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Saturday, May 25, 2013

Current News

PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2013 = nominations

April 25, 2013:
The Fondation du Forum Universale awards with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2013 :
Mr. Olusegun Obasanjo President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999-2007), Mr. Victor-Viorel Ponta Prime Minister of Romania, Mr. Xanana Gusmao Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste, Mr. Adel Abdallah Al Wuqayan Secretary General, Supreme Council for Planning and Development, State of Kuwait and Mr. Ahmed El Wakil Chairman, Federation of  the Egyptian Chambers of Commerce

Africa, the Financial crisis in Europe and its impact on the new Economies

April 17, 2013:
Africa is the most concerned Continent as far as the Financial - and Economic - crisis in Europe is impacting the new Economies. How to react and adapt the Cooperation policies ? How to preserve the World Integration process which started in Africa ? These issues will be at the top of the Crans Montana Forum Agenda to take place in Brussels.

Islam and the World affairs : the ways to implement Peace in our modern Societies

April 17, 2013:
The Crans Montana Forum in Brussels (October 16 to 19,2013) will host an important meeting of Religious Leaders and key stackholders of the Civil society, organized in full cooperation with UNESCO and ISESCO, dedicated to
 
The issues : Gender Equality, Dignity, Respect and Right to Education
The challenge : improving the Peaceful and Structuring Role of Religions
The necessity : Ethical Corporate policies and Community Investment

Today's Disaster Prevention & Management : meeting of Emergency Situations Specialized Bodies !

April 11, 2013:
While recent decades have seen an alarming increase in the frequency of disaster occurrences and the magnitude of their social, economic and environmental impact, a Special Session of the forthcoming Crans Montana Forum in Brussels (Belgium) will be dedicated to : “Strengthening Disaster Risk Management Capacities : the Increasing Role of Emergency Situations Specialized Bodies”.
 
Ministers of Emergency Situations, Interior, Defence & Security, Specialised Organizations and Businesses will gather to share experience and knowledge in order to shape sustainable strategies and practices.
 

The Club of Ports' special session : Focus on Piracy !

April 10, 2013:
The next Club of Ports Meeting to take place in Brussels (Belgium) on October 18, 2013, will be dedicated to
 
THE MARITIME TRANSPORT INDUSTRY AND PIRACY
HORN OF AFRICA, GULF OF GUINEA AND INDONESIA
 
 

Today's African Development means Global Security : the key stakeholders meet at the Crans Montana Forum in Brussels on 6 to 9 March, 2013

February 21, 2013:
The Impact of the Sahelo-Saharan crisis on African Security, Economy,  and Political Stability, the ways Nigeria is improving its ability to prevent and fight threats against Peace will be at the top of the Agenda on March 8, 2013 in Brussels.
 
Key stakeholders will join these important debates among them : Mr. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Speaker of the National Assembly, Nigeria, Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Executive Governor of Rivers State, Nigeria, Mr. Jean-Louis Bruguière, Judge and Expert in International Terror Affairs, Mr. Charles Koffi Diby, Minister of State & Minister of Foreign Affairs, Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. Amadou Boubacar Cisse, Minister of State for Planning, Spatial planning and Community Development, Niger, Mr. Abdelkader Messahel, Minister for Maghreb and African Affairs, Algeria, Mr. Pierre Vimont, Executive Secretary General of the European External Action Service and Mr. Cheikh Modibo Diarra, Former Prime Minister of Mali.

ENERGY & SECURITY IN AFRICA : Port-Harcourt welcomes the first CMF Homeland & Security Forum in Africa

February 19, 2013:
For the first time in its history and upon the invitation of Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Executive Governor of the Rivers State Government, Crans Montana Forum organizes an exceptional session of the CMF Homeland & Security Forum in Port-Harcourt, next February 2014.
 
Nigeria, major destination in Africa for business and foreign investment, is challenged by numerous and complex Security concerns. Energy supply routes Security, Fight against Terrorism & Piracy are on the top of both Nigerian and Global agenda.
 
With a strong oil Industry, Rivers State is one of the most dynamic States in Nigeria, promoting a safe and secure environment for Business investment.
 
Being a multi-dimensional platform, the Homeland & Global Security Forum brings together the World’s Public and Private sectors, Governments, International Organizations, Civil Society and Businesses.

Annual session 2014 ! Save the date !

January 31, 2013:
Due to the Ramadan, the 2014 Crans Montana Forum annual session will take place on June 19 to 22, 2014. That is one week earlier than every year in the past.

CMF on Africa and the South-South Cooperation : special Forum's Gold Medal Promotion

January 11, 2013:
On the occasion of the Crans Montana Forum on Africa and the South-South Cooperation to take place in Brussels, March 6 to 9, 2013 the Board of the Foundation, chaired by Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron, will award with the Forum's Gold Medal :
Mrs. Sizakele Zuma, First Lady of the Republic of South Africa, Mr. Samuel Manetoali, Minister of Culture & Tourism, Solomon Islands, Mr. Hassan Sylla Bakari, Minister of Information & Communications, Chad, Mr. Dakuku Adol Peterside, MP & Chairman, Committee on Petroleum - Down Stream, Nigeria, Mr. Vasileios Koronakis, Ambassador at Large, Special Envoy for South-Eastern Europe, Greece and Mr. Constantinos Shiacolas, CEO of Joannou & Paraskevaides Group, Greece

Masoud Barzani, President of the Kurdish Regional Government of Iraq joins the CMF March 2013 in Brussels

January 10, 2013:
The Crans Montana Forum on Africa and the South-South Cooperation to take place in Brussels on March 2013 will host Mr. Masoud Barzani, President of the Kurdish Regional Government in Iraq and historical leader of the Kurdish Liberation Movement. The Kurdistan Region is an emerging market offering excellent opportunities not only in oil & gas  but also in agriculture, banking, communication, construction, education & training, healthcare, and tourism.

Important delegation at the Brussels Forum : the key role of P.R. of China in the World Integration of Africa

January 10, 2013:
Our Founder, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron is delighted to announce a delegation from the P.R. of China which will join the Crans Montana Forum on Africa and the South-South Cooperation next March 2013. This delegation will be headed by Mr. Shaye Lu, Director General for African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development joins the March 2013 Crans Montana Forum on Africa & the South-South Cooperation

January 10, 2013:
The Crans Montana Forum on Africa & the South-South Cooperation to take place in Brussels (Belgium) March 6 to 9, 2013 is honored to welcome Mr. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development - ADFD -. Our Chairman Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron will be soon in Abu Dhabi to greet Mr. Al Suwaidi and prepare the participation of the Fund in the Forum's proceedings.

Our Founder, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron awarded by the International Institute for Middle-East and Balkan Studies

January 3, 2013:
The Board of IFIMES  - International Institute for Middle-East and Balkan Studies - in Ljubljana decided on January 3, 2013 to award Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron with its prestigious Prize for his "lifetime achievements". This extraordinary nomination was made on the proposal of Mr. Stjepan Mesic, former President of the Republic of Croatia and Chair of the Institute.

The Crans Montana Forum welcomes its 80.000th Participant !

December 3, 2012:
Before the end of 2012, the Crans Montana Forum registered its 80.000th Participants since its very first meeting a long time ago when it was founded by Jean-Paul Carteron, Prince Liechtenstein and a number of high caliber personalities ! Only top VIPs are taken in account : Heads of State and Government, Ministers, MPs, International Organizations and key Businesses.

The Pacific Ocean and climate change : the Crans Montana Forum hosts a high level delegation from Solomon Islands on the occasion of the Crans Montana Forum in Brussels

November 14, 2012:
The 7th Crans Montana Forum on African and South-South Cooperation will host a Delegation from the Solomon Islands.
Indeed the Forum, in association with the Initiative OCEANS COMPACT of Mr. BAN Ki-moon UN Secretary General, is directly partnering with the UN and UNESCO to address the challenge of Climate change and Sea level rise threatening numerous countries and populations, in the Pacific Region but also around the World.
The Delegation will be headed by Mr. Manuel Manetoali Minister of Culture and Tourism.

The Crans Montana Forum, Partner of the 2013 ICTs International Fair in N’Djamena (Chad)

November 7, 2012:
Access to New Information Technologies is a vital condition to growth and social progress in Africa, as well as to the Continent’s integration within Global Economy.
 
Aware of these challenges, the Forum has decided to collaborate to the First Information and Communication Technologies Fair to be held in  N'Djamena (Chad) from April 26 to 28, 2013.
 
