near news vol.49 (eng)

NEARNEAR Leading the Era of Northeast Asia2013. 1-2

Vol. 49

News

The Association of North East Asia Regional

Governments

Special ContributionKim Jae-hyo, NEAR Secretary General / Wang Zengwei, Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region / Too-Tokhsuren, Governor of Uvurhangai Province / Waldorf, Magadan Governor / Toshizo Ido, Governor of Hyogo Prefecture

NEAR This Month NEAR Activities / Secretariat News / NEAR Member News

Feature ReportMagadan, Russia - Magadan and Northeast Asia

NEAR Member TourSejong Special Self-Governing City, Korea

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

“NEAR News” was launched in 2005 to serve as a messenger between NEAR member regions and promote sharing of information. The bi-monthly

magazine is published and distributed to NEAR members and other relevant organizations free of charge, containing information on NEAR activities,

news from members, international issues, contributions and announcements (also available free at http://www.neargov.org). You can take part in

creating NEAR News anytime by contributing articles and creative ideas (Contact the NEAR Secretariat).

NEAR News

Vol. 49

Russian Orthodox Church Baptism Event

9 16 199 16 19

NEAR is...an international organization founded in Sept. 1996

in Gyeongju, South Korea by 29 regional

governments in four Northeast Asian countries,

including South Korea, China, Japan, Russia.

Since the adoption of the NEAR Charter based on

mutual prosperity, NEAR has carried out extensive

exchange and cooperation projects in various

fields ranging from economy and trade, education

& cultural exchanges, environment, disaster

prevention, cross-border cooperation, science &

technology, tourism, ocean & fisheries, Mineral

Resources Development and Coordination,

Energy and Climate Change, Women and

Children, Bio-medical Industry to Agriculture.

Today, with the participation of North Korea and

Mongolia and the accession of new member

governments, NEAR encompasses 71 member

regions in six countries as an organization

representing Northeast Asia dedicated to regional

diplomacy & cooperation.

NEAR is open to all. Any local government located in the Northeast

Asian region sharing the founding purpose of

NEAR can join us through the NEAR General

Assembly.


Governments

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Kim Jae-hyo, NEAR Secretary General

4

Special Contribution

New Year's MessageA Year of Hope

We greeted the year 2013 after experiencing two major changes in 2012.

First, national leaders and the national leadership of the world’s major countries, including Russia,

France, Egypt, India, Mexico, America, China, Japan, and Korea, experienced enough transformation

for the year 2012 to be referred to by the moniker of ‘World Election Year’. NEAR member regions

were no exception; North Korea, Russia, China, Japan, and Korea all have new leaders, while regional

governments in Mongolia feature new leadership as well. For this reason, it is expected to actually

change the situation in these countries in 2013.

Next, changes in the world economy had been observed.

At the time-honored ‘World Economic Forum-Davos 2013(WEF)’, held in January 2013, with the

participation of 2,500 world opinion leaders, the atmosphere became optimistic enough that the slogan

‘Tail Risk Reduced’ in the opening ceremony had been changed to ‘Tail Risk Removed’ by the closing

ceremony. Tail Risk is not likely to occur, but once it occurs, it could have a significant effect on the

global economy. For example, tail risk includes risk factors such as the collapse of the Eurozone, a

double dip in the American economy, and the hard landing of the Chinese economy.

This meant that for the first time since the global economic crisis of 2008, the outlook for predicting

risk for the global economy had improved. The rapid depreciation of Japanese yen according to the

quantitative easing policy for the yen is emerging as a variable powerful enough to create a ‘Currency

War’ among the major currencies by immediately influencing their value.

Meanwhile, South Korea, China, and Japan agreed to begin negotiations on a Trilateral Free Trade

Agreement (FTA) on November 20, 2012, addressing an issue that had long been a challenge. It will

take time for an FTA to be concluded. However, according to this announcement, the economic

community created by this agreement will have a population of 1.5 billion and a GDP of 15 trillion

dollars, but it will not only become a viable power in the region but also have a huge impact on the

world economy.

Conflict caused by territorial disputes and differences in historical perceptions, which since last year

has deepened among Korea, China, and Japan, directly and indirectly influenced NEAR activities, but

it is expected that economic integration through the future FTA will be beyond politics.

These positive elements will have a major effect on both the Northeast Asian region’s politics and

economy, and cooperation activities among sub-national governments; this requires active

participation by all parties concerned.

Furthermore, I hope NEAR’s response efforts to resolve common global issues such as climate

change, environmental preservation, food safety, scarcity of water and energy resources, and youth

unemployment will be reinforced, and that NEAR should also have an opportunity to participate in a

newly invigorated field of social enterprise. NEAR’s new long-term vision for 2020 is also expected to

be established.


Kim Jae-hyo NEAR Secretary General

Special Contribution Wang Zengwei, Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments 5


New Year's Message

The year of the snake, a symbol of abundance, has started.

Ningxia would like to extend greetings to other member regions on the occasion of the 2013 New

Year’s holiday and Chun Jie, the biggest holiday in China. The 9th General Assembly was

successfully held in Yinchuan, Ningxia, at the end of July 2012, with the substantial support and

cooperation of NEAR member regions. I would like to, once again, extend my sincere gratitude for

being given this opportunity.

