HEAVEN ON EARTH CALLED

No. 8, 2014

Oil Rush and Destiny of the Caspian YEARSЛЕТ

Alla Yazkova: Wider Black Sea Region The Black Sea – Caspian Sea and Challenges International Fund of Our Times

NEW SILK ROAD: IT’S POSSIBLE! 5Messages from BSCSIF founders

Ukraine Georgia Republic of Moldova Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan editorial BSCSIFCHRONICLE Photo: Аrchive

years Vyacheslav SAMOSHKIN, Editor in Chief of “Dialogue of the Seas” magazine BSCSIF New Silk Road: it’s possible! Major The idea to restore the historical Silk Road, even the way it is currently called, which implies for transportation of energy resources from Central Asia and Cas- 5 pian Sea to , might have seemed at first too bold and fantastic. But in 1998, events in Baku, at the Conference of Presidents of many countries, the idea was launched, ■ March 4, Bucharest. Founding of the International Fund for Cooperation and Partnership of the and time has proven its viability. One of its real incarnations was the establish- Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Founders - representatives of eight countries in the region together with the Romanian President Traian Basescu. On the photo left to right: Vadim Kolesnichenko (), ment, 11 years after, of the International Black Sea-Caspian Sea Fund. Its founders of the Tamaz Beradze (Georgia), Akkan Suver (Turkey), Iulian Fota (Romania), President Traian Basescu, have foremost stressed on the humanitarian side of the issue. After all, the Great Lidia Romanciuc (Republic of Moldova ), Eldar Hasanov (Azerbaijan), Zhildyz Oskonbaeva (Kyrgyzstan) Silk Road is a sort of bridge that brought together countries and peoples and facili- and Dossym SULEYEV (Kazakhstan). First elected president of the Fund – Iulian Fota (Romania). tated the exchange of cultural and spiritual values. Especially since after the col- Fund 2009 The same year Bulgaria, and join the countries mentioned above. lapse of the USSR eight new sovereign states emerged here. This is how the idea of dialogue, promotion of peace, harmony and tolerance in this yet troubled region Tbecame naturally the one guiding the activity of the Fund. The years that passed have shown that it grew not only quantitatively, due to add- interview ing to its ranks more new countries, but also because this quantity turned gradual- ly into quality. Today, the Fund is well known in the European Union and the Or- ganization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation, it received special consultative status within the UN Economic and Social Council, it has a strategic partnership Results over five years with the European Policy Centre, on its initiative and through its participation in there has been established and already started to work the International Centre for support and coordination of economic cooperation. Because of the role are impressive that BSCSIF started playing in this region, it naturally enhanced collaboration with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BSCSIF Secretary General and Vice-President Eldar Hasanov and its ideas are unanimous with Eurasian cooperation idea promoted by Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus... answers the questions of the Dialogue of the Seas Magazine Opening remarks Opening To “Dialogue of the Seas” magazine all of this makes easier its mission to promote the image of the International Fund of the Black and Caspian seas and the noble Solid bridge between Black Sea and the Caspian Sea were garding the establishment of the organ- goals and objectives pursued by it, because the activity and accomplishments of the people and countries the president of Azerbaijan Ilham ization and regarding its statute lasted Fund speak for themselves. In the magazine we familiarize our readers with the On the occasion of the 5th anni- Aliyev and the president of Romania for almost half a year. After that, on countries of the region and their cultural richness. Here articles were written by such versary of the International Fund Traian Basescu. This initiative was also March 4, 2009 BSCSIF was inaugurat- prominent figures as academicians Gheorghe Duca, Mircea Malita, Razvan Teodo- for Cooperation and Partnership of sustained by well-known broadminded ed in Bucharest as a non-governmental rescu, poet and diplomat Olzhas Suleimenov, political scientists Alexander Dugin, the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea scientific and political figures, promi- international organization. Ognyan Minchev, Corneliu Vlad, Leyla Aliyeva, Deputy Secretary General of BSEC (BSCSIF) it feels like recalling again nent intellectuals from eight countries In times when, due to political orienta- Traian Chebeleu, program director at Harvard University Sergey Konoplyov… On the reasoning that guided its found- - Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, tions and differences, governments and our columns we held round tables attended by major specialists from the countries ers in March 2009 to establish this Kyrgyzstan, Republic of Moldova, countries are at odds and cannot reach of the region on issues of civil society shaping, preservation of cultural heritage, res- unique organization… Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. These an agreement, things must be done cue of Black and Caspian seas, we analysed the obstacles to a more intense economic The ones who came up with the initia- countries became the founders of the in a manner that people don’t suffer. cooperation in the Black Sea – Caspian Sea – Mediterranean Sea basin… tive to create the International Fund Fund. I would also like to note that Namely with this purpose was created

Our Fund has been repeatedly compared to a ship sailing the open sea. For this for Cooperation and Partnership of the barely the coordination of issues re- the Fund. It works as a solid bridge interview reason, on its 5th anniversary, we wish to say: fair water and smooth sailing!

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Years

editorial New Silk Road: it’s possible! / 2 BSCSIF 2010 BSCSIFchronicle Fund major event chronicle / 2 No. 8, 2013 2010 Eldar Hasanov: ______5 Editorial Board Results are impressive / 2 Mahir N.Quarayev, Azerbaijan The founders of the Fund speak Murat Auezov, Kazakhstan / 9 Bayan Sarigulov, Kyrgyzstan Unite the region through projects / 13 Ion Hadârcă, Republic of Moldova Mikhail Sinelnikov, Russia Meetings by the sea / 15 Corneliu Vlad, Deputy Editor, Romania Çağrı Erhan, Prof. Dr., Turkey ■ At the central BSCSIF thecountries of the region office in Bucharest In this section we present to our readers another Editor-in-Chief: Vyacheslav Samoshkin a team of young English version: experts was selected country, member of the Black Sea - Caspian Sea and began its work. Janna Donica and Olga Condratiuc For five years, the Fund has International Fund Art Director: Dan Mihalache completed more than 40 projects, including ______some through the European Union. Natalia MONTENEGRO The Magazine is being published Ciobanu - the first project coordinator (left). by the International Fund For Cooperation Heaven on Earth called Montenegro / 20 and Partnership of the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea ■ Decision to publish newsfrom the region / 24 Dialogue of the Seas President: Ismail Safi IDEASAND PEOPLE Secretary General and Vice-President: magazine – in Russian and Eldar Hasanov ■ April. Participation of the Fund in the 5th World Water Forum in English, in an edition Wider Black Sea area: Vice-President: Istanbul and the annual Eurasian Economic Summit – the same place. challenges of history and modernity / Gabriel Comănescu (Romania) From that moment BSCSIF participates at the summit every year. of 1500 copies. 25 Executive Director: Alev Balgi 2009 ecology Adviser to Secretary General: Janna Donică Oil rush and destiny of the Caspian / 28 Projects Coordinator, Adviser to Secretary General: Julia Akhunova interview cates in various fields. logue between civilizations. SHAPINGCIVIL SOCIETY Coordinator of the Center for Strategic Continued from page 3 Internationally active and outside poli- Qualitative expansion Research of the Black Sea-Caspian Sea The geography of the countries Deed of humanity tics, the Fund encourages commercial / 35 Region: Valentina Albu between nations and peoples, having activity and plays an important role in whose representatives have become Adviser for Economic as strategic objective the protection the region and the world as a binding members in the Fund is constantly gallery Cooperation: Orhan Mammadov and reinforcement of such​​ human val- factor that contributes to the intensi- growing. How do you relate to the The path of realism in Bulgaria Project Manager: Luiza Niţă / 38 ______ues as peace, dialogue, mutual under- fication of the scientific, cultural, eco- major achievements of the organi- ISSN 2069 – 766X; ISSN-L = 2069 – 766X standing and development of relations nomic and social cooperation, as well zation over the past five years? What projects,projects Printed at Tipografia Everest, Bucharest between people based on common as to the strengthening of diplomatic is its strategy for the coming years? In pursuit of high technology / 40 historical roots, fostering civil society relations between the countries repre- What could you say about the cur- development on Eurasian space. sented in the Fund. rent image of the Fund? Oh,sport, you are peace! ... Thus, the primary grounds to establish In conformity with its statute, in its work, In a short period of time our Inter- ______this organization were to promote BSCSIF attaches a great importance to national Fund achieved important Olympic heroes from BSCSIF countries / 43 The opinions expressed by the authors do not necessarily reflect the views of the peace, dialogue, to unite people, to the development of cooperation between results in its works and gained credi- The”New Silk Road” poetic anthology «Dialogue of the Seas» editors. converge cooperation and the spirit of non-governmental organizations and bility and respect among international When using the material, the reference tolerance. Our organization works in civil societies of countries, to the imple- organizations and took its rightful With pain and joy / 45 to the magazine is obligatory. accordance with the norms and prin- mentation of joint projects to promote place among them. Yevgeny Yevtushenko / 46 Editorial address: ciples of international law, the most peace, dialogue, consent and mutual co- As you correctly pointed out, and this București, bdul Nicolae Balcescu, №32-34, important of them - the principle of operation between countries represented is very fortunate, the International eventsand people ap. 3-4, etaj 1, sector 1; sovereignty, territorial integrity and in the Fund, in areas such as the expan- Fund grew qualitatively and already Tel: +40 21 211 1151, +40 21 211 1152; inviolability of borders of all states. sion of democratic process, consolidation covers not only the borders of the Research topic: fax: +40 21 211 4094; Today the Fund has at disposal a real of civil society, sustainable development, Black Sea-Caspian Sea region, but Romania and South Caucasus / http://www.bscsif.ro brainpower base and a reliable team of ecology, science, education, research and also the territory of the countries of 48 e-mail: [email protected]

42 experts with international certifi- innovation, cultural diversity and dia- Western Europe, Middle East, Africa interview newsfrom the region / 48 [email protected]

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BSCSIFCHRONICLE BSCSIFCHRONICLE 2012 ■ May. Tbilisi. th 2012■ - 2012 – April. Istanbul. On the 8 session After a tragic of the BSCSIF Board of Directors the Fund accident prof. is joined by representatives of three more Tamaz Beradze, ■ September. . It is decided countries - Vitaly Buzdugan (Belarus), Dzenita Vice-President Ozgyuner (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and Ilya and one of YEARS to set up a Center for strategic Kajic (Montenegro), who became members of the founders the Board of Directors of BSCSIF, research in the Black Sea – Caspian passes away Sea region, and develop training BSCSIF courses for national human

resources to participate in the implementation of European and

■ March. Chisinau. 6th Session of the BSCSIF international projects Board of Directors. According to the principle of 5 rotation, the presidency of the Fund goes from 2011 Romania to Russia: Iulian Fota (right) handed over the symbolic key to Viktor Khmarin.The Commission for Innovations and Investments, chaired by 2011 Mikhail Zernov (Russia) is created. ■ May. Moscow. Under the aegis of BSCSIF the ■ September. Budva (Montenegro). ■ First issue of Alliance of the Seas is created, On the 9th session of the Board of Directors Dialogue of the the Fund development strategy through 2020 Seas magazine, the which aside from the Moscow is approved. The Board of Directors is joined presentation was held by (photo: left to right) representatives of in Chisinau, on the ■ August, Moscow. During the 7th Board Meeting branch, was joined by several Switzerland (Livio Hürzeler) and Iran (Sadiq occasion of the 6th in Moscow, partnership agreements are signed with a prominent innovative and Mahfouz). Georgia’s Representative in the Session of the BSCSIF series of organizations and companies of the region. Board of Directors became doctor of historical Board of Directors A trip on the Moscow River by the yacht “Scarlet”. business structures from Russia sciences Manana Sanadze

interview magazine “Dialogue of the Seas” has the efforts of the United Nations, the think tank - the European Policy Centre tion to BSCSIF development brought particular line of work is coordinated Continued from page 5 been printed quarterly. Each issue car- European Union, the Council of Europe, - and together with it started to carry by Iulian Fota, Viktor Khmarin, Akkan by Turkey. In this regard, due to the ries a diverse range of articles about the Organization for Security and Coop- out projects in the Caspian Sea - Black Suver, Ismail Safi, Gabriel Comanescu, initiative and the insistence of the Board and Asia. history, culture and traditions of the eration in Europe and other influential Sea region. Mikhail Zernov, Manana Sanadze, of Directors and all members of the At this time, the Fund is represented by region, their successes, achievements international and regional organizations, Not so long ago BSCSIF jointly with in- Chingiz Abdullayev, Dossym Suleev, organization, in September 2013, in Is- over 20 countries, the mentioned above and challenges, democratic processes efforts to achieve mutual understanding, ternational organizations implemented Lidia Romanchiuc, Dimitar Kostov, tanbul was established the International were joined by representatives from such and ongoing reforms, civil societies, civil society strengthening, to promote a series of successful international, re- Leonela Lenes, Alev Baldgi, Vyacheslav Centre for Support and Coordination of countries as Albania, Belarus, Bulgaria, non-governmental organizations, as institutional reformation, in other words gional and national projects. The Fund Samoshkin, Julia Akhunova, Valentina Economic Relations, where our Fund is Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, Russian well as narratives from famous po- - to develop comprehensive democratic currently trains national staff to further Albu, Orhan Mammadov... listed as one of the founders. This struc- Federation, Serbia, Republic of Sao Tome litical, cultural and scientific figures processes and sustainable economic pro- involve it in various projects to be im- ture aims to promote the development of and Principe, Croatia, Montenegro, Swit- from member-countries of the Fund, gress in BSCSIF member-countries. plemented in the member countries Serve the economic unity international economic cooperation and zerland and SAR. BSCSIF central office describes the activities of the Fund in I would like to emphasize that on Au- of our organization. The International of the region partnership in the member countries of is located in Bucharest, but as well active various fields. gust 1, 2013 the Fund received a special Fund collaborates closely with scien- Recently, in Istanbul, started to work the International Fund, to provide sup- are its four branches: in Moscow, Brus- In accordance with its statute, BSCSIF consultative status within the Economic tists and researchers, known in Europe a specially created economic struc- port for physical and juridical persons for sels, Varna and . I would like to is funded by membership fees and and Social Council (ECOSOC), which and throughout the world, many of ture, one of the founders of which the implementation of projects in econo- note that at the jubilee BSCSIF General sponsorship to particular projects allows its active participation in the whom joined its ranks. was BSCSIF. What is its purpose and my, ecology, energy, transport, medicine Assembly and Board of Directors meet- given by legal or natural persons from works of the Council and its subsidi- Regarding the past 5-year period I what can the Fund do and what is it and healthcare, science, education, in- ing organized on the occasion of the 5th the member-countries of the Interna- ary bodies and representations, within would like to emphasize the dynamic supposed to do in this area? novation, culture, tourism. Moreover, the anniversary of the Fund - it will be held tional Fund - a process carried out in its programs. In addition, BSCSIF activity, within BSCSIF, of such coun- I would like to mention that the provi- Center’s activity also aims at promoting March 9, 2014 in Istanbul - the applica- a transparent and legal way and due to established cooperation with the Or- tries as Romania, Russia, Turkey, Ka- sion of support for the development and entrepreneurship in the region of the tions of China, the , Lat- the implementation of online projects ganization of Islamic Cooperation, the zakhstan, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Serbia, strengthening of economic cooperation countries represented in BSCSIF, to bet- via and to join the ranks of our in key-strategic areas. Shanghai Cooperation Organization Switzerland, SAR, Georgia, Bulgaria. in the region represents one of the most ter integrate the region’s economy into organization will be considered. In Brussels, as well as in New York and signed a strategic partnership As for individual representatives, I important directions, from the strategic the global system, and to improve the

interview Starting from March 2011 the BSCSIF BSCSIF currently provides support to agreement with a leading European would like to note the great contribu- point of view, of the Fund’s activity. This investment climate in member-countries interview

