Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will hold educational activities

BREAKING NEWS: The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will commemorate International Environment Day by holding artistic, cultural and educational activities that are intended to promote social awareness and the need to protect natural resources.
The activities, which will begin Tuesday, June 1^st and end on Saturday, June 5^th, the date on which International Environment Day is celebrated, were announced by the minister, Dr. Jaime David Fernandez Mirabal, at a news conference.
The celebration of this important day aims to humanize environmental issues, motivate people to become agents of sustainable development, promote change in attitudes and incorporate society in caring for the environment and natural resources.
The program of activities will start on Tuesday, June 1^st with an exhibition Ozama River, a world of potential by the photographers Jerry Bauer, director of the International Institute of Tropical Forestry, Forest Service of the United States, and Bienvenida Bauer, at 4:30 _pm at Bella Vista Mall.
On Wednesday, June 2^nd, at 9:00 am, the seminar Architecture and Environment. Sustainable Landscaping will take place in the main hall of the National Botanical Garden, and at 11:00 am the Bamboo Furniture Exhibition will open in La Sirena Churchill, with the support of the Taiwanese Embassy and the Plan Quisqueya Verde.
On Thursday, June 3^rd at 12:00 noon, several inmates of Rafey prison and the Apostolic Nuncio of His Holiness Monseñor Josef Wesolowski, Monseñor Vinicio Disla, and Radhames Jimenez Pena, Attorney General of the Republic, will plant trees in Rafey Ecological Park.
On Friday, June 4^th, beginning at 8:00 am, there will be a meeting of INTEC, the International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Dominican Institute of Research Agriculture and Forestry (IDIAF), the Centre for Development of Agriculture and Forestry (CEDAF), and the Institute of Biotechnology and Industrial Innovation (IIBI).
Finally, on Saturday, June 5^th there will be the celebration of International Environment Day, at the Ecological Park in Los Alcarrizos, beginning at 10:00 in the morning.

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Dominican Republic Live, 01.06.10

Summit for the Future of Haiti Solidarity beyond the Crisis begins today

Representatives and international delegates arrive in the country

BREAKING NEWS: Organization of the American States

The general secretary of the Organization of American States (OAS) Jose Miguel Insulza, stressed the importance of the World Summit for the Future of Haiti Solidarity beyond the Crisis, which is to be held in Punta Cana, in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic.
Insulza said that commitment to the Plan for the Reconstruction of Haiti and the strengthening of the Haitian democratic system by the international community and international organizations is an urgent endeavor that must be coordinated and developed for the benefit of the Haitian population.
This meeting in Punta Cana, according to Insulza, reflects the interest that the governments of America and Europe have in designing a plan to help the government of Haitian President René Préval uplift his country after the major set-back that was brought on by the earthquake of January 12^th.
During this international gathering, a complete review of all projected plans and funds collected to help Haiti will be made, in order to set deadlines and establish targets which will define the future of the international efforts.

President Fernández

For his part, the President of the Dominican Republic, Dr. Leonel Fernandez, said this Tuesday that this World Summit will make it possible to identify projects and initiatives in which countries can, not only help Haiti recover from the earthquake, but also, design a long-term strategy for sustainable development.
He declared that 90 international delegations have already confirmed their attendance, which displays the tremendous amount of interest that the international community has towards aiding Haiti’s recovery.

The President of Haiti, René Préval

Haiti’s President René Préval arrived in the country this Tuesday afternoon and immediately asserted that the World Summit for the Future of Haiti Solidarity Beyond the Crisis would contribute to the strenghtening of the ties between the two countries.

Bill Clinton, commissioner of the United Nations Organization

Former United States President Bill Clinton, commissioner of the United Nations Organization (UNO) for Haiti, assured that President Leonel Fernandez has acted in a neighbourly fashion and that the Dominican Republic has conducted itself superbly in the devising of a plan for the reconstruction of Haiti.
He indicated that on Wednesday, during the Summit he would take the opportunity to explain what has been accomplished up to this point. I myself will clarify what we have been doing, the immediate priorities, how this new committee for reconstruction will work and, how we can, God willing, further raise the level of interest and confidence that we can do this.

Soraya Rodriguez Ramos, president of the Spanish Agency of International Cooperation

The Secretary of State and President of the Spanish Agency of International Cooperation, Soraya Rodriguez Ramos, arrived in the country on Tuesday.
After her arrival, Soraya Rodriguez Ramos said that her country has high expectations for the summit and that she is very enthusiastic about being in the Dominican Republic to take part in this international event.
She asserted that her country will work on the plan designed in New York for the reconstruction of Haiti and, therefore, it will be very important to give a kick in the pants to the Interim Committee and the actions of the World Bank Fund.
Dominican Republic Live, 02.06.10

Summary of the Summit for the Future of Haiti Solidarity beyond the crisis

US $ 7.815 billion to be contributed by the international community to rebuild Haiti

BREAKING NEWS: President Leonel Fernandez affirmed at the end of the Summit on the Future of Haiti: Solidarity beyond the Crisis, that US $7.815 billion dollars will be contributed by the international community for the reconstruction of this Caribbean nation, whose state of misery worsened following the earthquake on January 12^th of this year.
The Dominican president stated that if you add to this amount a sum of US $3.18 billion from other projects yet to be determined, the total to be received would reach US $11 billion.
The Dominican President affirmed that on Monday, the 7^th of this month, there would be an announcement naming the Official Committee that would coordinate the aid that Haiti will receive for its rebuilding process. He added that on the 14th of this month the Commission, which will have its base in Port au Price, Haiti, will begin working on its task.

