NEAR news vol.49 (ENG)

NEAR

News

NEAR Leading the Era of Northeast Asia 2013. 1-2

Vol. 49

Fireworks Show Greeting the New Year in Central Lake Park, Sejong City, Korea

Special Contribution Kim Jae-hyo, NEAR Secretary General / Wang Zengwei, Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region / Too-Tokhsuren, Governor of Uvurhangai Province / Waldorf, Magadan Governor / Toshizo Ido, Governor of Hyogo Prefecture NEAR This Month NEAR Activities / Secretariat News / NEAR Member News Feature Report Magadan, Russia - Magadan and Northeast Asia NEAR Member Tour Sejong Special Self-Governing City, Korea

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).

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Vol. 49

Russian Orthodox Church Baptism Event

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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

Special Contribution

Kim Jae-hyo, NEAR Secretary General

Special Contribution New Year's Message A Year of Hope We greeted the year 2013 after experiencing two major changes in 2012.

First, national leaders and the national leadership of the world’s major countries, including Russia, France, Egypt, India, Mexico, America, China, Japan, and Korea, experienced enough transformation for the year 2012 to be referred to by the moniker of ‘World Election Year’. NEAR member regions were no exception; North Korea, Russia, China, Japan, and Korea all have new leaders, while regional governments in Mongolia feature new leadership as well. For this reason, it is expected to actually change the situation in these countries in 2013.

Next, changes in the world economy had been observed.

At the time-honored ‘World Economic Forum-Davos 2013(WEF)’, held in January 2013, with the participation of 2,500 world opinion leaders, the atmosphere became optimistic enough that the slogan Kim Jae-hyo NEAR Secretary General

‘Tail Risk Reduced’ in the opening ceremony had been changed to ‘Tail Risk Removed’ by the closing ceremony. Tail Risk is not likely to occur, but once it occurs, it could have a significant effect on the global economy. For example, tail risk includes risk factors such as the collapse of the Eurozone, a double dip in the American economy, and the hard landing of the Chinese economy.

This meant that for the first time since the global economic crisis of 2008, the outlook for predicting risk for the global economy had improved. The rapid depreciation of Japanese yen according to the quantitative easing policy for the yen is emerging as a variable powerful enough to create a ‘Currency War’ among the major currencies by immediately influencing their value.

Meanwhile, South Korea, China, and Japan agreed to begin negotiations on a Trilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on November 20, 2012, addressing an issue that had long been a challenge. It will take time for an FTA to be concluded. However, according to this announcement, the economic community created by this agreement will have a population of 1.5 billion and a GDP of 15 trillion dollars, but it will not only become a viable power in the region but also have a huge impact on the world economy.

Conflict caused by territorial disputes and differences in historical perceptions, which since last year has deepened among Korea, China, and Japan, directly and indirectly influenced NEAR activities, but it is expected that economic integration through the future FTA will be beyond politics.

These positive elements will have a major effect on both the Northeast Asian region’s politics and economy, and cooperation activities among sub-national governments; this requires active participation by all parties concerned.

Furthermore, I hope NEAR’s response efforts to resolve common global issues such as climate change, environmental preservation, food safety, scarcity of water and energy resources, and youth unemployment will be reinforced, and that NEAR should also have an opportunity to participate in a newly invigorated field of social enterprise. NEAR’s new long-term vision for 2020 is also expected to be established.

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NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Wang Zengwei, Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Special Contribution

Special Contribution New Year's Message The year of the snake, a symbol of abundance, has started.

Ningxia would like to extend greetings to other member regions on the occasion of the 2013 New Year’s holiday and Chun Jie, the biggest holiday in China. The 9th General Assembly was successfully held in Yinchuan, Ningxia, at the end of July 2012, with the substantial support and cooperation of NEAR member regions. I would like to, once again, extend my sincere gratitude for being given this opportunity.

Ningxia, also one of the 71 NEAR member regions, has always emphasized the importance of reinforcing exchange and cooperation among Northeast Asian regions. There has been a recent trend of economic cooperation and regional integration among geographically adjacent Northeast Asian nations. In addition, Ningxia has abundant resources and a relatively great and stable market, and is one of the most active areas for economic activities in Asia. Although each country has differing levels of social systems and economic development, all regions are trying to develop their economy.

Wang Zengwei Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

The cooperation in Northeast Asia is about to change from theoretical cooperation to practical cooperation, which means that cooperation in Northeast Asia is currently focusing on undertaking various projects. At such times, we need to vitalize Northeast Asian regions for long-term, rapid, and sustainable development.

Innovative mechanisms are needed in order to promote regional integration. Regional governments will need to enhance friendly relations in multiple ways, including implementing policy, linking industries, and exchanging culture by investigating mechanisms of more effective conversation, exchange, and cooperation. In addition, I request that every member consistently promote interregional cooperation and economic integration in various fields in order to make the Northeast Asian region the most rapidly expanding region in the world in terms of economic development.

Close collaboration is necessary for the generalization of exchange . Regional governments need to promote new structural concepts, along with more abundant content, and organize more cooperative events in fields such as trade, academia, and culture. At the same time, more broad and in-depth exchange should be developed.

Ningxia has unique advantages, even though development in western China is comparatively late. In particular, Ningxia hopes to continue active cooperation with other regional governments in key areas such as tourism, culture, energy, and agriculture.

There is a Chinese saying that claims, “If people know one another well, although we are distant from each other, we can be neighbors.” I expect the economic development and platform for peacewhich we previously worked for on a collaborative effort between NEAR member regions, and as per NEAR Equality and Reciprocity principles-to play a huge role during the New Year. I wish you continued success, happiness, and good health in the years ahead.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

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Special Contribution

Too-Tokhsuren, Governor of Uvurhangai Province

Special Contribution New Year's Message I want to convey my New Year’s Greetings to all of you on behalf of all the residents of Uvurhangai Province, a town full of attractions, history, and culture, located in the heart of Mongolia.