Ningxia, also one of the 71 NEAR member regions, has always emphasized the importance of

reinforcing exchange and cooperation among Northeast Asian regions. There has been a recent trend of

economic cooperation and regional integration among geographically adjacent Northeast Asian

nations. In addition, Ningxia has abundant resources and a relatively great and stable market, and is

one of the most active areas for economic activities in Asia. Although each country has differing levels

of social systems and economic development, all regions are trying to develop their economy.

The cooperation in Northeast Asia is about to change from theoretical cooperation to practical

cooperation, which means that cooperation in Northeast Asia is currently focusing on undertaking

various projects. At such times, we need to vitalize Northeast Asian regions for long-term, rapid, and

sustainable development.

Innovative mechanisms are needed in order to promote regional integration. Regional governments

will need to enhance friendly relations in multiple ways, including implementing policy, linking

industries, and exchanging culture by investigating mechanisms of more effective conversation,

exchange, and cooperation. In addition, I request that every member consistently promote

interregional cooperation and economic integration in various fields in order to make the Northeast

Asian region the most rapidly expanding region in the world in terms of economic development.

Close collaboration is necessary for the generalization of exchange . Regional governments need to

promote new structural concepts, along with more abundant content, and organize more cooperative

events in fields such as trade, academia, and culture. At the same time, more broad and in-depth

exchange should be developed.

Ningxia has unique advantages, even though development in western China is comparatively late. In

particular, Ningxia hopes to continue active cooperation with other regional governments in key areas

such as tourism, culture, energy, and agriculture.

There is a Chinese saying that claims, “If people know one another well, although we are distant

from each other, we can be neighbors.” I expect the economic development and platform for peace-

which we previously worked for on a collaborative effort between NEAR member regions, and as per

NEAR Equality and Reciprocity principles-to play a huge role during the New Year. I wish you

continued success, happiness, and good health in the years ahead.

Wang Zengwei Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

NEAR NEWS Vol. 496

Too-Tokhsuren, Governor of Uvurhangai Province Special Contribution

New Year's Message

I want to convey my New Year’s Greetings to all of you on behalf of all the residents of Uvurhangai

Province, a town full of attractions, history, and culture, located in the heart of Mongolia.

I have been reelected as Governor of Uvurhangai Province and am using all my experience and

capabilities for regional development. Last year’s Mongolian parliamentary elections featured

significant victories for the Democratic Party. The opposition, which had led the democratization of

Mongolia, became the first party to switch over to the Democratic regime.

NEAR is an organization with active international exchange activities across Northeast Asia. We will

try to develop practical, cooperative relationships with NEAR member regions, including those related

to investment promotions and economic exchange.

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

NEAR member regions.

The development prospects of the Russian Far East are connected to the expansion of foreign

economic cooperation with Northeast Asian countries. With this in mind, the Asia-Pacific Economic

Cooperation (APEC) Summit was held in Vladivostok, in September 2012, where the summit

participants frequently addressed the importance of regional economic integration.

Cooperation with emerging countries in the Asia-Pacific region is one of the most important policies

for the Far East and could help resolve the asymmetry of regional economic development between

Europe and Asia in Russia. When closely examining the status of foreign trade in the Russian Far East

over the past five years, one finds that 82-91% of the total trade was carried out by APEC participants.

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

Asian-Pacific countries (such as Japan) accounted for 12% of foreign investment in the Russian Far

East in 2011. However, according to experts, effective economic cooperation between these regions is

still in the early stages.

Magadan is fully aware of the need for an integration of Northeast Asian countries that reflects

regional foreign policy. Magadan became a member of NEAR in 2008, along with such organizations

as the Korea-Russia Far East and Siberia’s Economic Science and Technology Joint Committee, North

Russia Trade-Economic and Scientific and Technological Cooperative Sub-Committee among

Regional Governments, and the US-Russia Pacific Partnership Treaty. In addition, Magadan put into

practice cooperation programs among the Far East, East Siberia in Russia, and North Korea’s


Too-Tokhsuren Governor of Uvurhangai Province

Waldorf Magadan Governor

New Year's MessageNortheast Asia's Path


Special Contribution Waldorf, Magadan Governor

Northeast region.

Since 2009, a special program called the “Foreign Trade Development and Export of Magadan 2009-2013” has worked to increase the efficiency of foreign

economic policy. As a result, representatives from Magadan have attended some of the largest international events over the last four years. These events

include the following:

- Harbin International Economy and Trade Exposition (China)

-Asia-Pacific’s International Mining Exposition, Sydney (Australia), 2011

-Jewelry Industry Fair International Forum <Junwex Petersburg-2011>, St. Petersburg (Russia)

-International Automobile Exposition <AUTO - Shanghai 2011>, Shanghai (China)

-International Exposition <Hunting, Fishing, Rest-2011>

-<JUNWEX Moskva 2011>

-<JUNWEX Petersburg 2012>

-International Exposition <Dairy Products and Meat Industry- 2012>

At “The day of Magadan” event, held by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2011, representatives from 74 countries, including India, China, the

Philippines, Brazil, Paraguay, and Singapore, visited Magadan and saw the city’s cultural and developmental potential. Promoting Magadan on the world

market was one of the event’s major goals.