6 7 BSCSIFCHRONICLE BSCSIFCHRONICLE 2013 The founders

■ 2013 March. Bucharest. The Fund organized a round table of the Fund on “The New Security Dynamic in the Black Sea regions” with the participation of Sergey Konoplev, Harvard University program director YEARS speak th ■ June. Brussels. BSCSIF Award Gala ■ April. Istanbul. During the 10 Session of organized for prominent figures of the European Union and BSCSIF member-states when, with their gesture standing for the BSCSIF Board of Directors the chairmanship to appraise the achievements in spheres of immediate interest to BSCSIF the idea of friendship in the Black BSCSIF of the Fund is transferred from Viktor Khmarin and Caspian seas, President of Roma- (Russia) to Akkan Suver (Turkey) nia Traian Basescu and President of Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev put forward the idea to this project and laid the foundation to a non- ■ March. Bucharest. 5 governmental organization that set as “Cyber security: today and tomorrow” – a program launched by the Fund with purpose - and it basically succeeds in a series of discussions, that involved it - bringing together the peoples of government and private structures the region, and above all, those who Ideal, are of a particular significance today – the youth. commendable and Moreover, I was able to coordi- ■ April. Istanbul. ■ August. New York. nate the activities of this organization, Alev Balgi is appointed worthy of respect having the presidency during first Executive Director of BSCSIF BSCSIF in Special Consultative Iulian FOTA, two years since its establishment. Status with the United Nations first BSCSIF President (Romania) As president, I tried to implement Economic and Social Council project of “two seas” the closest to its hen in March 2009 in ideal, constantly striving to promote (ECOSOC) Bucharest a protocol on statutory objectives and make them Wthe establishment of the visible by means of memorable events ■ October. Istanbul hosted the event of International Fund for Cooperation and activities. juridical registration of a new structure with the participation of BSCSIF – International and Partnership of the Black Sea and Today, when Black Sea-Caspian Center for Support and Coordination of the Caspian Sea (BSCSIF) has been Sea Fund celebrates half a decade of Economic Cooperation signed, I knew from the beginning its existence, the results of the col- that the newly established organiza- lective efforts made in the name of ■ September, Constanta. tion was to have a wonderful journey, pragmatic cooperation that mark the The 11th BSCSIF Board dawned on ideas that it decided to development of the region, are in- Meeting. The number of Fund bring to life. creasingly noticeable. In this sense, I member-states exceeded 20, The concept presented by this should mention that the organization ■ Due to objective reasons by accepting in the Board of Directors Sao Tome and project - to intensify cooperation grew in phases on several occasions Vice-President and first Principe representative (photo). through overcoming differences in a and at the beginning it was com- Decision to open BSCSIF branches in Belgrade. region where cooperation and mutual prised of diplomatic representatives Presdient of the Fund, Earlier on, such branches were set up in Iulian Fota, retires from Istanbul, Brussels, Moscow and Varna understanding have been for a long and academics from eight countries, (for details – see the story on pages 15-17) time subjects of searches and aspira- respectively, from Azerbaijan, Geor- his responsibilities (on tions - represent an ideal commend- gia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Repub- able and worthy of respect, especially lic of Moldova, Romania, Turkey the left), Romania is ■ November. represented in the Board since its main tasks are rapproche- and Ukraine, and later managed to BSCSIF signed a strategic ment and mutual understanding be- draw to this project other figures too, of Directors by Gabriel partnership for cooperation tween people in all kinds of humanis- which consolidated the ranks and Comanescu, the elected ■ The Board of Director is joined by representatives of three new countries (right to left, top tic ways, putting emphasis on devel- improved its evolution. Moreover, down) – South Africa (Zolani Mkiva and Zharko Taric), Croatia (Jasminko Umicevic) and Albania with the European opment of intercultural dialogue. a special appreciation deserves the Vice-President (Bakhadir Aksoy), also Roger Widmer (Switzerland) and Bakhtybek Baysetov (Kazakhstan) Policy Centre That’s why I was fully supportive selfless work of the young project

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team, which due to initiatives taken the trust between countries. Now, a great International Fund were drawn prom- historically and on this common was able to prove that ambition, per- many of people realize that it is necessary inent civil society representatives from ground the development of relations severance and humanness can always to know better each other’s culture. Suf- Switzerland, UK, , Ghana, Sao between them is shaped. In the age make sure that friendship and binding fice it to say that in the Fund are so many Tome and Principe and other coun- of globalization, regionalization overcome any differences. people who speak three or four lan- tries, or, in other words, this interest of international relations plays In conclusion, I can only wish tail- guages. I, for instance, speak native Azer- shown by people goes far beyond the an important role in deepening wind to this wonderful initiative and baijani, Russian, Turkish... At a recurrent Black Sea-Caspian region. economic cooperation, and hence, be hopeful that the efforts of all who troika meeting we communicated in Secondly, granting the Fund the in establishing partnerships and today represent the International Fund three languages and​​ there was complete special consultative status within the good neighborly relations between for Cooperation and Partnership of mutual understanding. And this is the UN Economic and Social Council the countries of the region. the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea will exact argument for why translating even means international recognition for Regionalization also contributes be crowned with ten-times the results more of each other’s literature. I am our organization and opens new possi- to the conservation of cultural and Let it be! Become a leader to come till its first 10th anniversary, also the president of PEN-International bilities for a wider cooperation, includ- historical heritage, to the rapid Dossym SULEEV, that is, until another five years, during Azerbaijan, and, for PEN the most im- ing with other regional organizations. development of specific sectors BSCSIF Vice-President, Academician at in regional which the organization has an oppor- portant is to familiarize your country Thirdly, the establishment of a of economy and to the spread of National Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan tunity to prove its capabilities. with universal literature, while familiar- closer cooperation with particular innovative technologies. (Kazakhstan) matters izing the international community with bodies of the European Union or, for The establishment of a public Zhyldyz OSKONBAEVA, yours. And, obviously, this experience example, with the European Policy organization - the International Fund ongratulations to our Fund BSCSIF Vice-President can be transferred to the Fund, as it is Centre, requires a detailed study of of two seas pursues, regardless of for its little anniversary! I care and First Secretary General, researcher (Kyrgyzstan) an honourable thing to do. And if we the issues discussed and the establish- state structures, the goal of providing Cdeeply and heartily for it and lay manage to release at least one book ment of appropriate expertise. help to certain groups of citizens of great hopes on it. from the Fund’s member-countries in In short, our organization has ac- the region in the implementation The anniversary is indeed rather t is hard to believe that five years all the countries, it will be so great! - it quired a new, higher quality, which re- of socially useful economic and small, but to us, the founders - it’s have passed yet our growth is a will raise the cultural level of the coun- quires thinking and new methods and innovative projects that contribute huge. Because the Fund is our child Itestament to the strength of the tries that translate and the countries that approaches to problems. So, I hope to the development in post-Soviet and for every parent every step of his aspirations we envisioned when we are translated. that our first anniversary will provide countries of modern democratic child is an event and every year of his first started. When we started, our the opportunity to not only list the institutes and to the transformation life is a kind of anniversary. countries were understood by what indisputable achievements, but to also of society from a totalitarian into a I remember as yesterday the first or who we belonged to rather than think and to develop more effective liberal-democratic one. meetings in Bucharest and actions of the acknowledgement that our ideas, Well-defined ways of further development for the In this process, an undeniable the founders - representatives of eight beliefs and transformations traveled International Fund in the name of and effective role is played by educa- countries - regarding the establishment back and forth between us. positions, prosperity and modernization of the tion. University of Georgia in Tbilisi of this international organization, heated Looking forward there are countries in the region, in a context of is actively engaged in shaping a mod- debates and discussions about the mis- five areas we have yet to fully international peace and cooperation. ern civil society, and joined the Fund, sion, goals and objectives for the future capitalize on. First is trade. We as a representative of the sector of NGO. I remember a substantial presenta- have never embarked on a Free practices education, because I share the ideas tion of the Fund with the participation of Trade Agreement between member Chingiz ABDULLAYEV, that the Fund promotes. the President of Romania and the uneasy countries. Second is education. member of the BSCSIF Board of Directors, For five years BSCSIF managed process of creating its megaphone – the While our best and brightest want writer (Azerbaijan) to successfully implement several “Dialogue of the Seas” magazine – that to study abroad, many of the International important projects. The “Dialogue of boldly burst into the global information world’s elite universities already took part at the establishment of the the Seas” magazine was released and space. Now all this is behind us, but be- have satellite campuses or joint Fund in 2009 and since then have recognition representatives of different spheres fore us are lots of new tasks. programs elsewhere. We can make Iprovided active support for its activ- Dimitar KOSTOV, have the opportunity to publish their With great pride I realize today the business case to bring such ities. I appreciate the fact that, on one BSCSIF Vice-President views on world economic, democratic, that the beginning was laid well, so programs to our region. Third hand, our Fund is not a politicized Ambassador (Bulgaria) cultural, political and other processes. that now we have a good harvest. The would be health and in particular organization and, on the other hand, it The growing interest towards the Fund has successfully evolved: it is technology that prolongs life or the has well-defined positions, especially s you know, BSCSIF was cre- region and the need to strengthen represented by more than two dozen quality of life. While the issue of the one regarding the recognition of ated the same way thousands The Fund and the good-neighborly relations between countries and gains gradually recogni- hard currency can be a daunting the territorial integrity of the states... Aof non-governmental organiza- the peoples contribute to the ex- tion, accumulates authority and takes one, we have never considered I appreciate the fact that the Fund tions were. And one could say that 5 Civil Society pansion of the Fund. I want to take its rightful place among international countertrade between us and an complies with international practices: years for the Fund is just the age of a Manana SANADZE, this opportunity and thank all its organizations. outside country to obtain these each country member, regardless of its little child. However, the facts show its member of the BSCSIF Board of Directors, members for their selfless and highly I wish my dear Fund further technologies. Fourth is the quality size, is mandatorily represented in the phenomenal maturity. Rector of the University of Georgia inT bilisi (Georgia) skilled work on the implementation development without reducing mo- and availability of water. Chances Board of Directors. First of all, the membership of the of priority objectives: strengthening mentum and wish it walks confidently are if our water cannot support The Fund has a lot to do for the de- organization has grown particularly he countries situated in the economic and cultural ties between to the targeted in the statute noble animal and plant life or water our velopment of cultural relations. The more fast, and now it brings together repre- Black Sea-Caspian Sea region the peoples of the region and wish goal of converging countries and peo- crops we cannot drink it either. Fifth we collaborate, the stronger will become sentatives of over 20 countries. To our Tare bound geopolitically and them luck in their future activities. ples. Let it be! and final is interoperability. While

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militaries engage in peacekeeping civil society cooperation, individuals it needs financial support. or combined exercises with others, around Dr. Hasanov gathered together Indeed, it is impossible to we have no experience helping and came forth with a serious initiative achieve viability and efficiency each other out in times of national aiming to make right steps in estab- wheresoever without a proper Unite the region disaster. Such cooperation can also lishing long-term territorial system economy. International projects promote greater cooperation against of communication and cooperation will appear and we will try to common threats such as contraband in the Black Sea-Caspian Sea region. implement them relying on and extremism. Today, looking back over the 5 years, Fund’s resources. We need through In closing the value of the we see that they succeeded and are just material wealth in order to build Fund is its potential. As ‘Thought about to expand and strengthen al- our future. And this wealth is Leaders,’ we have the ability to ready established connections. The fact ensured by financial resources. YEARS take the lead on regional issues. that countries from other continents I attach great importance to projects While growth is an indicator of became members of the Fund and the the future of the Fund. Because our potential, it is the resolution of number of member-countries grows I believe in it. I believe that this issues in which we will be entrusted significantly, speaks of itself. organization, created due to to do even more. I am not only Crises periods, the same way it the far-sightedness of the state Alev BALGI, BSCSIF confident the issues will be there happens with countries and societies, of Romania and the state of BSCSIF Executive Director but that we are also fully capable to always carry a certain dose of prosper- Azerbaijan, will take its place address them. ity possibilities. Our Fund’s leadership among prominent civil society realized it, which is why it is necessary organizations in Europe, and will lthough the Fund Nations-Economic5 and Social to dedicate special attention and time be referred to as an important has been established Council, on August 1, 2013. The to innovations, innovative solutions volunteer movement. only for five years, consultative status allows us to be and economic-social trends. Two of our members are during this period it actively involved in relations with Each kind of crisis is able to un- members of the parliaments of has developed many ECOSOC and its subsidiaries, the cover the specificity and uniqueness of their countries. This is Mr. Ismail projects of great relevance to the United Nations Secretariat and also year and bring together experts and a certain institution’s positioning. The Safi from Turkey and Mr. Vadim Aregion; projects that approach enables us to work together with representatives of both European Fund showed to all of us that we, the Kolesnichenko from Ukraine. pressing issues of today’s world. their agencies on programs and Union and Caspian Sea. ones who come from different coun- Mr. Iulian Fota, a member All these projects were funds. One of the first successfully tries, are unique and poses qualities, of our Fund, has an important implemented ​​thanks to the carefully In November 2013, we signed a implemented projects “Side by knowledge and skills to be exchanged position in the Romanian state. selected young team of experts, all of strategic partnership for cooperation Side for the Black Sea” entered and multiplied. In this respect, the Dr. Eldar Hasanov is an whom graduated from well-known with the “European Policy Center”; the five finalists for 2011’s Best wisdom of the founders has proven important government official universities, and took special courses a partnership that will feature the Environmental Project award within Wealth right and the wealth of diversity has in Azerbaijan. Moreover, he is organized for that. values ​​of the two organizations. First Volunteer Gala in Romania. This was shown its power now more than ever. an exceptional diplomat who One of the highest achievements joint project called “Defining the a national nomination that included of diversity shown its power now more than ever. exercises his ambassadorial duties of our Fund is being granted Caspian” will begin in March 2014 all major projects undertaken Mirjana PRLJEVIC, Binding us today, as well as tomorrow. in three countries. It is a unique consultative status at the United and will be carried on for over one that year in different fields of member of the BSCSIF Board of Directors opportunity and a great chance activity. Also “Side by Side for the (Serbia) for us to have a Secretary General, Black Sea” was among the eight who heads his country’s diplomatic September 2011, Gura Portitei projects selected by United Nations Chinese proverb says: No man mission in Serbia, Montenegro, (Romania). Participants of “Side by Environment Programme (UNEP) in is your friend, no man is your Bosnia and Herzegovina, and side - for the Black Sea” project cooperation with other international Aenemy, every man is your who served as the ambassador to organizations involved in the Health teacher. I accepted the invitation from Romania for 12 years. & Environment policy process as a Dr Eldar Hasanov to become one of All the rest of our friends have Best Practice Concept on youth and the Fund’s members believing that undeniable quality. In addition, children’s involvement regarding through newly established community we have youth. My faith in it is Environment and Health. Another of people and companies I will man- immeasurable. two pilot projects implemented at age to create some new and reliable I believe that after ten years, the beginning of BSCSIF’s activity economic and strategic connections, the International Black Sea- was the project “Romania – Turkey. so the Fund would become the place Focused on future Caspian Sea Fund, which was Partnership for Democracy” and where each of us can learn something Dr. Akkan SUVER, founded in 2009, will be one of the Project “Tolerance, Religion and new and useful. And so it was. BSCSIF Vice-President, former BSCSIF President, the most influential civil society Cultural Diversity”. President of the International Foundation Once figured out in due time, that “Marmara Group” (Turkey) organizations in the world. Another relevant project of during after-globalization era the world the Fund is the Research Project will require new models and new solu- ur Fund is an organization (From an interview with entitled “The economic, social and tions to interregional economic, edu- of civil society, a volunteer Dialogue of the Seas Magazin, political consequences of protracted cational, cultural, sports and, above all, Omovement. Therefore, Nr7/2013) conflicts in the Black Sea – Caspian