Declarations of Haitian President, Rene Preval

Haitian President Rene Preval thanked the president of the Dominican Republic, Leonel Fernandez, for the tenacity with which he pursued the consummation of the World Summit on the Future of Haiti, and asserted that the project of reconstruction can only be achieved with the help of the Haitian society.
Allow me to send my warmest greeting to our brother nation, the Dominican Republic, towards whom we have the greatest affection and with whom we are linked, both in good times and in adversity. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to President Fernandez, who took the initiative in organizing this meeting of these delegates from so many countries, whom I would also like to express my sincerest thanks. Their presence here can be considered a reward for the tenacity with which you, Mr. President, have acted as an advocate of Haitian people to the international community.

Statements by Jean-Max Bellerive, Prime Minister of Haiti

The Prime Minister of Haiti, Jean-Max Bellerive, warned that the rebuilding of his country would require a greater level of cooperation among all international and national actors, in order to more efficiently distribute humanitarian aid to the neediest families.
He maintained that thanks to the support of the international community, massive starvation has been avoided, and added that it is time for Haitians to not only recover from the tragedy of January 12^th, but also free themselves from their dependence upon other nations.
He stated that this independence could be achieved by the massive creation of jobs and of a strengthening of the national agricultural sector to make products for local consumption and export items to other nations in the region.
This is all about acting quickly, effectively, looking at the long term without losing sight of the importance of immediate aid in the short term. We must support these objectives that will help create a modern society.

Statements by the Secretary of the OAS, José Miguel Insulza

The general secretary of the Organization of American States (OAS), Jose Miguel Insulza, spoke at the Summit on the Future of Haiti about the commitment of his organization in helping the Haitian population and the reconstructing of its institutions.
We expect this year to deliver identification documents to 4.3 million Haitians adults, expand the civil registration of children and replace documents to people who have lost theirs as a result of the earthquake .

Luis Alberto Moreno, president of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)

The President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Luis Alberto Moreno, said that the bank will make its upmost effort and utilize its most capable employees for the purpose of Haiti’s recovery and reestablishment, after the devastating earthquake of January the 12^th.
He affirmed that the multilateral agency will commit to lead the financial support to the Haitian authorities, promising aid of $200 million dollars annually during the next decade.

Leonel Fernandez, President of the Dominican Republic

Fernandez said that it is the moral obligations of the international community to assist these noble people in building a better future for their children, insisting that Haiti deserves a better future because of the isolation it was subjected to for daring to achieve its freedom more than 200 years ago.
That is why, the president explained, we are gathered here today, to reassure the Haitian people and their authorities, that Haiti is not alone, that it never will be. That we will be by its side forever, contributing not only to the recovery from the devastating effects of the earthquake, but also to the harmful effects of history.
Fernandez furthermore expressed that the Haitian people will be the architects of their own destiny, the Dominican Republic and the other nations and international organizations only aspire to assist, help and accompany them in this daunting task.
Dominican Republic Live, 03.06.10

The Dominican Republic Center for Export and Investment Signs an Accord with the French Dominican Chamber of Commerce

To develop business opportunities between the two nations

BREAKING NEWS: The Center for Exports and Investment of the Dominican Republic (CEI-RD) and the French Dominican Chamber of Commerce (CCDF) signed an agreement that will seek to advance cooperation in creating business opportunities between the Dominican Republic, France and Haiti, through strategic alliances, promotion and financial management, among others methods.
According to CEI-RD director, Eddy Martinez Manzueta, this agreement will also seek to support the implementation of trade missions, which will include the presence of Dominican officials and businessman in the French Republic and vice versa.
He stressed the importance of this accord for both sides and added that there will be mutual support in the development of initiatives, events, activities, and training courses.
Martinez Manzueta continued by saying that the alliance also plans to create reciprocal representation offices in the Caribbean islands under French control as well as in the countries where the CEI-RD has representative offices.
The director stated that this agreement was signed taking into account that both countries have the fundamental objective of locating investors and devising the necessary mechanisms to ensure that there is close collaboration between the actors in the markets of both countries.
Dominican Republic Live, 04.06.10

Secretary General of the United Nations commends successful World Summit on the Future of Haiti

Ban Ki-Moon congratulates the Dominican Republic for its role in Haiti reconstruction

BREAKING NEWS: The secretary general of the United Nations (UN), Ban Ki-Moon, congratulated President Leonel Fernandez on the success of the World Summit on the Future of Haiti: Solidarity beyond the crisis, held in Punta Cana last Wednesday.
Moon confirmed the commitment of the United Nations to Haiti, and expressed his appreciation for the leadership role played by President Fernandez and the Dominican Republic in the Haitian Reconstruction plan.
Through a telephone conversation with the head of the Dominican government, the UN secretary general conveyed his desire that the Dominican Republic join the Interim Commission on Recovery in Haiti, reaffirming the proposal of the Prime Minister of Haiti, Jean Max Bellerive
We congratulate the Dominican Republic for their presence, from the first moment of the earthquake, and the solidarity they have demonstrated toward Haiti, was the final message of Mr. Moon to the Dominican people during his conversation on Saturday with Fernandez.
The World Summit on the Future of Haiti: Solidarity beyond the Crisis
was an event broadcast via satellite on five continents, in six languages.
Dominican Republic Live, 07.06.10

