Transcript
NEARNEAR Leading the Era of Northeast Asia2012. 7-8
Vol. 46
News
The Association of North East Asia Regional
Governments
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 TourTottori Prefecture - Japan
The 9th NEAR General Assembly (Photograph by Hou Zhigang)
“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).
NEAR News
Vol. 46
Sha-hu, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region (Photograph by Hou Zhigang)
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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
NEAR NEWS Vol. 46
The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia
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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
Heilongjiang Province, China, in September 2004, thus making the 9th General
Assembly particularly meaningful.
The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012
Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo delivering congratulatory remarks at the opening ceremony of the 9th NEAR General Assembly
Feature Report
A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia
Feature Report The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 5
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).
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.
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.
The plenary session
1. The Ceremonial exchange of the NEAR flag2. The 9th Chair of NEAR, Wang Zhengwei, Governor, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region,
China delivers the welcoming address3. Governor of Gyeongsangbuk-Do Province, Kim Kwan-yong claps after the
confirmation of the Long-term Placement of NEAR Secretariat4. Bae Yong-tae, deputy governor of Jeollanam-do Province, delivering an address of thanks
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Respective delegates from member regions who are attending the General Assembly
NEAR NEWS Vol. 466
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.
DAY 1
1, 2. Meeting between Xiang Zongxi, Chairman of the CPPCC Ningxia Committee,
and the representatives of the NEAR secretariat
3, 4. The Welcoming Banquet held in the lobby of the Yuehai Hotel
The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast AsiaFeature Report
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The 9th NEAR General Assembly
Inside the 9th General Assembly
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 7
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.
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”
Feature Report The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia
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DAY 2
The 9th NEAR General Assembly
NEAR NEWS Vol. 468
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 Co-
existence,” 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
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.
1. The Northeast Asia Horticulture Industry Seminar2. 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
The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast AsiaFeature Report
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DAY 3
The 9th NEAR General Assembly
The 9th NEAR General Assembly
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 9
Feature Report The 9th NEAR General Assembly 2012: A Friendship Bridge for Northeast Asia
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6. Bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Sha-hu7. Camels of Sha-hu
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.
NEAR This Month NEAR Activities
10
NEAR Activities
The 1st Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate Change will be held on 9-10 October in Daegu Metropolitan
City, Korea, under the theme of “Energy and climate change cooperation among NEAR members.” Daegu
Metropolitan City, one of Korea’s top three cities with a population of 2.5 million, has given great efforts to
realize a green Solar City for the first time in Korea by promoting renewable energy industries and greening
urban landscape and environment. It will also organize the World Energy Conference known as the
“Olympics of Energy” in 2013.
The 9th NEAR General Assembly was held
between July 24-27 under the theme of “Forge
Closer Cooperation, Create Joint Prosperity” in
Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region,
China. Over 280 people from 47 organizations in 6
countries including China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia,
Russia, and DPRK participated. (Continued on
page 4-9)
The 9th NEAR General Assembly
The 2nd Sub-Committee on Mineral
Resources Development &
Coordination held between August
1-3 in Magadan
Sub-Committee on Educational &
Cultural Exchange 2012
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
and executives of mining and investment
companies.
Shimane Prefecture, the Coordinator of the Sub-
Committee on Educational & Cultural Exchange,
held “Northeast Asia Wings of Exchange in
Shimane 2012” between August 3-8 to enhance
mutual understanding and cultural exchange
between young people from Northeast Asian
countries. Thirty people from 7 member regions in
4 countries participated (2 Chinese, 1 Japanese, 2
Korean and 2 Russian member regions).
Participants had a meaningful time, enhancing
mutual understanding and deepening cultural
exchange with the locals through various programs
such as homestay, experiencing traditional culture,
and discussions about environmental issues.
