeting with Li Rui, deputy governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Representatives from Ningxia and respective countries pledged mutual cooperation to enhance active exchange in more diversified fields.

Welcoming Banquet After the interview, the grand welcoming banquet was held in the lobby of the Yuehai Hotel with the congratulatory address by Xiang Zongxi, Chairman of CPPCC Ningxia Committee.

Participants had a chance to promote friendship at the banquet. They wrapped up Day 1 by enjoying the abundant food and performances prepared by the Ningxia organizers and sympathizing with the need for solidarity among the 70 NEAR members, which Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo stressed in his Congratulatory Address.

3, 4. The Welcoming Banquet held in the lobby of the Yuehai Hotel

6

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

4

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia

Feature Report

The relationship built by NEAR In the afternoon of July 25, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region successfully held the General Assembly and signed friendship exchange agreements with major cities in Northeast Asia. Last April, the delegation of Ningxia visited Bayankhongor Province, Mongolia to publicize the General Assembly and created a letter of intent for the friendship exchange agreement with Bayankhongor Province. On the occasion of the 9th NEAR General Assembly, they made the agreement official. Ningxia also signed a friendship exchange agreement with Zabaikalsky Territory. It is planning to exchange actively with each region in Northeast Asia.

DAY 2 The 9th NEAR General Assembly

1 2 The Cultural and Artistic Performance: “The Promise in Ningxia” After successfully completing the General Assembly, participants got together at the People’s Auditorium of Ningxia that night to watch the performance “The Promise in Ningxia,” organized by Li Rui, deputy governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. The performance consisted of various programs such as songs, acrobatics, a Peking opera, vocal music, and so on. In particular, the martial arts demonstration from the children of the martial arts school received a big round of applause.

1. The scene of signing the friendship exchange agreements between Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Bayankhongor Province 2. The Cultural and Artistic Performance:“The Promise in Ningxia”

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

7

Feature Report

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia

The Northeast Asia Horticulture Industry Seminar The Northeast Asia Horticulture Industry Seminar was held along with the 9th NEAR General Assembly under the theme of “Green, Creation, Cooperation and Coexistence,” organized by the department of agriculture and animal husbandry in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Experts in horticulture from respective countries delivered presentations at the seminar. “This seminar was a venue to broaden my understanding of the horticulture facilities in Northeast Asia,” Zhao Yongbiao, head of the department of agriculture and animal husbandry in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, said. Participants in the seminar enhanced their understanding of the local 1

industry in Ningxia through activities such as an industrial visit to the horticultural industry facilities in Ningxia and a viewing of its horticultural products.

Tree Planting Ceremony for the “Friendship Forests” The Tree Planting Ceremony for the “Friendship Forests,” organized by the People’s Government of Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, was held in the Forests Park in Yinchuan City in the morning of July 26. The ceremony was prepared as a way of building up the friendship between NEAR member regions and practicing regional cooperation on climate change. Participants took great pleasure in attending the tree planting ceremony under the scorching sun, pledging to see the day when the “Friendship Forests” become dense.

2

DAY 3 The 9th NEAR General Assembly

1. The Northeast Asia Horticulture Industry Seminar 2. The viewing of horticultural products in Ningxia 3. Kim Jae-hyo, NEAR Secretary General, and Li Rui, deputy governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, attending the Tree Planting Ceremony for the“Friendship Forests” 4. Participants taking great pleasure in planting the trees under the scorching sun 5. The Group Photo of the 9th NEAR General Assembly

3 4

8

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

5

The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia

Feature Report

Field Trip to Sha-hu Participants had time to experience the beauty of Ningxia by enjoying riding on camels and sand sleighs in Sha-hu, the famous tourist attraction of Ningxia, which includes both a lake and a desert.