Ministry of the Environment initiates preventive measures for hurricane season

Authorities prune trees along the country´s highways

BREAKING NEWS: The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources began a program of tree pruning along the edge of the country´s roads, in order to prevent potentialdanger to drivers should the country be hit by a hurricane.
We are trying to anticipate any situation that may arise during the hurricane season, which began June 1 and ends on November 30, said Vice-Minister of Forest Resources, Barnabé Mañon Rossi.
He said that along the Autopista Duarte many overgrown invasive plants are being removed.
For example, the Villa Altagracia Monsignor Nouel road segment has several species of trees, especially Leucaena that hang over the Highway, which we are pruning, but at the same time being careful not to harm them, said the official.
He stressed that it is important that both the National District Councils and the rest of the country, with the help of the police, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the Armed Forces, initiate pruning programs, for which they can rely on the advice of experts from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.
The local councils and power companies, perform pruning on the public roads within their respective boundaries, using skilled and trained professionals, not just any personwho does nothing more than cut the trees.
Dominican Republic Live, 08.06.10

Dominican Republic and Cuba strengthen trade ties

A Cuban delegation of 30 companies visits the country

BREAKING NEWS: A Cuban delegation of 30 companies from various sectors is in the Dominican Republic with the aim of strengthening cultural and commercial ties, and scientific cooperation.
The mission of businessmen headed by Vice Minister Aurelio Martinez Mollinedo of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, and Mrs. Odalis Seijo, vice president of the Chamber of Commerce of Cuba, will be visiting from the 6th to the 13th of June.
The business men and trade ministers of Cuba, together with Dominican officials signed several agreements with the goal of rapidly increasing commerce between the two nations.
The meetings and negotiations between Cuban and Dominican entrepreneurs will be held in the halls of the Institute of Foreign Trade and Business Innovation (ICER) located in the Center for Export and Investment of the Dominican Republic (CEI-RD).
The director of CEI-RD, Eddy Martinez Manzueta, acknowledged that trade and scientific cooperation are fundamental aspects of relations between the two Caribbean nations.He claimed that trade between the Dominican Republic and Cuba currently stands at more than 50 million dollars a year, figures that could be higher considering the needs of both nations to exchange goods and services.
I understand the challenge we have is to achieve a level of trade between the Dominican Republic and Cuba that exceeds $700 million annually, said the director of the CEI-RD during his opening remarks.
Cuba´s vice minister of commerce explained that this interest arose from the Cuban authorities as a result of the efforts made during official visits of the President of the Republic, Dr. Leonel Fernandez Reyna, to the Republic of Cuba, where he signed several cooperation agreements.
This current Mission is to promote trade between various firms and their counterparts that make up the mission.
Also there is a meeting scheduled for Wednesday June 9^th, at 10:00 _am in the Conference Room of the CEI-RD in the regional office in Santiago with Mr. Oliver Espaillat, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Production of Santiago, in order to assess the possibility of signing an agreement between Espaillat and his counterpart from Cuba.
Dominican Republic Live, 09.06.10

Dominican Republic will attain one tourist for each resident

According to Minister of Tourism Francisco Javier Garcia

BREAKING NEWS: Minister of Tourism, Francisco Javier Garcia, is confident that in the long-term the country will reach the level of one tourist for each citizen.
The number of visitors to the country currently stands at four million people annually.
Garcia made his prediction upon receiving the delegation of the commanders of the seven yachts participating in the Regatta, Sail South America 2010 , which anchored at Sans Souci last Sunday and was open to the public for three days.
The official thanked the visitors for having included Santo Domingo as one of the stops on Sail South American 2010 , as it is an activity that promotes the region internationally.
The Dominican Republic has had the opportunity to project itself in a positive light to an international audience during this event, and the visitors to the vessels is a sign of the interest that was awoken in the Dominican population, pointed out Garcia.
During the visit of the commanders of the ships Simón Bolívar, Gloria, Cuauhtémoc, Esmeraldas, Guayas, White Swan and Captain Miranda, there was an exchange of gifts typical of each of the countries they represent.
The delegation was headed by the Chief of the Navy, Vice Admiral Luis Homero Lajara Solá, who said that the vessels were a popular attraction to the Dominicans, who waited in long lines to visit them.
Sail South America 2010 celebrated the bicentennial of the independence movement in South America, with a tour that began in Brazil and included Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela and the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
Dominican Republic Live, 10.06.10