I have been reelected as Governor of Uvurhangai Province and am using all my experience and capabilities for regional development. Last year’s Mongolian parliamentary elections featured significant victories for the Democratic Party. The opposition, which had led the democratization of Mongolia, became the first party to switch over to the Democratic regime.

NEAR is an organization with active international exchange activities across Northeast Asia. We will try to develop practical, cooperative relationships with NEAR member regions, including those related to investment promotions and economic exchange.

Finally, I pray for the well-being of the NEAR secretariat staff and the good health of all residents of NEAR member regions.

Too-Tokhsuren Governor of Uvurhangai Province

New Year's Message Northeast Asia's Path The development prospects of the Russian Far East are connected to the expansion of foreign economic cooperation with Northeast Asian countries. With this in mind, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit was held in Vladivostok, in September 2012, where the summit participants frequently addressed the importance of regional economic integration.

Cooperation with emerging countries in the Asia-Pacific region is one of the most important policies for the Far East and could help resolve the asymmetry of regional economic development between Europe and Asia in Russia. When closely examining the status of foreign trade in the Russian Far East over the past five years, one finds that 82-91% of the total trade was carried out by APEC participants.

More specifically, Korea (29%), Japan (25%), and China (15%) were the leading trade groups in 2011.

Asian-Pacific countries (such as Japan) accounted for 12% of foreign investment in the Russian Far East in 2011. However, according to experts, effective economic cooperation between these regions is still in the early stages.

Waldorf Magadan Governor

Magadan is fully aware of the need for an integration of Northeast Asian countries that reflects regional foreign policy. Magadan became a member of NEAR in 2008, along with such organizations as the Korea-Russia Far East and Siberia’s Economic Science and Technology Joint Committee, North Russia Trade-Economic and Scientific and Technological Cooperative Sub-Committee among Regional Governments, and the US-Russia Pacific Partnership Treaty. In addition, Magadan put into practice cooperation programs among the Far East, East Siberia in Russia, and North Korea’s

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NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Waldorf, Magadan Governor

Special Contribution

Northeast region.

Since 2009, a special program called the “Foreign Trade Development and Export of Magadan 2009-2013” has worked to increase the efficiency of foreign economic policy. As a result, representatives from Magadan have attended some of the largest international events over the last four years. These events include the following:

- Harbin International Economy and Trade Exposition (China) -Asia-Pacific’s International Mining Exposition, Sydney (Australia), 2011 -Jewelry Industry Fair International Forum <Junwex Petersburg-2011>, St. Petersburg (Russia) -International Automobile Exposition <AUTO - Shanghai 2011>, Shanghai (China) -International Exposition <Hunting, Fishing, Rest-2011> -<JUNWEX Moskva 2011> -<JUNWEX Petersburg 2012> -International Exposition <Dairy Products and Meat Industry- 2012>

At “The day of Magadan” event, held by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2011, representatives from 74 countries, including India, China, the Philippines, Brazil, Paraguay, and Singapore, visited Magadan and saw the city’s cultural and developmental potential. Promoting Magadan on the world market was one of the event’s major goals.

The state government was pushing ahead with a Magadan investment seminar in Asia-Pacific regions that have cooperative investment potential, and gave presentations on the possibility of developing Magadan resources in Beijing (China) and Tokyo (Japan) in 2010, Sydney (Australia) in 2011, and Seoul (Korea) in 2012. Magadan also plans to visit Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The most attractive project for foreign investors is the mining district of Magadan, which is rich in mineral resources. The metal reserves in Magadan include a gold layer (11% of the total amount of metal), gold (15%), and silver (50%), which are centralized in Magadan.

The most popular exports of Magadan are from the fishing sector, which accounts for 51% of the total exports. Magadan’s marine products, imported from the surrounding nations, include crab, pollock, herring, and cod. The haul of fish in Okhotsk accounts for 1/5th of the total haul of fish in Russia, and the region is home to 300 species, including shrimp, conch, and squid. Foreign investment has increased 19 times as a result of active foreign economic policies over the last five years, and the total volume of foreign trade, including a 37% increase with the Asia-Pacific countries, has increased to 23 percent.

2013 is Magadan’s 60th birthday. A common project will be carried out through exchange between partners in various fields, including effective communication and economic and social development, in partnership with the countries of Northeast Asia, as well as the industrial policy that we have already planned for future-oriented regional development.

I think that the international cooperation among Northeast Asian countries chosen by the Russian government is desirable and this process can bring about great improvement for all Asia-Pacific regions and each country participating in this exchange.

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

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Special Contribution

Toshizo Ido, Governor of Hyogo Prefecture

Special Contribution New Year's Message Happy New Year!

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments (NEAR), founded in order to cope with the common goals of the region, is celebrating its eighteenth year in 2013. NEAR has made remarkable achievements in terms of the number of member regions, from 29 regions from four countries to 71 from 6 countries, and the number of sub-committees has increased from 5 to 13.

Meanwhile, with changes in the international situation, as the seriousness of problems in the environment, energy, and food sectors has increased, dealing with issues beyond the nation and the role of sub-national governments has become even more important.

The effort to prevent and reduce disaster is one of those issues. The number of natural disasters and their victims has more than tripled since the 1970s. In particular, large-scale disasters, including the 2008 Great Szechuan Earthquake and the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, have occurred frequently in recent years.