This exceptional Fair will be held under the High Patronage of the President of the Republic of Chad, in partnership with the Professional Chadian Network of Information Technologies and Telecommunications (REPTIT).
 
For any information or registration write to info@cmf.ch

Poverty & Child Malnutrition : a Special Programme of the Crans Montana Women’s Forum

November 5, 2012:
On the occasion of the forthcoming Crans Montana Forum on Africa to take place in Brussels (Belgium), March 6 to 9, 2013, a Crans Montana Women’s Forum Special Programme will be dedicated to “Fighting Poverty and the issue of Malnutrition”
 
Whilst more than 100 million children under 5 suffer from underweight and every year, malnutrition causes the death of more than 2.5 million of them, many countries, notably in Africa, are facing a deterioration due to the conflicts, their instability or various political deadlocks.
 
Government Officials, political authorities, technical and financial stakeholders, national, regional and international Organisations, NGOs and the private sector are invited to combine their efforts and find the means to prevent these daily disasters.
 
First Ladies are particularly welcome since, as Spouses of Heads of State and Government, they play a key role in shaping and implementing policies in the fight against poverty and hunger.
 
On this occasion, the Crans Montana Forum will launch a major World initiative against Child Malnutrition.

An important Delegation from Nigeria and the Rivers State to join the Security Forum in Geneva

October 13, 2012:
Nigeria, one of the key destinations in Africa for business and foreign investment, is challenged by numerous and complex Security concerns. Energy supply routes Security, Fight against Terrorism & Piracy are on the top of the Nigerian agenda. On the occasion of the HGSF in Geneva, the Forum welcomes an important delegation of Official Representatives & Businesses from Nigeria. Among them, Mr. Zainab Ibrahim Kuchi, Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Tele Ikuru, Dep. Governor of the Rivers State, Mr. Fredrick Owotorufa, General Manager of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corp. In addition,  Mrs. Judith O. Amaechi, Spouse of the Executive Governor of Rivers State and Mrs. Hajiya Salamatu Tanko Al-Makura, Spouse of the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, will join the important session devoted to the leading role of Women in Peace-building, as Special Guests.

The PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2012 awarded to President Rupiah Bwezani Banda

October 9, 2012:
President Rupiah Bwezani Banda was the 4th President of the Republic of Zambia (2008 to 2011). His contribution to the stabilization of Democracy and the Economic development of Zambia was crucial at the moment the World entered in a major Economic crisis. Since leaving office, President Banda has continued his lifelong commitment to democracy by leading the Carter Foundation observer mission in the 2012 DR Congo election. President Banda also lead an observer mission to Lesotho and will lead an election observer mission in Sierra Leone later this year. President Banda is currently the President in Residence at the University of Boston, and seats as a Member of the Club de Madrid.

Prime Minister of Gabon, Mr. Raymong Ndong Sima, will head a national delegation to Geneva

September 24, 2012:
On the occasion of the Homeland & Global Security Forum to take place in Geneva, October 17 to 20, 2012, Mr. Raymong Ndong Sima, Prime Minister of Gabon, will head a national delegation, including Government Officials and Businesses. As a major oil producing Country, Gabon has a long experience to share on how to fight the threats affecting Energy Supply routes Security, including Security of exploration and drilling sites, Transportation and Shipping routes.

Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Executive Governor of Rivers State – Nigeria, amongst the Guests of Honor in Geneva

September 24, 2012:
The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, will be amongst the Guests of Honor of the forthcoming International Summit on Transnational Crime to take place in Geneva, October 17 to 20, 2012. With a strong oil Industry, Rivers State is one of the most dynamic States in Nigeria, offering a huge potential for economic development. The Governor will address Participants on existing Business investment opportunities in Port-Harcourt and Rivers States’ key achievements as far as Global Security is concerned. On the occasion of the Official Award Ceremony, Governor Amaechi will be presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2012.

OFFICIAL: MOWCA's Member States, at the level of the Council of Ministers, decide to join officially the Club of Ports' meeting in Geneva

September 19, 2012:
On the occasion of the Extraordinary Session of the Ministers’ Board from the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) held in Kinshasa on September 1st 2012, the Strategic Partnership established between MOWCA and the Crans Montana Forum for the development of the Club of African Ports was definitely approved.
 
MOWCA’s Member States are officially invited to participate in the activities organised by the Club of African Ports and more generally the Crans Montana Forum (Decision n°2/SEB/12).
 
The Club of Ports is a unique community which aims to promote the Maritime Industry in Africa through increased regional and international cooperation as well as the stimulation of Foreign Investments.
 
The next Club meeting, mostly dedicated to Security issues, will be organized in the framework  of the International Summit on Transnational Crime on October 20, 2012 in Geneva (Switzerland).

The President of the African Union, Mr. Boni Yayi joins the Homeland & Security Forum in Geneva

September 12, 2012:
The President of the Republic of Benin, President of the African Union, will attend the forthcoming Homeland and Security Forum to take place in Geneva, October 17 to 20, 2012. His participation is crucial when the World Security is threatened by the last developments in the Sahelo-Saharan zone. President Yayi, on this special occasion, will be presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION during a ceremony organized in the framework of the Forum.

Cheick Modibo Diarra, Prime Minister of Mali joins the October Forum in Geneva

September 10, 2012:
Cheick Modibo Diarra, Prime Minister of Mali will be among the Guests of Honour of the forthcoming Homeland and Global Security Forum to take place in Geneva, October 17 to 20, 2012. He will address the Participants on the current situation in his country and the region. During the closing session of the Forum he will be presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2012.

Joint CMF-UNESCO-ISESCO extraordinary meeting : the Role of Women and First Ladies in promoting Peace around the World and in Africa

August 24, 2012:
The  forthcoming Crans Montana’s Homeland & Global Security Forum to take place in Geneva (Switzerland), October 17 to 20, 2012 will host a High Level Panel organised by the Crans Montana Forum, UNESCO and ISESCO. This Panel will be devoted to the “Key Role of Women and First Ladies in promoting Peace around the World and in Africa”
 
First Ladies and all active Women from Governments and Specialized Organisations who are acting for Democracy and Peace in their country are invited on this occasion.

The forthcoming Homeland & Security Forum is addressing issues of the most crucial importance for the whole World ! President V. Putin from Russia represented.

August 24, 2012:
The forthcoming Homeland & Global Security Forum to take place in Geneva, October 17 to 20 2012, will host an exceptional guest, Ambassador Alexandre Zmeevsky, Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for the fight against Terrorism and Crime. He and the Russian Delegation will help in deepening our knowledge of the new Security policies implemented by Russia around the World.

Geneva, Oct. 2012 : Special meeting of the FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNITS & ANTI-CORRUPTION AGENCIES : FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION, TRANSPARENCY, GOVERNANCE & GLOBAL SECURITY

August 24, 2012:
The new generations expect an Impartial State and a real fight against Corruption - The transnational Criminal Organizations are often linked to the Corruption of Government Authorities - The fight against money laundering is a first step - The Africa Global Security is linked to these concerns – See the Program in the framework of the 14th International Summit on Transnational Crime

The Crans Montana Forum, together with the United Nations and UNESCO, is henceforth committed to the protection of those populations threatened by the deterioration of the marine environment

August 13, 2012:
Press release (Press Office) – Yeosu (South Korea) August 12, 2012 - Following the discussions which took place in Yeosu between the Chairman of the Forum, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron, Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations and Mrs. Irina Bokova, Director General of UNESCO, the Crans Montana Forum is committing itself and encouraging Governments, the private business sector and the civil society to become individually and globally involved to restore health to oceans and fisheries production systems in order to maintain quality of life and support strategies of development and prosperity.
 
This should particularly include relief efforts towards the populations who are directly threatened, notably in the State of Tuvalu, whose Prime Minister, Mr. Willy Telavi participated at these discussions.
 
Four major objectives are considered :
 
1
Protecting populations and improving the health of oceans
 
2
Limiting the vulnerability of those States concerned
 
3
Protecting, restoring and maintaining the environmental quality of oceans, natural resources and restoring full production capacity
 
4
Improving by all means the global knowledge of the oceans and the conditions of their sustainable management

The Crans Montana Forum invites the Financial Intelligence Units and the Anti-Corruption Agencies to gather on the occasion of the forthcoming Homeland & Global Security Forum in Geneva October 18 to 20, 2012

August 13, 2012:
Indeed, the Crans Montana Forum invites the Financial Intelligence Units and the Anti-Corruption Agencies from Africa and the Middle-East but also from Europe and around the World to gather in Geneva in order to address the most crucial issues and today's challenges they must face.
These concerns are directly linked to the fight against Corruption and Money laundering in the framework of proactive Transparency and Good Governance but also appear to be a basic requirement for the prevention and the fight against terrorism which will be the main topic of the Forum.