2010 Hurricane Season Contingency Plan

Coordinated by the Emergency Operations Center

BREAKING NEWS: The Emergency Operations Center (COE) announced its Hurricane Season Contingency Plan 2010 at the National Palace. The COE has 2,557 shelters nationwide and seeks to ensure adequate prevention, response, and reconstruction in the case that an emergency situation arises.
The press conference, which took place in the Orlando Martinez Hall, was held by the Press and Publicity Director of the Presidency, Rafael Núñez and led by the COE director general Juan Manuel Mendez.
Also attending were; the Civil Defense director, Major General Luis Antonio Luna Paulino, the administrator of the Economic dining, Nicolás Calderón, the public relations for the National Police, General Nelson Rosario, the director of the Dominican Institute of Water Resources (INDRHI) Frank Rodriguez and Director of Meteorology, Gloria Ceballos.
Mendez said during the press conference that this year´s predictions are for the formation of 15 cyclones, (annual average of 9.6), of which 8 could reach hurricane strength, (annual average of 5.9), and four of these could be intense, (annualaverage of 2.3).
For his part, Ceballos reported that the high probability that the Caribbean could be hit by a major hurricane should be taken into account by the civil protection institutions and the Dominican population and stressed that they must stay aware of the Meteorological information issued.
For his part, Calderon said Economic dining is poised with its 28 mobile kitchens to assist any of the areas affected by any phenomena during hurricane season.He explained that the institution´s storage are filled with all kinds of food to assist people who are affected during this hurricane season
The areas most likely to be hit by a storm are: Pedernales, Barahona, Azua, Peravia, San Cristóbal, El Distrito Nacional, Provincia Santo Domingo, San Pedro Macorís, La Altagracia, El Seibo, La Romana, Hato Mayor, Bahoruco, Independencia, Nagua, Puerto Plata, Duarte, Salcedo, Espaillat y Monte Cristi.
The most frequently flooded areas are: Distrito Nacional, Monte plata, Hato Mayor, El Seibo, La Altagracia, San Pedro de Macorís, San Cristóbal, Peravia, Azua, San José de Ocoa, Barahona, Bahoruco, Pedernales, Independencia, San Juan, Elías Piña, Monseñor Nouel, Sánchez Ramírez (Cotui), La Vega, Duarte, Nagua, Espaillat, Santiago, Mao, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, Montecristi y Puerto Plata.
Dominican Republic Live, 11.06.10

United States trade mission to visit Dominican Republic

In order to explore the commercial benefits generated by the DR – CAFTA

BREAKING NEWS: The Commercial Service of the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic has scheduled more than 100 business meetings between potential U.S.- Dominican business partners interested in promoting secure trade between the two nations, taking advantage of the Free Trade Agreement Dominican Republic-Central United States (DR-CAFTA) to investors.
The meetings will be held with a delegation of U.S. businessmen who are coming to the country on Monday and Tuesday, the 14^th and 15^th of June. The trade mission will be led by Mr. Rick Wade, Senior Adviser and Deputy Chief of Staff Gary Locke, Secretary of Commerce of the United States.

During their stay in the country the participants will meet with key local contacts that can offer their knowledge of the local markets and the opportunities they have to offer.

Representatives of the Commercial Service of the United States Embassy will also be in attendance to talk with members of the delegation on local market trends and business opportunities offered by the Dominican and Jamaican markets.

Maria Elena Alonso Portorreal, representative from the institution, said that the business climate in the Dominican Republic is viewed favorably by U.S. investors who have participated in trade fairs with potential Dominican partners.
Dominican Republic Live, 14.06.10

Dominican entrepreneurs to participate in trade fair in Taiwan

Trade reaches US $14.7 million in the first five months of 2010

BREAKING NEWS: With the aim of strengthening trade and fostering strategic partnerships between the private sectors of both countries, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), together with the Center for Export and Investment of the Dominican Republic (CEI-RD) is organizing a trade delegation to visit this Asian nation next week.
The delegation will be headed by Eddy Martinez Manzueta, executive director of CEI-RD, and composed of various institutions in the public and private sectors, such as the National Council of Free Zones, National Council of Private Enterprise, the Dominican Agribusiness Board, the Chamber of Trade and Production of Santo Domingo, the Chamber of Commerce and Production of Santiago, the Association of Industrial Businesses of Herrera, and the Dominican Association of Exporters, among others.
During its stay in Taiwan, the Dominican representatives will participate in the Fair, Taipei International Food Show , where the Dominicans will exhibit their competitive products. They will also sign three agreements on cooperation between the CEI-RD, CONEP and the Chamber of Commerce and Production of Santo Domingo with their respective counterparts in Taiwan, with the aim of creating a platform to strengthen trade and cooperation between the private sectors of both countries.
The program will also feature the First Business Meeting between the Dominican Republic and Taiwan, with business talks and visits to various institutions including the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nankang Industrial Park, Technology Research Institute of Taiwan, and the Textile Federation of Taiwan, among other places
According to figures from the Customs office of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the first five months of 2010 has seen remarkable growth in bilateral trade. The export from the Dominican to Taiwan was US $14.7 million compared to $4.4 million for the same period in 2009, an increase of 222 percent, while imports also recorded a surge of 52.12 percent, rising from US $28.07 million to US $42.70 million.
The main products exported by the Dominican Republic to Taiwan are metal materials, medical devices and electronics. With the main products imported from Taiwan being industrial products, such as vehicle parts, chemical materials, etc.
Furthermore, to promote foreign trade, Taiwan holds around 50 international exhibitions annually, among the most popular being, Hardware, Lighting, Machinery, Parts and Accessories for Vehicles, Gifts & Office Supplies, Computer and Electronics, and Food, among others. In addition, to encourage Dominican businesses, Taiwan is offering incentives, such as tickets, lodging and internal transport, depending on annual sales amounts.
Dominican Republic Live, 15.06.10