The state government was pushing ahead with a Magadan investment seminar in Asia-Pacific regions that have cooperative investment potential, and gave

presentations on the possibility of developing Magadan resources in Beijing (China) and Tokyo (Japan) in 2010, Sydney (Australia) in 2011, and Seoul

(Korea) in 2012. Magadan also plans to visit Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The most attractive project for foreign investors is the mining district of Magadan, which is rich in mineral resources. The metal reserves in Magadan

include a gold layer (11% of the total amount of metal), gold (15%), and silver (50%), which are centralized in Magadan.

The most popular exports of Magadan are from the fishing sector, which accounts for 51% of the total exports. Magadan’s marine products, imported from

the surrounding nations, include crab, pollock, herring, and cod. The haul of fish in Okhotsk accounts for 1/5th of the total haul of fish in Russia, and the

region is home to 300 species, including shrimp, conch, and squid. Foreign investment has increased 19 times as a result of active foreign economic policies

over the last five years, and the total volume of foreign trade, including a 37% increase with the Asia-Pacific countries, has increased to 23 percent.

2013 is Magadan’s 60th birthday. A common project will be carried out through exchange between partners in various fields, including effective

communication and economic and social development, in partnership with the countries of Northeast Asia, as well as the industrial policy that we have

already planned for future-oriented regional development.

I think that the international cooperation among Northeast Asian countries chosen by the Russian government is desirable and this process can bring about

great improvement for all Asia-Pacific regions and each country participating in this exchange.


Governments

NEAR NEWS Vol. 498

Toshizo Ido, Governor of Hyogo PrefectureSpecial Contribution

New Year's Message

Happy New Year!

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments (NEAR), founded in order to cope with

the common goals of the region, is celebrating its eighteenth year in 2013. NEAR has made

remarkable achievements in terms of the number of member regions, from 29 regions from four

countries to 71 from 6 countries, and the number of sub-committees has increased from 5 to 13.

Meanwhile, with changes in the international situation, as the seriousness of problems in the

environment, energy, and food sectors has increased, dealing with issues beyond the nation and the

role of sub-national governments has become even more important.

The effort to prevent and reduce disaster is one of those issues. The number of natural disasters and

their victims has more than tripled since the 1970s. In particular, large-scale disasters, including the

2008 Great Szechuan Earthquake and the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, have occurred frequently

in recent years.

Hyogo prefecture suffered heavy damages and loss of life because of the 1995 Hansin-Awazi

Earthquake; the disaster took more than 6,400 lives and destroyed 600,000 houses. Thanks to support

from home and abroad and the tireless efforts of all concerned, a successful recovery was

accomplished. We engage in this work with the mindset that it is our responsibility to inform people of

previous experiences and lessons, and use this experience to deal with forthcoming disasters and

restoration work. Support activities in districts damaged by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake were

provided to revitalize restoration efforts. The emphasis is on reconstruction of the community and

treatment of the mind.

As an effort of international contributions, Hyogo tries to prevent and recover from disasters with

help from international organizations in Hyogo Prefecture, such as the Hyogo Office of the UN

International Disaster Prevention Strategy Office, the UN Humanitarian Matter Medication Office in

Kobe, the Asia Disaster Prevention Center, the International Disaster Restoration Organization, the

WHO Kobe Center, and the JICA Kansai. The “Human and Disaster Prevention Future Center” is at

the center of these efforts. In addition, international attempts to promote disaster prevention, based on

the “Hyogo Action Framework” adopted at a 2005 UN Disaster Prevention World Conference, have

been implemented in various regions.

It is impossible to prevent all natural disasters. However, it is possible to minimize the damage by

preparing in advance. As a result, sharing experiences and knowledge is important. We try to reduce

the impact of disasters across society by sharing opinions with you through the NEAR Sub-Committee

on Disaster Prevention. Why do we not work closely together to realize a safer and more peaceful

Northeast Asia?


Toshizo IdoGovernor of Hyogo Prefecture


Governments


NEAR This Month NEAR Activities

NEAR Activities

Governor Bayarbat of Tuv Province, Mongolia, one of the NEAR

member regions, visited the NEAR secretariat and exchanged views about

methods of mutual cooperation and promotion of exchange with NEAR

Secretary General Kim Jae-hyo on January 22. The governor Bayarbat

made a presentation on attracting direct investment and requested interest

in the East region and the active participation of NEAR on this visit with

Tsog Bayar, head of administration of Tuv Province. In particular, he

requested NEAR’s and NEAR member regions’ cooperation on building a

new city currently in progress in the East region, and Jung Byung-chun,

head of the business cooperation, Pohang Techno Park also attended the

meeting and promised to cooperate closely with them.

Meanwhile, Secretary General Kim expressed his concern about holding

General Assembly in Mongolia in 2016 and requested interest and

cooperation of member regions in Mongolia. After that, a company of

governor visited Gyeongsan plant in Maeil Dairies Co. Ltd and then went

on to Seoul. This visit was the first example of the chief of Mongolia

member regions visiting the secretariat of NEAR and the active

participation and mutual cooperation of Mongolia member regions, at the

height of future development and economic development, with NEAR are

expected.