The Crans Montana Forum in Baku : a tremendous success !

July 18, 2012:
The 23rd annual session of the Crans Montana Forum took place in Baku (Azerbaijan) hosted by the President of Azerbaijan and his Government.
 
More than 750 Delegates, including numerous Heads of State and Government, attended this extraordinary event devoted to the South-South Cooperation and the role of Azerbaijan in the new World of today being shaped. The success was enormous !
 
All Participants were impressed in discovering what is actually achieved in this Country and the very many Business contacts are promising important developments for the future.
 
Read what Melanie Veness, CEO of the Pietermaritzburg Chamber of Business in Afrique du Sud wrote to us :
 
I have just returned from Baku, Azerbeijan, having attended the 2012 Crans Montana Forum. I must admit, that prior to having received an invitation to attend this years forum, I had not heard of it. The list of presenters was impressive, including various heads of state, and the subject matter of the presentations under the theme: "Addressing a Changing World", seemed engaging, I took the opportunity to learn what I could. 
 
Firstly, I must say, that if making international connections at the highest level is something that you wish to achieve, then the forum is definitely the place to do it. Several Presidents made presentations alongside the "who's-who" in the oil world (including H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, the Crown Prince of Fujairah Emirate, United Arab Emirates). I met and befriended several Members of Parliament from around the world, influential business people involved in the energy sector and even a Crown Prince! The success of the forum lies not in the fact that people at this level attend, but that, on the whole, they are eager to engage. 
 
The opening session addressed our changing world, and considering the subject matter, it seemed fitting that the forum took place in Baku. I was told that, not long ago, Baku was a rather dilapidated place, with oil spillages in several places. So much oil leaked out, that the place smelt strongly of it. Now, the city is a magical metropolis, boasting modern buildings on wide boulevards, a renovated old city and five star hotels on every corner. There is barely a whiff of oil in the air.  It far exceeded any expectations that I might have had, and we were told that most of the development that we observed has taken place over the last decade. Cranes can still be seen all over the city. 
 
Azerbaijan lays claim to having the highest economic growth rate for the past several years. Their economy has trebled in eight years, and unemployment is around five percent. It is an oil rich country, but what is remarkable about what they have achieved, is that they have utilised the proceeds from their natural resources to  improve Azerbaijan for the people, and their people are benefiting. By saying this, I am in no way advocating nationalisation. What I am saying, is that we do have an abundance of natural resources, and we should see the benefits on the ground. 
 
When asked to explain what lies behind the country's success, the President, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, attributed the growth to educating the citizens ("turning black gold into human gold"), a significant investment in information technology, putting the right people in key positions, and creating a favourable business environment. We know that these are  critical issues for South Africa to address. We hear it over and over again, but seeing the results in Azerbaijan was very powerful. 
 
There were several other interesting sessions, including one on developing an effective regional transportation system, several on energy efficiency and energy renewables, a further session on cyber warfare and one on women's rights. 
 
This was a gathering of powerful and influential people brought together to establish stronger relationships and to seek sustainable solutions for global challenges. There were also a number of inspiring people, passionate advocates for change, like Mrs. Frida Allaghi from Libya who spoke passionately about Libya's liberation. 
 
But the person who made the strongest impression on me, is a  French Member of Parliament named Jean Lassalle. Some years ago, a large corporate in his constituency made the decision to relocate their business.  Jean Lassalle did everything he could to stop them from leaving, finally resorting to a hunger strike. It lasted forty one days. He was very close to death when the Chief Executive agreed that the company would stay. Now that is serious commitment!

Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron joins the Advisory Board of the International Institute for Middle-East and Balkan Studies

July 3, 2012:
By decision of June 19, 2012 our Chairman & Founder Jean-Paul Carteron has been appointed as member of the Advisory Board of the International Institute for Middle-East and Balkan Studies in Ljubljana (Slovenia). President Stjepan Mesić (PRIX DE LA FONDATION) from Croatia is the Honorary President of the Institute.

Croatian Businesses join the Crans Montana Forum in Baku

June 19, 2012:
Mr. Stjepan Mesic, former President of the Republic of Croatia will attend the Baku Forum, heading a delegation of Croatian Businesses. Indeed Croatia which is the next EU Member State represents a strong and dynamic Economy and is looking to improve its ties with Azerbaijan.

Impressive delegation from Romania at the Baku Forum

June 14, 2012:
Mr. Ion Iliescu, former President of Romania will be among the Guests of Honour of the 23rd Crans Montana Forum in Baku. He will head an impressive delegation of Businesses who will meet their counterparts from Azerbaijan in order to improve the Economic ties between the two countries.

Minister George Saitoti passed away... A great and very old friend of the Crans Montana Forum is leaving us.

June 10, 2012:
Professor George Saitoti, Minister of the Government of Kenya was killed when a police helicopter crashed into a forest just outside the capital and burst into flames. He was among the oldest friends of the Crans Montana Forum... Recently he was presented with the Forum's Gold Medal. The Crans Montana Forum's Board and its President Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron would like to express to the Government of Kenya and Minister Saitoti's family their most sincere condolences and heartful compassion on this so sad occasion. They wish them endurance and God's protection.
 
Read more

Algeria, the most important Energy Power of the Mediterranean and SONATRACH at the Crans Montana Forum

June 8, 2012:
The Crans Montana Forum in Baku welcomes an important delegation from the Algerian Energy sector headed by Mr. Abdelhamid ZERGUINE Chairman of Sonatrach and Mr. Boualem M'RAKACH President of the Confédération Algérienne du Patronat, including Mr. Abdelkader TAIEB-EZZRAIMI Chairman & CEO of Group SIM SPA, Mr. Mohamed FECHKEUR Chairman of Red Med Group and numerous Industrialists.

The lastest independent State will join the Baku Crans Montana Forum : welcome to the Rep. of South Sudan !

June 8, 2012:
Mr. Nhial Deng Nhial, Minister of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of South-Sudan will be in Baku for the 23rd Crans Montana Forum, heading a delegation of the 193rd UN Member State and a very important Oil country.

Top Government Officials from around the World converge on Baku

June 7, 2012:
Among the confirmed Participants (in addition to those mentioned in the other news) : Mr. Gjorge Ivanov President of the FY Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Issoufou Mahamadou President of the Republic of Niger, Mr. Mikheil Saakashvili President of the Republic of Georgia, Mr. Filip Vujanovic President of the Republic of Montenegro, Mr. Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez Vice-President of the Republic of Panama, H.R.H. Prince Jean of Luxembourg, Mr. Ion Iliescu Former President of Romania, Mr. Pascal Couchepin Former President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr. Stjepan Mesic Former President of the Republic of Croatia, Mr. Raila Amollo Odinga Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Rowsch N.Shaways Dep. Prime Minister of Iraq, Mr. José Maria Beneyto Perez Vice-President, Parliamentary Assembly, Council of Europe, Mr. Hage Geingob Former Prime Minister, Namibia, Mrs. Rachida Dati Member, European Parliament, Mr. Abdelaziz Othman Altwaijri Director General, ISESCO, Mr. Mohamed-El Aziz Ben Achour Director General, ALECSO, Mr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas Secretary General, African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States...
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Nigeria and the South-South Cooperation : the Rivers State in Baku

June 7, 2012:
Nigeria is one of the most important actors of the South-South Cooperation. Mr. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Governor of Rivers State will attend the Crans Montana Forum in Baku. Rivers State has one of the largest economies in Nigeria, mainly because of its crude oil. The State has two major refineries, two major seaports, airports, and various industrial estates spread across the state, particularly in the State capital.

NATO joins the Club of African Ports`Strategic Committee

June 6, 2012:
The Crans Montana Forum's Club of African Ports, among its missions, implements a number of activities linked to the fight against crime and terror in the field of Maritime Transport and Ports Security. It is therefore an honor to receive an official message from NATO announcing its decision to seat on the Strategic Committee of the Club, represented by Mr. Jamie Shea Dep. Assistant Secretary General.

Iraq represented at a very high level at the Crans Montana Forum in Baku

June 5, 2012:
Mr. Rowsch N.Shaways,  Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq will head an important Official and Private Sector Delegation to the Crans Montana Forum in Baku.