Toshizo Ido Governor of Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo prefecture suffered heavy damages and loss of life because of the 1995 Hansin-Awazi Earthquake; the disaster took more than 6,400 lives and destroyed 600,000 houses. Thanks to support from home and abroad and the tireless efforts of all concerned, a successful recovery was accomplished. We engage in this work with the mindset that it is our responsibility to inform people of previous experiences and lessons, and use this experience to deal with forthcoming disasters and restoration work. Support activities in districts damaged by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake were provided to revitalize restoration efforts. The emphasis is on reconstruction of the community and treatment of the mind.

As an effort of international contributions, Hyogo tries to prevent and recover from disasters with help from international organizations in Hyogo Prefecture, such as the Hyogo Office of the UN International Disaster Prevention Strategy Office, the UN Humanitarian Matter Medication Office in Kobe, the Asia Disaster Prevention Center, the International Disaster Restoration Organization, the WHO Kobe Center, and the JICA Kansai. The “Human and Disaster Prevention Future Center” is at the center of these efforts. In addition, international attempts to promote disaster prevention, based on the “Hyogo Action Framework” adopted at a 2005 UN Disaster Prevention World Conference, have been implemented in various regions.

It is impossible to prevent all natural disasters. However, it is possible to minimize the damage by preparing in advance. As a result, sharing experiences and knowledge is important. We try to reduce the impact of disasters across society by sharing opinions with you through the NEAR Sub-Committee on Disaster Prevention. Why do we not work closely together to realize a safer and more peaceful Northeast Asia?

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 8

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

NEAR Activities

NEAR This Month

NEAR Activities Delegation of Tuv Province, Mongolia Visited NEAR Secretariat Governor Bayarbat of Tuv Province, Mongolia, one of the NEAR member regions, visited the NEAR secretariat and exchanged views about methods of mutual cooperation and promotion of exchange with NEAR Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo on January 22. The governor Bayarbat made a presentation on attracting direct investment and requested interest in the East region and the active participation of NEAR on this visit with Tsog Bayar, head of administration of Tuv Province. In particular, he requested NEAR’s and NEAR member regions’ cooperation on building a new city currently in progress in the East region, and Jung Byung-chun, head of the business cooperation, Pohang Techno Park also attended the meeting and promised to cooperate closely with them.

Meanwhile, Secretary General Kim expressed his concern about holding General Assembly in Mongolia in 2016 and requested interest and cooperation of member regions in Mongolia. After that, a company of governor visited Gyeongsan plant in Maeil Dairies Co. Ltd and then went on to Seoul. This visit was the first example of the chief of Mongolia member regions visiting the secretariat of NEAR and the active participation and mutual cooperation of Mongolia member regions, at the height of future development and economic development, with NEAR are

From left_Kim Dong-sung(Director General of NEAR), Bayarbat(Governor of Tuv Province), Kim Jae-hyo(Secretary General of NEAR), Tsog Bayar(Head of Administration of Tuv Province)

expected.

2013 NEAR Annual Event No

Event

When

Where

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The 11 Sub-Committee on Disaster Prevention

March 11~14

Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan

2

The 10th Sub-Committee on Economy and Trade

April 4~6

Xi’an, Shaanxi, China

3

NEAR Working level Workshop

May

Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Korea

NEAR Secretariat T. +82-54-223-2318(English) +82-54-223-2320(China) +82-54-223-2317(Japan) +82-54-223-2384(Mongolia) +82-54-223-2219(Russia)

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Sub-Committee on Life and Medical Industry

May

Chungcheongbuk-do Province, Korea

Kim Myung Ok, Economy and Trade Division, International Commerce T. +82-43-220-3485 F. +82-43-220-3259

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Sub-Committee on Women and Children

July

Dornod Aimag, Mongolia

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Sub-Committee on Educational and Cultural Exchange

August

Shimane Prefecture, Japan

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Working Committee

October

Jeollanam-do Province, Korea

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2013 NEAR International Forum

October 31~ November 1

Seoul, Korea

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Sub-Committee on Environment

October

Toyama Prefecture, Japan

10

Sub-Committee on Agriculture

October

Jeollanam-do Province, Korea

11

Sub-Committee on Tourism

undecide

Henan, China

12

Sub-Committee on Maritime Affairs and Fisheries

undecide

Shandon, China

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Contact Disaster Prevention Division, Hyogo Prefecture T. +81-78-362-9870 F. +81-78-362-9914 Gwon Tae-nam, NEAR Sub-Committee on Economy and Trade, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province T. +82-53-950-2278 F. +82-53-950-2979 E-mail: ktn7223@korea.kr

Dornod Aimag Council of Women T. +976-98993571 +976-98209428 Environment and Life. Cultural Exchange Division, Shimane Prefecture, T.+81-852-22-6464 F.+81-852-22-6412 Park Ho, International Relations, International Exchange T. +82-61-286-2431 F. +82-61-286-4763 NEAR Secretariat T. +82-54-223-2318(English) +82-54-223-2320(China) +82-54-223-2317(Japan) +82-54-223-2384(Mongolia) +82-54-223-2219(Russia) Sea of Japan Cooperation Center, (Foundation corporation) T. +81-76-445-1571 F. +81-76-445-1581 Park Ho, International Relations, International Exchange T. +82-61-286-2431 F. +82-61-286-4763 The Foreign Affairs Office of People’s Government of Henan T. +86-371-69068090 F. +86-371-65688841 The Foreign Affairs Office of People’s Government of Shandon T. +86-531-86137806 F. +86-531-86040243

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

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NEAR This Month

Secretariat News

Secretariat News Secretary-General Kim Attended “Trilateral (KoreaChina-Japan) Business Networking Reception”

Flows”, “Technologies for a Smart Future”, “Emerging Countries Showing the Path: Successful Strategies for Regions” and “Implementing the Renewables.”