International Railway Dominican Republic – Puerto Rico – Haiti

The Regional Development Council submits a proposal to governments

BREAKING NEWS: The Regional Development Council (CRD), submitted for consideration by the Dominican, Haitian and American governments, the pre-study and design plans, along with several proposals for the installation of an international Northeast-Dominican-Puerto Rico-Haiti railway.
This project, which includes a second phase aimed at uniting the railway to Cuba and Florida, has aroused the interest of the German corporation Dorsch Consult, the Euro-American Capital Company GMNBH, the Worldwide Humanitarian and the state of India.The projected investment for this first phase is US $750 million.
The CRD, through its executive Ysócrates Andrés Peña Reyes, and Jaime Abraham Abukarma Mariza, claims that this railway in the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Puerto Rico, in addition to aiding effective communication, was conceived to contribute to human progress, the growth of trade relations and the development of both islands.
The proposed Railway Line would connect the Dominican Republic with Haiti through Dajabón, a line that would link the Port of Haina and the Southern Region of the country to Puerto Principe, while Puerto Rico will be interconnected with the country through a line that would run to the eastern region of the Dominican Republic.
The pre-study and design plan, indicate that this mode of land travel would unite the Southern and Eastern parts of the Dominican Republic, as well as the city of Santo Domingo, and link them with the main lines in the Northeast, North Central and Northwest to reach the Republic of Haiti.
The southern and eastern regions of the country would be connected by modernizing the existing railway lines of the mills located in these areas, which reach the outskirts of the town of Cevico in the Sanchéz Province, The cities of Santiago, La Vega, Bonao, Puerto Plata, and the hills of Ortega and Peguera (Falconbridge, Rosario Dominicana and other mining areas) would be attached to the international railway line through the branches that would be connected to the main line.
While the towns of Nagua, Castillo, Pimentel, Salcedo and Moca, like the provinces of Sanchez Ramirez, Valverde Mao, Montecristi, Santiago Rodriguez and Dajabón, would connect to the railway through its main line, according to thedesign submitted by CRD.
The study prepared by the technical direction of the CRD, argues that this important work will help to support the Dominican Republic and Haiti, given the current global trends induced by the new world trade order, which requires both nations to increase their agricultural and industrial production. Infrastructure of this nature is necessary in order to make possible their integration into the new global production and marketing schemes.
The CRD claims in its study, that the Northeast, North Central and Northwestern parts of the Dominican, have the potential to be developed in a manner that will allow the use of their substantial agricultural resources, agribusiness, tourism and natural resources, to produce authentic economic and human development.To achieve these objectives, it is necessary for the implementation of a master development plan, which should provide these key infrastructure along with the implementation of effective programs and policies that promote human progress.
The study recommended a railway system, which would provide economical and reliable transport to move cargo and passengers, along with an airfield, the installation of storage and distribution centers for agricultural and industrial products, and improving irrigation systems and use of water resources.
To justify the installation of the railway, the study pointed to the significant mineral resources that exist in the area, the large volume of imports and exports, food production as well the great potential of the soil and water resources to increase productivity in the near future. Another argument in favor of the rail systems is its relative inexpensiveness, especially in countries that spend many millions of dollars a year on oil products.
Furthermore, the installation of the railway would help to reduce the huge resources spent on maintenance of communication channels, and the alarming level of deterioration that occurs, despite the substantial investments made by governments to keep them in proper conditions.
Railways also have the advantage of speed, promptness, and ability to function even under the most adverse weather conditions, which in turn would open a new stage in the external market, especially in the export of perishable agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables.
Dominican Republic Live, 16.06.10

World Desertification Day

Fernández Mirabal underscores importance of preserving biodiversity

BREAKING NEWS: The Minister of Environment and Natural Resources held a conference on Wednesday on land degradation and its implications, to mark tomorrow´s World Desertification Day.
Jaime David Fernandez Mirabal stressed that we must raise public awareness about the appropriate use of soils, and commitment to preserve biodiversity and join forces to address land degradation.
He stressed that when we see that the waters are salinizing, when there is excessive use of insecticides, and indiscriminate use of water, we are talking about desertification. When we promote new technologies for water use and unify criteria to help control mismanagement of land, we will be able to help control it.
Margarita Astrálaga, Regional Director of the United Nations Program for Environment, said that the impoverishment of urban soils is increasing and this growth will have negative consequences for the country.
He added that it is important to concentrate on recovering forested areas and to improve soil quality, and strive to provide solutions for application in this field to ensure better soil quality.
Heitor Matallo, Head of the Regional Coordination Unit for Latin America and the Caribbean, said the problem of land degradation is not new but still continues because of harmful practices.
He added that there may be two probable reasons, the first is that the poor can not afford to invest in land and the continued use of the traditional slash and burn agricultural practices, which are harmful to the environment.
The conference, held at the Hotel Santo Domingo, was attended by experts from FAO, ECLAC, the Global Mechanism of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, and other organizations related to this issue.

See our Nature page

Dominican Republic Live, 17.06.10

French investors explore the tourist potential of the Dominican Republic

Meetwith senators from Montecristi and Samaná

BREAKING NEWS: With the support of senators Heinz Vieluf Cabrera and Prim Pujals, representatives of Montecristi and Samaná, as well as the senators elect from Barahoana and El Seibo, executives from the French tourist association Club Mediterráneo expressed their interest in developing and investing in Barahona and the Northeast Region of the Dominican Republic, fascinated by the grand tourist attractions in these zones of the country.

Nadine Hebrand, regional director of the institution, which has its headquarters in Paris and branch offices throughout the world, showed enthusiasm for the tourist potential of Las Terrenas, Cabrera, Barahona, Montecristi and other locations around the nation.

The French executive, who will return to Europe this weekend, was accompanied on the visit to senator Cabrera´s office by Stephefanni Camicci, local director of Club Mediterráneo.