Azerbaijan : African delegations visit the new center of gravitation of the South-South Cooperation

June 4, 2012:
The 23rd annual session of the Crans Montana Forum is an exceptional opportunity for African States to improve their connections with Azerbaijan. Numerous delegations from most African States will attend, among them Heads of State, Prime Ministers and top related Government decisions makers : Mr. Issoufou Mahamadou President of the Republic of Niger, Mr. Raila Amollo Odinga Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Hage Geingob Former Prime Minister and Minister of Trade, Namibia, Mr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas Secretary General, African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States, Mrs. Aissata Issoufou Mahmadou First Lady of Niger, Mrs. Bassima Hakkaoui Minister, Solidarity, Woman, Family & Social Development, Morocco, Mrs. Mémia Benna  Zayani Minister of Environment, Tunisia, Mr. Nestor Razafindroriaka, Minister of Energy, Madagascar, Mrs. Hannah Tetteh Minister of Trade and Industry, Ghana, Mr. Mallam Isa Yuguda Executive Governor, Bauchi State, Nigeria, Mr. Esmel Emmanuel Essis Director General, CEPICI, Côte d'Ivoire, Mr. Fuad Hamed Aye Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Djibouti etc...
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An important Delegation from the Swiss Confederation will join the Crans Montana Forum in Baku

May 30, 2012:
Azerbaijan is becoming one of the most important Institutional Investors in Switzerland specially in the Energy Sector. The 23rd yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum to take place soon in Baku will host an important Swiss delegation including Mrs. Sabine Ulmann-Shaban Swiss Ambassador to Baku, Mr. Pascal Couchepin former President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr. Felix Ruppen Speaker of the Parliament of Wallis, Mr. Walter Steinmann Director of the Federal Office of Energy, Mr. Philippe Rubod Crans-Montana's Head of Tourism etc...
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The new Club of African Ports now expanding its activities in a very spectacular way ! Strategic alliance with MOWCA

May 5, 2012:
A strategic agreement has been signed between the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) and the Crans Montana Forum in the framework of the Club of African Ports. This unique Club aims to promote Africa’s Maritime Sector through the development of International Cooperation and stimulation of Foreign Investments and thus position Africa as a key platform for Global Maritime Industry. It gathers key actors of global maritime transport. MOWCA’s Secretary General, Mr. Alain Michel Luvambano, has been appointed President of the Club’s Strategic Committee. The Strategic Committeee is responsible for ensuring the overall coherence of the actions undertaken and maintaining the necessary connections on the continent. Among the members of the Strategic Committee: Mr. Serigne Thiam Diop, Secretary General of the Union of African Shippers Council (UCCA/UASC), Mr. Jamie P. Shea, Deputy Assistant Secretary General, NATO.

The Crans Montana Forum is honoured to welcome H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of the Fujairah Emirate, one of the most important and dynamic Energy actors in the Middle East

April 25, 2012:
Indeed the Habshan–Fujairah oil pipeline, also known as Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP), is an oil pipeline in the United Arab Emirates. It starts from the Habshan onshore field in Abu Dhabi and runs to Fujairah. The 48-inch pipeline is 220 miles long, of which 8.7 miles is an offshore section. It passes east of Abu Dhabi city, through Sweihan and west of Al Ain. The pipeline has a capacity of 1.5 million barrels per day. It was designed by WorleyParsons. Construction was managed by ILF Consulting Engineers and carried out by China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation. The pipeline is designated to supply the refinery in Fujairah as also the Fujairah export terminal. The oil tanks in Fujairah were constracted by Italy's Belleli Energy SpA. An integrated electrical system for the pipeline was designed and supplied by ABB. Pipes were supplied by Sumitomo, Salzgitter AG and Jindal Saw. The technical assurance, risk and safety, asset management and industrial inspection were done by Germanischer Lloyd. The pipeline cost US$3.3 billion.

Baku - June 2012 : the 23rd Crans Montana Forum will definitely be an outstanding event ! Numerous Heads of State and Government, Ministers and Businesses from around the World will gather in Baku, center of the World for a few days !

April 11, 2012:
The 23rd Crans Montana Forum in Baku will definitely be an outstanding event ! Numerous Heads of State and Government, Ministers and Businesses from Europe (Western and Eastern), Central Asia, America, Africa, the Arab world and Far-East will attend the 23rd annual session of the Crans Montana Forum in Azerbaijan. Among these dignitaries, the Forum is delighted to welcome Mr. Saeb Erakat Chief Palestinian Negociator. Indeed, a long time ago, in April 1994, the Chairman of the Crans Montana Forum, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron gathered in Bucharest (Romania) President Yasser Arafat and Minister Shimon Peres. This difficult but successful meeting helped to resuming a Peace Process which was already seriously threatened. The Crans Montana Forum has always been involved in the process of finding and supporting solutions for the Peace in Palestine. Today the Forum is also involved in numerous difficult situations in the World.

October 2012, 17 to 20 : Homeland and Global Security Forum : the Sahelo-Saharan Zone, its Security challenges and their impact on Africa, the Mediterranean and Europe

March 29, 2012:
The next Homeland and Global Security Forum organized by the Crans Montana Forum will take place in Geneva (Switzerland) on October 17 to 20, 2012.
Key topics :
- Political stability and Security challenges in the Sahelo-Saharan Zone
- the mismanagement of the Libyan crisis
- the issue of Borders Security in Africa
- Security in the Maghreb and the Mediterranean at the very moment of the" Arab Winter"
- Focus on the Security of African Ports and Maritime Transport (in association with the Club of African Ports)
- Security challenges in Nigeria, Mali, Sudan and Central Africa
More information : please contact info@cmf.ch

The Crans Montana Forum on Africa is the leading World event on the African Integration : new dates for 2013 !

March 22, 2012:
The Crans Montana Forum on Africa which took place in Brussels March 7 to 10, 2012 was a huge success. More than 600 Participants, most of them from Africa attended this extraordinary gathering. No other Forum around the World can claim to such success and achievements ! This Forum just closed its doors but we already secured the dates for 2013 as most of the Delegates ask us to register their participation for the next one ! Therefore we announce the next Crans Montana Forum on Africa to take place on March 6 to 9, 2013 in Brussels (Belgium).

Key African First Ladies converge on the Crans Montana Forum on Africa

March 2, 2012:
The forthcoming Crans Montana Forum on Africa, in association with ISESCO, will host numerous top Women from around the World to address the issue of Women's Rights. Among them Mrs. Mariama Mana Sanha First Lady of Guinea-Bissau, Mrs. Hadja Djéné Kaba Condé First Lady of Guinea, Mrs. Aissata Issoufou Mahamadou First Lady of Niger, Mrs. Hajia Amina Sambo Spouse of the Vice-President of Nigeria, Mrs. Chantal Muzito Ngalula Spouse of the Prime Minister of the DR Congo etc.

Welcome to the 54th African State : Important Delegation from the Republic of South Sudan

February 29, 2012:
Mr. Nhial Deng Nhial Minister for Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation, Mr. Costi Manibe Ngai Minister for Finance and Economic Planning and Mr. Garang Diing Akuong Minister for Commerce will join the forthcoming Crans Montana Forum on Africa to present the Economic potential of the latest independent State of Africa.

Special Promotion of the PRIX DE LA FONDATION on the occasion of the Crans Montana Forum on Africa

February 16, 2012:
The Board of the Fondation du Forum Universale has decided to award the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2012 to (1) the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, (2) Mr. Raila Amollo Odinga Prime Minister of Kenya, (3) Mrs. Aissata Issoufou Mahamadou First Lady of the Republic of Niger, (4) Mr. Malam Bacai Sanhá Late President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau (posthumously) and (5) Mr. Kalaa Mpinga CEO of Mwana Africa. The Ceremony will take place in Brussels on March 9. 2012.

IF, DURING 27 YEARS, YOU NEVER HEARD ABOUT THE CRANS MONTANA FORUM...

January 30, 2012:
If, during 27 years of activity, you never heard about the Crans Montana Forum, that is the evidence that our policy is working well. So far... read the Chairman's letter !
Read more

Mr. Anouar Malek resigned as an Arab League Observer - he will attend the March 2012 Forum to present the current situation in Syria

January 27, 2012:
The Crans Montana Forum is committed to a more humane and impartial state of the World. So far the Forum has invited Mr. Anouar Malek, an Algerian journalist, member of the mission of the Arab League appointed to observe the situation in Syria. He will address the Forum on the reasons of his resignation and make a presentation on the real and current situation in this country.