NEAR Secretary-General Kim jae-hyo participated in a conference entitled “Trilateral Business Networking Reception” held at the Seoul Plaza Hotel, Seoul on January 17, 2013, The reception, hosted by Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat(TCS), in collaboration with Korea International Trade Association(KITA), Seoul Japan Club(SJC) and

NEAR Secretary General Kim participated in Panel 5 “Emerging Countries Showing the Path: Successful Strategies for Regions” as a guest speaker.

Secretary General Kim briefly introduced NEAR and explained the current situation of NEAR member regions.

In addition, he discussed the possibility of promoting a common

Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Korea(CCCK) was designed to

international Forum in Northeast Asia this year with R20 in partnership

commemorate ‘the official announcement of the launch of the trilateral

with NEAR.

FTA negotiations’ and to facilitate networking among business groups of the three countries working at home and abroad.

With the participation of over 200 businessmen from the three countries in the reception, the ROK Trade Minister, Bark Tae-ho delivered the keynote speech and Chairman Ahn Hong-joon of the Foreign Affairs, and

*The R20 Regions of Climate Action a non-profit organization founded in 2010 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and other global leaders in cooperation with the United Nations. The R20 is a coalition of partners led by regional governments that work to promote and implement projects that are designed to produce local economic and environmental benefits in the form of reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions; strong local economies; improved public health; and new green jobs. These local actions can help the world achieve our shared global environmental and economic goals. “R20 is not just another NGO or network of regions, it is much more than that. It is

Unification Committee of the ROK National Assembly, President Huang

a real coalition of forces which believe that climate change and green economic

De of Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Korea, and Chairman Kobayashi

development can be tackled at the subnational level.” - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in the Global Journal, May-June 2011

Tadashi of Seoul Japan Club delivered congratulatory remarks.

Meanwhile, Secretary General Kim exchanged opinions with President Huang De and Chairman Kobayashi Tadashi and requested interest in and a cooperation with NEAR.

Secretary General Kim with Chairman of Seoul Japan Club (left) and President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Korea(right) Secretary General Kim delivering a speech in Panel 5

Secretary General Kim Visited Vienna R20 Conference NEAR Secretary General KIM Jae-hyo participated in the R20 Conference held in Vienna, Austria on January 31-February 1 as a guest speaker with Kyung Sil Kim, Specialist in Cross-Cultural Communication and Translation. The R 20 (R-20: Regions of Climate Change) Conference, a coalition of partners led by regional governments from all over the world, was held under the theme of “Implementing the Sustainable Energy Future” with the participation of more than 600 delegates concerned about climate change including sub-national governments, NGOs, related companies, research institutes, and the academy along with Founding Chair Arnold Schwarzenegger; R20 Executive Director Dr. Christophe Nuttall; President of the European Commission, Manuel Barroso; Federal Chancellor of Austria, Werner Faymann; Prime Minister of Romania, Victor Ponta; Director-General of UNIDO, Kandeh Yumkella; and the NEAR Secretariat delegation.

The R20 Conference focused on the following themes: “The Energy Mix of the Future”, “Empowering Regions to Implement New Energy Solutions”, “Innovative Finance Mechanisms for Climate Investment

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NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Secretary General Kim with Panel members of Panel 5

Secretariat News

NEAR This Month

Zhang Boyang Participated in a Promotional Event of Gunsan-si

2012 NEAR Annual Report Published Various programs have been offered for promoting exchange, such as

Zhang Boyang seconded from China to the NEAR Secretariat attended a

increasing the number of member regions and Sub-Committees, since the

Promotional Event of Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do Province, held on January

foundation of NEAR. In particular, a management system of four-year

14 and 15, that targeted officials seconded from China to Korea. After

terms for members of the secretariat was developed and became the

having a Sister City Agreement with Yantai, China and Sister and

permanent system in 2004.

Friendship Cities Agreement with nine Chinese cities in 1994, this event

Sustainable and consistent management became possible according to

became a local promotional event held in the Gunsan-si, in a process of

the decision to provide long-term maintenance in Gyeongsangbuk-do

exchanging with China in various fields, in order to facilitate international

Province, Korea in 2012.

exchange of Gunsan-si and build networks within China.

Mayor Mun Dong-Shin of Gunsan-si asked participants to widely publicize Gunsan-si throughout China during the promotion presentation th

According to this, the foundation of NEAR has been strengthened by rebuilding their website, based on an independent server for suggesting a new vision for NEAR, so that communication and information interaction

in City hall on the afternoon of the 14 . Participants took the time to visit

have been activated. In addition, the circulation of NEAR News has been

City hall, the Saemangum area, an Observatory for migratory birds, and

increased to more than 2000.

Modern historic culture, and understand Gunsan-si over a period of one day and two nights.

NEAR has established mutual cooperation with international organizations by building cooperation agreements including the Partnership Agreement with AER(Assembly of European Regions) and with R-20 (Regions of Climate Action).

NEAR could elevate its status by offering the newly published “2012 NEAR Annual Report” systematically summarizing the major activities of NEAR (in both English and Korean editions) and reporting to member regions and related organizations.

The NEAR Website Reconstructed The new website was launched on February 12 by enhancing Group Photo in Gunsan City Hall

information reinforcement and convenience on international level using existing website built by NEAR in 2005. The website was reconstructed to make it convenient for member regions and ordinary citizens to use.

The 10th Sub-Committee on Economy and Trade held in Xian, Shaanxi, China

The website consists of seven menus, including About NEAR, Member Regional Governments, Sub-Committee, Publications/Resources, News/Activities, Database, and Events, along with 200 other items.