The meeting, held by senators Cabrera and Pujals, was coordinated by the technical advisor of the Permanent Commission of Industry, Commerce and Free Trade, Jean Pierre Joboina Clement, and was also attended by the senators elect from Barahona and El Seibo, Eddy Mateo Vasquez and Manuel Jacobo.

We found this meeting between the senators and Mr. Hebrand and Mr. Camicci, regarding their interest in exploring the possibility of investing in the tourist, and other sectors which are in need of foreign capital, to have been completely satisfactory, said senator Cabrera.

Dominican Republic Live, 18.06.10

The tourist clusters of the Dominican Republic, the key to tourist development

Experts advocate their expansion and better competitiveness

BREAKING NEWS: The presidents of the Institute of Competitiveness (TCI) and the Dominican Association of Tourist Competitiveness (CDCT), Alberto Pezzi and Rafael Collado, claim that countries like the Dominican Republic have to create a more favorable atmosphere for the development of businesses, through private initiatives, principally in the area of tourism.
They established that this requires the increase of more relevant tourist clusters, and making better investments in infrastructure, which is the basis of this type of activity.
Alberto Pezzi stressed that the formulation of these initiatives must involve the governmental, private and academic sectors, and that it would be in these areas that TCI would function, with a view toward higher levels of competitiveness and development.
He added that for each sector there exists specific challenges that must be solved through horizontal cooperation with initiatives, like the formation of human capital and the access to technology, because each cluster has to design strategies according to the required changes. He stated that TCI would work with all the sectors to create a network and organize events with the participation of more than 50 countries.
In an interview, Pezzi pondered the importance of the Tourist Cluster event recently held in the country, in which the necessity was made clear for the businesses in this sector to be more competitive and generate more wealth, and to this end, better well-being.
For his part, the president of the Dominican Association of Tourist Competitiveness, also, expressed the need for the increase in tourist clusters. He stated his hope that there would be a cluster wherever there was economic development and that this could become relevant for the country.
Dominican Republic Live, 21.06.10

Las Americas International Airport expects to receive 797,074 passengers

Between the months of July and August

BREAKING NEWS: The holiday season will bring more than seven hundred thousand passengers of different nationalities, who will arrive in the country in July and August through Las Americas International Airport, which is managed by the 21^st Century Dominican Airports Consortium (Aerodom).
According to a report by the Public Relations Department of Aerodom, this year’s high season is expected to see an increase of only 2% in passenger arrivals compared to last year.
The report claims 797,074 passengers will pass through the airport from early July to late August. It states that this year the total is expected to be 17,613 more passengers than over the same period of 2009 when the total reached 779,461 passengers.
For this season Aerodom prepares the terminal to welcome passengers entering the country, especially students who come to spend the summer months with their families, and foreigners who come on vacation.
Most airlines increase their flight frequencies during this season and also make charter flights from European cities to ferry tourists interested in spending the summer in this country.
Dominican Republic Live, 22.06.10

Dominican Republic tourist arrivals by air grew by 1.2%

In the first five months of 2010

BREAKING NEWS: Tourist arrivals by air rose by 1.2% in the first five months of the year. 1,627,570 tourists arrived in the country, about 19,417 more visitors over the same period last year when the figure was 1,608,153 people.
But the total amount of non-residents, including foreign visitors and Dominicans, was 1,850,412 passengers in the first five months, representing a growth of 2%, compared to the same period last year when the total was 1,814,584 passengers.
Dominican visitors amounted to 222,842 in the first five months, while during the same period last year there were 206,431, an increase of 7.9%.
The numbers during this period in2009 in relation to 2008 were a negative 4.1%. In the first five months of 2008 tourist arrivals grew by 7.2% and 2007 the growth was 1.3%.
According to data from the National Association of Hotels and Restaurants (Asonahores) 3.8% of those tourists arrived at the Punta Cana airport, where 946,765 people entered the country, 34,586 more than in the same period of 2009.
But the biggest growth, percentage-wise, was for the airport at La Isabela, which had a growth of 470.1% compared to the same period last year, rising from 2,543 to 14,497 visitors.
This growth was due to the large earthquake in the neighboring country of Haiti in January of this year. More than 11 thousand Haitian tourists or visitors from other nations and international organizations used this airport as an entrance point on their way to aiding Haiti.
The airport that received the second most foreign visitors in the first five months of the year was Las Americas, which grew 7% to 301,085 passengers received, some 19,680 more than the same period of 2009 when the number was 281,405 people.
Dominican Republic Live, 23.06.10

Increase in tourists visiting the Dominican Republic from Asia and South America

According to statistics from the Association of Hotels and Restaurants

BREAKING NEWS: Tourist South America and Asia are not the regions where most visitors come to this country, but the percentage is growing, according to official statistics regarding the arrivals of foreign visitors.
Statistics from the Association of Hotels and Restaurants (Asonahores) showed that compared with last year, tourist arrivals in the month of May from South America increased 45% and from Asia 37%, while North America grew only 1.5%.
During 2008 and 2009, the two years when the global financial crisis was at its peak, growth in arrivals of tourists from standard sources did not exceed single digits, in contrast, Asia and South America grew rapidly.
The information is contained in the May edition of the national tourism report as prepared by Asonahores.