12 13 BSCSIFCHRONICLE BSCSIFCHRONICLE PHOTO: ORHAN MAMMADOV AND VYACHESLAV SAMOSHKIN

Sea region and prospects for the Perspectives” and others that conflict settlement”. The ongoing gathered well known personalities, research will bring to light the main experts and trainers for the wider aspects regarding the impact of Black Sea region. conflicts from Nagorno-Karabakh, In 2014 we intend to develop two Transnistria, Abkhazia and South projects in partnership with state Ossetia on the countries from the authorities from Romanian Ministery On the eve of the 5th anniversary of BSCSIF, President Akkan Suver, Secretary General Eldar Hasanov, Vice-Presidents region. The political background of Foreign Affairs „Romanian all Viktor Khmarin and Gabriel Comanescu in their speeches went through the problems of the Fund, inviting their and evolution of each conflict, the over the world” named „Romanian colleagues to discuss and solve them. The organization’s budget for 2014 was also approved. In the photo, from left to international legal aspects regarding Cultural House from Cahul” and right: Viktor Khmarin, Eldar Hasanov, Akkan Suver and Gabriel Comanescu the current status of the separatist December 2011, BSCSIF Project “Side by Side „National Minorities. Element of regions, the economic consequences - for the Black Sea” was among the five finalists Regional Development or factor of of protracted conflicts in the region in the competition “Best Project of the Year” conflict generation in Blacans area. (Romania). In the photo, the project team (left are some of the topics referred to in to right): Liliana Coman, Natalia Ciobanu, Alice Case study: Serbia, Albania , Bulgaria this research. Farcas and Diana Ioana Calin and Romania”. Along with our team of experts: In february 2014 we applied Iulia Akhunova, Valentina Albu, Erdoğan University and Black Sea to receive consultative status Luiza Nita, Orhan Mammadov, Lilia University Network (BSUN); on this from Organisation of Islamic Ovanesov, Irmak Poole and Tudor occasion, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Cooperation, the second largest Cojocariu, international experts have University became a member of the intergovernamental organisation been working on this project, such network. after UN, and we hope to receive as Iulian Chifu, Adrian Severin and One of the most important their positive answer by the end of Scott Taylor. projects was the Project of civil April 2014. On 7-8 November 2013, the society monitoring called “Role We strongly believe that the International Black Sea – Caspian Sea of civil society in contemporary projects that were and will be Fund brought together in the city of countries of the region”. The first implemented by our Fund will Rise, Turkey, rectors and academics monitoring was held in Azerbaijan contribute to promoting common Meetings YEARS representing universities from the during July 3-10, 2011. values, interests and problems countries of the Black Sea basin. This In this period there have been in these regions and will create important event was organized under organized round tables, conferences the premises for defining and the aegis of Dr. Ismail Safi, Istanbul related to the following subjects: implementing sustainable strategies by the sea BSCSIF Deputy and President of BSCSIF. “New Security Dynamics in the Black in this wide area which has a In the city of Rise, a protocol Sea region”, “Cultural Diplomacy”, strategic role in strengthening the We are already used to seeing each was signed between Recep Tayyip “Cyber Security - Present and ties between Asia and Europe. Board Meeting as a small or big step ahead, opening new horizons. 5 Venue –Vega Hotel, close to Constanta his time, as well, the 11th diplomat and historian Kamala Imranli Asian Studies from Cluj, the Black Sea Session, organized on the (Great Britian), prof. Jean-Christophe Universities Network and the Saturn Romanian Black Sea shore, Vautrin (Switzerland), prof. Nigar Fund (Romania). Among important in old Constanta furthered Velliyeva and translator Ferechnaz Musa moments of the Board Meeting were the a “qualitative expansion” of (Azerbaijan), environmentalist Virgil discussion of partnership agreements the Organization: the Board of Directors Munteanu (Romania). between BSCSIF and The European Policy Twas joined by entrepreneur Jose Fereira The Fund’s activity was marked by an Centre in Bruxelles, and involvement of Ramos, from the Republic of Sao Tome important event of being granted Special the International Fund in the “Eastern and Principe, an African states that holds consultative status to BSCSIF with the Partnership” EU initiative. a key position in the Gulf of Guinea. Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Due to his busy schedule, BSCSIF The governing body of the Fund BSCSIF Vice-president Dimitar Kostov President, dr. Akkan Suver announced his also accepted writer Chingiz Abdullayev was appointed coordinator of the Fund’s resignation and the Turkish chairmanship (Azerbaijan), Dmytro Kulibaba (Ukraine), activities within ECOSOC, Mr. Kostov – a within the Fund (2013-2015) was and Aleksandr Zaitsev (Belarus). At veteran of the diplomatic service with transferred to Ismail Safi, Turkish the same time, the Fund accepted new significant experience within the UN. parliamentarian, having the full support of November, 2013 Rize (Turkey). BSCSIF members representing the business New BSCSIF partners were the Fund members. President Dr. Ismail Safi opens the meeting community - Dragomir Karic (Serbia), introduced to the audience – the The Board also adopted the decision November 2013, Brussels. Signing agreement on strategic partnership and of representatives of the Black Sea Irina Antonova and Svetlana Ufimtseva Romanian Fund for Democracy, cooperation between BSCSIF and the European Policy Centre (EPC) in Brussels. In Universities Network, which was also joined to launch a BSCSIF branch in the the photo: Executive Director of EPC Fabian Zuleeg (left) and Secretary General, on this occasion by Istanbul University (Italy), Roland Agambire (Ghana) and Spiru Haret Bucharest University, the Balkans, and precisely in Belgrade, Vice-President of BSCSIF Eldar Hasanov “Recep Tayyip Erdogan” Radu Petrescu (Romania), and the ex- Institute of Turkology and Central- the Serbian capital.

14 15 BSCSIFCHRONICLE BSCSIFCHRONICLE

New Board Members

Black Sea economic cooperation was one of the issues on the Board Meeting agenda. In the photo: BSCSIF Secretary General and Vice- President Eldar HASANOV and Session guest Fund members Dragomir Karic (Serbia) Traian CHEBELEU, BSEC Deputy Secretary and Vasile SOARE, appointed Ambassador General (right) of Romania to Moscow

How should the International Center for Support and Coordination of Economic Cooperation in Istanbul operate? The issue was tackled by the Fund members and representatives of the business community. Signing of Partnership Chingiz ABDULLAYEV (Azerbaijan), writer (left). He brought his books edited in Agreements with 11 languages to Constanta ​​- almost all the languages ​​of the countries in the Black Sea-Caspian the Institute of region, and signed autographs for readers, including Viktor KHMARIN and Vitaly BUZDUGAN. Turkology and Central- Asian Studies from Cluj and the Museum of History and Archeology in Constanta. In the photo (left to right): head Spontaneous round tables on economic of the Institute in Cluj, cooperation and innovative development may Tasin GEMIL, museum Mr. Jose Ferreira RAMOS (the Republic occur. In the photo (left to right): Bakhytbek director Gabriel After the resignation of Dr. Akkan SUVER, of Sao Tome and Principe), economist and BAISEYTOV (Kazakhstan), Marina SHICHKINA CUSTUREA and BSCSIF the Turkish Chairmanship mandate was entrepreneur, shared the following in the and Mikhail ZERNOV (Russia) and Vitalii Executive Director transferred to parliamentarian interview for our magazine: BUZDUGAN (Belarus) Alev BALGI Ismail SAFI was born in Angola and my education and friends. The Fund is on the right track. began with the aviation industry, then I Considering that it involves experts from dif- I switched to management and studied Bank- ferent regions, including scientists, academi- ing and Finance. Good training and skills in cians, professors, then, obviously, it has a great the field of economics allow me to success- potential of innovative development required fully develop my own business in Africa, the for the growth and strengthening of the Balkans and Middle East, and in South Asia. economic situation of the organization. Speed ​​ I also supervise the department of Islamic is extremely important for our activity with The young team of the banking and finance in the East in one of the the purpose to convert important geographi- Central Office in Bucharest, most prestigious universities in the UK. Being cal and geo-strategical positions of member The idea of a Strategic Partnership between full of ideas and energy. One a member of BSCSIF is important for me con- countries into indicators of economically sus- the Fund and the European Policy Centre in of the main projects in the sidering that the Foundation also focuses on tainable development of the Fund. Brussels was brought up in a speech held by works by the expert group the Centre Representative Amanda Paul (on A colorful cultural evening was offered to the is “The economic, social and the synergy of interregional cooperation, on In this sense, the implementation of projects, the right). In the photo: together with Luiza guests gathered in the restaurant of Hotel Vega, political consequences of the convergence of East and West. It is as if we such as Black Sea TV, it is necessary to strike a NIŢĂ, Advisor within the Fund. who discovered the beauty of Romanian folklore protracted conflicts” are saying in one voice: “Find and get the best balance between the social importance and of both worlds.” economic grounds of a sustainable project. I was pleasantly surprised by how much has I hope my knowledge and experience of a suc- The denser and extended ranks of the the Organization accomplished in a few years, cessful businessman will serve for the benefit Black Sea – Caspian Sea Fund on which I congratulate my new colleagues of the Black Sea - Caspian Sea Fund.

Dmytro KULIBABA, journalist and civil rights activist – another Ukrainian representative in the Board of Directors

Aleksandr ZAITSEV (Republic of Belarus) – economic and legal adviser, worked for the Belarus government, partner at private companies in Switzerland and Belarus, doctor

16 17 BSCSIFCHRONICLE BSCSIFCHRONICLE TEXT: LILIANA COMAN PHOTO: ARCHIVE YEARS

BSCSIF Eurasian Business Forum In short A scientific dviser to BSCSIF President on symposium Economic Cooperation Orhan • On October 2-3, on the eve of the Civil AMammadov addressed the Society Forum of the Eastern Partnership, audience at the Eurasian Business Chisinau hosted a youth event, which in Istanbul Forum held in the Turkish city of Gebze was attended by the Black Sea - Caspian Experts and scientists from Turkey, Azerbaijan, 5 on December 12-14. Its organizers – Sea International Fund (BSCSIF) Kazakhstan, Russia and other countries took Eurasia Economic Relations Association representative Valentina Albu. This part in a scientific symposium on “From the (EkoAvrasya) and Black Sea Industry initiative is designed to encourage youth Caspian to the Black Sea: strategic view”, which and Business Association (TÜKSİAD), as Economic Cooperation in Istanbul, recently participation in decision-making within took place on December 2 in the main audito- well as BSCSIF, Gebze municipality and established at the initiative and with the the Civil Society Forum of the Eastern rium of Marmara University, Istanbul. The event Chamber of Commerce, and MARKA participation of BSCSIF, the important Partnership. was organized by Eurasia Economic Relations Development Agency. role of the center in promoting economic Association (EkoAvrasya) and the University. In his speech O.Mammadov acquainted relations in the Black Sea-Caspian region. BSCSIF was represented at the symposium by the audience with the International The Forum gathered representatives of Dr. Ismail Safi, President of BSCSIF and Prof. Centre for Support and Coordination of 25 countries. Dr. Eldar Hasanov, Secretary General and Vice- President of BSCSIF, who held a speech during the opening ceremony. In his speech E.Hasanov underlined the great Business and Human Rights significance of the Caspian basin for Europe and SCSIF attaches great importance to participation in important international for Asia. Its rich energy resources led to building “Together events where aspects related to the scope of activities and interests of the Fund are approached. This time BSCSIF executive director Alev Balgi an important international transport route – a B attended the Second Annual United Nations (UN) Forum on Business and Human resumption of the ancient Silk Road. E.Hasanov for a European Future” Rights, which took place on December 2-4 in Geneva. The Forum set up by the expressed hope that by revealing problems and he 5th General Assembly of the forum as a full member, represent- UN Human Rights Council, provides a common platform for the promotion and helping to solve them, using scientific research and implementation of the Guidelines for Business on Human Rights, adopted by the • Issues regarding further bilateral according to International Law practice, problems the Eastern Partnership Civil ing a EU member-state. The Forum Council in 2011. These standards define the responsibilities of governments and cooperation were discussed by BSCSIF of the region will be solved, including the issue of Society Forum (CSF) was supports the civil society movement business and in the prevention of abuse of human rights in the field of business. representatives and Romanian-Turkish the juridical status of the Caspian Sea. organized under this motto in the Eastern Partnership countries, The Forum that brought together more than 1,400 people from 100 countries Business Women Association. The In conclusion of the opening ceremony the Ton 4-5 October in Chisinau. The Black encouraging contacts between them focused on the progress made in implementing guidelines and outlined the meeting was held on October 9 at the head of the EkoAvrasya Association Hikmet Eren Sea - Caspian Sea International Fund, and aiding dialogue with authorities. challenges faced by the state, business and civil society. BSCSIF Central Office in Bucharest. The bestowed honorary medals and awards to Dr. represented by a delegation that in- The Forum was launched by A. Balgi participated in a side event entitled “Business, human rights and conflict: parties agreed to sign a partnership Ismail Safi, Prof. Dr. Eldar Hasanov, as well as challenges and good practice (from conflict prevention to action taken in an area agreement regarding the cooperation cluded Alev Balgi, executive director, Štefan Füle, EU Commissioner for Zhanseit Tuymebaev ambassador of Kazakhstan affected by conflict) .” between the two organizations, which to Turkey. Julia Akhunova, project coordinator, Enlargement and European Neighbor- would facilitate the implementation and Valentina Albu, coordinator of hood Policy and Natalia Gherman, of joint projects, especially in the the Center for Strategic Research of Deputy Prime Minister of the Repub- social sphere. the Black Sea–Caspian Sea, attended lic of Moldova. The BSCSIF Grand Prize – BSUN has new Catherine Ashton • From October 31 to November 1, n August 30, director of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs BSCSIF executive director, Alev Balgi entrants BSCSIF Brussels branch Marius and Security Policy, Vice-President of the participated in the 3rd Baku International n the Turkish city of Rize, on November European Policy Center OOpran visited the headquarters European Commission Catherine Ashton. Humanitarian Forum, which was attended 7-8, 2013, the Black Sea – Caspian Sea of the European External Action Service The decision adopted unanimously by seven former presidents, 13 Nobel IInternational Fund gathered rectors Partnership Agreement (EEAS) in Brussels, to award on behalf on April 14, 2013 in Istanbul by laureates, seven prominent scientists and academicians from Universities in n November 27, in Brussels, representatives of BSCSIF and the European of BSCSIF the 2012 Grand Prize for EU the BSCSIF Board of Directors is an professors, 107 world-famous public BSCSIF c hron ic le BSCSIF the Black Sea region. On this occasion a Policy Center (EPC) discussed the prospects of cooperation and acknowledgement of the importance figures and politicians, and a total of c hron ic le BSCSIF Memorandum of Cooperation between the implementation of joint projects. The Fund was represented by BSCSIF of personal contribution of the head of 800 participants from 65 countries and 5 Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University of Istanbul O Secretary General and Vice-President Eldar Hasanov, executive director, Alev Balgi European diplomacy in the development international organizations. and the Black Sea University Network and project coordinator Julia Akhunova and from EPC - its executive director Fabian of two major EU programs - the Eastern (BSUN) was signed, and as a consequence Zuleeg and chief expert Amanda Paul. Partnership and the Black Sea Synergy, • On December 14-15, Istanbul had the University from Turkey became a In this context, an agreement was signed on Strategic Partnership and Cooperation which also comprise several BSCSIF the 5th Conference of Civil Society member of this Network. aimed at consolidating peace, dialogue, understanding and cooperation between member-states. On this occasion Organizations in the Islamic World, According to the organizers of the reunion, the countries of the wider Black Sea-Caspian Sea region in areas such as the M.Opran had a conversation with which was attended by 400 members of Turkish MP from Istanbul and BSCSIF Edward Bannerman, a member of the deepening of democratic processes, strengthening of civil society, economic 230 non-governmental organizations. President Dr. Ismail Safi said: “Membership of cabinet and an economic adviser to development, science, education, cultural diversity, tolerance and dialogue among BSCSIF was represented at the conference the Recep Tayyip Erdogan University within civilizations . The most qualified experts from both organizations will be involved the EU High Representative, during by executive director Alev Balgi. The BSUN will facilitate its recognition on the in the implementation of joint projects. As part of the projects there will be held which they discussed the possibility of forum noted the support offered to civil international arena, on the other hand - the conferences, symposia, and round tables on the above topics. cooperation of BSCSIF with EEAS and society organizations by the Organization university will receive the advantageous Considering the wide experience of EPC, this “think tank” of the EU, the cooperation the Directorate General of the European opportunity to use the experience and between two influential organizations will promote democratic values ​​and policies Commission in terms of support for of Islamic Cooperation which recently knowledge gained by BSUN since 1998, of the European Union, not only in the Eastern Partnership countries, but also in implementation of the above programs, set up a special Humanitarian Aid when the network was created, now other countries represented in BSCSIF. as well as the development of new Department. numbering 177 universities in the region.” programs of mutual interest.