On April 4th through the 7th, the 10th Sub-Committee on Economy and

Content is offered in six languages (Chinese, Japanese, Korean,

Trade is hosted by Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, the NEAR Economy and

Mongolian, Russian, and English), and the site offers a mobile version,

Trade Sub-Committee coordinator, in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China, the Silk

independent mail-service, a video conference system that allows users to

Road representative city. At this event, representatives of each member

have a conference with nine separate screens simultaneously, integrated

region, along with executives in the fields of Economy and Trade, are

search engine, web-log analyzing system to analyze the site’s visitors, and

supposed to prepare a foundation for new economic cooperation by

a route-in webpage. The NEAR website manages integrative contents

making a presentation on best practice examples of mutual cooperation in

management system, including managing members, content, message

Economy and Trade in the Silk Road regions.

board, newsletter, questions, and video-converting and overall events,

This Sub-Committee is held in conjunction with the “Korea Silk Road

such as announcement of events, registration, management, reporting

Project”, currently operated by Gyeongsangbuk-do Province; the

results. It is possible to manage performance evaluation by managing a

“Gyeongsangbuk-do Province-Shaanxi International Exchange and Korea-

database on participants and event organization and analyzing the results

China Silk Road Event” is also to be held at the same time.

of the event and have a connection with social networking services(SNS),

This Sub-Committee is held not in the coordinator’s city but in a third

such as Facebook and YouTube. NEAR expects member regions to use

city, for the first time, and is expected to provide member regions with

this newly rebuilt website actively to promote the latest information

more various and meaningful programs.

sharing and exchange cooperation.

■ homepage address : http://www.neargov.org ■ facebook homepage : http://www.facebook.com/neargov

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

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NEAR This Month

NEAR Member News

NEAR Member News Heillongjiang Provice - China

Museum, and Red Cliff, which represents the three major war regions of

2013 Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival

student their same age during the Chinese New Year’s Day, called

the three kingdoms. In particular, they stayed at the home of a local Yuandan, and experienced Wuhan’s general home and holiday.

th

The 14 China Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival began on a

Participants declared that this camp helped them know how important

grand scale on January 5, 2013. This ice show consisted of nine thematic

Wuhan is in the history of China and learn the culture of the glorious State

exhibitions, including an Ice Palace, Mythology, “Conch Bay”, famous

of Chu through a closing ceremony on the afternoon of January 4. Many

Chinese animation works, a Glacier World with the theme “Fantastic Ice

participants said the homestay program, which allowed them to experience

Light and Mysterious Ice Fairy Tales.” This event attracted the notice of

different countries’ cultures, was the most memorable program and it

tourists, with an approximately 600,000 square-meter. Ice Carnival Parade

would provide unforgettable and precious memories; it made them feel

combining with high technology revealed more three-dimensional and

that Chinese people’s friendship is thicker than water.

dynamic characteristics of Northern China. In addition, Branding representative performance programs, such as “European Ice Show”, European performance, and the large “Cool Harbin” Ice Circus brought a fresh edge to traditional elements.

The “journey for Finding Chinese Roots”

Ice Palace, The 14th Harbin International Ice and Snow Show

Hubei - China The “Journey for Finding Chinese Roots” Hubei Winter Camp held in Wuhan- China Winter Camp Participants in front of Yellow Crane Tower

The “Journey for Finding Chinese Roots”, 2012 Overseas Chinese Youth’s Hubei Winter Camp, was organized by the State Council of China and hosted by the Foreign Affairs Office of Hubei.

The camp was organized around the theme of “Finding Roots by Learning Chinese Language and Culture and Experiencing Hubei’s Distinctive Culture”. There were 220 participating teachers and students

Hyogo Prefecture - Japan The Oriental White Stork Exchange with Khabarovsk Russia

from four countries (Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore).

This thirteen-day camp provided participants with opportunities to learn

Matsuda, the deputy head of the Education department in Hyogo

traditional Chinese culture, such as culture courses from the Chinese State

Prefecture, and Yamagishi, the dean of Hyogo Prefectural Homeland for

of Chu, the Chinese language, calligraphy, painting, flower arranging,

the Oriental White Stork, visited Khabarovsk and participated in a

paper crafts, Chinese martial arts, and dance, and the participants had time

ceremony donating four storks from Hyogo Prefecture to the East region.

to appreciate teaism and the Beijing Opera, and to make Chinese cuisine.

The Oriental White Stork, the subject of a special national monument in

In addition, they visited sites that have historical significance, such as the

Japan, inhabited the nation for many years, but the last wild species

Hubei Provincial Museum, Yellow Crane Tower, Chinese Revolution

disappeared from Hyogo in 1971. Hyogo Prefecture works hard to protect

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NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

NEAR Member News

NEAR This Month

the stork and encourages breeding with the purpose of promoting an

Ecotourism officials and researchers, is expected to be held in October this

enriched environment for co-existing with the stork. Meanwhile, since

year.

1985, Hyogo has been provided with storks from Khabarovsk, the friendly

They will implement tour programs allowing people to enjoy the nature

city, and tried to return the stork to nature. Two of the four storks that they

and history of the region, and address environmental concerns during the

donated can be traced back to a baby stork offered at that time. Hyogo

contest; this will give them the opportunity to introduce Tottori Prefecture

expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Khabarovsk at a donation

as the Mecca of ‘Eco-Tourism’ and ‘New Tourism’.

ceremony and it was a meaningful visit in terms of exchanging opinions on raising and breeding.

Kaike/Daisen SEA TO SUMMIT, Sports Event thinking of environment while experiencing nature

Gwangju Metropolitan City - Korea Performance to Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Sister City in Sendai Korean Traditional Performance was held in Elpark, Sendai, on December 8, 2012 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of sister city between Gwangju Metropolitan City, Korea and Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.

Gwangju National Theater Company of Korea consisting of 15 people presented performance composed of 5 parts; Dancing, Playing traditional instrument and Singing Korean traditional folk song, etc.

