Current News
Toward a new "Peace Process" in Palestine ?
The "Peace Process" in the Middle East is exhausted... One must admit that since 1993 nothing remains from these tremendous efforts to achieve Peace and implement an independant Palestinian State. Time has come to give the floor to the Civil Society at the Regional Level. It will be the topic of a major Session of the forthcoming and 21st yearly Crans Montana Forum in Brussels, June 23 to 26, 2010, chaired by Mr. Marc Otte, EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process.
Mr. Abdullah Abdullah joins the April Forum in Brussels
We are delighted to announce that Mr. Abdullah Abdullah, PRIX DE LA FONDATION, Former Foreign Minister and Leader of the Opposition of Afghanistan will join the Crans Montana Forum on Africa and the South South Cooperation in Brussels , April 7 to 10.
Mr. Idriss Deby, President of Chad, at the Crans Montana Forum
Immediately after his historical visit to Khartum and the implementation of an effective Peace Process, the President of Chad, Mr. Idriss Deby will attend as a Guest of Honour, the Crans Montana Forum on Africa, April 7 to 10, 2010 in Brussels (Belgium).
TOTAL new Partner of the Crans Montana Forum
The Crans Montana Forum is proud to present TOTAL as its new Strategic Partner for the Forum's 2010 activities devoted to Energy, Renewable Energy and Electrification of Africa.
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Jerry Rawlings to chair the Crans Montana Forum on Africa
The Crans Montana Forum on Africa will be chaired by Mr. Jerry Rawlings former President of Ghana.
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The First Lady of Egypt at the First Ladies' Brussels meeting
Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak, First Lady of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Chair of the Women’s International Peace Movement, Goodwill Ambassador of FAO (Food & Agriculture Organization), Honorary Chairperson of the Inner Wheel Clubs will co-chair with Mrs. Irina Bokova Director General of UNESCO the third First Ladies' Meeting to take place in Brussels on April 10, 2010.
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ENERGIZING AFRICA : from Dream to Reality
Energizing Africa : that is the key Challenge of the 21st Century ! In the framework of the Crans Montana Forum on Africa which will take place in Brussels (Belgium) 7 to 10 April 2010 the meeting of African Energy Ministers will address this topic with the participation of the top Energy Companies from around the World.
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The Premier of Ontario commends the Crans Montana Forum
In a friendly and private letter addressed on January 15, 2010 to our Chairman, the Premier of Ontario, Mr. Dalton McGuinty states : "You and I share a common goal : to forge stronger ties from the many things we have in common, including respect for the rule of law, the market economy and a desire to enhance the prosperity and quality of life of our citizens. I would like to commend you and your colleagues for helping to strenghten economic ties and promoting co-operation and growth on a global scale"
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PRIX DE LA FONDATION 2010 - Promotion 2010
The Board of the Fondation du Forum Universale has just published the nominations for the 2010 PRIX DE LA FONDATION. On the occasion of the forthcoming Crans Montana Forum on Africa to take place in Brussels (Belgium) on April 7 to 9, 2010 the following dignitaries will be presented with the Award : Mr. Idriss Deby President of Chad, Mr. Raila Amollo Odinga Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili Prime Minister of Lesotho, Mr. Jean Ping President of the Commission of the African Union, Mr. Surin Pitsuwan Secretary General of ASEAN, Mr. Ahmad Mohamed Ali Al Madani President of the Islamic Development Bank Group, Mr. Donald Kaberuka President of the African Bank for Development and Mr. Tun Musa Hitam Chairman of the World Islamic Economic Forum. The Award Ceremony will take place on April 9, 2010.
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The First Ladies meet with Irina Bokova DG of UNESCO
For the third time, on the occasion of the 2010 Crans Montana Forum on Africa to take place in Brussels, the First Ladies of Africa and around the World are invited to join a special meeting devoted to "Enhancing the Women's Dignity". This meeting will take place on April 10, 2010 and will be chaired by Mrs. Irina Bokova Director General of UNESCO.
Click here for more information
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Africa Ministers in charge of Telecom in Brussels - June 2010
The 21st yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum which will take place in Brussels (Belgium) in June 2010 will host an important meeting of African Ministers in charge of Telecom and IT to address, with the participation of the European Commission, one of the most today's crucial challenges for the Continent . Telecom and IT Companies from around the World will join the Forum to participate in the discussions.
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Africa Energy Ministers' meeting in Brussels - April 2010
The Crans Montana Forum on Africa which will take place in Brussels (Belgium) in April 2010 will host an important meeting of African Energy Ministers to address, with the participation of the European Commission, one of the most today's crucial challenges for the Continent . Energy Companies from around the World will join the Forum to participate in the discussions.
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The 21st yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum . June 2010
The 21st annual session of the Crans Montana Forum will take place in Brussels (Belgium), June 23 to 26, 2010 devoted to "A new European Union".
Indeed a new European Parliament has been elected, a new Commission duly appointed and, in addition the European Union enjoys now a President and a new Minister of Foreign Affairs !
At the very moment of the South-South Cooperation's implementation, the Forum invites to Brussels Countries from Latin America, Africa, Middle East, GCC and Far East.
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World Energy Majors join the Crans Montana Forum in Vienna !