18 19 COUNTRIESOF THE REGION: montenegro photo: Аrchive Heaven on Earth

called Montenegro President’s residence in the old royal capital Government building in the current capital Ilija KAZIC, member of the BSCSIF Board of Directors of the Republic –

ontenegro - a small with the Ottoman Empire, battles that intensified during For centuries, in ages of different empires, and also in montenegro country, in the south the reign of the dynasty Petrovic - Njegos (end of 17th the face of constant migrations, in these parts of the world of Europe, in Western century to 19th century). In the history of Montenegro this were built buildings and monuments that today represent Balkans, is unique in dynasty holds a special place - many victories have been world cultural heritage. This primarily applies to many its natural diversity won in battles against the Ottoman Empire and Napoleon’s monasteries and churches. Some of them were built back in and generous beauty. And its statehood troops. The result of the wars of liberation was the interna- the 9th century , such as the St.Tryphon Cathedral in Kotor, Mgoes back many centuries and was born tional recognition of the state of Montenegro at the Berlin which is one of the oldest and most important structures of at the crossroads of different cultural Congress in 1878. After the Berlin Congress the country the Catholic Church in the world. An indelible mark was and religious influences on the border doubled its territory. left by Byzantine culture - in its era there emerged a large between East and West. Today in a At this point first embassies of great countries are set- number of Orthodox monasteries, that exist to this day. A multi-confessional and multicultural tled in the Balkans, including in small town Cetinje, the old great contribution to the culture of today’s Montenegro was environment, known for its tolerance capital of Montenegro. brought by the Ottoman Empire. Many of the monuments and harmony of inter-ethnic relations, After the First World War and the fall of the Petrovic- are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. live together Montenegrins (44.69%), Njegos dynasty, Montenegro became part of the newly formed (29.02%), Bosniaks (8.65%), Ilija KAZIC, member of the state - Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, later - the King- A Paradise for Tourists BSCSIF Board of Directors Albanians (4.91%), Muslims (3.31%), dom of Yugoslavia. After the partial return of the state sover- Looking at the cultural and natural wealth of Montenegro, Gypsy (1.01%) and Croats (0.97%). eignty and the end of the Second World War, Montenegro, as a its scenic diversity and truly unearthly beauty, we can safely republic, is part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, say that it is a real tourist paradise. europe A history to be proud of and later - the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. If in one day you have the opportunity to ski on the Montenegrins are, of course, proud of their history, which At the referendum on May 21, 2006 the majority of slopes of magnificent mountains and sunbathe on Bjelasica for centuries has been crowned with victory in many battles Montenegrin citizens voted for independence, after which it wonderful beaches of the Adriatic, if in one day you are able against powerful enemies and empires that tried to conquer it. becomes an independent, internationally recognized state. to visit the St.Tryphon Cathedral in Kotor bay and Ostrog From the 5th century to 1st century BC in what is monastery sculptured in rock, if the same day you can taste now Montenegro lived the Illyrian tribes. These lands be- The All Time Monuments the delights of rafting in the canyon of river Tara - the larg- came part of the Roman Empire - its province Prevalis, as Montenegro today’s territory exhibits a lot of cultural est in Europe, and tomorrow you will fly a kite in the Bo- evidenced by many urban settlements, which then arose monuments that date back to Roman times. On the Adriatic jana estuary, then you most certainly are in Montenegro. - Dokleya, Meteon, Budva, , , some of which coast there are ruins of the Roman cities of Budva and Ul- The Adriatic coast, washing this mountainous country, survived to this day. cinj, and on the continental side - Dukla ancient columns, is very intricately indented and varied, in the pristine city Official name: Montenegro After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, province which in the Middle Ages, gave the name to the first Mon- bays there are magnificent sandy beaches. Very well con- National holidays: May 21– Montenegro Prevalis becomes part of the Byzantium. In the middle tenegrin state. Of particular interest are the towns of Kotor toured beaches and promenades stand out on Ulcinj and Independence Day, of the 6th century the Slavs come here. Here, during the and Perast, which are themselves monuments of history, Budva Riviera. The gem of the coast is Boka Kotorska, the July 13– Montenegro National Day 9-10th centuries, first state formation occurs which by the architecture and nature. They began to develop at a time largest bay of the Mediterranean, a favorite mooring for Area: 13.812 km² middle of 11th century, finds fame as Slavic Dukla, and later when the was under the rule of Venice. cruise ships of world’s most famous companies. Population: 625.266 inhabitants (2011 census) - as Zeta. During the reign of the Vojislavljevic Dynasty, Official languages: Montenegrin; also used: Serbian, state becomes kingdom with its own church organization - Croatian, Albanian, Bosnian archdiocese of Bar. At the end of the 12th century Zeta falls Millennium Bridge in Podgorica Government: Parliamentary republic under the authority of the Serbian dynasty Nemanjic, due to President: Filip Vujanović the influence of which, on this site, where previously domi- Prime Minister: Milo Đukanović nated the Catholics, Orthodoxy strengthens its presence. GDP per capita: 5062 EUR Since the second half of the 14th century the reign Currency: euro Internet TLD: .me Dukla - Zeta goes to feudal Zeta families, in particular, to Calling code: +382 the Balsics and Crnojevics . New political and historical Time zone: UTC +1 circumstances have caused the emergence of powerful Ot- Bridge on Tara River - Located on the Adriatic coast toman conquerors, who gradually took over the south-east its waters cut through the largest is the southernmost city in the of Europe. Montenegrins will lead centuries-old struggles Canyon in Europe country - Ulcinj

20 21 Cetinje. Symbolic figure of Montenegro women’s handball team – courage and resilience of 2012 European champions Montenegrins COUNTRIESOF THE REGION: In Montenegro, there are five national conservation montenegro parks, which are unique corners of nature in its pristine beauty and environmental purity, protected by special state laws. The total area of ​​national parks is 10% of the country: these are Durmitor, Biogradska mountain, Skadar Lake, Lovcen and Prokletie. Durmitor - the largest of the parks, in 1980 was includ- ed in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. National Thrill seekers prefer Tara River National clothes of Montenegrins for rafting Park includes an array of Durmitor, canyons of rivers Tara, (gold embroidery, materials) - one of Draghi, Susica and most of the canyon Komarnica where the most expensive in the world numerous mountains tower the pinnacle, of which 48 have a height of more than 2000 m above sea level. The highest Ruler of Montenegro Petar Petrovic peak is Bobotov Kuk (2525 m). Mount Durmitor embel- Njegos (from 1830 to 1851) contri­ lishes 18 lakes, which are known as Gorski eyes (mountain buted at transforming the country The Wizard painting eyes). In the canyon of Tara (height cliffs reaches 1,600 m into an independent state by surrealist Dado Djuric above the river level), there are about 1,500 species of plants (1933-2010)

and 130 species of birds inhabiting. The Canyon, the largest Water polo players on the continent, is the world’s ecological reserve. of the country Kotor, natural, cultural and historic district, of mountains - listed as UNESCO World Heritage Besides the wonders of nature, the charm of ancient cities, churches, monasteries and national parks, Montene- invariable leaders in Europe and the gro takes pride in great cultural events, which traditionally world occur every year on its territory. In the summer Budva Fish and seafood hold a special place in hosts two international festivals – Theatre City and Song Nikola Pekovic the diverse Montenegrin cuisine of the Mediterranean. Every February there is a carnival - one of the in Kotor, and the city of celebrates Mimosa best basketball Traditional players in the NBA Holiday. Gourmets from many countries have become well mounting dwelling (Minnesota club) acquainted with Olive Days (Masliniyada) held in Bar, Days of Shirun fish in Budva , Days of Wine and fish in the pic- turesque Virpazar ... such compounds increases the ratings of the Montenegrin It so happened that, along with the official diplomacy, Kolasin ski center In the summer season, on , not far from Bud- coast in general, and in the post-crisis period encourages the world’s messengers of Montenegro are the artists and va, they organize open-air concerts, which feature world’s the return of investors in the construction sector. sportsmen. From to and from to New Ostrog Monastery (17th c.) stars such as Lenny Kravitz, Madonna, The Rolling Stones A similar situation is developing in the mountainous York, in the world’s museums and galleries you will find built in 900 meters high cliffs ... And this year, in the period 15 to 17 July, there will be the side of the country, which welcomes tourist all year round, in pictures of famous Montenegrin artists, members of many first Exit Festival - one of the most popular music festivals, summer – for the wonderful nature, in winter – due to excel- important international exhibitions - such as Petar Lubarda, which attracts DJs and gurus of club, electronic and rock lent ski slopes in the resorts found in Zabljak and Kolasin. Milo Milunović, Miodrag “Dado” Djuric, Vojo Stanic ... music. Other well-known events may be mentioned, such Serious investors are expected in the energy sector as And Marina Abramovic, also a native of Montenegro, is as St. Tryphon Days, Days of Camellia, Underwater Film well. Particularly attractive investments seem to be the ones considered one of the most prominent figures of the avant- Festival, Sunčane Skale in Herceg Novi... in “clean” energy from water, solar and wind resources, found garde. Her performances and installations surprise the in abundance in Montenegro. It is estimated that there is con- entire art world. Beauty by Skadar Lake – pelicans A Magnet for Investments siderable potential for investment in rural areas, particularly Montenegro is also proud of their athletes and espe- Yacht Mooring in Porto, Montenegro According to many global investment funds and specialized in the manufacture of environmentally friendly products, the cially the national water polo team – one of the best in the agencies, Montenegro today is one of the most attractive cleanliness of the local environment contributing to this. world, their women’s national handball team – European destinations for investment. Such an assessment comes Montenegro began negotiations on accession to the Eu- champions, and the famous footballers and basketballers, from its unique natural environment, as well as the specific ropean Union. The very fact of such negotiations, referring playing for the best European and world-class clubs. For efforts of the government of Montenegro, which was able to strict criteria of admission to the EU, serves as eloquent little Montenegro it is not so little. St.Trifona Cathedral in Kotor, to minimize the bureaucratic procedures for companies, testimony to the systemic reforms and the progress that the In Montenegro we participate in the implementation of an example of Romanesque to create a clear tax system and organize modern cadastral country has made. For investors, this is a signal to continue a series of programs held by the International Fund for Co- architecture services for registration of ownership of real estate. Great or initiate bold steps in the direction of future investments. operation and Partnership of the Black Sea and the Caspian Beach Ploce efforts are made to finalize the urban development plans, Naturally, the government through its infrastructure pro- Sea, connected with personnel training and environmental during high season which will give investors accurate information about invest- jects fully supports this process and by using the lever of protection. BSCSIF organization is trying to help solve ment opportunities, especially in tourist areas. privatization, provides investors free access to all sectors of many problems of our time - sustainable development, Undoubtedly, the tourism sector is the most attrac- the economy. national training, environment, interethnic and interreli- tive for investment due to the excellent, pristine areas both gious relations. Active work of the Fund and the relevance on the coast and in the mountains. One such visionary of Messengers from the Land of Mountains of these issues led to the fact that in a very short time it has capital investment is considered a Canadian businessman When speaking of the cultural and spiritual heritage of achieved great success, implemented many programs and Peter Munk working at the construction of a luxury marina Montenegro, it is impossible not to mention such an impor- has received international recognition. (mooring) for yacht in Porto Montenegro in , which tant political and public figure, as Petar II Petrovic-Njegos It is through the implementation of projects in the has become a popular destination for the world yacht jet (1813-1851), known not only as a governor, founder of the international format, we see the future work of the Fund, set. Major investments are placed on the coast by compa- independent state of contemporary Montenegro, but also a which will undoubtedly contribute to the strengthening of Stoliv - a picturesque city on the shores nies from Azerbaijan, Switzerland, Russia, Qatar, which philosopher, thinker, poet, who wrote the romantic poem peace, tolerance and cooperation, which are the main ob- of the Bay of Kotor build hotels with marinas and golf courses. Construction of “Mountain Wreath” translated into many languages​​. jectives of its existence.