Donation Ceremony (Yamagishi dean’s greeting) and donated Oriental White Stork

The performance drawed enthusiastic applause from 120 people from Korean Residents Union in Japan and Korea-Japan International Exchange Organization staff. In addition, ‘Kimchi Making Experience’ using Sendai

Tottori Prefecture - Japan

Cabbage in the cooking division of Meisei High School which started to

Tottori Prefecture, a Mecca of ‘Eco Tourism’ and ‘New Tourism’

with high schools of Gwangju Metropolitan City.

research cabbage was set up upon the opportunity to have an exchange At the opening ceremony hosted by Sendai and the Korean Consulate General in Sendai, Mayor Okuyama Emico of Sendai, said “we would like

Unlike on previous visits, Tottori Prefecture is trying to promote ‘Eco

to have close relationship in economy.” And Consul General Lee Beom

Tourism’ and ‘New Tourism’, focusing on contact between humans and

Yeon said, “I expect both cities to be developed to take an active part all

nature at tourist attractions with the goal of attracting tourists from

over the world.” In addition, Vice Governor Lee Dong-suck of Gwangju

domestic and foreign countries.

Metropolitan City said, “I hope that the performance of National Theater

‘Kaike-Daisen SEA To SUMMIT’ is an environmental sports event whose goal is reaching the top of Daisen Mountain through a combination

Company of Korea gives power and courage to Sendai citizens in restoration from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.”

of kayaking, bicycling, and climbing. Many travelers are interested in a variety of activities that allow them to experience the nature, history, and culture of Tottori, such as a sea kayaking tour of the Sanin beach, designated as a Global Geopark, and a Nordic walking tour walking on Togoho lake side that was selected as one of the eight most scenic tours.

All travelers are interested in activities allowing them to feel nature, history, and culture together.

Tottori’s ‘International Ecotourism Conference 2013’, intended to discuss ‘Ecotourism and local composition’ with the participation of

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

13

NEAR This Month Gyeongsangnam-do Province - Korea Governor Hong Jun-pyo of Gyeongsangnam-do Province Visited Japan

NEAR Activities

The following individuals and organizations hoped this event would be hosted successfully: Korean President Lee Myung-bak, Myanmar’s Democracy Leader Aung San Suu Kyi, Malawi President Joyce Banda, leaders of the Global Development Summit, Governor Choi Moon-soon of Gangwon-do Province, and the athletes and staff of the Special Olympics.

Governor Hong Jun-pyo of Gyeongsangnam-do Province, participated in

Eight games, including one exhibition game, were launched at the

a New Year’s party for Kinki residents in Osaka, Japan, on January 27-29,

Pyeongchang Winter Special Olympics on January 30. The event concluded

and visited Yamaguchi Prefecture and Okayama Prefecture, the sister and

with Figure Queen, Kim Yu-na’s Ice Show on February 5.

friendship cities of Gyeongsangnam-do Province.

There was an opportunity for Koreans living in Japan to feel regional

Also, in addition to the games, the ‘Global Development Summit’ to discuss protection of the rights of people with disabilities and improve

consciousness and pride as Gyeongsangnam-do citizens by attending the

support; the ‘World Youth Meeting’, which included World Youth leaders

New Year’s party for “the Year of the Snake”, with an invitation of Kinki

and a ‘Unified Program’ that featured global celebrities unified by

residents on the 27th, the first visiting day. Because of the opportunity to

intellectual disabilities, were also a highlight of this Special Olympics.

participate in the New Year’s party for Tokyo and Kyoto residents, Gyoengsangnam-do has participated in this event every year.

Governor Hong Jun-pyo, expressed his gratitude to Koreans living in Japan by showing his constant affection and support for the development of a provincial government which is confident, runs with integrity, and performs exceptionally. He had a meeting with Okayama on the 28th and Yamaguchi residents on the 29th, and explained the policy direction of the Gyeongsangnam-do provincial government and requested cooperation. He

Special Olympics World Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Torch Run

also heard their difficulties and encouraged them.

Governor Hong Jun-pyo also visited Yamaguchi Prefecture and Okayama Prefecturethe, the sister and friendship cities of Gyeongsangnamdo Province, and strengthened mutual exchange and cooperation with both regions. Both regions’ governors hoped to promote exchange, including

Krasnovarsk Territory - Russia The 10th Krasnovarsk Economic Forum

discovering policies for coexistent development among regional governments, and have the exchange become a model for other regional governments.

The “Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum”, one of Russia’s three major annual business activities, was held on February 14-16, 2013, in the city of Krasnoyarsk.

This forum was sponsored by the government of the Russian Federation and Dvorkovich, deputy prime minister of the Russian Federation, served as the chairman of the organizing committee.

The 10th Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum was held based on <Russia: map change>. <Youth Together> was held on the first day (the 14th) and the presentation on <Major Developmental Direction of Economic and Social fields of the Russian Federation by 2018>, presented by international and Russian experts was offered on the second day(the 15th).

Hong Jun-pyo, Governor of Gyeongsangnam-do province participating in Kinki Residents Community’s New Year’s party of Gyeongsangnam-do Province

On that day, new model for economic development to reform social systems and improve the quality of life was suggested.

A significant part of the discussion analyzed the region’s contribution to

Gangwon-do Province - Korea

the modernization of the national economy, the prospects for the

Special Olympics World Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018, The Winter Festival for Intellectual Disabilities began

for including Russia in the global economy chain <Digital Economy>.

The 10th Special Olympics World Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018, the Winter Festival for Intellectual Disabilities kicked off with a grand opening ceremony on January 29 in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do Province, which will also host the 2018 Winter Olympics. Under the theme of “Dream Chorus”, the Special Olympics was held with the participation of more than 3,000 athletes from 106 countries, touching the hearts of people for eight days.