ACCOR Group at the Forum : Tourism Industry is the easiest and fastest way to create employment and growth in Africa

January 24, 2012:
Crans Montana Forum on Africa, March 2012 : ACCOR Group will participate, represented by Mr. Abderahman Belgat, Head of its African Department. Indeed from the Northern to the Southern parts of Africa, Tourism is the easiest and fastest way to create employment and growth as well as to bring foreign currencies to the national Economies. An interactive special session will gather Ministers of Economy and Tourism around the World leading Group's Representatives.

General O. Andrew Azazi at the March 2012 Forum : Nigeria is facing the most challenging national security problems

January 18, 2012:
The Gold Medal is the Crans Montana Forum’s highest honor presented to high level and exceptional personalities in recognition of their actions in favor of a more humane world.  This year’s recipient is General O. Andrew Azazi, Nigeria’s current National Security Adviser, former Chief of Defence Staff, and former Chief of Army Staff.  He is being presented the Gold Medal for his lifelong contributions to security and stability in Africa and his recent accomplishments in transforming Nigeria’s national security infrastructure to more effectively address emerging and contemporary problems in the area of national security. Nigeria is facing some of the most challenging national security problems globally and General Azazi’s humane and comprehensive approach is a model for other countries to follow

The "Club of African Ports" , the necessary international integration of African Ports

January 12, 2012:
On the occasion of the forthcoming South-South Cooperation Crans Montana Forum to take place in Brussels, March 7-10, 2012, the Forum launches a new and exceptional initiative  : the « CMF Club of African Ports ».

Whilst international trade is affected by the world economic crisis, African Ports position themselves as new hubs for international Maritime transport and Economy.

This “Club” aims at offering a unique platform of networking and debates to support Trade development policies in the Continent.

It will gather for the first time next March 2012 :

- Major Ports and Maritime Authorities’ key decision-makers
- African Government Officials and Regional & International Organizations in charge of Maritime Transport

Obviously, (1) Representatives from other major ports worldwide, which are the natural partners of Africa and (2) major international companies specialized in logistics and maritime transport are most welcome to attend.

President Kiro Gligorov, PRIX DE LA FONDATION, passed away...

January 5, 2012:
The first President of the independent Macedonia, Kiro Gligorov was one of the most important leaders of the Socialist Yugoslavia before to become the President of Macedonia. On September 1999, at the end of his second mandate, he is 82 and the Guinness Book considers he is the oldest political leader in the World. He obtained the independence of his country without any fight. On November 17, 1991 the Constitution is adopted. Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron, Chairman of the Crans Montana Forum is proud to have been associated by President Gligorov to the preliminary consultations. Macedonia becomes the 181st Member State of the UN on April 8, 1993. On October 3, 1995, President Gligorov is the victim of a terror blast as he is on his way to the Airport to join a Crans Montana Forum in Malta. In April 1994 President Iliescu and the Chairman of the Crans Montana Forum present President Gligorov with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION in Bucharest.

The Crans Montana Forum and President Herman van Rompuy honoured with the Prize "FREEDOM" of the International Peace Center Sarajevo

December 15, 2011:
On December 10. 2011 the International Peace Center Sarajevo awarded the Crans Montana Forum and some other international personalities among them Mr. Herman van Rompuy President of the European Council with its Prize "Freedom".

Mr. Didier Reynders, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium

December 7, 2011:
The Crans Montana Forum is proud to learn about the appointment of Mr. Didier Reynders as Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Reynders is one of the Crans Montana Forum's closest friends since years and has been presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION.

Ministers of Energy, Economy and Infrastructure from around the World will meet in Baku (June 2012) and shape Tomorrow's Energy Agenda !

November 30, 2011:
On the occasion of the 23rd annual session of the Crans Montana Forum to take place in Baku (Azerbaijan) on June 2012 under the chair of President Ilham Aliyev, the Forum invites the Ministers of Energy, Economy and Infrastructure from all countries around the World to join the most impressive gathering of this kind. The aim is to shape the Energy Agenda of tomorrow.

For the first time, Anti-Corruption Agencies from around the World meet at the Crans Montana Forum on Africa with the participation of TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL on March 8, 2012

November 30, 2011:
The forthcoming Crans Montana Forum on Africa invites Anti-corruption Agencies from around the World to attend a special meeting organized with Transparency International and devoted to "Implementing Transparency in the management of Natural Resources" in Brussels (Belgium) on March 8, 2012
 
Headlines:
 
  1. the lack of good Governance in many countries which are  rich in oil, gas and minerals, generates conflicts and encourage corruption
  2. no Economic development, growth nor poverty reduction are possible without a fair natural resources' management
  3. good Governance in Emerging countries is possible only if the Industrialized ones follow and implement the same policy
  4. one must improve Governance in resource-rich countries thanks to the verification and full publication of company payments and government revenues especially from oil, gas and mining industry
  5. a partnership governments - companies - investors - international organisations is the basic requirement

The Crans Montana Forum opened the African markets to the Romanian Industry

November 29, 2011:
Press Release
Date: 23-11-2011
Media : ACTMEDIA, Romanian News Agency 
 
"Romanian companies considering expansion of cooperation with African ones 
As many as 20 Romanian companies are considering extending cooperation, based on state guarantees, with African companies, in the exploitation of underground natural resources, in agriculture, energy, chemistry, telecommunications, within an economic mission to West Africa, according to a release of the National Association of Exporters and Importers of Romania (ANEIR) and of Eximbank.
The Mission is conducted at the initiative of Tender group of companies, and areas of interest for Romanian companies are also design and constructions, industrial equipment, tourism, professional training, pharmaceutical industry. According to the quoted source, meetings will be organized with local authority representatives, with business people from Senegal, Guinea and Guinea Bissau, Cape Verde and Gambia, occasions to convene cooperation terms between state companies and private companies in African countries with partner companies in Romania.
The new action carried out in partnership by ANEIR and Eximbank is part of the series started in 2011, in the framework of the Romanian-Arab-African cooperation promoted on the occasion of the Crans Montana Forum in Brussels, in February 2011 (...).
Through all these actions, along with other initiatives supported by the Export Council of Romania, the plans are to increase economic exchanges between Romania and the non-EU countries, which encompass far less than 30 percent of Romania's international trade."
Read more

Brussels - March 2012 : 6th annual Crans Montana Forum on Africa : the Crossroads of the South-South Cooperation

November 26, 2011:
Since 2004, the Crans Montana Forum has been organizing a yearly and very successful Political and Economic Forum devoted to Africa and the Arab World in the framework of the new international economic relations based on the South-South Cooperation (South America, Africa, Arab States and Far East).
This yearly Forum will take place in Brussels (Belgium) at the beginning of March 2012, gathering top level decision makers from Governments and the Private sector from around the World, aims to address the challenges of the African Integration, its new role on the International stage, the new South-South synergies of common development, the issues of natural resources and growth.

The International Defence and Security Community is meeting in Geneva from November 16 to 19, 2011!

November 12, 2011:
More than 300 Participants representing over 100 countries and Organisations will be gathering in Geneva on the occasion of the 13th International Summit on Transnational Crime !
Among them are over twenty specialised Ministers, as well as Representatives of numerous Justice and Police Administrations, Intelligence Agencies and International Organisations.
As Maritime transport security is on the top of the agenda, some of Africa’s most important Ports are represented and will meet the most renowned Experts from the defence and security sectors representing world-leading companies.

EADS and CASSIDIAN (an EADS Company) join the Homeland & Global Security Forum in Geneva, November 16 to 19, 2011

November 2, 2011:
The Crans Montana Forum  is delighted to confirm the participation of the best and most renowned Experts of EADS and CASSIDIAN (its subsidiary) who will join the Sessions of the forthcoming Homeland and Global Security Forum in Geneva (Switzerland) November 16 to 19, 2011.
EADS is a World Leader in Security and our Delegates will find an exceptional interest in getting acquainted with its Representatives.

The Army of Kenya enters Somalia or the new Regional Responsibility of the State to implement Security : Minister Saitoti attends our November Summit in Geneva

October 19, 2011:
The Army of Kenya just entered Somalia targeting the shehab islamist warriors. This decision corresponds to what must be the Regional Responsibility of the State to implement Security. Minister of Internal Security of Kenya, Pfr. George Saitoti will be among the keynote Speakers of the forthcoming Crans Montana Homeland and Global Security Forum to take place in Geneva, next November 2011.