Participants also gained beautiful memories of Ningxia during the field trip to Ningxia museum, the banquet for the representatives from member regions prepared by Zhang Yi, Secretary General of Ningxia Party Committee, and the Farewell dinner prepared by Li Rui, deputy governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

The 9 NEAR General Assembly th

6. Bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Sha-hu 7. Camels of Sha-hu

6

7

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

9

NEAR This Month

NEAR Activities

NEAR Activities The 9th NEAR General Assembly

The Inaugural Meeting of the Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change Scheduled for 9-12 October in Daegu

The 9th NEAR General Assembly was held between July 24-27 under the theme of “Forge

The 1st Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change will be held on 9-10 October in Daegu Metropolitan

Closer Cooperation, Create Joint Prosperity” in

City, Korea, under the theme of “Energy and climate change cooperation among NEAR members.” Daegu

Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region,

Metropolitan City, one of Korea’s top three cities with a population of 2.5 million, has given great efforts to

China. Over 280 people from 47 organizations in 6

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

countries including China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia,

urban landscape and environment. It will also organize the World Energy Conference known as the

Russia, and DPRK participated. (Continued on

“Olympics of Energy” in 2013.

page 4-9)

nd

The 2 Sub-Committee on Mineral Resources Development & Coordination held between August 1-3 in Magadan The 2nd Sub-Committee on Mineral Resources Development & Coordination was held between August 1-3 in the Magadan Region, Russian Federation. Various topics were discussed, including laws and regulations for mineral resources exploration and investment, locations and potential of mineral reserves, establishment of partnerships among representatives of mining companies, and many others. Magadan cordially invited officials from departments related to strategic economic development and mining industries in NEAR member regional governments

Date: 9-11 October (Tues.-Thurs.)

Venue: EXCO, Daegu Schedule Date

Schedule

Day 1 (9 Oct.)

Arrival, Check-in, Welcome Reception

Day 2 (10. Oct.)

Sub-Committee Meeting(offer simultaneous interpretation in members’ languages)

Day 3 (11. Oct.)

Industrial & Cultural Tour

Day 4 (12 Oct.)

Departure

* Detailed schedule to be announced.

Application How: Contact the International Commerce Department, Daegu Metropolitan City or NEAR Secretariat When: by August 30, 2012 Presentation material deadline: September 7, 2012 (for any member regional government hoping to deliver a presentation at the Sub-committee) * Theme Energy & climate change-related policies or cases promoted by member regional governments.

Proposal on furthering exchange and cooperation between members of and the development of the sub-committee on Energy and Climate Change.

Contact The International Commerce Department, Daegu Metropolitan City

and executives of mining and investment

English

Japanese

Chinese

companies.

Kim, Hoe-ran

Yoon, So-yeong

Jeon, In-woo

82-53-803-3265

82-53-803-3261

82-53-803-3262

E-mail

ralran@daegu.go.kr

haha9094@hotmail.com

steadylife@daegu.go.kr

Fax

82-53-803-3259

82-53-803-3259

82-53-803-3259

Contact

Sub-Committee on Educational & Cultural Exchange 2012

NEAR Secretariat Korean, English

Chinese

Japanese

Contact

Kim, Sung-hyun 82-54-223-2318

Lee, Hye-jung 82-54-223-2320

Choi, Soo-gyoo 82-54-223-2317

E-mail

neargov @gmail.com

cham0284 @gmail.com

s.g-c @hotmail.com

Fax

Mongolian

Russian

Khishigjargal Choi, Kyoung-nam 82-54-223-2384 82-54-223-2319 hi_hishgee @yahoo.com

rudska76 @hanmail.net

82-54-223-2307~09 82-54-223-2307~09 82-54-223-2307~09 82-54-223-2307~09 82-54-223-2307~09

Northeast Asia Wings of Exchange in Shimane 2012

between young people from Northeast Asian

mutual understanding and deepening cultural

Committee on Educational & Cultural Exchange,

Shimane Prefecture, the Coordinator of the Sub-

countries. Thirty people from 7 member regions in

exchange with the locals through various programs

held “Northeast Asia Wings of Exchange in

4 countries participated (2 Chinese, 1 Japanese, 2

such as homestay, experiencing traditional culture,

Shimane 2012” between August 3-8 to enhance

Korean and 2 Russian member regions).

and discussions about environmental issues.

mutual understanding and cultural exchange

Participants had a meaningful time, enhancing

10

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

Secretariat News / NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

Secretariat News The 23rd International China Harbin Fair for Trade and Economic Cooperation

Announcement of Resignation and Appointment Yoo Aram, who has worked for the Secretariat in the planning & general

A NEAR delegation, including Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo, attended the International China Harbin Fair for Trade and Economic Cooperation, held in Harbin city in Heilongjiang Province between June 14-17. On the first day, Secretary General Kim visited Daqing City, a large-scale oil producing area,

affairs division since August 2007, resigned on June 29. The new staff member in charge of Korean affairs and English is Kim Sung-hyun (T. +82-54-223-2318 F. +82-54-223-2309).