Delegation of Tuv Province, Mongolia Visited NEAR Secretariat

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

2013 NEAR Annual Event

No Event When Where Contact

1The 11th Sub-Committee on

Disaster Prevention March 11~14

Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan

Disaster Prevention Division, Hyogo Prefecture T. +81-78-362-9870 F. +81-78-362-9914

2The 10th Sub-Committee on

Economy and Trade April 4~6 Xi’an, Shaanxi, China

Gwon Tae-nam, NEAR Sub-Committee on Economy and Trade, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province T. +82-53-950-2278 F. +82-53-950-2979 E-mail: [email protected]

3 NEAR Working level Workshop MayPohang-si,

Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Korea

NEAR Secretariat T. +82-54-223-2318(English) +82-54-223-2320(China)

+82-54-223-2317(Japan) +82-54-223-2384(Mongolia)+82-54-223-2219(Russia)

4Sub-Committee on Life and

Medical Industry May

Chungcheongbuk-do Province, Korea

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

5 Sub-Committee on Women and Children July Dornod Aimag, MongoliaDornod Aimag Council of Women T. +976-98993571 +976-98209428

6Sub-Committee on Educational

and Cultural ExchangeAugust Shimane Prefecture, Japan

Environment and Life. Cultural Exchange Division, Shimane Prefecture, T.+81-852-22-6464 F.+81-852-22-6412

7 Working Committee OctoberJeollanam-do Province,

KoreaPark Ho, International Relations, International Exchange T. +82-61-286-2431 F. +82-61-286-4763

8 2013 NEAR International ForumOctober 31~November 1

Seoul, Korea

NEAR Secretariat T. +82-54-223-2318(English) +82-54-223-2320(China)

+82-54-223-2317(Japan) +82-54-223-2384(Mongolia)+82-54-223-2219(Russia)

9 Sub-Committee on Environment October Toyama Prefecture, JapanSea of Japan Cooperation Center, (Foundation corporation) T. +81-76-445-1571 F. +81-76-445-1581

10 Sub-Committee on Agriculture October Jeollanam-do Province, KoreaPark Ho, International Relations, International Exchange T. +82-61-286-2431 F. +82-61-286-4763

11 Sub-Committee on Tourism undecide Henan, ChinaThe Foreign Affairs Office of People’s Government of Henan T. +86-371-69068090 F. +86-371-65688841

12Sub-Committee on Maritime Affairs

and Fisheriesundecide Shandon, China

The Foreign Affairs Office of People’s Government of Shandon T. +86-531-86137806 F. +86-531-86040243

Secretary General Kim delivering a speech in Panel 5

Secretary General Kim with Panel members of Panel 5

NEAR Secretary-General Kim jae-hyo participated in a conference

entitled “Trilateral Business Networking Reception” held at the Seoul

Plaza Hotel, Seoul on January 17, 2013, The reception, hosted by

Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat(TCS), in collaboration with Korea

International Trade Association(KITA), Seoul Japan Club(SJC) and

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

commemorate ‘the official announcement of the launch of the trilateral

FTA negotiations’ and to facilitate networking among business groups of

the three countries working at home and abroad.

With the participation of over 200 businessmen from the three countries

in the reception, the ROK Trade Minister, Bark Tae-ho delivered the

keynote speech and Chairman Ahn Hong-joon of the Foreign Affairs, and

Unification Committee of the ROK National Assembly, President Huang

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

Tadashi of Seoul Japan Club delivered congratulatory remarks.

Meanwhile, Secretary General Kim exchanged opinions with President

Huang De and Chairman Kobayashi Tadashi and requested interest in and

a cooperation with NEAR.

Flows”, “Technologies for a Smart Future”, “Emerging Countries

Showing the Path: Successful Strategies for Regions” and “Implementing

the Renewables.”

NEAR Secretary General Kim participated in Panel 5 “Emerging Countries

Showing the Path: Successful Strategies for Regions” as a guest speaker.

Secretary General Kim briefly introduced NEAR and explained the

current situation of NEAR member regions.

In addition, he discussed the possibility of promoting a common

international Forum in Northeast Asia this year with R20 in partnership

with NEAR.

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Secretariat News

10

NEAR This Month

Secretariat News

Secretary General Kim with Chairman of Seoul Japan Club (left) and President of the ChineseChamber of Commerce in Korea(right)

Secretary-General Kim Attended “Trilateral (Korea-

China-Japan) Business Networking Reception”

NEAR Secretary General KIM Jae-hyo participated in the R20

Conference held in Vienna, Austria on January 31-February 1 as a guest

speaker with Kyung Sil Kim, Specialist in Cross-Cultural Communication

and Translation. The R 20 (R-20: Regions of Climate Change)

Conference, a coalition of partners led by regional governments from all

over the world, was held under the theme of “Implementing the

Sustainable Energy Future” with the participation of more than 600

delegates concerned about climate change including sub-national

governments, NGOs, related companies, research institutes, and the

academy along with Founding Chair Arnold Schwarzenegger; R20

Executive Director Dr. Christophe Nuttall; President of the European

Commission, Manuel Barroso; Federal Chancellor of Austria, Werner

Faymann; Prime Minister of Romania, Victor Ponta; Director-General of

UNIDO, Kandeh Yumkella; and the NEAR Secretariat delegation.