Official visit of Jean-Paul Carteron to Montenegro

October 5, 2011:
On October 3 and 4, 2011, our Executive Chairman, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron paid an official visit to Montenegro. He had extensive talks with the highest authorities including Mr. Filip Vujanovic President of the Republic, Mr. Igor Luksic Prime Minister and Mr. Srdan Milic, Chairman of the Socialist People's Party and Leader of the Opposition.

Energy agreement between Azerbaijan & Bulgaria at the Crans Montana Forum

October 3, 2011:
The Crans Montana Forum, in total discretion and far from the spotlights, is proud to have contributed for 27 years to strengthening the Economic Cooperation between numerous Countries.
Recently, in Brussels, the Crans Montana Forum patronized an important meeting between Mr. Traicho Traiko, Minister of Economy & Energy of Bulgaria and Mr. Natiq Aliyev, Minister of Energy & Industry of Azerbaijan.
During this meeting both countries decided on a gas supply cooperation agreement. Azeri State Oil & Gas Company SOCAR and Bulgaria’s Bulgartransgaz are now discussing the final details related to this contract (news published according to the wish of both Parties)

Security of Energy Infrastructure : the Côte d'Ivoire will join the Global Security Forum with an impressive delegation

September 26, 2011:
One of the key topics of the forthcoming Homeland and Global Security Forum to take place in Geneva next November 2011 is the Security of Energy Infrastructure around the World. PETROCI, the national Oil Company of Côte d'Ivoire is among the Partners of the Forum. Côte d'Ivoire will be represented by an impressive delegation headed by Mr. Charles  Diby Koffi Minister of Economy and Finance, Mr. Adama Toungara  Minister of Mining, Oil and Energy and Mr. Daniel Gnangni, Managing Director of PETROCI .

The UN join the Homeland and Security Forum in Geneva (Switzerland)

September 22, 2011:
On the occasion of the 13th International Summit on Transnational Crime and Homeland and Security Forum to take place in Geneva in November 2011, the UNITED NATIONS will take an active part in the proceedings. We are proud to welcome Mr. Kasper Ege, Associate Political Officer at the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force Office (CTITF) in the UN Department of Political Affairs.

Founding a “NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF VALUES” - Extraordinary Meeting in Geneva

September 14, 2011:
In the framework of 13th International Summit on Transnational Crime, an Extraordinary Meeting devoted to the Good Governance will take place in Geneva (Switzerland), November 17, 2011. The World Leader OBERTHUR Technologies and its Experts will address the audience on the following topic : THE "NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF VALUES" OR IMPROVING THE IMAGE AND REPUTATION OF A COUNTRY THANKS TO THE SECURIZATION OF ITS FINANCIAL INCOME AND MEANS OF PAYMENT.
This meeting is of the highest interest for Ministers of Finance, Governors of Central Banks and their Experts, but not only. Indeed, these issues are relevant for each Ministries and Governmental Agencies since Good Governance is an ambition requiring the involvement of the whole Administration.

Security at Sea : Special Programme on the occasion of 2011 Summit on Transnational Crime in Geneva (Switzerland)

September 2, 2011:
A Special Programme dedicated to Maritime Security will take place November 18-19 in the framework of the forthcoming Summit in Geneva, with the participation of the most renowned Experts representing the world's leading Security companies, including EADS and its subsidiary CASSIDIAN.
The maritime dimension today is more strategic than ever: 90% of good transportation is made by sea - the increase of the traffic - the protection of maritime borders against globalised clandestine immigration - the insecurity of certain seas because of piracy - all kind trafficking  or illegal fishery are the powerful driving factors, the root causes, of the very recent development - since the beginning of this decade - of the maritime security market.
Maritime security missions are sovereign duties of State, and still today remain mainly a national exclusive right - Globalisation made possible the development of new opportunities, along with new threats, across and through those large spaces -States will therefore increasingly open to a more global and highly integrated way of addressing it, incorporating their national achievements and peculiarities.
Following the general trend of security issues, maritime security issues span civil and military scopes - the search for appropriate solutions requires both civil and military expertise, expertise that can only be provided by large multidisciplinary companies - combining spatial, aerial and surface means, in a global but modular response, is the only way to provide customized solutions to each State's specific constraints.

After 26 years, adapting the Crans Montana Forum's motto : COMMITTED TO A MORE HUMANE AND IMPARTIAL WORLD.

August 31, 2011:
Since the very beginning of their activities, the Fondation du Forum Universale and the Crans Montana Forum adopted the following motto " Committed to a more humane World". This motto made the Forum unique as anyone else thought only of profit and finance. Indeed experience has showned that the humane dimension is the most important in our today's World. The ones who kept and keep ignoring the humane aspect of the World affairs are today intellectualy located in a new "Coblence" as the royalists were during the French Revolution ! They have no credibility and no future.
A new momentum recently occurred : the Revolution which started in the Arab World at the beginning of the year 2011. It is not only an Arab Spring but a World Revolution, driven by the young generations, which will impact every Country around the World at a degree or an other ! It is not a May 68 as the "Coblence Residents" thought for a while, it is a Tsunami !
Globally the young generations are looking and will fight for an impartial State, the end of the corruption and a fair management of Public affairs. So far, following a proposal of its Chairman, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron, the Board of the Forum decided that, starting in 2011, the new motto of the Crans Montana Forum will be COMMITTED TO A MORE HUMANE AND IMPARTIAL WORLD.

Statement by the Crans Montana Forum on the arrest of Yulia Tymoshenko in Ukraine

August 26, 2011:
On behalf of the Fondation du Forum's Board, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron, Chairman of the Crans Montana Forum made today the following statement: "We are extremely concerned by reports of events in Pechersk District Court, culminating in the arrest of Yulia Tymoshenko, former Prime Minister and Leader of the Batkivschyna Party. The Crans Montana Forum and its constituents underline the need for fair, transparent and independent legal processes to avoid any perception of a policy of selective justice. These events are therefore a cause for concern about the state of the rule of law in Ukraine. The Crans Montana Forum which has been continuously working since 1989 for the implementation of Democracy in Eastern Europe reiterates its concerns about the high standards which are expected from a country aspiring to political association with the EU".

June 2012 ! Join the 23rd annual Crans Montana Forum in Baku, Azerbaijan on "WHICH ENERGY FOR WHICH WORLD" ?

July 8, 2011:
From June 27 to July 1st, 2012, on the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, the 23rd annual session of the Crans Montana Forum will take place in Baku (Azerbaijan) to address the topic WHICH ENERGY FOR WHICH WORLD ? Our Founder and Chairman Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron was in Azerbaijan last week to sign the official agreement with the President's Administration. More in the few weeks to come on this website.

Working for a better World and taking advantage of the today's most important Industrial Market : Energy Access and Security + Renewables

July 8, 2011:
The Crans Montana Forum will organize its yearly African session in Brussels (Belgium) March 7 to 10, 2012 dedicated to the World Economic Integration of Africa with an important focus on Energy Security and Renewables. This event will host the World majors in Energy and Renewable Energy. The Programme will include a number of Corporate and Technical Presentations in order for the African Governments to get more acquainted with the last technologies.

The Bulgarian Government commends the Crans Montana Forum's key role in Energy Cooperation

July 7, 2011:
On June 23, 2011, a special session on Energy Cooperation took place in Brussels, organized by the Crans Montana Forum. Our Chairman, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron received today an official letter from  Mr. Peter Poptchev, Bulgarian Ambassador at Large for Energy Security and Coordinator for EU Nabucco Project quoting "this year's Forum has contributed to the cause of the Nabucco Gas Pipeline Project more than most energy conferences on the topic in the past 12 months".

Iraq at the June 2011 Crans Montana Forum : an important Delegation will be taking part !

June 19, 2011:
Iraq is getting out of its problems and will be soon and again "the" Regional Power. Numerous opportunities for Business and Foreign Investment are available and we are pleased to welcome, on the occasion of the June 2011 Forum in Brussels, a huge Delegation (Officials and Private Sector) headed by Mr. Rowsch Nouri Shaways Deputy Prime Minister and including key Business Decision makers, among them :  Mr. Sabah Allawi, Chairman of the Board of the Trans Iraq Bank,  Mr. Al Jiboori Founding Member of Dar Al-Kaiser General Contracting & Commercial Agency, Mr. Abdul Raheem Founding Member of the Shemesh Group Oil Services etc.
  A working lunchA        A working lunch "Iraq" is scheduled on June 24.