Kim Sang-hyun, who has worked for the Secretariat in the international

located near Harbin City, and held discussions with Deputy Mayor Kang

cooperation division since February 2009, resigned on August 10. The new

Zhiwen about cooperation on NEAR activities in the future. On June 16, he

staff member in charge of Russian affairs is Choi Kyoung-nam

met with Vice Governor of Heilongjiang Province, Zhang Jianxing, to discuss

(T. +82-54-223-2319 F. +82-54-223-2309).

the development of NEAR.

Secretary General Kim Jaehyo (Left) and Vice Governor of Heilongjiang Province Zhang Jianxing (Right)

Yoo Aram, former specialist on Korean Affairs and English

Kim Sung-hyun, new specialist on Korean affairs and English

Kim Sang-hyun, former specialist on Russian Affairs

Choi Kyoung-nam, new specialist on Russian affairs

NEAR Member News Henan Province - China The 11th Chinese Bridge Competition Concluded with Full Success On July 26, the 11th Chinese Bridge, the Chinese Proficiency Competition

Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region China 2012 China (Ningxia) International Investment and Trade Fair & the 3rd China-Arab States Economic and Trade Forum

for Foreign College Students, concluded in Changsha. Since its debut competition, which was held in 2002, nearly 1000 college students from 70

On July 6, the press

countries have been invited to attend the competition in China, and more than

conference of the 2012

120,000 college students from across the world have participated in

China (Ningxia)

preliminary competitions in various countries. The competition has become an

International

important platform for college students from around the world to learn

Investment and Trade

Chinese and understand China, and has helped the world’s youth connect with

Fair & the 3rd China-

each other. The final competition has been held in Hunan since 2008; every

Arab States Economic

year, Hunan welcomes competitors from around the world to showcase their

and Trade Forum (the

The press conference of the 2012 China (Ningxia) International Investment and Trade Fair & the 3rd China-Arab States Economic and Trade Forum

excellent

Forum) was held at the

performances. Son Ji-

Conference Hall on the third floor of the Beijing International Hotel. The

oh, from the Republic

Forum will be held between September 13-17 in Ningxia. With the theme of

of Korea won the

“Friendship, Cooperation, Development,” the Forum will include summit

special prize this year.

meetings, theme forums, a commodities exhibition, and economic cooperation, as well as cultural and sports exchange programs, aiming at further promoting economic and trade communication, investment

Foreign college students attending the 11th Chinese Bridge, Chinese Proficiency Competition

cooperation, and friendship between China and the Arab states. So far, all preparation work has been progressing smoothly.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

11

NEAR This Month

NEAR Member News

Kyoto Prefecture - Japan

Toyama Prefecture - Japan

Registering Kyoto’s Valuable Assets on New World Heritage Lists

Koshino Literature House Opens The KOSHINOKUNI Museum of Literature opened on July 6, 2012.

Kyoto prefecture is currently seeking to register Japanese food, Amanohashidate and Uji tea on the World Heritage lists to propagate tangible and th

Toyama Prefecture is the hometown of Etchu1) Manyo2), where Otomo Yakamochi, a Manyo poet, recited 223 poems about 1,300 years ago. In

intangible assets which have cultural values. This year will mark the 40

modern times, the region has produced writers such as Hotta Yoshie, Genji

anniversary of the establishment of the World Heritage Convention created to

Keita and Kadokawa Genyoshi.

protect cultural and natural heritage which have universal values. The final

In addition, many literary works are set in Toyama Prefecture.

meeting of the 40th anniversary of designation of the World Heritage Site co-

Toyama produced Takida Yojiro, Motoki Katsuhide and Hosoda Mamoru in

organized by UNESCO and the Japanese government will be held in Kyoto in

the film sector, and Fujiko Fujio A and Fujiko Fujio in the comic book sector.