The Inaugural Meeting of the Sub-Committee on Energy & Climate
Change Scheduled for 9-12 October in Daegu
Date: 9-11 October (Tues.-Thurs.)Venue: EXCO, DaeguSchedule
Contact
Fax
Kim, Hoe-ran
82-53-803-3265
ralran@daegu.go.kr
82-53-803-3259
English
Yoon, So-yeong
82-53-803-3261
haha9094@hotmail.com
82-53-803-3259
Japanese
Jeon, In-woo
82-53-803-3262
steadylife@daegu.go.kr
82-53-803-3259
Chinese
Contact
Fax
Kim, Sung-hyun
82-54-223-2318
neargov
@gmail.com
82-54-223-2307~09
Korean, English
Lee, Hye-jung
82-54-223-2320
cham0284
@gmail.com
82-54-223-2307~09
Chinese
Choi, Soo-gyoo
82-54-223-2317
s.g-c
@hotmail.com
82-54-223-2307~09
Japanese
Khishigjargal
82-54-223-2384
hi_hishgee
@yahoo.com
82-54-223-2307~09
Mongolian
Choi, Kyoung-nam
82-54-223-2319
rudska76
@hanmail.net
82-54-223-2307~09
Russian
Northeast Asia Wings of Exchange in Shimane 2012
NEAR NEWS Vol. 46
Day 1 (9 Oct.)
Day 2 (10. Oct.)
Day 3 (11. Oct.)
Day 4 (12 Oct.)
Arrival, Check-in, Welcome Reception
Sub-Committee Meeting(offer simultaneous interpretation in members’ languages)
Industrial & Cultural Tour
Departure
* Detailed schedule to be announced.
Date Schedule
ApplicationHow: Contact the International Commerce Department, Daegu Metropolitan City or NEARSecretariatWhen: by August 30, 2012Presentation material deadline: September 7, 2012 (for any member regionalgovernment hoping to deliver a presentation at the Sub-committee)
* Theme Energy & climate change-related policies or cases promoted by memberregional governments.Proposal on furthering exchange and cooperation between members of andthe development of the sub-committee on Energy and Climate Change.
ContactThe International Commerce Department, Daegu Metropolitan City
NEAR Secretariat
Secretariat News
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,
located near Harbin City, and held discussions with Deputy Mayor Kang
Zhiwen about cooperation on NEAR activities in the future. On June 16, he
met with Vice Governor of Heilongjiang Province, Zhang Jianxing, to discuss
the development of
NEAR.
The 23rd International China Harbin Fair for Trade and
Economic Cooperation
NEAR This Month Secretariat News / NEAR Member News
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 11
Yoo Aram,former specialist onKorean Affairs andEnglish
Kim Sung-hyun,new specialist onKorean affairs andEnglish
Kim Sang-hyun, former specialist onRussian Affairs
Choi Kyoung-nam, new specialist onRussian affairs
On July 26, the 11th Chinese Bridge, the Chinese Proficiency Competition
for Foreign College Students, concluded in Changsha. Since its debut
competition, which was held in 2002, nearly 1000 college students from 70
countries have been invited to attend the competition in China, and more than
120,000 college students from across the world have participated in
preliminary competitions in various countries. The competition has become an
important platform for college students from around the world to learn
Chinese and understand China, and has helped the world’s youth connect with
each other. The final competition has been held in Hunan since 2008; every
year, Hunan welcomes competitors from around the world to showcase their
excellent
performances. Son Ji-
oh, from the Republic
of Korea won the
special prize this year.
The 11th Chinese Bridge Competition Concluded
with Full Success
Henan Province - China
On July 6, the press
conference of the 2012
China (Ningxia)
International
Investment and Trade
Fair & the 3rd China-
Arab States Economic
and Trade Forum (the
Forum) was held at the
Conference Hall on the third floor of the Beijing International Hotel. The
Forum will be held between September 13-17 in Ningxia. With the theme of
“Friendship, Cooperation, Development,” the Forum will include summit
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
cooperation, and friendship between China and the Arab states. So far, all
preparation work has been progressing smoothly.