The Arab Spring and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

June 16, 2011:
On the occasion of the June 2011 Crans Montana Forum, H.R.H Prince Turki Al Faisal Al Saud, Chairman of the King Faisal Center for Islamic Studies and Research will address the Forum on the wind of change which started in June 2011.

Commissioner Günther Oettinger at the Crans Montana Forum

June 15, 2011:
Energy is really the major today's concern for Europe and the rest of the World. European Commissioner Günther Oettinger will attend the official opening session of the 22nd annual Crans Montana Forum to welcome Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, and his delegation.

Algiers – General assembly of the Civil Society's stakeholders : the National Economic and Social Council invites the Crans Montana Forum as Guest of Honour

June 14, 2011:
June 14, 2011 : Our Chairman and Founder, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron is the Guest of Honour of Mr. Mohamed Seghir Babès, President of the CNES, on the occasion of the General State of Civil Society taking place under the High Patronage of Mr. Abdelaziz Bouteflika, President of the Republic.
Next week, Mr. Babès will lead an important Delegation of Businesses on the occasion of the 22nd Annual Session of the Forum, to take place in Brussels (Belgium) from June 22 to 25, 2011. Algeria’s most important Groups, including Sonatrach, will be attending.
 

Council on World Public Affairs : August 18 to 21, 2011 - annual meeting in Crans-Montana (Switzerland)

June 12, 2011:
August 18 to 21, 2011 : the Council on World Public Affairs will gather in Crans-Montana (Switzerland) as every year. The number of Participants is limited to 40 ! Registration is now urgent. Please proceed sending a message to info@cmf.ch

More than 600 Participants ! : the World is gathering in Brussels !

June 9, 2011:
More than 600 Participants from 100 countries and Organizations will gather in Brussels on the occasion of the forthcoming and 22nd Crans Montana Forum, June 2011.

Yamoussoukro - May 21,2011 - Inauguration of the President of Côte d'Ivoire

May 23, 2011:
Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron, President and Founder of the Crans Montana Forum was invited as a Special Guest on the occasion of the inauguration of the President of Côte d'Ivoire in Yamoussoukro. Mr Carteron had private talks with Mr. Alassane Ouattara, Mr. Denis Sassou-Nguesso President of Congo, Mr. Mahamadou Issoufou President of Niger, Mr. Blaise Compaoré President of Faso, Mr. Bédié Former President of Côte d'Ivoire, Mr. Raila Odinga Prime Minister of Kenya and Mr. Lansana Kouyate Former Prime Minister of Guinea.

Ruud Lubbers invites our Founder and Chairman, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron to join the Berlin World Culture Festival

May 16, 2011:
On July 2 and 3, 2011, our Chairman, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron will join the World Culture Festival to take place in Berlin (Germany) on the personal invitation of Prof. Ruud Lubbers former Prime Minister of Netherlands and Co-founder of the Earth Charter Initiative. On this occasion, Mr. Carteron will be the Guest of Honor of the Festival and the Keynote Speaker of the World Forum on Ethics in Business to take place also during this major event. 

The Securization of Public Income and Payments : meeting of Ministers of Finance and Governors of Central Bank

May 4, 2011:
On the occasion of the 22nd yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum, an extraordinary meeting of Ministers of Finance and Governors of Central Banks will be organized on June 24, 2011 in Brussels. OBERTHUR Technologies and its Experts will address the audience on the following topic : THE "NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF VALUES" OR IMPROVING THE IMAGE AND REPUTATION OF A COUNTRY THANKS TO THE SECURIZATION OF ITS FINANCIAL INCOME AND MEANS OF PAYMENT : BANKNOTES AND DOCUMENTS FOR A FAIR MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Azerbaijan, our 2011 Guest Country : an impressive industrial development - a key destination for Business and Foreign Investment

April 21, 2011:
Azerbaijan is considered as the most important success in its Region as far as Economic Development, Social and Political Progress are concerned. An important and high level delegation from Baku will attend the Forum to address many issues including Energy and Food Industry. The delegation will include : Mr. Elmar Mammadyarov Minister of Foreign affairs, Mr. Natig Aliyev Minister of Industry and Energy, Mr. Ali Abbasov Minister of Communications and Information Technologies, Mr. Huseyngulu Baghirov Minister of Ecology and Natural resources, Mr. Abulfas Garayev Minister of Culture, Mr. Azad Rahimov Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Shahmar Movsumov Executive Director of the State Oil Fund, Mr. Elshad Nasirov Vice-President of the State Oil Company, Mr. Jahangir Hajiyev Chairman of the International Bank.  
 

Azerbaijan has led CIS countries in terms of GDP growth and other indices for some years. The country has immense potential for generic market development due to favorable natural conditions, a good investment climate and State policies concentrated on intensively supporting non-oil sector development. According to UN forecasts, Azerbaijan will continue leading the CIS in 2010 as the Country enjoying the most dynamic Economic development. GDP growth hit 6.1% in Azerbaijan in 2009 on the backdrop of a slumping GDP in the CIS as a whole. Azerbaijan was admitted as the number-one reformer among 181 countries, according to the World Bank Doing Business Report 2009.

 
The Azerbaijan Investment Company and the EBRD invested 5.400.000 $ in the Dairy industry. The project's cost is of 12.000.000 $ including the development of a new factory and milk-processing facility and the reconstruction of an older plant. Plans include putting into operation a white salt production factory. Its output is 60,000 tons annually. A major Company recently spent 40.000.000 Euro on constructing a new farm, a package production factory and an ice-cream production factory. The Azerbaijan Investment Company is investing $15 million in poultry farming. Capital investment permit the reconstruction of 14 farms and the installation of modern equipment.

Mr. Tahar Ben Jelloun at the annual Forum

April 14, 2011:
Mr. Tahar Benjelloun, Psychologist and Writer will attend the annual Crans Montana Forum (Brussels - June 22 to 25, 2011). He will chair some key debates related to the current changes in the Arab World.

Condolences of the Crans Montana Forum's President and Board to the President of Côte d'Ivoire and the People of Côte d'Ivoire

April 4, 2011:

Chairman Jean-Paul Carteron and the Board of the Crans Montana Forum would like to express to the President of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire and the First Lady, Mr. and Mrs. A. Ouattara their sincere condolences and heartful compassion on these most horrible circumstances which plunge into mourning the whole Country. The price for Democracy is too high and paid with blood and tears ! We wish them endurance and God's protection.  gO  gOD

PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2011 : Annual Forum's Promotion

March 30, 2011:
By special decision on March 30, 2011, the Board of the Crans Montana Forum awarded with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2011 :
- Mr. Alassane Ouattara President of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire
- H.H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Founder of International Association for Human Values
- Mr. Adrian Nastase Former Prime Minister of Romania
- Mr. Philippe Maystadt President of the European Investment Bank
- Mr. Tahar Benjelloun Psychologist & Writer
- Mr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas Former Executive Director of ECOWAS and Secretary General of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States
- Mr. Richard Holbrooke Ambassador of the United States of America (posthumously)
The Award Ceremony will take place during the 22nd annual Crans Montana Forum in Brussels (Belgium), June 22 to 25, 2011.

22nd annual meeting of June 2011 : a major Revolution has started - what will be the tomorrow's World ?

February 25, 2011:
The World was trying to get out of a major Economic and Financial crisis. The related challenges were perceived as historical and the most important ones that Governments and Companies had ever to face ! But it was definitely a short term view… Since the very first days of 2011 a very strong wind is blowing on the World, starting with the Middle East and Africa. Indeed we must admit that we are facing a Revolution but a new type of Revolution; a Revolution made by the young generations suffering from the perverse impact of globalization, the mismanagement of public affairs and an absence of political alternation. It will be a major change for the World and no Country will escape to some degree. Will Governments have the will, the moral legitimacy and the means of addressing such challenges ? Will the international Private sector adapt its Business development models in order to establish a more ethical and equitable World ?  The June 2011 annual Crans Montana Forum will be an open debate between Government Officials, International Organizations and Businesses, trying to shape what our World could be tomorrow…
The World was trying to get out of a major Economic and Financial crisis. The related challenges were perceived as historical and the most important ones that Governments and Companies had ever to face ! But it was definitely a short term view… Since the very first days of 2011 a very strong wind is blowing on the World, starting with the Middle East and Africa. Indeed we must admit that we are facing a Revolution but a new type of Revolution; a Revolution made by the young generations suffering from the perverse impact of globalization, the mismanagement of public affairs and an absence of political alternation. It will be a major change for the World and no Country will escape to some degree. Will Governments have the will, the moral legitimacy and the means of addressing such challenges ? Will the international Private sector adapt its Business development models in order to establish a more ethical and equitable World ?  The June 2011 annual Crans Montana Forum will be an open debate between Government Officials, International Organizations and Businesses, trying to shape what our World could be tomorrow…
 