From South America

Arrivals from Argentina this May totaled 6,822, an increase of 2,195 over May 2009 when the total was 3,907. In 2008 the figure was 3,308.A total of seven Southern Cone countries had significant emissions of tourists to this country. After Argentina, which had the highest number, came Chile, and Venezuela in third place.
In last place was Brazil whose total this year reached 2,115 visitors, compared to 1,016 a year ago.

Asia and Middle East

The Israelis frequently visit the country. From the East they are the ones that have visited the most with a contribution of 336 visitors in May, 52% over the same month of 2009, although in absolute terms the number is low.
Dominican Republic Live, 24.06.10

Heavy rains expected this weekend

Caused by a tropical wave

BREAKING NEWS: The National Meteorological Office (Onamet) reported that a tropical wave will cause heavy downpours and gusty winds this weekend.
The report stated that the front was located was located over the Canal de Mona, while the tropical wave was to the East of the Lesser Antilles, and will move toward the Dominican Republic on Sunday.
The two natural phenomena will cause severe rains and thunderstorms in almost all regions of the country.
In addition, Onamet reported that the tropical wave that hit the country in recent days was located over the Eastern part of Cuba, moving away from the Dominican Republic, however, remnants of the storm remained causing showers, thunderstorms and heavy winds.
The Emergency Operations Center (COE) increased their estimate to 800 the number of people displaced by the constant downpours and maintained a red alert for 9 provinces and green and bellow alerts for another 17.The COE also notes that about 160 homes were affected and that so far 202 people have been housed in shelters.
According to the report of the COE, the provinces with red alert warnings are, Barahona, San Cristóbal, El Seibo, Santo Domingo, Distrito Nacional, San Juan de la Maguana, San José de Ocoa, San Pedro de Macoris and Monte Plata.
For the provinces Peravia, Azua, Sánchez Ramírez, Pedernales, Independencia, Bahoruco, Samaná, María Trinidad Sánchez, La Altagracia, Hato Mayor, Elias Pina and La Romana, the warning remains yellow.
Provinces under green alert are, La Vega, Espaillat, Hermanas Mirabal, Monsignor Nouel and Duarte, especially those who live in the lower Yuna.

See our page of the 2010 Hurricane Season in the Caribbean

Dominican Republic Live, 25.06.10

Virtual Educa Santo Domingo 2010 a big success

An important event for the improvement of education

BREAKING NEWS: The XI Meeting of Virtual Educa Santo Domingo came to its successful conclusion, exceeding the expectations of organizers and with the promise of the 2020 version to be held in the country, according to comment made by General Secretary of Virtual Educa, José María Antón.
Anton responded to a request by Education Minister Melanio Paredes, who jokingly invited event participants to come again to the XXI Virtual Educa 2020, so that you can see how much advancement has been made in terms of the use of technology in the educating of young people.
General Secretary of Virtual Educa, Jose Maria Anton, accepted the request, saying. We are going to commit, Mary Carmen and I, to continue to work with you, with Yamile, with the ministers and all of you during these 10 years, we will work together, you have enthusiasm, keep your foreign friends because they are no longer foreigners, they are part of you and if you want, and destiny permits, Mary Carmen and I will be here with you in Santo Domingo Virtual Educa 2020.
During the five days of the Virtual Educa 2010 Santo Domingo event, there were about 290 exhibitions, representing more than 21 Latin American countries, plus Italy, and the participation of about three thousand attendees from around the globe.
Among the activities were panels, seminars, workshops and conferences on issues linked to education, training and new technologies.
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCYT) and president of Virtual Educa Caribe, Ligia Amada Melo, said this conclave allowed everyone to reflect on the school of the future that is needed for the XXI century. We are all aware of the need for a new type of school.
He stated that the Higher Education Ministry is making every effort to multiply the use of technology and urged teachers to take advantage of this experience.
He congratulated President Leonel Fernandez, who is chairman of the board of Virtual Educa and who had the idea to celebrate the event in the country, and thanked Fernandez for the content of the lecture in Virtual Educa under the topic Overview of Virtual Education for Human Development in Haiti. He said that this conference has been demanded by the social networks.
He described the quality of the presentations that took place during the week of the conclave as extraordinary. And the truth is that we have seen innovative activities, activities that truly exemplify the education that we aspire to, ab ove all in the use of technology and its application to education.
Ligia Amada Melo said he was extremely content because the event met and exceeded the expectations of its organizers.
He said that attendance was higher than what was expected both nationally and internationally. He highlighted the presentations made and the models being applied in other countries’ because that is precisely the main objective of Virtual Educa, to utilize the expertise of our innovative Latin American countries to help us improve education, and that goal has been accomplished, said the Minister Higher of Education.
He noted that several agreements were signed during Virtual Educa 2010 Santo Domingo, some with international agencies, some between countries, some inter-agency and others that were still pending.
The Minister of Education, Melanio Paredes, said that all activities were conducted successfully, with water but successfully accomplished He thanked everyone involved with the event, including the participation of some 800 teachers from across the country, who he hoped would communicate the technological knowledge learned to the students in the classroom.
The closing ceremony took place in the Aula Magna of the UASD and was attended by the vice rector of Academics of this institution of higher learning, Ivan Grullon, who was representing the rector, Franklin García Fermín, the vice rector of Administation, Maritza Camacho and former rector Roberto Reyna.
Also attending were representatives from the Técnico de Monterrey de México, the president of Innovation and Institutional Development at Monterrey Tech, Carlos Cruz Limon, the director of Strategic Development Virtual University of Tecnológico de Monterrey Carlos Villanueva, Director of International Programs of the Virtual University Monterrey, Elmira Lozano.
The representatives of Monterrey, who received the mandate of the forthcoming Virtual Educa 2011, used the occasion to invite all present to this event.
More than 22 Dominican institutions, and the support from international sponsors, made Santo Domingo Virtual Educa 2010 possible.
The event was directed and guided by the Presidency of the Republic, who delegated to the Ministries of Education of the country its development together with the Foundation Global, Democracy and Development (FUNGLODE), universities and other institutions.
Dominican Republic Live, 28.06.10