The CMF High Level Panel of Dec. 10 and 12, 2009 in Vienna (Austria) will gather the World Energy Majors as : Total, Gazprom, GDF Suez, Chevron Ltd, British Gas, JB Germanoil GmbH, Cesky Energeticke Zavody, Transnafta JP, NIS AD Novi Sad, Makpetrol AD, VNG Verbundnetz Gas AG, EGL Laufenburg as well as Thales Security and OPEC Fund, the European Investment Bank, EBRD, Islamic Development Bank etc.
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Celebrating the Fall of the Berlin Wall
Nov.9, 2009 CMF Chairman's Statement : "Nov. 9, 1989 was the day of the Fall of the Berlin Wall. It was also the birth of the Crans Montana Forum. One of our Founders, Ambassador Jacques Kosciusko-Morizet had this vision since September 1989; so far in October 1989 we together founded the Fondation du Forum Universale allowing the organisation of the first yearly Crans Montana Forum in June 1990 devoted to the new Democracies of Central Europe. Since this moment and year after year, the CMF has changed a lot and improved, following the History of the World. It is now Leader in its activities and Worldwide oriented."
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The Crans Montana Forum of New Leaders for Tomorrow
On the occasion of the 2010 Crans Montana Forum on Africa to take place in Brussels (Belgium) next April 2010, the Forum is launching the Crans Montana Forum of New Leaders for Tomorrow.
The Crans Montana Forum of New Leaders for Tomorrow aims to be a unique, multistakeholder community of Arab and African young leaders who are shaping the global agenda and implementing a better cooperation between Arab and African Countries in the framework of the new South-South Cooperation.
The Crans Montana Forum will assist those New Leaders for Tomorrow and provide them with the capacity of having a concrete impact on global affairs and creating the tools which will help their generation to be integrated at the World level.
Thanks to the cooperation of Governments, Chambers of Commerce, Professional bodies, International and Regional Organisations, the Crans Montana Forum will identify the most significant individuals, drawn from these two Regions. Together, they will form a powerful community that can directly impact their common future.
So far, a first meeting of the Crans Montana Forum of New Leaders for Tomorrow will take place in Brussels in April 2010.
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The OPEC Fund and the Crans Montana Forum
The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) is associated to the Crans Montana Forum, together with the EIB and UNIDO, for the success of the forthcoming Forum devoted to the Nabucco and South Stream project to take place in Vienna (Austria) December 10 to 12, 2009.
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Major Cities, Regions facing Global Warming
On March 18 and 19, 2010, the Crans Montana Forum will gather in Bucharest (Romania) the Capitals, major Cities and Regions which play an increasing role in the new Globalized World. They now represent the basic social and economic Infrastructure and the disappearance of borders strengthen their role as Economic centres of gravitation. They are growing fast and face more and more critical issues especially with the Climate change and the Global Warming. As an example, the major Cities are responsible for the largest amounts of carbon dioxide dissipated into the air. They need to reduce their respective outputs by cutting back on cars and power-plants, the main source of carbon. That is to say, they should employ more effective means of achieving the same tasks, so as to replace fossil fuel with renewable power sources. But despite climate change warnings, City emissions continue to rise, creeping up by slightly over 1 percent per year since 2000. Environmental scientists warn that the trend must be reversed and emissions slashed by at least 80 percent to avoid the worst effects of global warming. Therefore the whole Management Policy of Cities has to be reconsidered and the Forum aims to gather the Mayors of European –and more – major Cities, especially those who signed in Brussels (Belgium) on February 10, 2009 the “Convention of Mayors” to address these key issues.
Recently in Brussels, Mr. Philippe Maystadt, EIB President, confirmed that the Bank will invest Euros fifteen billions in the fight against Global Warming. Therefore it is time to increase the Cooperation between the Capitals of Europe and easing the personal networking between Mayors and top level Official and Business Decision makers. They need to share Experience, learn from each other and create the tools of a permanent communication to boost a positive cooperation. Besides the high level personal networking activities which will be organised between the Municipalities and the Private Sector’s decision makers attending this High Level Panel, a number of topics will be proposed for discussion - chaired by top level international Experts - among them :
1.
Water Distribution – maintaining quality and safety for drinking water
2.
Waste management – a key point for CO2 emissions
3.
Waste Water management – another key point for Environment
4.
Energy production – shifting to Renewable Energy ?
5.
Energy safety – 50% of Energy is lost
6.
Improving Environment protection in the day to day local Policies
7.
How to limit the development of private Transportation ?
8.
How to shift toward Green Transportation ?
Mayors from Capitals & Major cities, Companies specialized in Municipal Infrastructure, Government and Region’s Representatives will be among the participants to this programme besides high Representatives of International Organisations.
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Preparing the June 2010 yearly Crans Montana Forum.
The 21st yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum will take place in Brussels (Belgium) June 23 to 26, 2010. The Belgian Authorities and the European Organizations are supporting this project with enthousiasm. On September 22 and 23, 2009, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron paid an official visit to Brussels in order to meet with the Crown Prince, HRH Duke of Brabant and HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium. A working lunch with Mr. Jacques Barrot, Vice President of the European Commission, took place before the end of the visit. The Director General of ISESCO, Mr. Abdelaziz O. Altwaijri was also present and joined some of the visits.
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A new era for UNESCO with a high caliber Lady Director General
Great news at UNESCO ! Ambassador Irina Bokova from Bulgaria has been elected Director General by the Executive Council. For the first time a Lady, coming from Central Europe, will head this Organization which has been waiting for a too a long time for such a high caliber leadership. Irina Bokova is a respected person, well known in the international circles. She is highly supported by the UNESCO Member States. We wish her the best success ! We already pay tribute to her commitment to Human Rights, Democracy and the status of Women.