2012 China (Ningxia) International Investment and
Trade Fair & the 3rd China-Arab States Economic and
Trade Forum
Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region -China
Yoo Aram, who has worked for the Secretariat in the planning & general
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
cooperation division since February 2009, resigned on August 10. The new
staff member in charge of Russian affairs is Choi Kyoung-nam
(T. +82-54-223-2319 F. +82-54-223-2309).
Announcement of Resignation and Appointment
NEAR Member News
Foreign college studentsattending the 11th ChineseBridge, Chinese ProficiencyCompetition
The press conference of the 2012 China (Ningxia)International Investment and Trade Fair & the 3rd China-Arab
States Economic and Trade Forum
Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo (Left) and Vice Governorof Heilongjiang ProvinceZhang Jianxing (Right)
NEAR NEWS Vol. 46
NEAR Member News
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NEAR This Month
Amano-hashidate sand bar1)
1) Sand bar:
A ridge of sand formed in a river
or along a shore by the action of
waves or currents.
Kyoto prefecture is currently seeking to register Japanese food, Amano-
hashidate and Uji tea on the World Heritage lists to propagate tangible and
intangible assets which have cultural values. This year will mark the 40th
anniversary of the establishment of the World Heritage Convention created to
protect cultural and natural heritage which have universal values. The final
meeting of the 40th anniversary of designation of the World Heritage Site co-
organized by UNESCO and the Japanese government will be held in Kyoto in
November. Executive Committee in the region is also poised to hold various
memorial projects and is planning to propagate the cultural charm of Kyoto
such as Japanese food, Amano-hashidate and Uji tea along with ‘Historic
Monuments of Ancient
Kyoto’ which was
registered on the World
Heritage list to the world.
Registering Kyoto’s Valuable Assets on New World
Heritage Lists
Kyoto Prefecture - Japan
Aomori Prefecture and
Khabarovsk Territory
marked the 20th
anniversary of the Treaty
of Friendship and
Cooperation in August.
In honor of that
anniversary, the
“Khabarovsk Trade Fair,”
co-organized by the two regions, will be held in Aomori Prefecture to
introduce the tourism and specialties of Khabarovsk to people in the region.
Russian folk songs and folk dances and working-level talks will be held to
discuss the future direction of exchange.
Aomori and Khabarovsk to hold memorial project
marking the 20th anniversary of the Treaty of
Friendship and Cooperation
Aomori Prefecture - Japan
Sejong City became an official member of the Association of North East
Asia Regional Governments (NEAR). The city applied for membership to
NEAR along with the city’s launch on July 1 to enhance its profile as a
prestigious, environmentally friendly city by participating in international
conferences and becoming a member of international organizations. Sejong
city was approved as an official member of NEAR at the 9th General Assembly
held in Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China between July
24-27 and has started full-fledged activities.
“By becoming a member of NEAR, we secured a stepping stone for
strengthening exchange
and cooperation with
major cities in Northeast
Asia, which is emerging
as one of the world’s
three largest economic
regions. With this
opportunity, we will do
our utmost to make
Sejong City became a NEAR member together with
the city’s launch
Sejong City - Korea
When: Sunday, August 19, 2012Where: Front Hall 1F, ASPM (Aomori Sightseeing ProductsMansion), Aomori Prefecture, JapanContact: International Group, International EconomyDepartment, Bureau of Strategic Tourism and InternationalAffairs, Aomori Prefectural Government. TEL +82-17-734-9218
The KOSHINOKUNI Museum of Literature opened on July 6, 2012.
Toyama Prefecture is the hometown of Etchu1) Manyo2), where Otomo
Yakamochi, a Manyo poet, recited 223 poems about 1,300 years ago. In
modern times, the region has produced writers such as Hotta Yoshie, Genji
Keita and Kadokawa Genyoshi.
In addition, many literary works are set in Toyama Prefecture.
Toyama produced Takida Yojiro, Motoki Katsuhide and Hosoda Mamoru in
the film sector, and Fujiko Fujio A and Fujiko Fujio in the comic book sector.
The KOSHINOKUNI Museum of Literature is a place everyone can enjoy as
it introduces the charms of the Toyama Prefecture’s folk literature by taking
advantage of visual technology and interactive experiments.