22 23 regionalnews ideasand people photo: Аrchive

Tunnel under the Bosphorus t the end of last October Istanbul opened a 13-ki- lometer tunnel called Marmaray, built under the Wider Black Sea area: Bosphorus. It is the world’s first sea tunnel that connected the two continents. The length of the Asegment, extending below the bottom of the Bosphorus is 1.5 km, the depth of the pad - 62 meters. challenges of history «Marmaray» will be the last step in building an ambitious transportation system that will connect with Beijing and Tokyo. It has already got a name - the Iron Silk Road. The construction of the tunnel was carried out by a and modernity Turkish-Japanese consortium, with the cost of $ 4 billion, Daily News Hürriyet Photo: of which one billion was provided by Japanese banks. The Construction under the Bosphorus started in 2004, but Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor Alla YAZKOVA , Head of the tunnel will let through underground trains, passenger and was stopped due to archeological findings – a total of 40 freight trains. This will significantly ease traffic on the two thousand, out of which 30 Byzantine sunken ships. Center for Black Sea - Mediterranean Studies of the Institute of Europe of suspension bridges connecting the Eastern and Western During construction special attention was paid to seis- the RAS in Moscow, tells about her institute’s scientific concerns related to parts of the metropolis. In 2014, the construction will be mic safety. The idea of the tunnel was first floated by sultan completed with the last segment of «Marmaray», linking Abdülmecid I (1839-61), however the project seemed the region of the Black and Mediterranean seas. Istanbul and Baku. difficult to accomplish at that time. Geo-strategic aspects And in Russia, at Kuban State Uni- irst of all, we need to deter- versity, a special program for Black mine what kind of region is Sea recovery was developed. But this A Survey Vessel for Kazakhstan that. Because both politics recovery certainly depends not only orwegian group Vard Holdings with a value of US$9.3 million. The and scientific interpretation on the Black Sea countries; it should Limited (VARD) has signed a new vessel, to be built at VARD Braila of political process bears contract for the construction shipyard in Romania, will be delivered include a number of areas, including N two dimensions of it. The first one is of a survey vessel for Kazakhstan- by the end of 2014. Vard Braila has the European one, because a serious based marine services company Circle already delivered five icebreaking tugs Fthe actual Black Sea region - the way pollution of the Black Sea takes place Maritime Invest JSC (Kazakhstan), to CMI. (Regnum.ru) it has been for centuries until the end through the Danube. of the Cold War and the collapse of Another issue is transportation. the Soviet Union. And the second is I must say that even during the Cold In short Eurasian Union: date of birth the Greater Black Sea area, which in significant for its role of an important War, the local-commercial and pas- he Treaty establishing the Eurasian Economic Community (EEC) will be signed in May its current version includes almost transit route – it is traversed by Pan- senger, as well as tourist navigation · Turkmenistan’s state concern Turkmen- 2014. This was agreed by Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan on the Supreme Eurasian all Balkan countries, as well as the European and Pan-Asian oil and gas on the Black Sea had been upgraded gaz and China’s CNPC signed a contract to Economic Council, held in Minsk recently. According to the President of Kazakhstan, countries of South Caucasus, Russia, pipelines. In addition to land-based much faster. Today the local naviga- buy 25 billion cubic meters of gas per year. T Nursultan Nazarbayev, the EEC should operate from 1 January 2015. Prior to this, the Treaty As a result, the total supply of Turkmen gas Turkey, Ukraine and Moldova. And routes, on which energy resources tion is unfortunately inopportune as, will be ratified by the parliaments of the three countries. Council members supported the today all of them are unified by a large are delivered from the countries for example, between Novorossiysk to China will increase to 65 billion cubic intention of Kyrgyzstan and Armenia to join the Eurasian integration project. A working regional newsregional international body - the Organization of the Caspian region to Europe, a meters. In addition, agreements were group was created to develop a road map for these countries. (Russia) and Odessa (Ukraine) there reached on the proposed new direction of The interest in the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan was also expressed by of the Black Sea Economic Coopera- rather substantial traffic is registered is no direct scheduled maritime route. the Turkmenistan-China (direction D) gas the leaders of Turkey and India. tion (BSEC). The declaration on its throughout the Black Sea, and, in This also applies to other major ports pipeline, which will be carried out on addi- establishment was signed in Istanbul particular, from the Russian port of the Black Sea. tional gas supplies. (RBC) in June 1992 by the presidents of 11 of Novorossiysk and the Georgian The adopted on June 26, 2012 countries, who were further joined Supsa, where several terminals oper- Declaration of the anniversary OSCE · By the beginning of 2014, Russian oil pro- by Serbia. Within 20 years BSEC be- ate. From this point, tankers transport Istanbul Summit there has specifically duction reached a maximum level since the came an international organization oil through the Black Sea Straits that emphasized the need to strengthen collapse of the Soviet Union - 10.6 million barrels per day. Back in 2012, Russia became accredited to the UN, in which it has lie on the territory of Turkey. And, not only the economic but also the the largest producer of hydrocarbons in the an office, working primarily with mat- in this context, we can talk about the transportation component of mutual world, ahead of Saudi Arabia, by a million ters of economic development and growing importance of the Greater cooperation, with particular accent on barrels per day. Just last year, Russia pro- cooperation. Black Sea area that has acquired a an active development of both marine duced about 520 million tons. (Lenta.ru) South Stream: launching in Bulgaria A quite noticeable thing is that key-strategic role in energy resources and land routes. The most debated at azprom launched the construction of the Bulgarian section of South Stream in the gas-com- the mutual economic cooperation of transportation. the Summit, not only at the top, but · Serbia’s Minister of Defence Nebojsa pressor station area of​​ Rasovo, in northwestern Bulgaria. Black Sea countries, and their coop- Directly associated to this are also on numerous sessions of working Rodic and his Moldovan counterpart Vitalie GAccording to the head of «Gazprom» Alexey Miller, monitoring the opening of construction eration with the outside world became also the environmental issues of the groups was, in this sense, the project Marinuta signed an agreement on defense works from a government building in Sofia, with the implementation of this major energy project, more intense over the last two dec- Black Sea. Even now environmen- on the Ring highway connecting all cooperation. Radic thanked Moldova for the transit risks associated with the supply of Russian gas to Europe, becomes history. The project will ades, and it’s not just about the actual talists are raising the alarm - it was the countries in the region, including decision to send 41 soldiers in Kosovo within attract investments of EUR 3.5 billion to Bulgaria and will create more than 2.5 thousand jobs. In addi- the Italian KFOR. tion, consumers will receive Bulgarian gas at a lower price. economic cooperation. Over these openly discussed on the International the South Caucasus and the Balkans. years, the region became especially Scientific Conference held in Yalta. On the hallways of the summit, there

24 25 ideasand people ideasand people

were discussions about the need for a Romania to the development of the The idea of ​​ As for the USA, in case they’re in- Romania, Bulgaria), although this a common language in the future. closer cooperation between business- still acting International Convention Eurasian cooperation terested, and here we talk about their matter is disputable... It is practically impossible to unify structures of the Black Sea countries, on the Black Sea Straits (Montreux and its prospects interests in the South Caucasus, they the versions of national history, but which would also contribute to the Convention, 1936). The very idea is still premature, it is eagerly “get involved in the game”. “Frozen conflicts”: it’s very important to work things gradual resolution of existing conflicts Today, the Russian-Turkish re- quite unshaped, and if we talk about Whereas, at large, USA’s interests are forecasts in such a manner that on the hu- and contradictions. lations are experiencing a period Eurasianism as such, we also have defined by its strategic position in As for conflict settlement, i.e., re- manitarian and socio-political level, The Black Sea region - in its of gradual endorsement. But in a in mind the countries located to the the Middle East, including Iran and turning to the pre-conflict state, then mutually unacceptable formulae are broadest sense - has long been char- larger sense, the normalization of the east of the European part of Russia - Afghanistan, and today - Syria. From at this stage, international experts see not used. acterized by diversity of civilizations, situation in the Black Sea - Mediter- Kazakhstan and some Central Asia this point of view, America has a almost no real possibility of a quick cultures and religions, as well as by ranean area is not facilitated by the countries; however, for the formali- great interest in preserving contacts resolution of conflicts. Of course, The fates of the Black Sea: quite close ties with the major hubs domestic and international balance zation of the Eurasian idea relating with Georgia. For example, when here plays a role the international projection into 2030 of the Mediterranean. The whole long of power, established after the series to the Black Sea it is still unlikely to there will be raised the issue of evac- law: it is alongside preservation of The fate of the region depends on history of the region, its welfare, pros- of “Arab revolutions” in the region come to a full-blooded resolution. uation of U.S. troops from Afghani- established borders of the Euro- what will be the scope of practical perity or decline, were determined and around it. As for Ukraine, it serves as a barom- stan, Georgia can become one of the pean states. The principle of their cooperation - economic, energetic, by the mutual relations between the This is, first and foremost a eter – both for the Black Sea and for possible ways. In the event of a con- territorial integrity, along with the how much these directions will dif- north and south, east and west. Em- military-political component. Today Turkey, and to some extent for Russia. flict with Iran, which is not excluded, principle of self-determination of fer, and how well will the government pires and civilizations - the Roman we can easily see on the map, on Because for Ukraine European head- Georgia, can be a stronghold, too. peoples (this is the exact formulation leaders and the Black Sea countries and Byzantine, Russian and Ottoman the shores of the Black Sea, states ing is a priority and Turkey, as you It’s more complicated in case of from the UN Charter, Art. 1 , par. agree on solving the most pressing - left their marks on the shores of the divided virtually in half: these are know, since the early 1983 has been Azerbaijan. Here, the USA is already 2) has been repeatedly reaffirmed problems, first of all. Even an agree- Black Sea. On the northern Black Sea countries, members of the North standing in line to the EU, although interfering into the energy matters of in the Final Act of the CSCE , and ment on the issue of environment and coast in ancient times was laid the Atlantic Alliance - NATO (Roma- it has received only the Association Azerbaijan, and Azerbaijan is a self- a series of international documents prevention of further pollution of the Great Silk Road from Asia to the Cau- nia, Bulgaria, Turkey and Greece, Agreement. Nevertheless, the Euro- sufficient energy power. One of the until the midst of 1990s . But we are Black Sea would be a great achieve- casus and South- Eastern Europe, on which also considers being part of pean direction, even at the household reasons for USA’s collaboration with not able to force states adhering to ment. This would lay a foundation for which an active trade was between the this region), as well as countries that level, is oddly enough notable in Tur- Azerbaijan remains important, despite these regulations, especially when a series of further agreements. And, East and the West. All of this tells us are not members of NATO – that’s key, despite the fact that on state and existing differences: it is the fact that conflicts go far enough and each of on the whole, to imagine the Black that in those days the people of South- Russia and Ukraine and Georgia and community levels there is a conflict Azerbaijan, as well as Turkey, has a them has its own specifics. Thus, the Sea gradually sinking into the further ern Europe, the Balkan Peninsula and Moldova, who through Transnistria, between the secular component - it secular version of Islam. As has been Moldova -Transnistria conflict is abyss of conflicts - is, in my opinion, the Caucasus had direct contacts and and through the Danube ports has is largely Europeanized - and the repeatedly stressed in the U.S. docu- very special and experts believe that absolutely unacceptable... they acquired that trait of similarity access to the Black Sea. And such a Muslim component. The Russia has ments, it is important for Americans there is no interethnic component A priceless contribution can still present today. It means people balance of power is ultimately cen- also noticeable discrepancies between to show that they are not against the here, but there is a status conflict, be brought by civil society. It could are ready to understand each other. tered on two major Black Sea powers the Eurasian direction declared at the actual Islam, but against its extreme i.e., it is necessary to solve the mat- gradually emerge through negotiation But unlike the distant past, where on - Russia and Turkey who adopt, on a state level and the ideas of European- forms of terrorism, that is, to exclude ter of Transnistria’s status. As for the at the community level, to address the banks of the Black Sea lived Greek range of matters, dissimilar or even ists settled throughout the history. the idea of ​​ United States anti-Islamic South Caucasus conflicts – these are the pile of issues, including the and Roman colonies, in present days conflicting positions, yet agree on In the Black Sea area the situation position in essence. very serious conflicts, and there is matters of “frozen conflicts”. Over the there is no such active dialogue be- certain key issues. We can give a par- is more defined: Romania and Bulgar- As for the European Union, it only one thing to offer - the gradual past five years, we have engaged in tween the Black Sea and the Southern ticular example in this sense: Turkey ia - EU members, to which also gravi- has shown for quite a long time no establishment of practical, and above informal talks with Georgian experts European and Mediterranean coun- adopted an entirely different position tate states of the Western Balkans, interest towards the Black Sea region, all, humanitarian ties. Experience has on the initiative of the European tries. With the exception, perhaps, of from Russia on the conflict on the Georgia’s European idea or rather and only in November 1997 appeared shown that disruption of economic Centre for Conflict Prevention (The Greece, as in the south of Ukraine and Syrian territory. This is somewhat the Euro-Atlantic idea is very strong, the first document – “the European and humanitarian ties, in context of a Netherlands). We’ve already had a Russia still live large Greek diasporas. understandable, because Syria bor- Azerbaijan actually refused to be part Commission Communication on conflict, has severe consequences on lot of meetings, and each time new As for Russia, the issue here is ders Turkey, there is a massive influx of the Eurasian Union... Therefore, Regional Cooperation in the Black the fate of specific individuals. It is people got involved – both from plain: Russia has long been mostly of refugees, and it is possible that to the scope of our research projects Sea Area”. Next, there were signed already a matter of human rights. the Georgian side and ours. This interested in finding an outlet to the military action in Syria bubbles over doesn’t fit the idea of ​​Eurasianism ap- bilateral cooperation agreements And another critical point is the has also contributed in some way Mediterranean Sea and the oceans the territory of Turkey. Whereas Rus- plicable to the Black Sea. with a number of Black Sea coun- problem of the ideologist activity to finding mutual understanding through the Black Sea, thing that sia adopts a more neutral position tries, and these have been included in and the activity of the mass media, within civil society of two countries. became especially obvious during on the issue. Or, on the other hand, Big players and the fate the European Neighborhood Policy scholastic interpretation of history in At a recent meeting we made ​​a joint the reign of Peter I and Catherine II, such an aspect: during the Russian- of the region (ENP). After the accession of Roma- specific countries. The English author Declaration which spoke of the need when Russia established itself on the Georgian conflict in 2008, Turkey, Besides Russia and Turkey, there nia and Bulgaria to the EU (2007), Thomas de Waal has written a book to gradually restore contacts between banks of the Black Sea. Further, its following the Montreux Convention, are also other active major players EU interest in the region has in- about Karabakh – “Black Garden”. In community and professional groups struggle for supremacy on the Black closed the straits necessary for the in the region - Europe in the face creased significantly, special projects that book he showed that completely of our countries, to promote the Sea has become one of the causes of a large naval forces of the United States of the European Union, America... for cooperation have been elaborated different versions of history, of Ar- development of economic relations series of Russian-Turkish wars. Now to pass, despite the fact that it is a And there’s nothing but wonder what - Black Sea Synergy and the Eastern menia and Azerbaijan, make impos- and ties in tourism. Russian-Turkish wars became legacy member of NATO and it would have kind of nuance does that give to the Partnership. Finally, in 2010, the sible even communication between It seems that such negotiations to historians. After the First World to seemingly comply NATO’s disci- evolution of the region. Aren’t they European Commission held a special the young. It is clear that if from a may eventually contribute to finding War, Russia - Turkey relationship was pline. But it acted contrary to this, making even more complicate the hearing, by the results of which the young age people are given the idea mutual understanding between the relatively positive, the result of which understanding the need to maintain circumstances of the position of ex- Black Sea was declared a European of ​​their reality in a very different way, nodes of civil society, even in conflict became their contribution jointly with stability in the region. ternal players? sea (referring to the fact that here are then it will be very difficult to find situations.