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NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

development of Siberia and the Far East, and the evaluation of possibilities

NEAR Activities

NEAR This Month

NEAR This Month Region

No

Event

When

Where

1

The 15th World leaders meeting and Export meeting

April 16~19

Daemyung Resort, Buangun

Tourism and Leisure Division, Jellabuk-do Provine T. +82-63-280-2704

2

International Buddhist Culture& Industry Exhibition

March 1~3

Kim Dae-jung Convention Center

International relations Division, Gwangju Metropolitan City T. +82-62-613-3923 F. +82-62-613-3919

3

Polychar 21, World Forum on Advanced Materials

March 11~15

Kim Dae-jung Convention Center

International relations Division, Gwangju Metropolitan City T. +82-62-613-3923 F. +82-62-613-3919

4

Solar, Wind & Earth Energy Trade Fair

March 13~15

Kim Dae-jung Convention Center

International relations Division, Gwangju Metropolitan City T. +82-62-613-3923 F. +82-62-613-3919

Henan

5

2013 Year of Snake’s Emperor Ring Ceremony

April 12

Xinzheng

The Foreign Affairs Office of People’s Government of Henan T. +86-371-69068090 F. +86-371-65688841

Henan

6

The 31th Luoyang Peony Festival

April 1~ May 10

Luoyang

The Foreign Affairs Office of People’s Government of Henan T. +86-371-69068090 F. +86-371-65688841

Shandong

7

The 14th Shouguang International Vegetable and Technology Expo

April 20~ May 30

Shouguang

Shouguang International Vegetable and Technolgoy Expo Working Committee

8

Ningxia International Birds Festival

April 1~ May 31

Shizuishan

Sightseeing Devision, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region T. +86952-6684025

Jeollabuk-do Province

Gwangju Metropolitan City

Gwangju Metropolitan City

Gwangju Metropolitan City

Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Khubsgul Province

Khabarovsk Territory

9

Ice Festival

10

International Practical Study Conference <New Idea of a New Age>

March 2~3

March

Hargal, Khubsgul lake

Khabarovsk

Contact

Development Policy Devision, Khubsgul Province T. +976-7038-8184 F. +976-7038-3283

T. +7-4212-35-83-16 F. +7-4212-72-06-84 E-mail. rector@khstu.ru http:// www.khstu.ru Pacific National University

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

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Feature Report

Magadan, Russia - Magadan and Northeast Asia

1

Magadan, Russia

Magadan and Northeast Asia - Ponomarenko Ivan, NEAR Staff Seconded from Russia to the Secretariat International relations in the Magadan economy, called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Kolymaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, began in the early 1990s. Joint business ventures in the mining and processing marine resources, developing gold mines, and providing food and consumer goods were created for the first time in that period. Foreign investors were very active participants at that time.

Magadan has sister cities in America, China, Latvia, and Bulgaria, and Japan and Korea are partner countries.

Magadan currently does not need state support, but a strong progressive movement is needed for the goal of strategic development by 2020.

Therefore, Magadan plans to increase the amount of gold mining to 100 tons per year and start developing copper, tin, zinc, molybdenum, and iron ore districts. The construction of a cement plant in the Vstrechenskoe district, which has enough cement production reserves for at least 100 years, is planned.

In addition, expectations are high for developing brown-coal that is predicted to have reserves of 1,500 million tons and mass hydrocarbon, of which there is approximately 5,000 million tons on the Saju coast in Magadan.

It is not enough to attract state and private investors, but foreign investors should also be attracted in order to actualize mineral resources development and outline a realizable plan to enhance the self-esteem of Magadan. First of all, Magadan should attract foreign investment directly affecting regional economic plans. To achieve this, Magadan is trying to promote a friendly investment environment as much as possible.

One of the examples is the selection of an exclusive industrial zone over the course of ten years, provide tax and tariff privileges, and guarantee supportive activities of <Economic Development Meeting> under the control of the The Governor of Magadan.

There is a long history of a cooperative relationship between Magadan and China. Looking at the structure of recent imports, 1/3 of imported items are bulldozers, graders, and loaders, and next highest item is trucks and metals. Marine products are a major export to China.

A significant number of companies in Magadan are joint companies with China, including <Geocenter>(LLC), <Denezhkin Kamen>(Corporation), Dredger for Carrying Metal

and <Tayga Plus>(Corporation) in the gold mining industry. A coal dressing factory came into<Geocenter> (LLC) in 2008. According to the

16

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Magadan, Russia - Magadan and Northeast Asia

Feature Report

2

customs reports of Colima, the trade volume in 2011 increased 8% ($37,700,000) compared to the volume in 2010. The Magadan government agreed to a teaty with a Chinese company, <The Southeast mining company> (Corporation), in 2011 in order to actualize a project for the three districts which was geologically studied.

China makes preparations for realizing joint projects with Magadan as a cooperation project among the regions of the Russian Far East, Zabaikal, and Northeast China. The primary components of this project are <Brown Coal Processing Facilities> in the mountains of Magadan and <Ocean hunting organization>, including the processing of raw materials and the production of pharamaceuticals, cosmetics, meat, leather, and fur products. Facilities of timber industry development in Srednekansky of Magadan is included in the project.

Magadan has a partnership with Mongolia. <Magadan Machinery Factory> exported GGM-3,

3

industrial equipment for washing sand, to the <Flinkmongoliya>company. Economists say that Mongolia is more likely to be a cooperative partner country in the realms of lighting and trade and the economy.

Mongolia and Magadan are both rich in mineral resources and it will be possible to exchange the technology for extracting and processing mineral resources. Moreover, Magadan is interested in exporting items popular in Mongolia, such as consumer goods, industry equipment, leather, cashmere, and wool.

Korea has long been a trusted partner with companies in Magadan and has developed foreign trade relations over the years. This accounts for 44.7% of Magadan’s total exports and totals $88.10 million.