It will feature the opening exhibition “Otomo Yakamochi and Etchu Manyo-
Climate (Mind) and Resounding Heart of Yakamochi” until October 14.
Koshino Literature House Opens
Toyama Prefecture - Japan
Where: 2-22 Hunabashiminami-cho Toyama city, ToyamaPrefectureOpening 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): GeneralAdmission 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
Khabarovsk traditional dance troupe“Slavyanskaya gusha”
The ceremony launching Sejong Special Self-Governing City as the 17th metropolitan autonomous entity in Korea(July 2, 2012)
“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.
2012 International Mining Investors’
Forum to Take Place
Ulaanbaatar City - Mongolia
The scene of the InternationalMining Investors’ Forum in 2011
NEAR This Month NEAR Member News
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 13
The Yeongilman
Harbor in Pohang,
Gyeongsangbuk-do
Province is expediting its
movement towards a
fully-fledged operation
with a new leap forward
on the 3rd anniversary of
its opening. The harbor is now planned for completion in 2020 after a 2 trillion
854.4 billion won investment opened four container berths in August 2009.
This year, marking the 3rd anniversary of its opening, and the harbor opened
two more general berths. Future projects, such as building 16 berths, an 8.11
km breakwater and port hinterland complexes, aim to establish the harbor as
the hub port that covers the East-Sea Rim Economic Region in the 21st
century. When a high-standard port logistics infrastructure, including the
surrounding road network and the inland railway at Yeongilman Harbor, is
expanded, it will become the international logistics Hub of the East-Sea Rim
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.
The Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang Seeking the 2nd
Miracle on the Yeongilman Bay
Gyeongsangbuk-do Province -Korea
Sejong city the practical administrative capital
and a world-class prestigious city by expanding
exchange with other administrative capitals in
the world such as Putrajaya, Malaysia.
The Present Status of Sejong Special Self-Governing CityPopulation and Size: 102 thousand, 465Major Features: new administrative capital city, science-beltdistrictMajor Tourist Attractions: Tower Milma-ru, Bear Tree Park,Gobok Reservoir
A Bird’s-Eye View of SejongSpecial Self-Governing City
Governor of ZabaikalskyTerritory Ravil Geniatulin and
Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo
Ravil Geniatulin, Governor of Zabaikalsky Territory, Russia, met with
NEAR Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo at the International China Harbin Fair
for Trade and Economic Cooperation on June 16. Governor Ravil Geniatulin
explained the need for the introduction of overseas capital and technology in
the development of the Zabaikalsky Territory and mentioned that the
Zabaikalsky Territory wants to get help by participating in NEAR activities. In
response, SG Kim Jae-hyo explained the various activities of the NEAR Sub-
Committees and suggested taking advantage of those activities. Governor
Ravil Geniatulin said that currently Zabaikalsky Territory has very few
economic exchanges with Korea compared to the close economic exchanges
with China and Mongolia. He expressed his wish to establish greater exchange
and cooperation with the Korean regional governments through NEAR and
pledged active participation in NEAR activities in the future.
Governor of Zabaikalsky Territory met with NEAR SG
Zabaikalsky Territory - Russia
Container Terminal at the Yeongilman Harbor in Pohang
Region Bayanulgii Province (Mongolia)Event Golden Eagle Hunting International
FestivalWhen October 2-3Where Bayanulgii ProvinceContact Administrative Department,
Bayanulgii Province T. +976-1422-23762
NEAR NEWS Vol. 46
Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions
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NEAR This Month
September2012. 9.
October2012. 10.