26 27 ecology ecology ТЕxТ: VYACHESLAV SAMOSHKIN photo: VLADIMIR USHIVTSEV

The Caspian branch of the Shirshov Oceanology Oil rush Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Astrakhan, Russia) is working on environmental programs for the conservation of the Caspian and destiny of ecosystem under conditions of the offshore oil production, which has been booming in recent years. The branch director, Vladimir USHIVTSEV, is talking about the challenges and artificial barriers the scholars have encountered in their the Caspian marine environmental research.

he North Caspian region completely closed for us. And it turns where previously oil out that of the five Caspian states we and gas have not been have only our surveillance area and extracted may soon partially the Kazakhstan region. The become a major supplier rest that represents the largest part of of hydrocarbons. According to the the sea, we just do not know so we can Texperts’ estimations by 2020 in the not answer the questions about the Kazakhstan sector of the Caspian real condition of the whole Caspian Sea only the “Kashagan” field will Sea and no one can do this until there produce up to 60 million tonnes will be elaborated a unified program of oil, in the Russian sector - 30 that would allow the monitoring of million tons. Overall production the entire sea area, keeping it under volumes of hydrocarbons will be common control. Then we could get increasing along the whole sea shelf. the information and say what the sea The exploration has been conducted used to be, what it is now and what and the production of hydrocarbons will be. is planned not only on the shelf For us, scientists, the geopoliti- but also in the foredeep. Having cal situation in the Caspian Sea is of such field development trends, we utmost importance and it should be anxiously state that the oil and gas Disunity and secrecy resolved somehow. Why did it hap- rush does not imply any uniform The trouble is that after the collapse of pen? One day there was a loud state- environmental policy. Regarding the Soviet Union, the Caspian sea was ment, perhaps it somehow affected the the shelf in the Russian sector of the divided into separate zones, into piec- geopolitics. Caspian, the situation is safe here. es and each Caspian state protects its At the end of the 90s, I was lucky Caspian facts and figures “Lukoil”, the main developer with waters and does not let anyone to en- to work in the Caspian Sea in the ter. Previously we have been ​​collecting Countries: Russia, Kazakhstan, license areas, operates according team of the famous French explorer Turkmenistan, to the “zero discharge” principle. data all over the sea - I have worked Jacques-Yves Cousteau. And when Iran, Azerbaijan Since 2006, our team has been for 30 years in the Caspian Research the team handed over its report to Surface elevation: 28 m annually inspecting all the offshore Institute of Fisheries (CaspNIRH, UNESCO, the report contained such a Length 1200 km areas where the field development, Astrakhan) and every year we used conclusion: the largest oil reserves on Width 435 km exploration, pipeline construction to have a whole ecological picture of the Earth were deposited in the Volga- Surface area 371 000 km2 take place and we can assure you that the sea. Now if we’re going with some Caspian region. That means, the Cas- Water volume 78 200 km3 “Lukoil” acts strictly in compliance academic programs to someone’s sov- pian Sea has a big oil deposit. Subse- Shore length 7000 km with its environmental policy. ereign waters, we are politely asked quent the collapse of the Soviet Union Inmost depth 1025 m Comprehensive monitoring (seismic there: “Guys, you have nothing to do and free access to the sea, the path to Average depth 208 m sensors and other equipment) is here! We know what is what, we will oil and gas was opened. And then a Mineralization light-salted adjusted at the beginning while oil study everything ourselves.” The area variety of oil companies rushed here, Percentage of salt up to 13% platforms are being installed in order that is more accessible for us - it is the now there are over fifty of them, they Catchment area 3 626 000 км² to monitor later during exploitation Kazakh sector of the sea where we can created their consortiums, branches. Primary inflows Volga River, Ural River, all the activities and risks that still study and evaluate something. Oil exploration of the Sea became Terek River, Kura River may occur from the geologic and But the state waters of Turkmenistan, dominant, oil - on the first place, and and others ecologic side. Azerbaijan, and of course Iran are then - everything else: fish and other

28 29 ecology

resources. Therefore, each country sidered to be available for us - the not observe any significant risk. The primarily started studying their area 20 and 12-mile zone, are almost not only thing that we can notice: given of the​​ sea bottom in terms of hydro- working. According to the new seabed the small depth at which the pipelines carbon exploration. It is considered boundaries, the security zone of each are installed on the seabed, there ex- a strategic activity, which is covered state is respected. ists a risk of ice conditions that could by secrecy. Therefore, in contrast to damage the pipes. Therefore, the pipes the Black Sea, the Caspian Sea is ex- The sea being a whole at risk are buried in the ground and First tests of the RIF deep water tremely surrounded on all sides by oil Well, if you take the northern part thus the risks are minimized. submersible (Vladimir Ushivtsev – in the center), 1987 interests and challenges that turned of the sea available for you - Russian What really bothers us - it is the Institute employees participating in the Youth into a kind of black-out Sea. and Kazakh, what is happening here transfrontier pollution from the East- Festival “Artificial Reefs” in Egypt, 2009 Total development of hydrocar- in terms of ecology? What are the ern sector, the Kazakh side, where bons on the seabed, literally at all risks, hazards? there are a lot of suspended or not depths (“Lukoil”, for example, is car- The Russian sector is exploited ac- properly plugged wells - that substan- rying out exploration at depths more cording to the “zero discharge” prin- tially “emit radiation”. Totally, due than 500 meters, that is possible with ciple. And the exploration and oil and to the rising sea levels 15 fields were the modern technology), will cover gas complex construction - all the flooded, about 1,400 wells, at some of the entire area of waters. Therefore, activity is conducted with respect of them unsealing occurs periodically. when the seabed was divided, those the green technologies and under the The Kazakh scientists openly declare water boundaries that we once con- supervision of scientists, so that we do about this. The well abandonment is

Sampling from Launch of the RIF deep water submersible the seabed According to one of the freshwater fish such as roach, hypotheses, the Caspian Sea carp, perch. The sea is a habitat complicated by the fact that it is very the fields started in the Russian and The Caspian Sea has a specific got its name in honor of ancient of fish such as carp, mullet, tribes of horse-breeders – sprat, kutum, bream, salmon, difficult to install technical equipment Kazakh sectors of the sea, a strident nature, especially its shallow northern Caspians, that lived in the I perch and pike. There also there because the depth measures only increase of traffic is expected. Such part, as only one major oil spill can millennium BC on the South resides a marine mammal – the about a meter - neither a land nor a heavy traffic, especially in condi- turn out to be a fatal strike for fisher- West Coast. During its history, Caspian seal. maritime vehicle can pass through. tions of the severe winter storms and ies and bird nesting sites. Experts esti- the Caspian Sea had about 70 Meanwhile, there are a lot of wells of poor technical condition of vessels mate that the annual cost of the loss of names with different tribes and “The problem of preserving the kind: they emit radiation and the (unequipped tankers with a one-fold fish resources for all the littoral states nations, such as the Khvalynskoe the ecology of the Caspian transfrontier pollution of the Russian hull plating) considerably increases could reach $ 15 billion. Sea (Old Russian name that Sea should be addressed sector threatens fish and seals. the likelihood of major accidents. The comes from the name of the comprehensively. Each country In the Azerbaijani sector there are scale of the environmental disaster Subaquatic biostations inhabitants of Khorezm - hvalisy, provides annual reports. All also many wells left - since the Soviet that may occur in the Caspian Sea, Taking all the above mentioned into trading in the Caspian Sea) is fine. But in general, there is and the Khazar Sea (the name no joint monitoring group to era, and there is also a high level of one can imagine on the example of account, with the support of “Lukoil” in Arabic, Persian, Turkish, oversee the environment, the pollution that is transferred from the the tankers’ crash on November 11, we have developed the biotechnol- Azerbaijani, Crimean Tatar and problem is not resolved,»- says southern to the northern sector of the 2007 in the Kerch Strait. ogy intensifying the self-cleaning On the Malyi Zhemchuzhnyi Island (natural monument, Turkmen). Chingiz Ismailov, Professor of sea. It is also true that the Caspian Sea process of the sea with the special North of the Caspian Sea) nest a colony of rare birds, black-headed Baku State University, Director still has a fairly high tolerance and a What happens in case of the oil spill? biological stations. Our task was to gulls being dominant The Caspian Sea has oceanic of Research Center «Caspian high level of self-cleaning capability. An oil film is formed on the surface create biologic filters by some sea origin - its bed is piled with «, chairman of the Center for The second issue that bothers us, that aggravates the water gas exchange biota, that could clean the aquatic an earth oceanic crust. It was Regional Development annually increasing volume of ship- with the atmosphere which slows the environment. The fact that the biota formed about 10 million years ping when the transit vessels on their aeration rate (oxygen saturation) and of the Caspian Sea has a very high ago when the closed Sаrmatian Kazakhstan considers way may dump all kinds of waste at removal of the carbon dioxide formed potential for all kinds of complex Sea lost touch with the world’s it necessary to join the oceans about 70 million years international moratorium on sea: fecal matters, bilge and ballast in the process of the oil oxidation. 12 fouling organisms-filter feeders that ago, and was divided into two Caspian Sea sturgeon fishing, waters. It can be now monitored from km of the sea surface can be covered are actively formed on special con- parts - the Caspian Sea and the which would apply to all states space, but vessels still pollute the up by only one ton of oil. Every drop structions - biological stations that Black Sea. in the region. This was stated sea. When this transit corridor was of oil covers with an impermeable film we build at the seabed of the Caspian by the Minister of Environment examined for toxicology, it appeared 20 sq. m. of the sea surface. It changes and which purify water very well. As The Caspian Sea hosts around 50 Mr. Nurlan Kapparov. The to have the highest pollution by petro- all the physical and chemical process- well a complex of microorganisms is great and medium islands with a moratorium on sturgeon fishing leum products and other indicators. es: increasing surface temperatures, growing there that degrade oil. There total surface of around 350 km2. in the Caspian Sea was adopted deteriorating gas exchange, living are lots of clams which act as active a few years ago by Russia, where Disaster threat organisms die or leave the dangerous water regenerators. Such biological There have been recorded 101 he works now. Azerbaijan and Currently, tankers annually make zones. But even the oil settled on the station can be installed in the most species of fish in the Caspian Iran are also ready to introduce about 2,500 runs in the Caspian Sea bottom may persist for 10 years and environmentally sensitive areas of the Unique Caspian seal - the smallest seal in the world, endemic to the region, it also had the majority it, while Turkmenistan is still Caspian Sea. Under the threat of extinction of the world’s sturgeon, and undecided on this issue. and transport from 12 to 14 million more, thus poisoning benthic organ- Caspian Sea - for example, near the tons of oil. After the exploitation of isms. Malyi Zhemchuzhnyi (Small Pearl)

30 31 ecology

Preparing the Gnome Marine predator Mnemiopsis, dangerous eater Artificial reef quickly acquires all sorts of organisms submersible for diving of plankton in the Black and Caspian Seas that filter water from contamination Crayfish – an indicator of clean water

Researchers’ underwater “eye”, Gnome submersible

Island that is inhabited by seals and poachers are forced to leave these fact, the poachers operate over the Mnemiopsis just raged, destroying The Rift, research fleet flagship, is sent from where thousands of birds nest and areas providing freedom for the entire area of the sea, there are plenty most of the planktonic organisms Astrakhan to another fish fattening takes place. In the case sturgeon feeding. Besides, installing of them, it is a whole illegal fishing that consisted the feeding base of the expedition of the oil pollution and oil settling to biostations rationally in a “checkrow industry. And now they have the most sprats, and the commercial stocks of the bottom, such biological station way “ in the areas where the stur- modern means of transportation, nav- the fish which are the largest in the can hold up this oil, decompose and geon is fattened, one can extrude the igation and gear. Therefore, they can Caspian Sea, decreased sharply. Cur- neutralize it. Due to many indica- poachers and protect huge areas of be stopped either by a force majeure rently, its reserves have been stabilized tors, our technology has significant the sea from them. such as our biological stations, or but a lot of time lost and the prospects advantages over other methods of the more likely the economic component for the revival of the fishery is clearly seawater purification. Сaviar and poachers of the fishery profitability. not on Russia’s side because the basic Russia imposed a moratorium on the After the breakup of the Soviet stocks of sprat are located in Azerbai- Can this technology be applied in sturgeon fishing. Kazakhstan more Union, the entire Russian fishing jan and Iran. other areas of the Caspian Sea? likely joined this initiative. Do these industry in the Caspian basin almost Thus, reducing the importance of The fact is that the northern Caspian actions bring any results, how effec- completely collapsed. Namely, all fishery, on the one hand, and the dis- grounds consist of sand, silt, vari- tive are they? these huge ships that were previ- covering and developing hydrocarbon ous mixtures of shells, thus there is Reducing the sturgeon population - is ously fishing for sprat, were divided resources, on the other hand, resulted an acute shortage of solid substrate. our common misfortune. The fact is between different countries. And in the complex changing of interests Therefore, when creating subaquatic that the sturgeon remained actually now, the Russian fishing fleet in the towards the Caspian Sea that gener- biological stations, biota realizes its without supervision and protection. Caspian consists of small, scattered ally had a significant influence on the fouling potential in a full manner. If recently there existed a single or- vessels which are mainly based in geopolitics. On underwater structures made ​​ ganization that studied and protected Makhachkala. Thus, the fishing indus- In the Russian sector, the sturgeon of concrete with bio additives, pe- stocks of this species, but now every try which used to produce thousands is fished now only for the purposes of lagic modules of polypropylene, all power in the Caspian Sea is a sover- of tons of sprat, had collapsed. It col- reproduction in the hatcheries. Today kinds of abundant organisms such eign master in its sector, and if stur- lapsed also because the transportation the aquaculture is being developed as microflora, crustaceans, fish and geon wandered into „our waters „, it corridor had greatly expanded - in worldwide. In Astrakhan, there is a shellfish start developing. This com- must be immediately fished as when quantitative and qualitative terms. center „Bios”, biologic farms grow- plex implemented in such biological it leaves our waters, we will loose bi- The sea freight became apparently ing sturgeon in the ponds. They are stations has a high fishery potential oresources and the neighbors will cer- more profitable. And it was almost fed with a special fodder, made all And this is how ​​Peschanyi (Sandy) Cape area (Kazakhstan) Tokmak Cape looks and ecologic potential - in terms of tainly catch it. That is a policy under a coincidence that after the collapse kinds of injections for the rapid roe like (same place) self-cleaning of the marine environ- the slogan „it will be enough for our of the Soviet Union and the division maturation – it is a „milking herd”. So ment and water recovery. In order to age” that is really practiced in the Cas- of the Caspian, Quarantine Service the sturgeon caviar is now obtained learn about the effectiveness of these pian Sea. And no matter how much that gave access to the vessels into the from the alive fish - there are different biological stations in other areas of effort is put in order to protect stur- Caspian Sea only after settling and methods in order not to kill fish, but the Caspian Sea, one must first in- geon, all this in general does not work changing ballast water, suspended its to „milk” the sturgeon, and then to stall them there and observe how the on the whole sea. From the social as- activity. Afterwards, in the middle release them back into the pond, and complex organisms are formed, how pect, it was fished in the past, is being 90s, the ctenophore Mnemiopsis lady after five years they produce roe again it will function, what will be their fished now and will be fished, as they was brought into the sea that once and it is extracted. Therefore, one fish species composition and biomass. say: „Carthage must be destroyed .” ravaged the Black Sea getting there can have five or six cuts, scars. The And one more interesting detail: In our sector the fish inspection is from the Atlantic. It is a predator that caviar produced in such artificial way, these biostations are very heavy - up well organized, but sturgeon migrate kills almost all zooplankton. Then, the prevails in the world market today. to one ton weight. That is why the across the sea, and what happens to it, Black Sea faced huge environmental But the problem is that the nets of the poachers that are several for instance in Azerbaijan, Turkmeni- problems that severely damaged its poaching market still exists. It must kilometers long, in many places cling stan or Iran area, we do not know. If bioresources. The same fate befell the be stopped not only in the Rus- to these biological stations, being you only knew how much gear and Caspian Sea and on a more severe sian sector, but in other parts of the torn and becoming useless. And the nets there are under the water! In scale – it is a landlocked sea. And sea too - because the fish tends to Scientists of the Institute of Oceanology during the expedition