Large public turn out for Mango Expo 2010

Thousands of people from around the country come to the festival

BREAKING NEWS: A massive public turn out was on display for the VI version of the mango harvest festival, Mango Expo 2010. Thousands of people from around the country and abroad came to enjoy the various activities offered during the celebration, which took place from June 17^th through June 20^th.
The attendees were treated to an educational art program prepared by the organizing committee. This was an exhibition of the genetic diversity of the dominican mango. There were also booths selling mangos and mango products, machinery, equipment and displays of production technologies.
The festival began on Thursday, the 17th, with an opening ceremony, Turing which the organizers recognized the producers and personalities who have supported the development of mango production in the Dominican Republic.
On Friday, the 18^th, national and international experts presented the latest technologies and information for modern and efficient production of mango under the conditions of the Dominican Republic.
Among the topics discussed were: mango export to the European Union and a presentation of technology enhancement of the mango in relation to the market given by Dr. Max Reynes CIRAD of France, world production of mango by Dr. Victor Galan Elder of the Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias of Spain, the importance of standardization in the agricultural sector applied to the production of mango, by Mr. Joshua De Jesus Santos, Deputy Director General DIGENOR, Dominican mango: a competitive industry by Andrew Van Der Horst Alvarez, Secretary of State and Executive Director National Council of Competitiveness Programme to aid the marketing of fruit and vegetables to the European Union by Dr. Maud Delacollette of PIPCOLEACP, the conclusions of the study on DNA Banilejo byMr. Gabriel Dominguez CONIAF, phytosanitary surveillance in the cultivation of mango by Quisqueya Pérez Ing and production of mango, the experience of China by Mr. Jose Jimenez.
On Saturday, the 19^th, there were commercial tours to mango plantations, whichvisited the modern fruit station of the Dominican Institute of Agricultural Research Institute (IDIAF), dedicated exclusively to supporting and promoting the Dominican fruit, and later, the visitors travelled to Managua, where participants observed the harvesting process, transport and packaging of mango for export.
On Sunday 20 artistic and educational activities were held, including mango eating contests and a painting workshop.
The Organizing Committee thanked the support of public and media of the festival for mango harvest in the Dominican Republic Mango Expo 2010
They pledged to work collectively to present Expo Mango 2011 next June.
The main organizing institutions were: the Cluster of Mango, IDIAF, CONIAF, Ministry of Agriculture, USAID, Red, IAD, Municipality of Bani, CNC, CEDAF, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, Office of the First Lady of the Republic , PUCMM and OIRSA, among other institutions.
Dominican Republic Live, 29.06.10

Korea to finance major electric projects in the Dominican Republic

Rafael Alburquerque meets with Korean President Lee Myung-bak

BREAKING NEWS: Vice President Rafael Alburquerque, met Monday with Korean President Lee Myung-bak. At the meeting the Government of Korea agreed to give financial support to major development projects in the country, among which includes a coal-fired generation plant of 400 MW and the rehabilitation of electricity networks.
Vice President Alburquerque revealed that among other projects to be financed by the Government of Korea through the Korean Eximbank and private companies are the development of e-government, to improve immigration services and the construction of a shopping mall in the Cibao.
Albuquerque acknowledged Korea´s support in the financing of such projects and stressed that they contribute significantly to the development of the country, and added that they represent an important contribution to solving the country’s energy problems.
On behalf of President Leonel Fernández and the Dominican people I would like to say that we appreciate the support of the Korean Government in regards to these projects, as they will contribute to the development and modernization of the country, said Albuquerque.
For his part the president of Korea expressed his support to the Dominican Government in implementing a number of developmental projects to be financed by the Korean Government and businessmen and asked to explore new projects that will contribute to economic and social development of the Dominican Republic.
Korea is ready to support the development of the Dominican Republic, not only on the part of the Government but by private enterprises, said Lee Myung-Bak.
He further expressed his appreciation to the efforts made by President Leonel Fernández for the reconstruction of Haiti and the support given by the Dominican Republic to the Haitian people after the earthquake of January 12th, which claimed hundreds of thousands of victims and the destruction of the infrastructure of the nation.
The Korean president, also mentioned the visit made by President Leonel Fernández to his country recently, as well as a gesture of solidarity from the Dominican Republic with the Korean people, while committing to reciprocate with a visit to the Dominican Republic in a timely manner.
Albuquerque, was accompanied during the meeting by Finance Minister Vicente Bengoa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Clara Quiñones, Domingo Tavares, director of the Presidential Office of Information Technology, the ambassador to Panama, Fior Pichardo, Ambassador to Korea, and Hector Galvan Hector Giuliani Cury, adviser to the State Electricity Company.
The Vice President will next travel to Panama City to participate in the III Summit of Head of State and Government of the member countries of System Integration in the Countries of Central America and the Caribbean (SICA).
Dominican Republic Live, 30.06.10