As Korea consumes many marine products, this is one area where it is possible to have cooperation in regards to Magadan’s major export; Magadan has modernized its aquaculture farms. In addition, cooperation is possible in various areas, including mineral mining, development of a shelf of

4

petroleum gas, medical resources, and information exchange in technology, culture, and agriculture.

Magadan delegations headed by Waldorf governor visited the Korean Trade Association, in Seoul, Korea, for a briefing session on investment in Magadan in October 2012. More than 100 Korean companies attended the briefing session.

Governor Nikolai Waldorf praised Magadan’s investment potential for Korea and suggested the areas of metal mining, the mining and processing of brown coal, the fishing and aquaculture industry, tourism, and transportation infrastructure.

The briefing session on investments declared that there are expected reserves of mineral resources, including copper (1,100,000 tons), silver (16,500 tons), lead (550,000 tons), and zinc (700,000 tons), one of which will be developed within this year. $5 billion is required for this project, including mining, smelting cooper, and processing ore.

5

Magadan also helps to develop the Rassoshinsky gold mine in the Srednekansky region of Magadan.

Expected reserves in Srednekansky are 20 tons of gold and 195 tons of silver in Olchi, and 19 tons of gold and 85.6 tons of silver in Zet. The reserves in Podgorninsky are expected to contain 60 tons of gold and 300 tons of silver.

The Magadan government signed an MOU on investment cooperation with KUKDONG JEYEN, Korea, during the briefing session. Magadan agreed to cooperate in producing a special lubricant for cars and a liquid which can withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the Northern provinces.

In addition, Korea has proposed the construction of a waste recycling plant in Magadan and Magadan plans to create an international tourist center in Jack London Lake.

Magadan and Korea are geographically close and economically have a mutual supplementary relationship. Magadan has active cooperative relations with Korea in the area of fish exports, and the fishing industries in Magadan and Korea have worked together for a long time based on their mutual

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

The View of Magadan Matrosof Ore producing Area Ingot metallurgy, Kolyma Refining Plant Dredger Magadan Ice Breaker

interests. Magadan stresses that up until now, marine products and the ship repair trade were the city’s main businesses, and Magadan is confident that the mining industry and tourism sector will be further developed in the future.

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

17

NEAR Member Tour

New administration central city, SEJONG Special Self-Governing City, Korea

Sejong Special Self-Governing City, Korea

New Central Administrative City, SEJONG Special Self-Governing City Overview

Major Characteristics

Sejong Special Self-Governing City was th

officially launched as the 17 metropolitan council in Korea on July 1, 2012, with the goal of correcting side effects resulting from the

■ Nation’s Central Administrative City Thirty-six central government agencies (a total of 10,452 civil servants), including 9bu 2choe 2choeng, are expected to make the move down to Sejong City by 2014.

The Prime Minister’s Office was the first to move, in September 2012, followed by the Ministry of

excessive concentration of metropolitan areas

Strategy and Finance; the Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; the Ministry of Land,

and enhancing a balanced national development

Transport and Maritime Affairs; the Ministry of the Environment; and the Fair Trade Commission. (a

and national competitiveness. It is located 120

total of 5,500 civil servants)

South Seoul, and includes the whole area of

This year, a total of 6 central administrative offices including the Ministry of Education, Science and

Yeongi-gun, Chungcheongnam-do province and

Technology, the Ministry of Knowledge Economy, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministry of

some areas of Gong-ju city and Cheongwon-gun,

Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Ministry of Employment and Labor and 12 agencies will be moved to

Chungcheongbuk-do province. The city consists of

Sejong as the 2nd step. The 3rd step is completed with the move of 4 central administrative offices

one town, nine townships, and one neighborhood.

including the office of legislation, Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, National Tax

The population is currently 115,000. The city

Service and National Emergency Management Agency and 2 agencies next year.

aims to have a population of 150,000 by 2015, 300,000 by 2020 and 500,000 by 2030.

18

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Government Complex Sejong is connected by a bridge and roof-garden, and 18 segmented buildings are connected to each other in a U-shape that extends 3.5 .

NEAR Member Tour

New administration central city, SEJONG Special Self-Governing City, Korea

Tourist Attractions

Available Attractions Milmaru Observatory Bear Tree Park Gobok Lake Park Dweeungbark Goeul(town) The Auto Camping in Habkang Park, Biamsa, Yeongpyung-sa

Planned Facilities Lake Park The National Library of Korea Presidential Archives Art Center Arboretum

Government Complex Sejong is designed to avoid inefficiencies in administration services, in accordance with a dual government, through multilateral videoconferencing and a smart work center.

■ Smart Education Environment Schools which are moving to the government complex are to be smart schools and managed based on the latest information technology, such as digital textbooks and smart pads. Three schools, Charmsaem Elementary School, and Hansol Middle School and High School, are designated as research schools based on a smart education model that was outlined last year. Seven schools, including Sejong Global High School, are expected be founded in March and September 2013 and are planned to be established as smart schools.

■ Environmental Friendly City More than 50 percent of the city area will be used as park and green space, and CO2 emissions are expected to decrease by 70 percent (compared to the levels in the 1990s) by 2030. In particular, in order to make it the world’s top green city, Sejong maximizes energy saving by installing a solar power generation facility in Sejong city, connecting roads to Daejeon, a water quality restoration center and waste landfill, and by using energy saving LED and UCD lighting.

BRT buses run on electric or natural gas will operate and transportation systems will be built for citizens enabling them to reach their destination within 20 minutes without using cars.

■ It Ubiquitous City As broadband convergence networks are loaded along public transportation systems and main roads, electronic tags, ubiquitous sensor networks, geographic information systems, Intelligent transportation systems, wireless internet networks are being built in all parts of the city and a system managing the 119 (emergency) service comprising a disaster situation room, city situation room, CCTV situation room, city cyber room, city facilities management center, and common duct management room is being planned.

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