32 33 ecology SHAPINGCIVIL SOCIETY теxт: ELENA GAUTIER photo: author, archive

Assembling biological stations on the seabed Deed of humanity Jean-Jacques Gautier: Torture - the absolute weapon in the service of the powers of the evil Today, the movement for the prevention and prohibition of torture seems to be something quite normal and natural. Since 1987, there is the European Spillway from rivers, shipping and oil Biological stations or artificial reefs - real oasis on the deserted seabed wells on the shelf - the main pollutants in Convention for the Prevention of Torture Caspian seawater and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment

migrate and despite one’s efforts to repairs there, advanced diving equip- Firstly, the borders should be or Punishment. That was also when a breed the sturgeon in the sea, eventu- ment is required. That is, if the envi- open for all scientific vessels, all similar UN Convention entered into ally, it will find its way into the hands ronmental disaster happens, it will scientific organizations who work force. And in 2002 the UN General of the poachers. The problem is not be much worse than the one that oc- in the Caspian Sea, to study it, to solved and will not be solved until it curred in the Gulf of Mexico - because understand, compare and identify Assembly adopted the Optional Protocol presents an economic interest for the the Caspian Sea is land-locked. any working programs, to determine to this Convention, which provides for poachers. For a period of thirty years I have the plan of the activity. Thus this been in sea expeditions five times a inaccessibility of the Caspian the establishment in each country of a Trans-Caspian pipeline year, conducted underwater explora- countries for science (we are national mechanism to prevent torture and high risk area tions, dived myself many times. In “scientific spies”!) – is connected to There is a pipeline project across the the Soviet period, our expeditions the fact that there are some strategic - an independent supervisory body Caspian Sea from Turkmenistan to started in the northern Caspian and reserves of resources, especially on responsible for regular monitoring of Azerbaijan, which is controversial ended almost at the border with Iran. the shelf sea and these reserves are and, above all, induces the objec- So all the sea was under our control, protected and kept secret. prisons. Torture is considered shameful tions of ecologists. Do you think it is all the water area had the stations There are five countries and one and in many countries it is prohibited more about environment or politics? network, and we knew what was hap- sea. If you study only the northern We had an idea to explore carefully pening there, what were the ecologi- Caspian, you study only the head by law. the route of the pipeline, to dispatch cal peculiarities practically on every but the arms, legs, everything else - equipment, submersibles there. Af- square kilometer. The trouble is that what can you say about them? And ter all, there is very complex bottom during all these years the Caspian ac- until you do not examine the whole topography: underwater mountains cumulated a vast range of materials, body, you can not draw conclusions and valleys. And before constructing a and now it is not claimed and begins about what and how to do, there is ut few know that the origin seemed to me the absolute weapon were deeply respected. Mother Helene pipeline there, it is necessary to prop- losing its value because the material no diagnosis, no common working of this movement was in the service of the forces of evil and Gautier Pictet was vividly interested erly learn the route, all the risks that is inconsistent, it is fragmented. There program on the sea. Now, speaking Geneva banker Jean-Jacques shame of our century. When people in the problems of women’s rights in such a construction could be exposed are no studies worldwide the results the words of wisdom - “too many Gautier (1912-1986). ask me why I started to address the Switzerland and the rights of people to. As in a certain sections the pipe of which could be compared with the cooks spoil the broth”. Inspired by the example of issue of torture, I’m trying to answer: who refused universal military service may be in a hanging position under material that was previously gathered The cooperation of the coastal his countryman Henri Dunant, founder but how can it be ignored?”- Gautier for ideological reasons. His father, the water. I do not know technically as to show how the sea feels, how it countries of the Caspian Sea is quite Bof the International Red Cross, he set explained his position. Charles Gautier, being dissatisfied with how to do it. Undoubtedly, there is has changed, its ecologic problems. difficult because there is no strong a noble goal to create an independent his status of Geneva private banker, very complex bottom topography coordinator to be involved in the structure that would deal with the Sense of responsibility helped unions and participated in the so the specialists on oceanography, The whole organism needs whole affair. Apparently, there is no prevention of torture in the world. to society movement for the creation of family underwater geology should carefully to be diagnosed common interest and large source “Buying and selling securities at He was born in the canton of Geneva gardens, orchards and social housing work there – in addition it is a rift To sum it up, what steps should the of funding in order to organize the right time to multiply customers’ Chêne-Bougeries on June 28 – the in the city. On one hand, the classi- zone, a very active seismic area. In my riparian countries primarily take to an international framework that estate is a fascinating economic game. same day as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, cal bourgeois surroundings, on the opinion, this site is very dangerous for normalize the situation in the Cas- would encourage, stimulate and But I always thought that one day hence the name of the great thinker other - the family environment of so- the pipeline to be constructed espe- pian Sea – in order to preserve and push to work in alignment in terms I’ll do something else. Living among that he was christened with. In the cial responsibility, which had a strong cially at depths 150-200-300 meters! even save the marine environment of research and environmental the privileged, I had to give back to family with many children of a banker, influence on the personality of young For instance, in order to make urgent and biological resources? monitoring. other people... Torture more and more where he grew up, ideas of humanism Jean-Jacques.

34 35 SHAPINGCIVIL SOCIETY SHAPINGCIVIL SOCIETY

He studied law, received his doc- In Solzhenitsyn’s footsteps incide with his ideas about morality. fact that his views have not yet found torate from the University of Geneva In the early 70s there were events But from legal and moral point of a proper understanding at European in 1938 and married Catherine Zanello which, one can say, turned around view, he was obliged to keep secrets. level. He didn’t indulge in illusions that who came from an artistic family and Jean-Jacques’s life. This is the bloody On the other hand, he could not help his banking associates would recog- brought her artistic perception of life military takeover in Chile, the end of but wonder: could he handle torture nize his ideas, but still regretted their into this rather cold environment in the Vietnam War, the first battles for himself? “I was never afraid of death somehow polite indifference. As an which she found herself. human rights in their modern sense, the - he wrote in the weekly “La Vie”. - I example, his numerous letters sent to Since the beginning of war, Jean- emergence of Amnesty International, do not think it is a terrible thing, but Geneva bankers with requests to assist, Jacques joined the League of Gotthard – which was one of the first to raise voice rather something beautiful ... But to which the Swiss Banking Society a secret group of militaries, who decided against torture. A significant role was torture? I told myself that if I had politely replied that human rights are GENEVA. Jean-Jacques Gautier Center, inaugurated in September 2012, to organize resistance in Switzerland in also played by the release in West of been in this situation, I wouldn’t have not a priority for them. became the headquarters of the Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT) case of an invasion of the “axis” coun- Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s books “Gulag shown resistance and would have In 1973, Jean-Jacques Gautier left tries. Horrors of Nazism - deportation, Archipelago”, “One Day in the Life of given up the secret.” Pictet & Cie Bank and went to Nepal concentration camps, death factories, Ivan Denisovich” and others that shook Painful reflections on this subject for mountain climbing. There, in a then Hiroshima and Nagasaki could not Jean-Jacques Gautier with their truth did not leave Jean-Jacques Gautier. world of silence, surrounded by the pass in vain for such a delicate and sen- about inhumane conditions of detention “... no matter how huge is the greatness of the mountains, he devel- sitive nature like Jean-Jacques Gautier... in Soviet labor camps, with their devious suffering faced by the body of the oped a well-defined plan for the con- In 1955 he continued his career system of torture and humiliation. tortured, for the attempt on his soul quest of his Everest. Upon his return, with Pictet & Cie Bank (currently one About the intense activity of the most dreadful. In fact, often the full of fresh forces, Jean-Jacques began of the leading banks in Europe on pri- thoughts and feelings that Jean-Jacques purpose of torture is to force the victim to act. First of all, it was necessary to vate capital management), later becom- experienced during this period, testify to act against its conscience, whether it establish an international conven- ing one of its associate members. At his words from an interview with “Le regards the conviction of mates or the tion against torture. To implement his that time Geneva banks and the entire Monde” newspaper: “The fight against location of the spouse or just to break intentions from 1973 to 1977 Gautier economy experienced a period of max- torture is my way of contiguity to its ideals” (weekly “La Vie”). made necessary connections and start- During the official opening of the Centre. Pictured second from the left - Catherine Gautier - imum growth, and everything seemed Christianity. My mother gave us a very And it feels like emphasizing that ed to work with the World Council of widow of the founder of APP. To the right: sculptural portrait of J.J.Gautier possible. But a successful career didn’t strict moral education, but left us total- Jean-Jacques belonged to the privileged Churches and the International Com- mean the world for Jean-Jacques. He ly free in terms of religion. I went from stratum of Geneva who felt its social mittee of the Red Cross (ICRC). who encouraged the idea, and among have set up their national preventive had the soul of a philanthropist; he God of Ethics to God of Love. I beheld responsibility, its duties towards so- In October 1976, Geneva’s weekly them - the International Commission mechanisms - independent monitor- wanted to help somehow people who acquaintance with Jesus Christ. For ciety. Journalist Jacques-Simon Eggly “La Vie Protestante” published an of Jurists, Amnesty International and ing bodies. They include public figures were not in the circle of privileged. loving God means to love his creatures, wrote about it this way: “By changing article by Jean-Jacques Gautier called the Association of Christians for the and human rights advocates, Internal He was interested in everything that too. I think we are born with God’s the self-centered course where such “New weapon against Torture”. The abolition of torture. Affairs representatives, judges, doctors, was happening around him and in the imprint in our conscience. Whenever people could live a very privileged life, paper presented in detail a proposal for Finally, for Jean-Jacques Gautier sociologists and psychologists. world; he sympathized with supporters we trodden our conscience, we are they, on the contrary, committed to an international convention establish- came the “finest hour” in January 1977, Jean-Jacques Gautier died in 1986 of solidarity with the third world coun- somewhat overshadowing this repre- serving the community and the soli- ing a system of unannounced visits to when he registered the Swiss Commit- from cancer, bringing the deed of his tries and in 1968 took part in the crea- sentation”. His faith was certainly the darity with others. We must recognize places of detention. The idea ofJean- ​​ tee against Torture, which was further life to win. In September 2012, to com- tion of the Berne Declaration (Déclara- driving force behind his humanitarian that it was a valuable catalyst in Ge- Jacques Gautier aimed not so much renamed into the Association for the memorate the 100th anniversary of his tion de Berne), which was initiated by demarche, but, still not less to say had, neva’s history...”. at the denunciation of violations, as at Prevention of Torture (APT), which birth, in the heart of Geneva was inau- theology professor André Biéler. And oddly enough, his status of banker. “Bankers-humanitarians exist, it is their prevention. has become the main tool to approve gurated “Jean-Jacques Gautier” Center, shortly before that Gautier created a even a Geneva tradition, which I am The newspaper also published the idea of eradicating​​ torture. After 10 which became the new APT headquar- private association on providing as- “Bankers-humanitarians - proud to observe” - liked to say Jean- opinions of 18 prominent political and years, the association has played a cru- ters and the venue for important inter- sistance for development. (l’Association a Geneva tradition” Jacques, too. academic figures about the “Gautier cial role in the adoption of the European national forums on this subject. At the privée d’aide au développemen). In As a lawyer and banker he was un- Proposal”. Many of them encouraged Convention for the Prevention of Tor- latest of meetings, the Secretary Gen- addition, in the “Protestant Rome”, as der the rule of professional secrecy, Conquest of Everest entirely and recommended Gautier ture, which at the same time established eral of the Association for the Preven- Geneva is sometimes called, he partici- which was at times a heavy load At first he was alone, and then he was and Switzerland to not cease, but to the European Committee for the Pre- tion of Torture, Mark Thompson said: pated in ecumenical groups with their to bear and the secret information joined by a few closest friends. Nev- promote this project to fruition. Oth- vention of Torture. Based on this suc- “The governments of many democratic concept of “responsible society”. entrusted to him did not always co- ertheless, Jean-Jacques faced with the ers embraced the idea as “unrealistic”, cess, APT has become a leading devel- and developed countries fully support “utopian” and “overly optimistic”. In oper of the Optional Protocol to the UN the idea that torture is crime. Unfor- the following months, the International Convention against Torture (OPCAT), tunately, this is not enough. We must Committee of the Red Cross issued a a groundbreaking international treaty fight in the field for the eradication of letter of support, and Gautier contin- that entered into force in 2006. torture as a separate phenomenon to ued to publish articles and organize change public opinion”. conferences to attract even more at- The Fight Continues Today this struggle is continued tention to its initiative. To promote Currently, the Convention against worldwide by faithful followers of Jean- “Gautier Proposal” on the initiative of Torture has been ratified by 61 coun- Jacques Gautier - a banker, an altruist, tries, including all 47 member states a Christian. His truly chivalrous devo- A place of honor in his library have books of Martita Jöhr-Rohr, an informal Saint- Geneva suburb - Chêne-Bougeries. In this house, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, who strengthened Gallen group was created. There were of the Council of Europe and another tion to the mankind will remain for- The office of the banker and philanthropist Jean-Jacques Gautier has lived for many years his faith in winning over the forces of evil other organizations and individuals 22 have signed it. Already 37 countries ever in history... Geneva