The R20 Conference focused on the following themes: “The Energy Mix

of the Future”, “Empowering Regions to Implement New Energy

Solutions”, “Innovative Finance Mechanisms for Climate Investment

Secretary General Kim Visited Vienna R20 Conference

*The R20 Regions of Climate Action a non-profit organization founded in 2010 by

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and other global leaders in cooperation with the

United Nations. The R20 is a coalition of partners led by regional governments that work

to promote and implement projects that are designed to produce local economic and

environmental benefits in the form of reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas

emissions; strong local economies; improved public health; and new green jobs. These

local actions can help the world achieve our shared global environmental and economic

goals. “R20 is not just another NGO or network of regions, it is much more than that. It is

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

development can be tackled at the subnational level.” - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in

the Global Journal, May-June 2011

NEAR This Month Secretariat News


Zhang Boyang seconded from China to the NEAR Secretariat attended a

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

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

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

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

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

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

exchange of Gunsan-si and build networks within China.

Mayor Mun Dong-Shin of Gunsan-si asked participants to widely

publicize Gunsan-si throughout China during the promotion presentation

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

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

Modern historic culture, and understand Gunsan-si over a period of one

day and two nights.

Zhang Boyang Participated in a Promotional

Event of Gunsan-si

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

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

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

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

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

supposed to prepare a foundation for new economic cooperation by

making a presentation on best practice examples of mutual cooperation in

Economy and Trade in the Silk Road regions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

more various and meaningful programs.

The 10th Sub-Committee on Economy and

Trade held in Xian, Shaanxi, China

Various programs have been offered for promoting exchange, such as

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

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

terms for members of the secretariat was developed and became the

permanent system in 2004.

Sustainable and consistent management became possible according to

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

Province, Korea in 2012.

According to this, the foundation of NEAR has been strengthened by

rebuilding their website, based on an independent server for suggesting a

new vision for NEAR, so that communication and information interaction

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

increased to more than 2000.

NEAR has established mutual cooperation with international

organizations by building cooperation agreements including the

Partnership Agreement with AER(Assembly of European Regions) and

with R-20 (Regions of Climate Action).

NEAR could elevate its status by offering the newly published “2012

NEAR Annual Report” systematically summarizing the major activities of

NEAR (in both English and Korean editions) and reporting to member

regions and related organizations.

2012 NEAR Annual Report Published

The new website was launched on February 12 by enhancing

information reinforcement and convenience on international level using

existing website built by NEAR in 2005. The website was reconstructed to

make it convenient for member regions and ordinary citizens to use.

The website consists of seven menus, including About NEAR, Member

Regional Governments, Sub-Committee, Publications/Resources,

News/Activities, Database, and Events, along with 200 other items.

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

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

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

have a conference with nine separate screens simultaneously, integrated

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

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

management system, including managing members, content, message

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

such as announcement of events, registration, management, reporting

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

database on participants and event organization and analyzing the results

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

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

this newly rebuilt website actively to promote the latest information

sharing and exchange cooperation.

The NEAR Website Reconstructed

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

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

Group Photo in Gunsan City Hall

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

the three kingdoms. In particular, they stayed at the home of a local

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

Yuandan, and experienced Wuhan’s general home and holiday.

Participants declared that this camp helped them know how important

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

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

participants said the homestay program, which allowed them to experience

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

would provide unforgettable and precious memories; it made them feel

that Chinese people’s friendship is thicker than water.

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

NEAR Member News

12

NEAR This Month

NEAR Member News

Heillongjiang Provice - China

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

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

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

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

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

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

combining with high technology revealed more three-dimensional and

dynamic characteristics of Northern China. In addition, Branding

representative performance programs, such as “European Ice Show”,

European performance, and the large “Cool Harbin” Ice Circus brought a

fresh edge to traditional elements.

2013 Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival

Hyogo Prefecture - Japan

Matsuda, the deputy head of the Education department in Hyogo

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

the Oriental White Stork, visited Khabarovsk and participated in a

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

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

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

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

The Oriental White Stork Exchange with Khabarovsk

Russia

Hubei - China

The “Journey for Finding Chinese Roots”, 2012 Overseas Chinese

Youth’s Hubei Winter Camp, was organized by the State Council of China

and hosted by the Foreign Affairs Office of Hubei.

The camp was organized around the theme of “Finding Roots by

Learning Chinese Language and Culture and Experiencing Hubei’s

Distinctive Culture”. There were 220 participating teachers and students

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

This thirteen-day camp provided participants with opportunities to learn

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

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

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

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

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

Hubei Provincial Museum, Yellow Crane Tower, Chinese Revolution

The “Journey for Finding Chinese Roots”

Hubei Winter Camp held in Wuhan- China

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

The “journey for Finding Chinese Roots”

Winter Camp Participants in front of Yellow Crane Tower

NEAR This Month NEAR Member News


the stork and encourages breeding with the purpose of promoting an

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

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

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

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

expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Khabarovsk at a donation

ceremony and it was a meaningful visit in terms of exchanging opinions

on raising and breeding.