November. Executive Committee in the region is also poised to hold various

The KOSHINOKUNI Museum of Literature is a place everyone can enjoy as

memorial projects and is planning to propagate the cultural charm of Kyoto

it introduces the charms of the Toyama Prefecture’s folk literature by taking

such as Japanese food, Amano-hashidate and Uji tea along with ‘Historic

advantage of visual technology and interactive experiments.

Monuments of Ancient Kyoto’ which was

It will feature the opening exhibition “Otomo Yakamochi and Etchu ManyoClimate (Mind) and Resounding Heart of Yakamochi” until October 14.

registered on the World Heritage list to the world.

Amano-hashidate sand bar 1) 1) Sand bar: A ridge of sand formed in a river or along a shore by the action of waves or currents.

Where: 2-22 Hunabashiminami-cho Toyama city, Toyama Prefecture Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. * During the Opening Exhibition: Fri./Sat. until 8:00 p.m., other days until 6:00 p.m.

Admission Fees (Permanent Exhibitions): General Admission 200 yen (except for Temporary Exhibitions) Contact: T. +81-76-431-5492 1) Etchu: the ancient name for modern Toyama, 2) Manyo: Collection of Japanese poetry

Aomori Prefecture - Japan Aomori and Khabarovsk to hold memorial project marking the 20th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation

Sejong City - Korea Sejong City became a NEAR member together with the city’s launch

Aomori Prefecture and Khabarovsk Territory

Khabarovsk traditional dance troupe“Slavyanskaya gusha”

Sejong City became an official member of the Association of North East

marked the 20th

Asia Regional Governments (NEAR). The city applied for membership to

anniversary of the Treaty

NEAR along with the city’s launch on July 1 to enhance its profile as a

of Friendship and

prestigious, environmentally friendly city by participating in international

Cooperation in August.

conferences and becoming a member of international organizations. Sejong

In honor of that

city was approved as an official member of NEAR at the 9th General Assembly

anniversary, the

held in Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China between July

“Khabarovsk Trade Fair,”

24-27 and has started full-fledged activities.

co-organized by the two regions, will be held in Aomori Prefecture to

“By becoming a member of NEAR, we secured a stepping stone for

introduce the tourism and specialties of Khabarovsk to people in the region.

strengthening exchange

Russian folk songs and folk dances and working-level talks will be held to

and cooperation with

discuss the future direction of exchange.

major cities in Northeast Asia, which is emerging

When: Sunday, August 19, 2012 Where: Front Hall 1F, ASPM (Aomori Sightseeing Products Mansion), Aomori Prefecture, Japan Contact: International Group, International Economy Department, Bureau of Strategic Tourism and International Affairs, Aomori Prefectural Government. TEL +82-17-734-9218

12

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

as one of the world’s three largest economic regions. With this The ceremony launching Sejong Special Self-Governing City as the 17th metropolitan autonomous entity in Korea (July 2, 2012)

opportunity, we will do our utmost to make

NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

Sejong city the practical administrative capital

Ulaanbaatar City - Mongolia

and a world-class prestigious city by expanding exchange with other administrative capitals in

2012 International Mining Investors’ Forum to Take Place

the world such as Putrajaya, Malaysia.

The Present Status of Sejong Special Self-Governing City Population and Size: 102 thousand, 465 Major Features: new administrative capital city, science-belt district Major Tourist Attractions: Tower Milma-ru, Bear Tree Park, Gobok Reservoir

“Discover Mongolia 2012,” the international mining investors’ forum, will be held between August 30-31 in Ulaanbaatar City, Mongolia. This forum, celebrating its 10th anniversary, will be a good opportunity for investors and companies to formulate their own perspective on Mongolia’s investment environment. Mongolia has a newly elected parliament, and the Discover Mongolia Forum will be a platform for the government of Mongolia as well as private sector investors to engage in constructive exchange. In 2011, over 1,500 people from 20 countries participated in “Discover Mongolia.” The number of participants in the forum is expected to increase in the years ahead, and it will be an influential investors’ forum in Asia.