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Huguette Labelle at the Crans Montana Forum
Mrs. Huguette Labelle, Prix de la Fondation and Chairperson of Transparency International will be one of the Keynote Speakers at the forthcoming Summit on Transnational Crime to take place in Paris (France) Nov. 12 & 13, 2009.
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A joint Forum CMF-ISESCO on Innovative Financing
16 & 17 April 2010 at the ISESCO Headquarters in Rabat (Morocco) : the Crans Montana Forum and ISESCO organize jointly a high level Forum on "Innovative Financing and Islamic Finance" - see the Programme on this website
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Africa and the European Union : the New Economic Parameters
April 7 to 10, 2010 the Crans Montana Forum organises in Brussels (Belgium) a high level world political and economical meeting devoted to the new situation of Africa
- facing the Crisis : the London G20 Economic consequences
- the new relations of Africa with the new European Commission and the new European Parliament
- the future of South-South Cooperation
Indeed this strategic meeting is a must for the African Public and Corporate Leadership. There is definitely a need for creating new personal links and network with the new European Authorities and the Official and Business circles from the Arab World.
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Announcing the 2009-2010 CMF Forum Global Strategy
For the years 2009-2010 the Forum de Crans Montana, in addition to his traditional activities, will focus on the "World and Energy". Energy Security, Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency are a key challenge for Europe, the Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa.
On an other hand, Improvement of Energy Production and Distribution in South Eastern Europe appear as the most important factor for Democratic stabilisation, Economic Development and European Integration in this Region.
The first specialised event will take place in Vienna (Austria Dec. 11 & 12, 2009) devoted to Nabucco and South Stream Projects.
In addition, the Crans Montana Forum has established a World Business Council aiming to gather all the key actors in the Energy sector, mainly from South Eastern Europe and Romania where the Forum has been active since more than 20 years !
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Paris Nov, 12 and 13 : top Speakers address the after G20
Welcoming Mr. Jeffrey Owens : the forthcoming and 11th International Summit on Transnational Crime to take place at the French National Assembly, Paris (France) welcomes among his Keynote Speakers Mr. Jeffrey Owens, Director of the Center for Tax Policy and Administration at OECD.
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Nabucco & South Stream : Prospects for EU's Energy Security
STRATEGIC CMF MEETING IN VIENNA (AUSTRIA) Nabucco and South Stream are the safest ways to get a sustainable Energy Security for the European Union. The signature of the two founding Agreements opens new perspectives for the future of Europe including Turkey which is, from now and de facto, a strategic "Member" of the Union ! The Crans Montana Forum is organising an exceptional High Level Panel in Vienna (Austria) Dec. 11 & 12, 2009, devoted to these strategic issues. As the Chairman of the Forum, Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron quoted recently : "The 2008-2009 Energy crisis was a strong warning for EU as far as its Energy Security is concerned. Obviously, European Countries must now better cooperate, integrating their networks, diversifying their suppliers, implementing Renewable Energy and opening new ways of cooperation, notably with Central Asia, the Middle East and Africa in order to secure a reliable and sustainable Energy supply. This Vienna Forum aims to be a platform for meetings and meaningful exchanges which will surely prove to be decisive facing this major geostrategic challenge. On this occasion, International Businesses will have the opportunity of meeting with Heads of State and Government, Ministers and Experts, the European Commission, as well as high Representatives of International, Regional and Specialised Organisations".
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Crans Montana Forum’s Council on World Public Affairs CMF-WPA
On the occasion of the Crans Montana Forum’s 20th Anniversary and in association with the Arab African Business Council, established by the Crans Montana Forum, a Crans Montana Forum’s Council on World Public Affairs - CMF-WPA - is founded under the auspices of the Fondation du Forum Universale and the Académie de la Paix. The Crans Montana Forum’s Council on World Public Affairs aims to gather a (numerus clausus) group of high caliber Personalities from the Business World and top VIPs from Governments, Politics and the Civil Society.
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Commissioners Olli Rehn and Andris Piebalgs at the 2009 Forum
The European Commissioners Olli Rehn will speak at the session devoted to Turkey and Andris Piebalgs at the session devoted to Energy Cooperation in the Mediterranean.
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HRH Princess Astrid presents the 2009 PRIX DE LA FONDATION
The Fondation du Forum Universale has nominated the 2009 PRIX DE LA FONDATION : Mr. Barack Hussein Obama President of the United States of America, Mrs. Armando Guebuza First Lady of Mozambique, HRH Sheika Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Queen of Bahrain, Mr. Jean-Claude Juncker Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Mr. Recep Erdogan Prime Minister of Turkey, Mrs. Rama Yade State Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Human Rights - France, Mr. Philippe de Fontaine Vive Vice-President of the European Investment Bank and Mr. Eric de Montgolfier Prosecutor of the French Republic. Most of these Awards have been presented in Brussels (Belgium) on June 26, 2009 during the 20th yearly session of the Crans Montana Forum by HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium.
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President José Manuel Barroso at the Forum
Mr. José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission joined the annual Crans Montana Forum in Brussels June 24 to 27, 2009 just after his confirmation by the EU Heads of State and Government .