Tottori Prefecture - JapanTottori Prefecture, a Mecca of

‘Eco Tourism’ and ‘New Tourism’

Gwangju Metropolitan City - KoreaPerformance to Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of

Sister City in Sendai

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

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

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

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

nature at tourist attractions with the goal of attracting tourists from

domestic and foreign countries.

‘Kaike-Daisen SEA To SUMMIT’ is an environmental sports event

whose goal is reaching the top of Daisen Mountain through a combination

of kayaking, bicycling, and climbing. Many travelers are interested in a

variety of activities that allow them to experience the nature, history, and

culture of Tottori, such as a sea kayaking tour of the Sanin beach,

designated as a Global Geopark, and a Nordic walking tour walking on

Togoho lake side that was selected as one of the eight most scenic tours.

All travelers are interested in activities allowing them to feel nature,

history, and culture together.

Tottori’s ‘International Ecotourism Conference 2013’, intended to

discuss ‘Ecotourism and local composition’ with the participation of

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

year.

They will implement tour programs allowing people to enjoy the nature

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

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

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

Korean Traditional Performance was held in Elpark, Sendai, on

December 8, 2012 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of sister city between

Gwangju Metropolitan City, Korea and Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.

Gwangju National Theater Company of Korea consisting of 15 people

presented performance composed of 5 parts; Dancing, Playing traditional

instrument and Singing Korean traditional folk song, etc.

The performance drawed enthusiastic applause from 120 people from

Korean Residents Union in Japan and Korea-Japan International Exchange

Organization staff. In addition, ‘Kimchi Making Experience’ using Sendai

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

research cabbage was set up upon the opportunity to have an exchange

with high schools of Gwangju Metropolitan City.

At the opening ceremony hosted by Sendai and the Korean Consulate

General in Sendai, Mayor Okuyama Emico of Sendai, said “we would like

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

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

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

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

Company of Korea gives power and courage to Sendai citizens in

restoration from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.”

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

NEAR Activities

14

NEAR This Month

Gyeongsangnam-do Province - KoreaGovernor Hong Jun-pyo of Gyeongsangnam-do

Province Visited Japan

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

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

and visited Yamaguchi Prefecture and Okayama Prefecture, the sister and

friendship cities of Gyeongsangnam-do Province.

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

consciousness and pride as Gyeongsangnam-do citizens by attending the

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

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

participate in the New Year’s party for Tokyo and Kyoto residents,

Gyoengsangnam-do has participated in this event every year.

Governor Hong Jun-pyo, expressed his gratitude to Koreans living in

Japan by showing his constant affection and support for the development

of a provincial government which is confident, runs with integrity, and

performs exceptionally. He had a meeting with Okayama on the 28th and

Yamaguchi residents on the 29th, and explained the policy direction of the

Gyeongsangnam-do provincial government and requested cooperation. He

also heard their difficulties and encouraged them.

Governor Hong Jun-pyo also visited Yamaguchi Prefecture and

Okayama Prefecturethe, the sister and friendship cities of Gyeongsangnam-

do Province, and strengthened mutual exchange and cooperation with both

regions. Both regions’ governors hoped to promote exchange, including

discovering policies for coexistent development among regional governments,

and have the exchange become a model for other regional governments.

Gangwon-do Province - KoreaSpecial Olympics World Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018,

The Winter Festival for Intellectual Disabilities began

The following individuals and organizations hoped this event would be

hosted successfully: Korean President Lee Myung-bak, Myanmar’s

Democracy Leader Aung San Suu Kyi, Malawi President Joyce Banda,

leaders of the Global Development Summit, Governor Choi Moon-soon of

Gangwon-do Province, and the athletes and staff of the Special Olympics.

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

Pyeongchang Winter Special Olympics on January 30. The event concluded

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

Also, in addition to the games, the ‘Global Development Summit’ to

discuss protection of the rights of people with disabilities and improve

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

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

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

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

The 10th Special Olympics World Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018, the

Winter Festival for Intellectual Disabilities kicked off with a grand opening

ceremony on January 29 in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do Province, which will

also host the 2018 Winter Olympics. Under the theme of “Dream Chorus”,

the Special Olympics was held with the participation of more than 3,000

athletes from 106 countries, touching the hearts of people for eight days.

Krasnovarsk Territory - Russia

The “Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum”, one of Russia’s three major annual

business activities, was held on February 14-16, 2013, in the city of Krasnoyarsk.

This forum was sponsored by the government of the Russian Federation

and Dvorkovich, deputy prime minister of the Russian Federation, served

as the chairman of the organizing committee.

The 10th Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum was held based on <Russia:

map change>. <Youth Together> was held on the first day (the 14th) and

the presentation on <Major Developmental Direction of Economic and

Social fields of the Russian Federation by 2018>, presented by

international and Russian experts was offered on the second day(the 15th).

On that day, new model for economic development to reform social

systems and improve the quality of life was suggested.