A Bird’s-Eye View of Sejong Special Self-Governing City

Gyeongsangbuk-do Province Korea The scene of the International Mining Investors’ Forum in 2011

The Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang Seeking the 2nd Miracle on the Yeongilman Bay The Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Zabaikalsky Territory - Russia Governor of Zabaikalsky Territory met with NEAR SG

Province is expediting its movement towards a

Container Terminal at the Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang

Ravil Geniatulin, Governor of Zabaikalsky Territory, Russia, met with

fully-fledged operation

NEAR Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo at the International China Harbin Fair

with a new leap forward

for Trade and Economic Cooperation on June 16. Governor Ravil Geniatulin

on the 3rd anniversary of

explained the need for the introduction of overseas capital and technology in

its opening. The harbor is now planned for completion in 2020 after a 2 trillion

the development of the Zabaikalsky Territory and mentioned that the

854.4 billion won investment opened four container berths in August 2009.

Zabaikalsky Territory wants to get help by participating in NEAR activities. In

rd

This year, marking the 3 anniversary of its opening, and the harbor opened

response, SG Kim Jae-hyo explained the various activities of the NEAR Sub-

two more general berths. Future projects, such as building 16 berths, an 8.11

Committees and suggested taking advantage of those activities. Governor

km breakwater and port hinterland complexes, aim to establish the harbor as

Ravil Geniatulin said that currently Zabaikalsky Territory has very few

the hub port that covers the East-Sea Rim Economic Region in the 21st

economic exchanges with Korea compared to the close economic exchanges

century. When a high-standard port logistics infrastructure, including the

with China and Mongolia. He expressed his wish to establish greater exchange

surrounding road network and the inland railway at Yeongilman Harbor, is

and cooperation with the Korean regional governments through NEAR and

expanded, it will become the international logistics Hub of the East-Sea Rim

pledged active participation in NEAR activities in the future.

Region both in name and in reality.

Currently, the Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang operates 3 Russia routes, 2 China routes, 1 Japan route, 1 Southeast Asia route, and 1 Busan coastwise route, totaling 8 routes and 13 voyages. This year, this will be expanded to include 13 routes and 18 voyages by opening new Northeast Asia routes including Zarubino, Russia, Vietnam and Thailand, and new Japan routes including Kobe and Osaka. A trial run of international cruise ships and ferries to link the Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang and the Maizuru port in Japan is planned in preparation for the construction of the International Ferry Terminal.

Governor of Zabaikalsky Territory Ravil Geniatulin and Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

13

NEAR This Month

Events of NEAR Member Regions

September

Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

2

3

4

23

24

25

2012. 9.

October

Region Bayanulgii Province (Mongolia) Event Golden Eagle Hunting International Festival When October 2-3 Where Bayanulgii Province Contact Administrative Department, Bayanulgii Province T. +976-1422-23762

2012. 10.

7

8

14

15

2

16

23

14

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions

NEAR This Month

Wednesday

Thursday

Region Jeju Special Self-governing Province (Korea) Event The 5th Jeju Women Divers Festival When September 5-6 Where Haenyeo Museum Contact Division of Ocean Development T. +82-64-710-3253

Friday

5

6

Saturday 7

Region Event When Where Contact

Altai Territory (Russia) International Cheese Festival September 7-10 Barnaul Bureau of Food and Drugs T. +7 (3852) 635973 F. +7 (3852) 637481 E-mail www.ffprom22.ru Website piscevik@ab.ru

13

Region Event When Where

22

Jeollabuk-do Province (Korea) Jeonju Int’l Sori Festival September 13-17 Sori Arts Center of Jeollabuk-do, Jeonju Hanok Village Contact The Organizing Committee for Jeonju Int’l Sori Festival Program Manager, Lee, Yejun T.+82-63-232-8398 F.+82-63-232-8399

27

Region Shandong Province (China) Event Qufu International Confucius Cultural Festival of China 2012 When September 27-29 Where Qufu Contact Jining Confucius Cultural Festival Affairs Office T. +86-537-3202805 F.+86-537-3208111 E-mail Kzwhjxc@126.com

4

Region Busan Metropolitan City (Korea) Event The 17th Busan International film festival When October 4-13 Where Busan Cinema Center, Screening theaters in the Haeundae area Contact BIFF Busan Office T. +82-51-747-2861 F. +82-51-747-2067 Website http://www.biff.kr/structure/eng /default.asp

Region Event When Where Contact

Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea) Colorful Daegu Festival 2012 October 10-16 Daegu City Culture & Arts Division, Daegu Metropolitan City T. +82-53-803-3732 F. +82-53-803-3729