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The Crans Montana Forum and the White House on the same line
At the very moment of President B. H. Obama's historical address to the Arabo-Islamic World in Cairo and the Election Process in Iran, the Chairman of the Crans Montana Forum was the Guest of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali at the Carthage Presidential Palace in Tunis where an important and restricted meeting took place. On this occasion, Mr. Carteron met numerous high level personalities from the Middle-East including the former Iranian President Mr. Seyed Mohammad Khatami and the Vice President of the Syrian Republic Mrs. Najah Al Attar. The Crans Montana has always been involved in the Middle-East Peace Process ans its action has been worldwide recognised and commended. Today, a new era seems possible !
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Euro RSCG Worldwide and the Crans Montana Forum
The Crans Montana Forum agreed on a strategic alliance with Euro RSCG Worldwide - one of the major Communication Group in the World - for the organisation of the 20th Crans Montana Forum which was organized in Brussels, June 24 to 27, 2009.
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Africa after the London G20 : the New Economic Parameters
At the beginning of 2010, the Crans Montana Forum will organise in Brussels (Belgium) a world political and economical Forum devoted to the situation of Africa facing the Crisis, the London G20 consequences and the relations of Africa with the new European Commission and the new European Parliament.
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The World Financial Stability and Islamic Banking
The 2009 Enlarged Meeting of the Académie de la Paix: "Toward Financial Stability : which Role for Islamic Financial Institutions ?" which took place in Evian (France) April 30 to May 2, 2009 a few weeks after the G20 meeting, was a huge success. A selected group of high caliber decision makers from Banking, Finance and Business gathered under the chair of Mr. Othman Altweijri Director General of ISESCO and the participation of the Islamic Development Bank, the Council of Europe, key delegations from the GCC and Africa, European key Bankers and International Organisations.
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Mozambique: Guest Country at the 20th Crans Montana Forum !
Mozambique was the Guest Country at the Crans Montana Forum annual session, 24 to 27 June 2009 in Brussels. The participation of a huge Official and Business delegation allowed the Participants to meet directly with the most influential decision-makers from Mozambique and create concrete contacts for their business strategies in the country but also in the SADC. Numerous investment opportunities were presented on this occasion and notably in the sector of Tourism in preparation for the 2010 football World Cup.
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The Middle East Peace Process at the CMF 2009 Agenda
Mr. Marc Otte, EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process will chair a special session on the occasion of the June 2009 Crans Montana Forum in Brussels (Belgique).
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The World Financial Markets & the Off-shore Financial Centers
The most important financial centers around the World are invited to join a special Crans Montana Forum which will take place in Brussels (Belgium) in the first weeks of 2010. This meeting will address the following topic : "The World Financial Markets recovery : the role of the specialised Financial Centers". More in the weeks to come.
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GCC Investment Funds to attend the CMF in Albania
At a time when Albania and South Eastern Europe represent the highest economic growth rates, investors from the GCC Region will attend the 4th Yearly Session of the Crans Montana Forum in Albania and take steps towards Increased cooperation and strategic alliances.
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Launching the Arab African Business Council
An important delegation representing the Crans Montana Forum, the Académie de la Paix and the Arab-African Business Council - including a high UN Official - and headed by Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron paid an Official visit to Mozambique and United Arab Emirates in order to visit the highest authorities in these countries. In the weeks to come the first Arab-African Business Council's Regional Headquarters will be inaugurated.
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The Geneva Protestant Church commends the Crans Montana Forum
On January 7, 2009, Rvt Henry Babel, one of the most respected dignitaries of the Geneva Protestant Church (Geneva - Switzerland) wrote to our Chairman : "Votre nom évoque pour moi les heures enrichissantes passées sous votre patronage - Je demande à Dieu que la force vous soit donnée de poursuivre votre belle oeuvre"
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Dealing and Lobbying in Brussels
On the occasion of its 20th yearly session (June 2009) in Brussels, the Crans Montana Forum organises two high level and restricted sessions on HOW TO DEAL WITH THE EUROPEAN UNION and LOBBYING IN BRUSSELS. Top level Government Officials are most welcome to join these interactive sessions.
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Turkey - European Union : the 21st Century's issue
Prime Minister Recep Erdogan at the Forum ! - The European future of Turkey is obvious. The yearly Crans Montana Forum which will take place in Brussels (June 2009) will devote a large part of its activities to the Turkish EU Membeship Process. Prime Minister Recep Erdogan will attend, heading an important official and private delegation.
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Switzerland at the yearly CMF in Brussels - June 2009
Mr. Pascal Couchepin, Member of the Swiss Federal Council and former President of the Swiss Confederation will attend the 20th yearly Crans Montana Forum to take place in Brussels June 24 to 27, 2009.
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Austria commends the Crans Montana Forum for valuable action
On January 7, 2009, Austrian Federal Finance Minister Josef Pröll wrote to Amb. Jean-Paul Carteron Chairman and Founder of the Crans Montana Forum : " Your engagement with regard to the preparations for Albania's entry to EU and NATO is exemplary and deserves respect and recognition".
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Russian Energy Companies join the yearly Forum !
A high level and special session will take place in Brussels, June 24, 2009 during the first day of the yearly Crans Montana Forum in Brussels. This session will be devoted to "Energy Security and the future of Russia-Europe relationship". It will gather the most important Russian Businesses in the field of Energy.