Sunday Monday Tuesday
2 3 4
23 24 25
2
7 8
14 15 16
23
Events of NEAR Member Regions
Region Jeju Special Self-governing Province (Korea)
Event The 5th Jeju Women Divers FestivalWhen September 5-6Where Haenyeo MuseumContact Division of Ocean Development
T. +82-64-710-3253
Region Altai Territory (Russia)Event International Cheese FestivalWhen September 7-10Where BarnaulContact Bureau of Food and Drugs
T. +7 (3852) 635973F. +7 (3852) 637481
E-mail www.ffprom22.ruWebsite piscevik@ab.ru
Region Jeollabuk-do Province (Korea)Event Jeonju Int’l Sori FestivalWhen September 13-17 Where Sori Arts Center of Jeollabuk-do,
Jeonju Hanok VillageContact The Organizing Committee for Jeonju
Int’l Sori FestivalProgram Manager, Lee, YejunT.+82-63-232-8398F.+82-63-232-8399
Region Shandong Province (China)Event Qufu International Confucius Cultural
Festival of China 2012When September 27-29Where QufuContact Jining Confucius Cultural Festival
Affairs OfficeT. +86-537-3202805F.+86-537-3208111
E-mail Kzwhjxc@126.com
Region Gyeongsangbuk-do Province(Korea)
Event Andong Mask dance FestivalWhen September 28-October 7Where Andong Mask dance ParkContact ANDONG FESTIVAL TOURISM
FOUNDATIONT. +82-54-841-6397
Website www.maskdance.com
Region Busan Metropolitan City (Korea)Event The 17th Busan International film
festivalWhen October 4-13Where Busan Cinema Center, Screening
theaters in the Haeundae areaContact BIFF Busan Office
T. +82-51-747-2861F. +82-51-747-2067
Website http://www.biff.kr/structure/eng/default.asp
Region Chungcheongbuk-do Province (Korea)
Event The 2nd Chinese Student FestivalWhen October 5-7Where Cheongju Arts CenterContact Tourism & Aviation Division of
Chungcheongbuk-do ProvinceT. +82-43-220-3961
Website http://www.cbcsf.net
Region Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea)Event Colorful Daegu Festival 2012When October 10-16Where Daegu CityContact Culture & Arts Division, Daegu
Metropolitan CityT. +82-53-803-3732F. +82-53-803-3729
Region Daejeon Metropolitan City (Korea)Event 2012 International Food & Wine
Festival in DaejeonWhen October 12-15Where Daejeon convention CenterContact Tourism Industry Division, Daejeon
Metropolitan cityT. +82-42-600-2432
Website http://djfestival.daejeon.go.kr
Region Daegu Metropolitan City (Korea)Event Daegu International Opera Festival
2012When October 12-November 10Where Daegu CityContact The Organizing Committee for Daegu
International Opera FestivalT. +82-53-666-6111F. +82-53-351-5825
Website http://www.diof.org/
Region Gyeongsangbuk-do Province(Korea)
Event Gyeongju Korean Traditional RiceCake & Drink Festival
When October 13-17Where Bonghwangdae Pavilion,
GyeongjuContact Foundation of Gyeongju
CultureT. +82-54-748-7721
Website www.fgf.or.kr
Region Jeollanbuk-do Province (Korea)Event Korea Food FestivalWhen October 18-22Where Jeonju CityContact Tourism Industry Division,
The office of Jeollabuk-do provincialgovernmentOfficer in Charge, Chae, Gyeong-im T.+82-63-280-3324F.+82-63-280-3969
Region Busan Metropolitan City (Korea)Event The 8th Busan Fireworks FestivalWhen October 26-27Where Gwangalli BeachContact International Cooperation Division,
Busan Metropolitan CityT. +82-51-888-3541F. +82-51-888-4039
NEAR This Month Events Schedule of NEAR Member Regions
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Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
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13 22
27 28
4 5
10 12 13
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26 27
Region Primorski Territory (Russia)Event International Film Festival of Asian
Pacific Countries, “Pacific Meridian”When September 22-28Where VladivostokContact Cultural Bureau of Primorski Territory
T. +7423 241 2724F. +7423 241 2759
E-mail cultprim@mail.ruWebsite www.vladivostokfilmfestival.ru
NEAR NEWS Vol. 46
Tottori Prefecture - Japan
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Tottori Shan Shan Festival
NEAR Member Tour Tottori Prefecture - Japan
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 17
Tottori PrefectureJapan
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
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.