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

the modernization of the national economy, the prospects for the

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

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

The 10th Krasnovarsk Economic Forum

Special Olympics World Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Torch Run

NEAR This Month NEAR Activities


NEAR This Month

Region No Event When Where Contact

Jeollabuk-do

Province1

The 15th World leaders meeting

and Export meeting

April 16~19

Daemyung Resort, Buangun

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

Gwangju

Metropolitan City2

International Buddhist Culture& Industry Exhibition

March 1~3Kim Dae-jung

Convention Center

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

Gwangju

Metropolitan City3

Polychar 21, World Forum on Advanced Materials


Convention Center


Gwangju

Metropolitan City4

Solar, Wind & Earth Energy Trade Fair


Convention Center


Henan 52013 Year of Snake’s Emperor

Ring CeremonyApril 12 Xinzheng

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

Henan 6 The 31th Luoyang Peony FestivalApril 1~May 10

Luoyang

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

Shandong 7The 14th Shouguang InternationalVegetable and Technology Expo

April 20~May 30

ShouguangShouguang International Vegetable andTechnolgoy Expo Working Committee

Ningxia Hui

Autonomous

Region

8 Ningxia International Birds FestivalApril 1~May 31

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

Khubsgul

Province9 Ice Festival March 2~3 Hargal, Khubsgul lake

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

Khabarovsk

Territory10

International Practical Study Conference

<New Idea of a New Age>March Khabarovsk

T. +7-4212-35-83-16F. +7-4212-72-06-84E-mail. [email protected]:// www.khstu.ruPacific National University

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

Magadan, Russia - Magadan and Northeast Asia

16

Feature Report

1

Magadan and Northeast Asia- Ponomarenko Ivan, NEAR Staff Seconded

from Russia to the Secretariat -

Magadan, Russia

Dredger for Carrying Metal

International relations in the Magadan economy, called ‘Kolyma’, began

in the early 1990s. Joint business ventures in the mining and processing

marine resources, developing gold mines, and providing food and

consumer goods were created for the first time in that period. Foreign

investors were very active participants at that time.

Magadan has sister cities in America, China, Latvia, and Bulgaria, and

Japan and Korea are partner countries.

Magadan currently does not need state support, but a strong progressive

movement is needed for the goal of strategic development by 2020.

Therefore, Magadan plans to increase the amount of gold mining to 100

tons per year and start developing copper, tin, zinc, molybdenum, and iron

ore districts. The construction of a cement plant in the Vstrechenskoe

district, which has enough cement production reserves for at least 100

years, is planned.

In addition, expectations are high for developing brown-coal that is

predicted to have reserves of 1,500 million tons and mass hydrocarbon, of

which there is approximately 5,000 million tons on the Saju coast in

Magadan.

It is not enough to attract state and private investors, but foreign

investors should also be attracted in order to actualize mineral resources

development and outline a realizable plan to enhance the self-esteem of

Magadan. First of all, Magadan should attract foreign investment directly

affecting regional economic plans. To achieve this, Magadan is trying to

promote a friendly investment environment as much as possible.

One of the examples is the selection of an exclusive industrial zone over

the course of ten years, provide tax and tariff privileges, and guarantee

supportive activities of <Economic Development Meeting> under the

control of the The Governor of Magadan.

There is a long history of a cooperative relationship between Magadan

and China. Looking at the structure of recent imports, 1/3 of imported

items are bulldozers, graders, and loaders, and next highest item is trucks

and metals. Marine products are a major export to China.

A significant number of companies in Magadan are joint companies with

China, including <Geocenter>(LLC), <Denezhkin Kamen>(Corporation),

and <Tayga Plus>(Corporation) in the gold mining industry. A coal

dressing factory came into<Geocenter> (LLC) in 2008. According to the

Feature Report Magadan, Russia - Magadan and Northeast Asia


customs reports of Colima, the trade volume in 2011 increased 8% ($37,700,000) compared to the

volume in 2010. The Magadan government agreed to a teaty with a Chinese company, <The Southeast

mining company> (Corporation), in 2011 in order to actualize a project for the three districts which

was geologically studied.

China makes preparations for realizing joint projects with Magadan as a cooperation project among

the regions of the Russian Far East, Zabaikal, and Northeast China. The primary components of this

project are <Brown Coal Processing Facilities> in the mountains of Magadan and <Ocean hunting

organization>, including the processing of raw materials and the production of pharamaceuticals,

cosmetics, meat, leather, and fur products. Facilities of timber industry development in Srednekansky

of Magadan is included in the project.

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

industrial equipment for washing sand, to the <Flinkmongoliya>company. Economists say that

Mongolia is more likely to be a cooperative partner country in the realms of lighting and trade and the

economy.

Mongolia and Magadan are both rich in mineral resources and it will be possible to exchange the

technology for extracting and processing mineral resources. Moreover, Magadan is interested in

exporting items popular in Mongolia, such as consumer goods, industry equipment, leather, cashmere,

and wool.

Korea has long been a trusted partner with companies in Magadan and has developed foreign trade

relations over the years. This accounts for 44.7% of Magadan’s total exports and totals $88.10 million.

As Korea consumes many marine products, this is one area where it is possible to have cooperation

in regards to Magadan’s major export; Magadan has modernized its aquaculture farms. In addition,

cooperation is possible in various areas, including mineral mining, development of a shelf of

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

Magadan delegations headed by Waldorf governor visited the Korean Trade Association, in Seoul,

Korea, for a briefing session on investment in Magadan in October 2012. More than 100 Korean

companies attended the briefing session.