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The Energy Crisis in the SEE : Energy Ministers meet in Tirana
The January 2009 Energy crisis in South Eastern Europe is a very strong signal as far as Energy Security in the Region is concerned. SEE Countries must cooperate, integrate and take new Initiatives to secure the future and not to be dependant of only one provider. Ministers of Energy and their Experts from South Eastern Europe and related Countries will join the exceptional the Crans Montana Forum in Tirana next March 2009 in order to discuss, in an informal framework, about their common interests.
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Simone Veil at the Académie Française
We are very proud to learn that Mrs. Simone Veil has been elected as a Member of the very prestigious and unique Académie Française. A few years ago, Mrs. Simone Veil was presented by our Chairman & Founder with the PRIX DE LA FONDATION at the Crans Montana Forum.
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Kosovo : Challenges and Hopes ?
During the last Crans Montana Forum which took place in Bahrain - Dec. 1 to 3 - a large consultation took place between the more than hundred (!) Governments attending the event about the numerous requests they receive from Pristina for the Recognition of the new State. The points for discussion were the following :
1.
The UN General Assembly recently sent the following request to the International Court of Justice in The Hague : "Is the unilateral declaration of independence by the provisional institutions of self-government of Kosovo in accordance with international law?"
This procedure will last at least a few years and obviously, it appears more serious to wait for that decision before making the possible choice of a recognition. The point appears as a key one as all States having recognised Kosovo - except Albania - decided, during this General Assembly not to vote positively in favour of the new State !
2.
Russia and other European key countries are totally opposed to this Independence. Therefore every Government has to balance what he has to gain from such a Recognition and what he has to loose in opening a conflict with Moscow.
3.
What is the credibility of the new Kosovo Authorities ? This point appeared also to be a very important one. Is Kosovo able to manage its own Independence and does it enjoy the necessary competences which may allow it to succeed if finally declared independent ? Any failure in building the Kosovo Economy would appear as a major danger for the European construction !
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Arab-Africa Business Council launched by the CMF
In the framework of the Crans Montana Forum which took place in Bahrain Dec. 1 to 3, 2008, the "Arab-Africa Business Council" was founded, on the initiative of the Crans Montana Forum and with the support of all dignitaries attending the event, the Islamic Bank of Development, the African Union and other Business Councils already active in the Region. This Organisation is now establishing its Regional Headquarters . The Global Strategic Board is placed under the honorary chair of HRH Prince Jean Nassau de Luxembourg and Mr. Khalid Almoayed Chairman of the Association of Entrepreneurs of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The AABC is chaired by Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron, Chairman of the Crans Montana Forum and managed from Switzerland.
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ISESCO Summit in Tunis
On the occasion of the ISESCO Summit in Tunis, the Crans Montana Forum Chairman, Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron, addressed the Participants in his capacity of ISESCO Ambassador for the Dialogue among Civilizations and Cultures on the topic " Globalization and Youth". Mr. Carteron has also the opportunity of meeting with Mr. Zine El Abidin Ben Ali, President of Tunisia at the Palace of Carthage.
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Inauguration Ceremony at the Senate Palais du Luxembourg,Paris
November 12, 2008 - Mr. Othman Altwaijri, Director General of ISESCO, chaired an important ceremony hosted at the Palais du Luxembourg where the Senate - French Upper House - is located. During this Ceremony, he officially inaugurated our Chairman Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron as Ambassador of ISESCO for the Dialogue among Civilizations and Cultures. More than 100 Ambassadors and Heads of Missions attended, together with numerous Ministers, Representatives of Governments, International Organizations and Sovereign Families. The next day, on this occasion, HE the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted an Official Lunch at his Residence.
Mr. Jean Paul Carteron, ISESCO Ambassador for the dialogue of cultures and civilizations
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Apostolic Benediction by H.H. Pope Benedict XVI
On the occasion of the last enlarged meeting of the Academie de la Paix in Roma-Fiuggi (October 20-23, 2008), His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI sent to the Participants his greetings and Apostolic Benediction.
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The P.M. of Palestine at the Summit on Transnational Crime
Mr. Salam Fayyad, Prime Minister of Palestine will be among the key Speakers of the forthcoming Summit on Transnational Crime to be held in Paris November 13 and 14, 2008
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African Leaders head to CMF in Bahrain.
Numerous and impressive African delegations will join the Crans Montana Forum organised in Bahrain December 1 to 3, 2008 and devoted to the Economic links between GCC and Africa. Among the delegations confirmed and headed at a very high level : Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Congo, DR Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Centrafrican Rep., South Africa, Togo, Uganda, Zambia etc... Among the International Organisations which will be associated to the Forum : African Development Bank, African Union, UNIDO, OFID - Opec Fund for International Development, Banque de Développement des Etats de l'Afrique Centrale, OECD, UNCTAD, UNITAR etc...
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Jacques Barrot joins our Forum in Paris
Mr. Jacques Barrot, Member of the European Commission in charge of Justice and Home Affairs, will be the Guest of Honour of the forthcoming and 10th International Summit on Transnational Crime to be hosted in Paris (France), November 12 and 13, 2008 by the French National Assembly.
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Olli Rehn and the Western Balkans
Sarajevo October 10, 2008 - Our Chairman Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron hosted today in Hotel Radon-Sarajevo an Official lunch in the honour of Mr. Olli Rehn, Member of the European Commission in charge of Enlargement. Some top VIPs from South Eastern Europe attended this private event.