10

Region Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea) Event Daegu International Opera Festival 2012 When October 12-November 10 Where Daegu City Contact The Organizing Committee for Daegu International Opera Festival T. +82-53-666-6111 F. +82-53-351-5825 Website http://www.diof.org/

Region Event When Where Contact

Region Primorski Territory (Russia) Event International Film Festival of Asian Pacific Countries, “Pacific Meridian” When September 22-28 Where Vladivostok Contact Cultural Bureau of Primorski Territory T. +7423 241 2724 F. +7423 241 2759 E-mail cultprim@mail.ru Website www.vladivostokfilmfestival.ru

Region Gyeongsangbuk-do Province (Korea) Event Andong Mask dance Festival When September 28-October 7 Where Andong Mask dance Park Contact ANDONG FESTIVAL TOURISM FOUNDATION T. +82-54-841-6397 Website www.maskdance.com

28

5

Region Chungcheongbuk-do Province (Korea) Event The 2nd Chinese Student Festival When October 5-7 Where Cheongju Arts Center Contact Tourism & Aviation Division of Chungcheongbuk-do Province T. +82-43-220-3961 Website http://www.cbcsf.net

12

Region Daejeon Metropolitan City (Korea) Event 2012 International Food & Wine Festival in Daejeon When October 12-15 Where Daejeon convention Center Contact Tourism Industry Division, Daejeon Metropolitan city T. +82-42-600-2432 Website http://djfestival.daejeon.go.kr

Region Gyeongsangbuk-do Province (Korea) Event Gyeongju Korean Traditional Rice Cake & Drink Festival When October 13-17 Where Bonghwangdae Pavilion, Gyeongju Contact Foundation of Gyeongju Culture T. +82-54-748-7721 Website www.fgf.or.kr

13

18

Jeollanbuk-do Province (Korea) Korea Food Festival October 18-22 Jeonju City Tourism Industry Division, The office of Jeollabuk-do provincial government Officer in Charge, Chae, Gyeong-im T.+82-63-280-3324 F.+82-63-280-3969

Region Event When Where Contact

Busan Metropolitan City (Korea) The 8th Busan Fireworks Festival October 26-27 Gwangalli Beach International Cooperation Division, Busan Metropolitan City T. +82-51-888-3541 F. +82-51-888-4039

26

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

27

15

NEAR Member Tour

Tottori Shan Shan Festival

16

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

Tottori Prefecture - Japan

Tottori Prefecture - Japan

NEAR Member Tour

Tottori Prefecture

Sakaiminato city Tottori city Yonago city

Kurayoshi city

Tottori Prefecture Japan Welcome to Tottori Prefecture, the Kingdom of Comics!

Overview Tottori prefecture is located in the northeast of the Chûgoku Region, which is in the west of the Japanese Archipelago. It is around 120 km from east to west, and around 20-50 km from north to south. In the north, it is connected to the East Sea, and there are white sandy beaches such as Tottori Sand Dunes and green coasts with pine trees. The Chûgoku mountains spread from the south to the north and include Mt. Daisen, the highest peak in the Chûgoku Region. It is mountainous, but includes 3 river basins, where Tottori city, Kurayoshi city, and Yonago city developed. It has four distinctive seasons, and the weather is comparatively warm. The days are usually clear from spring until autumn, and it snows during winter. In addition, it has few natural disasters, so it has weather conditions that are good for natural resources. Its major agriculture products are the fresh tasting “Tottori Nijisseiki Pear,” and “Rakkyo” from the sand hills. It is famous for the “Matsuba Crab,” which is harvested in the winter. In the industrial sector, offices related to electronics, machinery, and IT devices stand close together. Industries related to foods are also concentrated here.