Welcome to Tottori Prefecture, the Kingdom of Comics!
akaiminato city
Sakaiminato city
Tottori Prefecture
Yonago city Kurayoshi cityTottori city
NEAR NEWS Vol. 46
Tottori Prefecture - Japan
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The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 19
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
is expected to attract over 400 cartoonists from all over the world. It is expected that many people
from home and abroad will experience the attractions of the Tottori Prefecture, leading to the
promotion of the comics culture through these events.
* “Manga Kingdom TOTTORI” Homepage (offers 6 languages): http://manga-tottori.jp/
Tourism
Tottori Prefecture is divided into 3 regions: the Eastern region centering around Tottori City, the
Central region centering around Kurayoshi city, and the Western region centering around Yonago
city and Sakaiminato city. Each region has its respective attractions. The “Tottori Sand Dunes” in
the eastern portion of the prefecture are representative sand dunes, which are vast, sandy beaches
spread along the East Sea. They are designated as a special protection zone of the Sanin marine
national park and are Japan’s largest tourist sand dunes, stretching 2.4 km from the north to the
south, and 16 km from the east to the west.
Misasa Hot Spring, located in the central region, is well known to contain the largest deposit of
radium in the world. As it has a calm atmosphere, it is well known as an excellent spring in the
Sanin region, and many literary men have visited. In addition, Sanbutsuji Temple and Nageiredo
Hall in Mt. Santoku are unprecedented structures built on a steep cliff, and are designated as
National Treasures.
Mt. Daisen, the highest peak in the Chugoku Region, has grand scenery, is historically and
culturally valuable, and plays a central role as the western and central tourist region in Tottori
Prefecture in both name and reality. Because of its grand stature, it is called the “Mt. Fuji of Houki
Region.” Last May, “Kaike Daisen SEA TO SUMMIT,” an epoch-making sports event, was held.
Through that event, people could think of the environment while experiencing the 33 km long and
1,709m high route from Kaike Coast to the top of Mt. Daisen.
Traditional Arts
In Tottori Prefecture, traditional arts and annual events that are rich in local color, such as Kirin-
jishi (Lion) Dance, Umbrellas Dance, and Nagasibina, have been handed down through the
generations. The traditional arts that have been handed down from old times enhance the
understanding of and attachment to the region and have become the driving force for the
construction of a better region. They are handed down to the next generation consistently through
continuous preservation and transmission activities.
Gateway to Northeast Asia
Tottori Prefecture is developing a transportation
infrastructure to connect Japan, especially western Japan,
with Northeast Asia as a “Gateway to Northeast Asia.”
As the hub of marine transport, ‘Sakai Port’ operates
regular container ships that connect Korea and China, so
many imports and exports are concentrated here.
In addition, the port operates the only international
Cargo-Passenger Ships in western Japan, which connect
with Donghae City, Korea and Vladivostok, Russia. The
new route, which connects the human and material
resources of these three countries, is expected to have a
huge influence on the regional economy, such as
expanding the sales channels of businesses in the
prefecture and increasing the number of businesses,
regional employment opportunities, and foreign tourists
through the increased use of the harbors. In addition, the
Yonago Airport is directly connected to Incheon Airport
in Korea and Haneda Airport, both international airline
hubs, so it can be regarded as the inevitable
transportation infrastructure.
Kingdom of Comics
Tottori prefecture is producing world renowned
comic/cartoon artists such as Mizuki Shigeru, creator of
“GeGeGe no kitaro.” Taniguchi Jiro, creator of “In the
Village Far Away,” and Aoyama Gosho, creator of
“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
promote the area by taking advantage of its association
with comics. In particular, Tottori made this year the first
year of the kingdom of the comics and is holding the
“International Manga Exhibition” from August to
November, where various events, including comics,
animations and cosplays, will be held. Around 140
1 2
3
4
1. Sanbucheu Temple·Nageire Hall2. Mt. Daisen
3. Tottori Sand Dunes4. Kirin-Jishi (Lion) Dance
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments3F 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
The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments
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