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President Zuma in Bahrain next December
Among numerous high level African dignitaries who will join the GCC-Africa Crans Montana Forum in Bahrain, December 1 to 3, 2008, President Jacob Zuma, President of ANC will head the South African delegation. Mr. Zuma is expected to be the future SAR Head of State.
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Albania and the World Bank
The 2008 survey of the World Bank features Albania among the 10 most successfull countries for the efficiency of its Reforms ! The effectiveness of the policies implemented by the Government of Mr. Sali Berisha Prime Minister is now more than obvious. The 4th Crans Montana Forum in Tirana, March 26 and 27, 2009 will be the best opportunity for the World Business to implement long term strategies of Investment in this country which will join NATO in the months to come.
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Albanian People's Gratitude
On the occasion of an Official visit Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron paid to several countries in the Western Balkans, Mr. Bamir Topi President of the Republic of Albania presented our Chairman & Founder with the Medal of the Albanian People's Gratitude. Mr. Sali Berisha, Prime Minister and numerous Ministers attended this ceremony.
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GCC Business at the Sarajevo Forum
Numerous important Businesses from the GCC Region will attend the Crans Montana Forum in Sarajevo next October. Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as the SEE Region become every day more attractive for Arab Business and Islamic Banking.
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Ambassadors for the Union for the Mediterranean to meet in Sarajevo !
On the Crans Montana Forum Chair's invitation, the Ambassadors in charge of the Union for the Mediterranean meet in Sarajevo (Bosnia & Herzegovina) October 8 to 10, 2008. In a very informal framework they will discuss of the current projects in a South Eastern European dimension. Ambassador Jacques Huntzinger (France) in charge of the Union for the Mediterranean will moderate the proceedings.
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Mission to Darfur
August 20 to 23, our Chairman Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron Ambassador of ISESCO for the Dialogue among Cultures and Civilizations paid an official visit to some African capitals. It was a mission of information at a moment where the situation becomes crucial. Mr. Carteron met with all levels of decision makers involved in the Darfur Peace Process. Coming back to Europe, Mr. Carteron made a stop in Vienna (Austria) for further consultations.
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Serbia and International Justice !
The arrest of Radovan Karadzic is a very strong signal for Serbian European Integration and its stabilisation in the Region. Since 13 years the Crans Montana Forum's position has been unchanged : the European Integration of Balkans will not be achieved as long as the war criminals are not arrested. During these long years, the Forum has supported the War Crime Prosecutor General in Belgrade, Mr. Vladimir Vukcevic, who was presented with the prestigious Prix de la Fondation in the presence of Mrs Carla del Ponte, then Prosecutor General at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
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Bronislav Geremek passed away...
Bronislav Geremek, Co-Founder with Lech Walesa of Solidarnosk, Prix de la Fondation and Founder of the Crans Montana Forum passed away in a terrible accident. He was among the most brilliant actors of the end of Communism and Terror in Poland. He had only friends around the World...
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Mr. Carteron appointed ISESCO Ambassador
The Executive Council of ISESCO, during its 29th annual session held in Rabat (Morocco) from July 2 to 5, 2008, has appointed Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron Ambassador of ISESCO for the Dialogue between Cultures and Civilizations.
Granting this distinction to Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron, Chairman and Founder of the Crans Montana Forum, the ISESCO meant to reward his efforts and activities for the promotion of the Dialogue between Civilizations in the framework of the Union for the Mediterranean.
For the third year, the Crans Montana Forum organised from June 26 to 29, the symposium on the Dialogue of Civilizations under the Chairmanship of Mr. Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri, Director General of ISESCO and Mr. Federico Mayor, Co Chairman of the UN High Level Group for the Alliance of Civilizations and former Director General of UNESCO.
More Information
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The 19th Crans Montana Forum starts !
On June 25, 2008 the activities of the 19th yearly Crans Montana Forum are about to start in Monaco !
More than 700 (!) Participants will gather including numerous Businesses, key Prime Ministers, Ministers and International Organisations.
HM the Queen of Bahrain will chair the special Forum devoted to "Women in the Public Life". Seven European and African First Ladies will join Her.
This huge success is a prelude to the 20th Crans Montana Forum which will take place in the Royal Palace of Egmont in Brussels (Belgium) in June 2009.
Welcome to the Crans Montana Forum !
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Strategic alliance with the BCSR in Bahrain
On June 16, 2008, our Chairman & Founder Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron paid a visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain. On this occasion he signed an important agreement with the Bahrain Centre for Studies and Research, establishing for the future a permanent cooperation between the two Organisations.
During this one day visit, our Chairman met with the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Bahrain, the Minister of Trade and HRH Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa Prime Minister.
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The "Academie de la Paix" and the Fondation du Forum Universale
The "Fondation du Forum Universale" was founded in 1989 by Maître Jean-Paul Carteron, under the Honorary Chair of H.S.H. Prince A. von und zu Liechtenstein. Associated with the most distinguished International Organizations and active worldwide, the Foundation has become a reference for exclusive, high-level international meetings.
Governments often turn to the Fondation du Forum Universale, a last resort when the possibility for dialogue seems bleak; highly-respected, it is a major player for the life of the world.
The Académie de la Paix is an Initiative by the Foundation's Chairman and Mr. Federico Mayor, Co-President of the United Nations’ High Level Panel for the Alliance of Civilizations. Its headquarters are located in Sion, Switzerland.