International Exchange The Tottori Prefecture has made rapid progress as the foothold in the west for exchange in the East Sea rim by taking advantage of its geographical location. In particular, it is actively building a relationship of exchange with Gangwon-do Province, Korea, Jilin Province, China, Primorski Territory, Russia, and Tuv Province, Mongolia. It actively promoted exchange with the Sea akaiminato city

countries by signing a friendship exchange agreement with Hebe Province, China in 1986 and “the Joint Statement on the Friendship Exchange” with Khabarovsk Territory, Russia in 2012.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

17

NEAR Member Tour

18

NEAR NEWS Vol. 46

Tottori Prefecture - Japan

Tottori Prefecture - Japan

NEAR Member Tour

2

1

4

3

1. Sanbucheu Temple·Nageire Hall 2. Mt. Daisen 3. Tottori Sand Dunes 4. Kirin-Jishi (Lion) Dance

Gateway to Northeast Asia Tottori Prefecture is developing a transportation infrastructure to connect Japan, especially western Japan,

related events, such as special events related to 3 cartoonists from Tottori prefecture, a cartoon theme song concert, and a cartoon exhibition, are also planned.

From November 7-11, the “13th Tottori International Comic Artist Conference” will be held and

with Northeast Asia as a “Gateway to Northeast Asia.”

is expected to attract over 400 cartoonists from all over the world. It is expected that many people

As the hub of marine transport, ‘Sakai Port’ operates

from home and abroad will experience the attractions of the Tottori Prefecture, leading to the

regular container ships that connect Korea and China, so

promotion of the comics culture through these events.

many imports and exports are concentrated here.

* “Manga Kingdom TOTTORI” Homepage (offers 6 languages): http://manga-tottori.jp/

In addition, the port operates the only international Cargo-Passenger Ships in western Japan, which connect with Donghae City, Korea and Vladivostok, Russia. The

Tourism Tottori Prefecture is divided into 3 regions: the Eastern region centering around Tottori City, the

new route, which connects the human and material

Central region centering around Kurayoshi city, and the Western region centering around Yonago

resources of these three countries, is expected to have a

city and Sakaiminato city. Each region has its respective attractions. The “Tottori Sand Dunes” in

huge influence on the regional economy, such as

the eastern portion of the prefecture are representative sand dunes, which are vast, sandy beaches

expanding the sales channels of businesses in the

spread along the East Sea. They are designated as a special protection zone of the Sanin marine

prefecture and increasing the number of businesses,

national park and are Japan’s largest tourist sand dunes, stretching 2.4 km from the north to the

regional employment opportunities, and foreign tourists

south, and 16 km from the east to the west.

through the increased use of the harbors. In addition, the

Misasa Hot Spring, located in the central region, is well known to contain the largest deposit of

Yonago Airport is directly connected to Incheon Airport

radium in the world. As it has a calm atmosphere, it is well known as an excellent spring in the

in Korea and Haneda Airport, both international airline

Sanin region, and many literary men have visited. In addition, Sanbutsuji Temple and Nageiredo

hubs, so it can be regarded as the inevitable

Hall in Mt. Santoku are unprecedented structures built on a steep cliff, and are designated as

transportation infrastructure.

National Treasures.

Kingdom of Comics

culturally valuable, and plays a central role as the western and central tourist region in Tottori

Mt. Daisen, the highest peak in the Chugoku Region, has grand scenery, is historically and

Tottori prefecture is producing world renowned

Prefecture in both name and reality. Because of its grand stature, it is called the “Mt. Fuji of Houki

comic/cartoon artists such as Mizuki Shigeru, creator of

Region.” Last May, “Kaike Daisen SEA TO SUMMIT,” an epoch-making sports event, was held.

“GeGeGe no kitaro.” Taniguchi Jiro, creator of “In the

Through that event, people could think of the environment while experiencing the 33 km long and

Village Far Away,” and Aoyama Gosho, creator of

1,709m high route from Kaike Coast to the top of Mt. Daisen.

“Detective Conan.” Because of this, Tottori Prefecture has designated comics as a regional resource and is making an effort to build tourist attractions and to

Traditional Arts In Tottori Prefecture, traditional arts and annual events that are rich in local color, such as Kirin-

promote the area by taking advantage of its association

jishi (Lion) Dance, Umbrellas Dance, and Nagasibina, have been handed down through the

with comics. In particular, Tottori made this year the first

generations. The traditional arts that have been handed down from old times enhance the

year of the kingdom of the comics and is holding the

understanding of and attachment to the region and have become the driving force for the

“International Manga Exhibition” from August to

construction of a better region. They are handed down to the next generation consistently through

November, where various events, including comics,

continuous preservation and transmission activities.

animations and cosplays, will be held. Around 140 The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

19

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