Governor Nikolai Waldorf praised Magadan’s investment potential for Korea and suggested the areas

of metal mining, the mining and processing of brown coal, the fishing and aquaculture industry,

tourism, and transportation infrastructure.

The briefing session on investments declared that there are expected reserves of mineral resources,

including copper (1,100,000 tons), silver (16,500 tons), lead (550,000 tons), and zinc (700,000 tons),

one of which will be developed within this year. $5 billion is required for this project, including

mining, smelting cooper, and processing ore.

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

Expected reserves in Srednekansky are 20 tons of gold and 195 tons of silver in Olchi, and 19 tons of

gold and 85.6 tons of silver in Zet. The reserves in Podgorninsky are expected to contain 60 tons of

gold and 300 tons of silver.

The Magadan government signed an MOU on investment cooperation with KUKDONG JEYEN,

Korea, during the briefing session. Magadan agreed to cooperate in producing a special lubricant for

cars and a liquid which can withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the Northern provinces.

In addition, Korea has proposed the construction of a waste recycling plant in Magadan and Magadan

plans to create an international tourist center in Jack London Lake.

Magadan and Korea are geographically close and economically have a mutual supplementary

relationship. Magadan has active cooperative relations with Korea in the area of fish exports, and the

fishing industries in Magadan and Korea have worked together for a long time based on their mutual

interests. Magadan stresses that up until now, marine products and the ship repair trade were the city’s

main businesses, and Magadan is confident that the mining industry and tourism sector will be further

developed in the future.

2

3

4

5

1. The View of Magadan2. Matrosof Ore producing Area3. Ingot metallurgy, Kolyma Refining Plant4. Dredger5. Magadan Ice Breaker

Overview

Sejong Special Self-Governing City was

officially launched as the 17th metropolitan

council in Korea on July 1, 2012, with the goal

of correcting side effects resulting from the

excessive concentration of metropolitan areas

and enhancing a balanced national development

and national competitiveness. It is located 120

South Seoul, and includes the whole area of

Yeongi-gun, Chungcheongnam-do province and

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

Chungcheongbuk-do province. The city consists of

one town, nine townships, and one neighborhood.

The population is currently 115,000. The city

aims to have a population of 150,000 by 2015,

300,000 by 2020 and 500,000 by 2030.

Major Characteristics

■ Nation’s Central Administrative City

Thirty-six central government agencies (a total of 10,452 civil servants), including 9bu 2choe

2choeng, are expected to make the move down to Sejong City by 2014.

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

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

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

total of 5,500 civil servants)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Government Complex Sejong is connected by a bridge and roof-garden, and 18 segmented buildings

are connected to each other in a U-shape that extends 3.5 .

NEAR NEWS Vol. 49

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

18

NEAR Member Tour

New Central

Administrative City, SEJONG Special Self-Governing City

Sejong Special Self-Governing City,

Korea

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


Government Complex Sejong is designed to avoid inefficiencies in administration

services, in accordance with a dual government, through multilateral videoconferencing

and a smart work center.

■ Smart Education Environment

Schools which are moving to the government complex are to be smart schools and

managed based on the latest information technology, such as digital textbooks and smart

pads. Three schools, Charmsaem Elementary School, and Hansol Middle School and High

School, are designated as research schools based on a smart education model that was

outlined last year. Seven schools, including Sejong Global High School, are expected be

founded in March and September 2013 and are planned to be established as smart schools.

■ Environmental Friendly City

More than 50 percent of the city area will be used as park and green space, and CO2

emissions are expected to decrease by 70 percent (compared to the levels in the 1990s) by

2030. In particular, in order to make it the world’s top green city, Sejong maximizes

energy saving by installing a solar power generation facility in Sejong city, connecting

roads to Daejeon, a water quality restoration center and waste landfill, and by using energy

saving LED and UCD lighting.

BRT buses run on electric or natural gas will operate and transportation systems will be

built for citizens enabling them to reach their destination within 20 minutes without using cars.

■ It Ubiquitous City

As broadband convergence networks are loaded along public transportation systems and

main roads, electronic tags, ubiquitous sensor networks, geographic information systems, Intelligent transportation systems, wireless internet networks are

being built in all parts of the city and a system managing the 119 (emergency) service comprising a disaster situation room, city situation room, CCTV

situation room, city cyber room, city facilities management center, and common duct management room is being planned.

Tourist Attractions

Milmaru Observatory

Bear Tree Park

Gobok Lake Park

Dweeungbark Goeul(town)

The Auto Camping in Habkang Park, Biamsa, Yeongpyung-sa

Lake Park

The National Library of Korea

Presidential Archives

Art Center

Arboretum

Available Attractions

Planned Facilities

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments3F Pohang Technopark, #394 Jigok-ro (#601 Jigok-dong), Namgu, Pohang City, Gyeongsangbuk-do, ROK

T. +82-54-223-2311~20 F. +82-54-223-2309 E-mail [email protected] Website www.neargov.org

The Association of North East Asia Regional Governments

near news vol.49 (eng)

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