The Académie de la Paix’s activities are placed under the authority of a Strategic Board enjoying the administrative support of the Crans Montana Forum’s Organisation.
The Management of Participations to the Academy’s activities and the preparation of the appointment of Academicians are managed by a High Committee.
The Académie de la Paix appoints, when appropriate, "Ambassadors of Peace".
Once a year, the Académie de la Paix holds an informal meeting in a carefully selected location, where accommodation quality should combine with a high-quality natural environment to stimulate a peaceful openness of minds. This is intended to facilitate fruitful exchanges and be conducive to reviewing key issues, based on current events.
In this way, Académie de la Paix Participants will be able to cement their ties and contribute to advancing the ideals of Peace, Freedom, and International Cooperation.
Indeed, Académie de la Paix is :
•A meeting place for strengthening high profile contacts
•A centre for study, information, and exchanges
•A melting pot in which every Participant contributes his knowledge, expertise, and network resources.
Each meeting will focus on a subject of global import and crucial interest. In 2008, the Académie de la Paix will examine the worldwide food crisis and the relationship between biofuel expansion and food security.
Get more in contacting : presidency@peace-academy.ch
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For the 2009 and 20th CMF : the "Crans Montana Collection" !
On the occasion of the 20th yearly Crans Montana Forum which will be held in Brussels, June 2009, the Fondation du Forum Universale will be editing an exceptional collection of biographies of the most important figures of the political life of the late 20th and beginning 21st century under the title « Crans Montana Collection »
The great leaders of the New Europe, Middle East, and Africa will be called upon by the Foundation’s Experts in the months to come to start working on this project.
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HM the Queen of Bahrain at the Forum "Women in Public Life"
Her Majesty Shaikha Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, Queen of Bahrain and President of the Supreme Council for Women will join the Forum "Women in Public Life" organised by the Crans Montana Forum June 26 to 29, 2008 in Monaco.
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Our Chairman pays an Official visit to the GCC
Our Chairman and Founder Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron starts an Official visit in 3 countries of the GCC. Indeed the forthcoming Crans Montana Forum will host high Representatives of the Sovereign Families from the GCC.
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Numerous Prime Ministers at the June Forum !
The 19th yearly Crans Montana Forum in Monaco on June 26 will host an impressive number of Prime Ministers and top Ministers from Europe, Africa, the Mediterranean and the Arab World, all of them heading Business delegations ! The European Commission will be represented by Mr. Jacques Barrot, its Vice President. Besides the Programme's activities, our Chairman Mr. Carteron will hold numerous bilateral meetings in order to prepare the 20th Forum of 2009 to take place in Brussels in cooperation with the Belgian Authorities and the European Commission.
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Successful Forum in Albania !
From May 15 to 17, the 3rd Session of the Crans Montana Forum in Albania
took place in Tirana addressing three strategic issues :
1. Energy Networks Integration
2. Banking, Financial Activities and Foreign Direct Investment
3. Homeland & Global Security Challenges.
More than 30 major international Companies attended among them :
Amphora Capital Ltd, AMBO, Burson Marsteller, Cotecna Inspection S.A.,
Eagle Mobile, Electrabel, Elektrizität Gesellschaft Laufenburg, EGL, EnergieSteiermark,
France Telecom, Petrol d.d., StatoilHydro, Visa.. .
Visit the event page
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Africa meets GCC Financial Institutions in Bahrain !
November 2008 : Exceptional Crans Montana Forum in Bahrain ! Organised in the heart of the GCC, this Forum will gather decision makers from Governments and Business from Arab Countries (GCC)and Africa. Participants from around the World will also join. Today the GCC Region's Governments implement a strong South-South Cooperation and look at the Africa natural resources.
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Trade Capacity Building : Crans Montana and UNIDO
The Crans Montana Forum, together with its Associate UNIDO, is organising within the very next months an important Forum devoted to the Trade Capacity Building as a main tool for Development. This high level Forum will gather Heads of State and Government mainly from Africa in the presence of the key financial and economic GCC actors (Sovereign Funds, Islamic Bankers etc). Trade Capacity Building is indeed one the key missions of this United Nations specialised Organisation and the Crans Montana Forum after 23 years of experience in African Integration is the most qualified to operate in that direction.
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Central Europe + Gulf = a win win Forum !
The second Crans Montana Forum organised in the Kingdom of Bahrain, April 8 to 10, was a huge success. More than 250 Government Officials at the level of Head of State, Prime Minister and Ministers, heading Business delegations from Central, Eastern, South-Eastern Europe and the Caucasus attended this unique gathering to meet with Arab Banks, Islamic Financial Institutions, Sovereign Funds and GCC Businesses during 3 days ! This Forum will take place again next year.
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M. Carteron, Professor of Strategic Studies and Study of War
By decision published on April 14, 2008, our Chairman Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron has been appointed Professor of Strategic Studies and Study of War (Polemologie) at the Graduate School of International Studies in Paris, one of the oldest Universitary Institutions in France.
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First Afro-Arab Round Table at the Crans Montana Forum
ONUDI and the OPEC Fund for Industrial Development are organising, in the framework of the forthcoming Crans Montana Forum of June 2008 in Monaco, an extraordinary Round Table devoted to Cooperation and Investment between Arab and African Countries.
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The 20th CMF annual session in the capital of Europe !