2011 Meeting of the Crans Montana Forum in Crans-Montana (Switzerland) - Council on World Public Affairs

January 27, 2011:
The next meeting of the Crans Montana Forum High Level Panel, Council on World Public Affairs, will take place, as usual, in Crans-Montana (Switzerland), August 18 to 21, 2011. The number of Participants is limited to 40 ! More information contacting info@cmf.ch

South-South Cooperation Forum : Special Nominations - PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2011

January 23, 2011:
Will be presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2011 :
 
- Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, First Lady of Côte d'Ivoire
 
- Mrs. Emine Erdogan, Spouse of the Turkish Prime Minister
 
- Mr. Rayla A. Odinga, Prime Minister of Kenya. Mr. Odinga is a key actor of the Kenyan Democratic stabilization and a brilliant international negotiator despite the difficulties to find the ways of Peace and Justice
 
- Mr. Hamid Temmar, Minister of Prospective and Statistics, People's Democratic Republic of Algeria
  
- Mr. George Forrest, Chairman & Founder of George Forrest International SA will be also presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2011 during the South-South Crans Montana Forum to take place in Brussels (Belgium) February 16 to 19, 2011. Mr. Forrest is indeed one of the major Businesses operating in Africa who fights for transparency, a fair management of natural resources and the implementation of Ethics in Business.
 
Mr. Didier Reynders, Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Belgium will chair the Official Ceremony.

Mrs. Alassane Ouattara, First Lady of the Ivory Coast will be the Guest of Honour of the South-South Cooperation Forum

January 12, 2011:
Mrs. Allasane Ouattara, First Lady of the Ivory Coast will be among the Guests of Honour of the forthcoming South-South Cooperation Forum to take place in Brussels (Belgium) Feb. 16 to 19, 2011. On this very occasion, she will be presented with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION.

Mr. Iyad Allawi, Guest of Honor of the February 2011 Arab-African Crans Montana Forum in Brussels.

December 22, 2010:
Mr. Iyad Allawi, Al-Iraqiyya Leader & Head of the National Council for Strategic Policies of Iraq, will be Guest of Honor of the February 2011 Arab-African Crans Montana Forum in Brussels.
 

Mr. Allawi will be heading an Iraqi delegation composed of Officials and Business Leaders. This will be a great opportunity for our Participants to learn more about the new business opportunities in Iraq.

Matching Romania’s Services supply for optimal use of traditional and renewable Energy resources with the Business demand in the Arab-African Region.

December 16, 2010:
On February 17, 2011 an extraordinary Programme will take place in the framework of the South-South Cooperation Forum to take place in Brussels (Belgium) with the cooperation of the Romanian National Association of Exporters and Importers (ANEIR) and the Export Import Bank of Romania (EximBank SA). Numerous Businesses from Romania will attend. A presentation of the Romanian Energy Sector will be organized.

A great man left us... Richard Holbrooke passed away and we will miss him !

December 15, 2010:
Ambassador Richard Holbrooke left us... Without notice as everything in his life ! The Crans Montana Forum will miss him. He used to attend our Forums, especially when he was in charge of the Balkans issue. Our Chairman & Founder Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron worked with him to reach this key international accord - see on picture on our homepage -. Indeed the same year, the Forum organized a special meeting in Malta, gathering all Heads of State duly concerned by Bosnia-Herzegovina. Later the two men met again in Cyprus as Richard Holbrooke was the Special Presidential Emissary in charge of the Island. On the occasion of the 22nd yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum in June 2011, Amb. R. Holbrooke will be posthumously awarded with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION.
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Strategic alliance between the Crans Montana Forum, the Romanian National Association of Exporters and Importers and the Export Import Bank of Romania

November 25, 2010:
On November 16, 2010 an important "Accord de Partenariat" has been signed between the Romanian National Association of Exporters and Importers (ANEIR) and the Export Import Bank of Romania (EximBank SA) on one hand and the Crans Montana Forum on the other hand. This strategic alliance aims to promote the Romanian Industry around the World thanks to the huge potential of the Crans Montana Forum's activities. Ask for more at info@cmf.ch
Official visit to the United Arab Emirates

Official visit to the United Arab Emirates

November 23, 2010:
Our Chairman & Founder Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron paid an official visit to Abu Dhabi. On this very occasion he awarded H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces with the Crans Montana Forum's Gold Medal. He was also invited to award the Winner of the 2010 Abu Dhabi Judo Grand Prix with the gold Medal at the end of the competition - see featured photos -

OFID and CMF address the topic ENERGY POVERTY - a key issue for Peace, Stability and Development - Can Industry lead the necessary change ?

November 9, 2010:
On April 28 and 29, 2011 the Crans Montana Forum and OFID organize, at the headquarters of OFID in Vienna a High Level Panel - by invitation only and limited to 70 persons (the world’s CEOs of Energy  leading companies, Heads of Government, Ministers, key Members of Parliament and Representatives of International Organizations)-. The aim of the Panel is, among others, to demonstrate that market based solutions and PPPs work and help in implementing sustainable solutions, find the ways of implementing a close cooperation, in a climate of confidence, between Governments and the Private sector, exchange with Governments on the development of sustainable Business models to be applied to rural Energy production and distribution, boost effective Investment in Energy activities by adapting the schemes to limited private investment and involving local entrepreneurs and communities

Launching the forthcoming and 22nd yearly Crans Montana Forum to take place in Brussels June 22 to 25, 2011

November 8, 2010:
Launching the forthcoming and 22nd yearly Crans Montana Forum to take place in Brussels June 22 to 25, 2011, our Chairman and Founder, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron stated : " The World is trying to get out of a major Economic and Financial crisis. The today's challenges are historical and the most important ones that Governments and Companies had ever to face ! Will we take advantage of the past disasters for shaping a better Business Environment ? Will Governments have the will and the means of addressing such a challenge ? Will the international Private sector adapt its Business development policies in order to establish a safer, fair et stronger Economy ? How will the European Union address the challenges of a definitely emerging Africa and of an increased and new role of South America and the Arab Finance ?"

Crans Montana Forum and ISESCO propose a jointly organized Extraordinary Forum in Rabat (Morocco) on the new Business models and the Islamic Countries' Economies

November 3, 2010:
March 28 to 31, 2011 in Rabat (Morocco) at the Headquarters of ISESCO will take place an extraordinary Forum co-organized by the Crans Montana Forum and ISESCO on TOWARDS NEW BUSINESS MODELS BASED ON ETHICS & ECONOMIC INTELLIGENCE - THE ISLAMIC FINANCE AND THE WORLD AFTER THE FINANCIAL CRISIS - INCREASING THE INTERNATIONAL ROLE OF ISLAMIC WORLD’S BUSINESS. This meeting, taking place at the highest level of Government Officials and Business will be organized in a very limited and restricted framework.

Prime Minister Viktor Stepanovitch Tchernomyrdine passed away...

November 3, 2010:
Mr. Viktor Stepanovitch Tchernomyrdine just passed away. He was a old and good friend of the Crans Montana Forum since 1992 ! We considered him as one the Founders of our Organization. On the occasion of his visit to the Forum in Switzerland, he was presented with the Prix de la Fondation by Mr. Jean-Pascal Delamuraz President of the Swiss Confederation.

Extraordinary High Level Panel in Brussels : The Tourism Industry and the Terror Threat - Assessment and Action Plan

November 2, 2010:

On Feb. 19, 2011 in Brussels (Belgium), the Crans Montana-Institute is organizing an extraordinary Meeting placed under the authority of Mr. Jean-Louis Bruguière Judge specialized in the Fight against Terrorism (1976-2007) and EU  Representative for the Fight against Financing Terrorism  - TFTP (2008-2010) with the participation of a team of key World Experts from various Intelligence, Police and Justice Administrations to address the topic : The Tourism Industry and the Terror Threat - Assessment and Action Plan. Ask for more at info@cmf.ch

Delegations from around the World attended the 12th International Summit on Transnational Crime in Geneva, Oct. 27 to 30, 2010

October 18, 2010:
More than 130 Countries and International Organizations attended the 12th International Summit on Transnational Crime which took place in Geneva, Oct. 27 to 30, 2010.  ! !