The yearly Crans Montana Forum will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2009. On this occasion this major world meeting will take place exceptionally in Brussels (Belgium) in full cooperation with the Government of Belgium, the European Union and other International Organisations based in the Capital of Europe ! It will be the occasion of celebrating 20 years of deep involvement in the European construction process.
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Prix de la Fondation : Recipients for 2008
During its Spring statutory meeting the Board of the Fondation du Forum Universale has awarded the Prix de la Fondation 2008 to the following Recipients. The official Ceremony will take place in Monaco on June 28, 2008 :
1. Posthumously : Mrs. Benazir Bhutto Former Prime Minister of Pakistan
2. Posthumously : Mr. Rafik Hariri Prime Minister of Lebanon
3. Mr. Ernest Bai Koroma President of the Republic, Sierra Leone
4. Mrs. Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner President of the Republic, Argentina
5. H.R.H Prince Turki Al Faisal Al Saud Chairman, King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, Saudi Arabia
6. Mr. Abbas El Fassi Prime Minister of Morocco
7. Mr. Calin Tariceanu Prime Minister of Romania
8. Mr. Hashim Thaci Prime Minister of Kosovo
9. Mr. Simeon Saxe Cobourg Ghota, Former Prime Minister of Bulgaria
10. Mr. Alain Juppé, Former Prime Minister of France
11. Mr. Jean Ping, President of the African Union Commission
12. Rvt. Nguyen Van Ly, Militant for Democracy in Viet Nam
13. Mrs. Aung San Suu Kyi, Chair of the National League for Democracy in Burma
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The Union for Mediterranean addressing Security issues
The Crans Montana Forum is organising, on the occasion of its 19th yearly session of June 2008, an extraordinary one day meeting of the Mediterranean Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defense, Interior, Sea and Environment in order to address, in an informal framework, the Security issues related to this new concept : MARITIME TRANSPORT AND SECURITY, GLOBAL SECURITY AND REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION, PROTECTION OF THE MARITIME ENVIRONMENT, TOWARDS A MEDITERRANEAN CENTER FOR CIVIL PROTECTION ?
The meeting will be co-chaired by Mr. Alain Le Roy, Ambassador and Head of the Mission for the Union for the Medieterranean and Mr. Jean-Louis Bruguière, High Representative of the European Union.
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160th Anniversary, Hungarian Revolution of March 15, 1848
On the occasion of the celebrations of the 160th Anniversary of the Revolution of March 15, 1848, Mr. Laszlo Solyom,President of the Republic of Hungary has awarded our Chairman Mr. Carteron with the Medal of Commander of the National Order for the Merit in recognition of his valuable activities for the Construction of Europe and the European Integration of Hungary.
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Mr. Jean-Louis Bruguière appointed UE High Representative
Mr. Jean-Louis Bruguière, former Head of the Anti-Terror Operations in France and PRIX DE LA FONDATION, has been appointed High Representative of the European Union for the United States.
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For the first time : a CMF in Bosnia & Herzegovina
During our Chairman's last Official visit to Bosnia & Herzegovina, it was agreed that a Crans Montana Forum will be organised in Sarajevo. This Forum will take place October 8 to 11, 2008 under the co-chair of Mr. Nedzad Brankovic, Prime Minister of Federation B&H, Mr. Nikola Spiric, Chairman of the Council of Minister of B&H and Mr. Milorad Dodik, Prime Minister of Republika Srpska. The purpose is to bring to Bosnia & Herzegovina and the Region, potential investors from the West and the East but also from the GCC Region and the Arab World.
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The Forum's Chairman in Pristina to celebrate Independance !
Our Chairman Mr. Jean-Paul Carteron paid an official visit to Pristina the first days of March 2008. The Crans Montana Forum has been deeply involved in the Kosovo Independance Process since 1992 ! The visit of the Forum's Chairman to Kosovo, a few days after the proclamation, was indeed a very emotional moment. The Prime Minister, Mr. Hashim Thaci and Mr. Carteron agreed on an important strategy of cooperation in order to boost the European and World Integration of the new State. Among other activities, Prime Minister Thaci will be in Monaco for the 19th yearly Crans Montana Forum.
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President Janez Drnovsek passed away...
Former Prime Minister and President of the Republic of Slovenia Janez Drnovsek passed away. He was among the founding members of the Crans Montana Forum and had been presented with the Prix de la Fondation in 1995, the same day than President Yasser Arafat of Palestine. President Janez Drnovsek was the father of Slovenia Independance. Thanks to him and the action of President Kucan, Slovenia became independant in 1991 avoiding the former Yugoslavia's war.
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April 3 to 4 2009 : CMF Dubrovnik High Level Panel
Coastal Tourist Resorts, Cruise Lines and Pollution - Cruise ships are increasingly present along some of the most beautiful coastlines of the world and are bringing thousands of low budget tourists who are invading the major tourist sites and contributing to their progressive deterioration. At the same time they chase away the traditional tourists who represent the base of local economies. These jumbo cruise ships are all by themselves a gigantic source of pollution for the extremely fragile eco-systems along the seasides and river deltas. The Crans Montana Forum, in association with the city of Dubrovnik (Croatia) will be gathering in April 2009 the representatives of major seaside resorts to address this issue which is crucial for the protection of these environments which are particularly at risk, stem this unacceptable evolution and begin multilateral consultations that should help us to foresee possible solutions.
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