36 37 Petar Morozov. Eliseyna. 1936, aquatint Gallery Gallery photo: Аrchive

Dechko Ouzunov. Bistritza. 1940s

Bencho Obreshkov. Port. 1961

Petar Morozov. Village Houses in Gabrovo. Nayden Petkov. Balchik. 1937, aquatint Boris Denev. Veliko Tarnovo. 1950s End of 1960’s

when as a result of political condi- 1930s, they returned “home” in art in Besides being one of the largest The path of realism in Bulgaria tions and Soviet influence, it fell to the the most varied forms. Landscapes institutional art collections in Bul- canonical system of socialist realism. and compositions with religious and garia, the art collection of the Minis- Many of the classicists of modernism historical themes filled again the ex- try of Foreign Affairs presents these Regardless of socio-political changes, even at most radical times Bulgarian art has never disappeared from the scene, others hibition halls. The art scene gradually complex and dynamic developments gone to the extremes of avangarde but has remained true to the tradition of realism. re-orientated themselves to different became dynamic and layered with new of realism in Bulgarian art in the 20th areas of creativity. The natural process influences, the most daring and pro- century. Initiated in the 1960s, the This is its most characteristic feature. It is also consistent in expressionist experiments of development was interrupted. The vocative approaches, but against mostly collection gradually swelled to many and in the effects of post-cezanism, Cubism and the aesthetic of Neue Sachlichkeit (New complexities and peculiarities of its and solely within realism. Bulgarian art thousands of paintings, drawings, time left a lasting mark on all following knows no abstraction, but there are ex- sculptures and graphics that adorn Objectivity) that infiltrated into the country in the early 20th century. stages in the history of Bulgarian art. tremely strong impacts in figuratism in Bulgarian missions around the world Although at the cost of compromises, the work of Ivan Vukadinov, Edmond and the building of the ministry in So- rt education in academies of Western art, one of the most iconic Petar Morozov, who in his works man- artists like Olga Vulnarova, Dechko Demirdzhiyan, Andre Daniel, Greddy fia. In this way, the intrinsic striving of in , , Italy, artists of this period, Bencho Obreshk- aged to recreate, to the smallest detail, Uzunov and Naiden Petkov managed Assa and others. There are also artists Bulgarian artist towards “motherland” and trips of Bul- ov, introduced still-life fish and female churches, old houses and cobblestone to preserve their artistic identity, for like Peter Dotchev who crystallizes and their efforts to find an authentic garian artists across Eu- portraits on marine landscapes, trying streets. Or the master of watercolours, the gradual “thaw” that occurred in most successfully his passions in Infor- national style in all variations of real- rope brought to Bulgaria a to overcome the traditional genre sys- Konstantin Shtarkelov. It is namely the the 1960s . In this context also ap- ma and Arte Povera in industrial land- ism have been turned into a symbol, a dynamic modernist spirit that character- tem. The quest for a “national style” is interest in antiquity, in ethnographic pears the generation of their students scape, and who not without reason be- sign and an image of the identity with Aized the art scene in the late 1930s. the leitmotif of several decades. Also motifs, in their admiration of natural - modern classicists of Bulgarian art, came the ideal of many of the younger which the country represents itself in While the Baratsite - a group of among its prominent representatives is beauty, that the artists find the most among them Svetlin Roussev, Georgi generation. No less is the contribution the world. three prominent artists, Zlatyu Boy- the artist and aviator Boris Denev with purest expression of “home” to which Baev, Vladimir Goev, Todor Panayotov, of one of his biggest followers, Stanislav Svetlana Kuyumdjieva, adziev, David Peretz and Vasil Barakov, his huge range of landscapes of the old they aspire. Dimitar Kirov, Yoan Leviev, Georgi Pamukchiev, who after the end of the Art critic at the Cultural Institute roamed the Rhodopes and absorbed in Bulgarian capital of Veliko Turnovo. This trend is almost inherent in “Slona” Bozhilov and Ivan Kirkov. 20th century gradually transferred of Ministry for Foreign Affaires ______landscapes and scenes of rural life, their Or the first Bulgarian photographer Bulgarian art, except for the period Under the influence of their teach- painting into three-dimensional space Illustrations are copies of paintings enthusiasm for the museum specimens and superbly precise graphic artist from the mid-1940s to the early 1960s, ers and the modernist model of the and the form of an installation. from Culture Institute of MFA Bulgaria

Georgi Baev. Sea. 1970

Svetlin Roussev. Landscape. 2005 Dechko Ouzunov. Nude. Konstantin Shturkelov. 1950s, Zlatyu Boyadjiev. Under the Walnut Tree Varna shore, aquarelle aquarelle Petar Dochev. Dumpers. 1960’

38 39 projects,projects projects,projects text: mikhail Zernov photo: archive

“Elixir of Life” In pursuit pilot batch of high technology Alliance of Seas, a group of innovative structures of Russia, which also includes the Moscow The Committe on Innovation and Investment branch BSCSIF, released a pilot of the Black Sea - Caspian Sea International batch of DiHydro - Siberian larch extract, which has received the Fund continues to work on the selection of name of “elixir of life” as it really promising projects, details of which can be The artificial eye extends the life of man. We have A group of scientists from Nizhny Novgorod found at www.bscsif.ru. While presenting (Russia) offers to develop an artificial already discussed about in our 2 bioelectronic (bionic) eye with 100% recovery magazine about its unique anti- some of them, the committee chairman for patients who retained only the optic nerve (people who have lost their vision due to various aging properties and on the original and director of the BSCSIF branch in injuries, or those whose visual functions were method of its receipt from the Moscow, Mikhail ZERNOV invites potential affected from birth). The bionic eye is a compact self-running prosthesis inside the eye valuable Siberian timber. investors and partners from the Black with the power supply on the basis of modern built photosensitive elements. A skilled surgeon during microsurgery under a microscope, connects the eye Sea-Caspian region to participate in their with a thin optic nerve. The role of a bionic eye retina is performed by a sensor with microchip - a implementation. type of a microcomputer. The result of its action is a processed incoming stream of information that, given theреактор appropriate conversion comes through the optic nerve to the brain with perfect clarity, giving a realistic picture of фильтр Mikhail Zernov, the observed image. President of BSCSIF Commission on Innovations and Investments Canine instinct detector “Neutron Technologies” (Dubna) has created a portable DVIN-1 detector, which locates more than 30 explosives and narcotics, automatically Electricity in hard-to-reach places 3 determining the exact position of the inspected object, with full radiation safety - the absence of induced activity in inspected facilities and the environment. Scientists have developed a special identification algorithm urrently, the main method of supply in the based on neural networks, which significantly speeds up the detection of iHydro - is a drink that contains many natural components, the 1 field, for example, in exploration, is the use hidden mass. essential of them being Dihydroquercetin, one of the strongest Cof mobile diesel generators, which delivery to The installation is being tested to monitor bulky loads. There has been Dantioxidants. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic the places of deployment can be very difficult. created a portable version of the detector, which allows its operation in properties, strengthens and restores connective tissue, helps reduce The Russian company «LiveNet» (Dubna) has the field. Work is underway to create a mobile unit to detect explosives in cholesterol levels, enhances the action of many nutrients (vitamin C and created a new system of operational field supply passenger cars. vitamin E), strengthens blood vessels and capillaries, improves blood for places with based mobile units located in circulation, prevents the formation of blood clots, reduces inflammation remote areas at a distance 1-7 km from the point of in the prostate, strengthens the immune system. connection to the power grid or mobile power, and Furthermore, this reference naturally occurring antioxidant protects the operates based on the principles of resonant power stomach and the liver against harmful effects, activates the regeneration transmission which allows reducing the necessary process of gastric mucosa. cross section and, accordingly, the weight of the It exerts pronounced effects of prevention of major aging diseases - conductor is more than 5 times. cancer, cardiovascular, brain diseases and others. Ii increases tissue Deploying such a power line can be accomplished resistance to the damaging effects, prevents high blood sugar, reduces by walking on foot through rugged terrain and the likelihood of diabetes, and also facilitates its evolved forms. of a knapsack stacker backpack using field cables Another valuable property of DiHydro is the positive impact on the laid in a Toplan type box. Power capacity of up to 6 nervous system, activation of the nervous processes, reducing kW is achieved by light (1km = 15 kg) low voltage the formation of carcinogens in the body, skin rejuvenation, cables. as well as recovery of the organism as a whole. But most Implementation of the project reduces up to 80% importantly, the extract slows the aging process. of metal lines for non-ferrous metals, reduces Alliance of Seas invites partners from BSCSIF member- weight and improves mobility of the power line, states to participate in the highly prospective reduces losses on heating conductor in operation, project associated with the production and increases injury and fire safety. sale DiHydro.

40 41 projects,projects OH,SPORT, YOU ARE PEACE!... Photo: Аrchive

Pilot’s friend Innovation Company “Erkon-NN” presents the development of a completely unique device. This “Electronic flight director indicator “pilot – plane Olympic heroes from 4 “(EPILS), allowing the pilot to determine the position of the aircraft in space, measures the current angles of pitch, roll and glide. Engineers proposed a new principle of visual-figurative representation of the spatial position of the aircraft. The use of EPILS will allow: • Expanding the possibility of using aviation in complex weather conditions; BSCSIF countries • Eliminating accidents and disasters due to loss of spatial orientation and aircraft control in flight, thus preserving the lives of passengers and aircraft; Out of 20 countries represented today at the International Fund of the Black and • Increasing the level of aircrew training, eliminating psychological stress of crew members due to lack of crew proficiency. Caspian seas, 18 countries participated at the XXII Winter Olympics in and There has been built a program that can supplement device parameters with only six of them won medals belonging to all awarding categories. If to consider such pointers as ground collision warning, a dangerous altitude at a certain moment, target designation and position of other aircrafts and many others. that Sochi had a total amount of 98 sets of medals at stake, that is 294 medals, then The implementation does not imply additional significant costs. Each aircraft and helicopter may be re-equipped with a new display system in home 54 medals were won by the countries of the fund of “two stations of existing devices. The New Taming of the Wind seas”, i.e. more than 18 percent: 25 gold, 15 silver and A new type of wind turbines, developed use of turbine technologies can improve 14 bronze. Particularly excelled Russia, Switzerland by “AeroGreen” does not require the utilization rate of air flow more than orientation to the wind and provides a doubled, and also removes restrictions and Belarus. Their champions, their heroes BSCSIF can stable performance during hurricane on the rotor diameter. 6 winds, snow and rain, causing icing, hail, Designated area: remote industrial rightfully consider its heroes... etc. Compared to the traditional models facilities and construction sites (e.g. the noise level of the installation is offshore oil platforms), production in USSIA occupied the first This is how the final medal table for reduced several times. regions with expensive local electricity place as per total, reaching BSCSIF countries looks like: The structure was built by organic and remote farm houses, residential an unprecedented result and use of solar panels, which increases estates and, in general, any objects of civil Place cOuntry Gold Silver Bronze Total the production of electricity of one and commercial applications in areas with surpassing for the first time by 1 russia 13 11 9 33 installation per footprint unit. And the medium and high speed wind. number and dignity of received 7 switzerland 6 3 2 11 medals even the highest achievement of the 8 Belarus 5 0 1 6 RUSSR team at Winter Olympics in Calgary 20 ukraine 1 0 1 2 25 croatia 0 1 0 1 Aerobatic display EPILS reduces nervous in 1988. Among those who brought athletic 26 Kazakhstan 0 0 1 1 tension of the pilot, thus increasing safety glory to her particularly significant were Tatiana Volosozhar and Maxim Trankov - they were unequalled at pair skating. They put two gold medals into the penny bank of the national team - in individual and Waste and New Techonolgy team competition. But the true hero of the Specialists of «Protonenergy» created an installation that Olympics became the 28 -year-old Viktor sorts out institutional and Ahn – ex south-Korean, currently Russian. residential waste (IRW), This short-track genius won three gold and 5 by applying the latest one bronze medals. And one of the most techniques in the framework spectacular victories - all three levels of the of the concept of a closed and autonomous energy cycle for medal stand in 50 km ski marathon were use in residential ecosystems. It taken by Russians. However, the Russian is an environmentally safe and national team has also brought disappoint- effective method of sorting and ment to its fans: disastrous performance of processing IRW. The installing A rare finding is compact and can improve the During excavations of the ancient temple of Jupiter Dolicho in southern Turkey, German its hockey players... quality of sorting and providing favorable sanitary conditions. archaeologists have found more than 600 ancient seals and amulets. “Such a large number Having an installation like this the need to dispose IRW on landfills is of sacred seals is unheard of for sanctuaries of this kind” - said the head of the excavations, minimized, which reduces the harmful impact on the environment. Professor Engelbert Winter. Since 2001, him and his colleagues have been engaged in Furthermore, the method allows increasing the efficiency of sorting IRW excavations of the sanctuary of Jupiter Dolicho near the village, where in ancient times was due to multiple cyclic selection of specified wastes, namely, to bring the the Syrian city of Dolicho. Local cult of the god Baal, which was identified by the Romans extraction of moving objects on a defined circle up to 80-90 %, which with Jupiter, is widely spread in the Mediterranean Sea since Syrians started to enroll is 1.5-2 times more effective than known methods. The technology into the Roman army. allows building cost-effective and efficient installations for sorting IRW Archaeologists have found in these places many artifacts, including late-babylonian, for residences, industries and entire ecology complexes. IRW recycling Levantine and Syrian seals since Achaemenids. Many of them depicted scenes of of paper, plastics, food and vegetable waste, glass, textiles, packaging deities worshiping. materials, leather, rubber, stone, ceramics, bones will cost 2.5 Euro/1m³. On seals and amulets one can see people praying, kings fighting with animals or chimerical Power, beauty and artistry - indisputable Estimated projected sorting rate - from 1000 m³. creatures. In addition to cylindrical and flat seals, scientists have also found sacred scarab Short-Track Genius Viktor Ahn - three gold arguments for the sportive couple Tatyana medals and one bronze for Russia Volosozhar - Maxim Trankov (two golds) beetles made of glass, stone, quartz and ceramics. (RIA “Novosti”) region the news from

42 43 OH,SPORT, YOU ARE PEACE!... The”New Silk Road” poetic anthology text: MiKhail Sinelnikov photo: archive With pain and joy he famous poet full expression of vibrant color, Yevgeny Yevtushenko its chlorophyll dye. Everything authors a myriad of else, and depending on the mood, Russian and translated and in their own way talented, into many languages, gifted, rich qualities, certainly not books of poetry, prose, essays. redundant in poetry (whether it THis publications are frequent, his is a sharp eye and the ability to Although bronze, but still weighty medal for face, alas, irreversibly aging, but compose exquisite metaphors, or their country won Swiss women’s hockey team. still cheerful, energetic, every now passionately soulful melos and In the fight for third place these girls have beaten the Swedes: 4:3 and again shows up on television, wonder plastics) was also “abreast Ukrainian golden quartet (4x6 km relay) his presence in literature and life with the times” and turned out to itself is an indispensable factor. be opportune. And yet it was only But the considerable number of an addition to all these things. It readers and viewers experiencing was not mainstream. some fatigue from this flickering Yevtushenko, from his earliest Mikhail Sinelnikov, frequency should be considering poet, academician at the Russian Academy of years sought “to cry out” to that, without Yevtushenko knowing Natural Sciences and at Petrovsk Academy the very simple and desirable how to be in the spotlight both reader, and finally - to the ever in life and in literature it would Which, incidentally, strongly suffering Russian people (thus, immediately become unbearably distinguishes him from those the symbolic title of the poem Swiss skier Dario Cologna who missed almost the entire season due to injury, becomes twice Olympic boring. He is indispensable. And, in the same group who became “The long screams” representing champion in ski racing. Now, that’s some will! No perhaps, referring to the origins famous poets early, the so-called simultaneous despair and hope.) wonder one cannot hold tears of joy... of the phenomenon, it would be “Yevtushenko’s generation,” but He started as a pioneer of new civil 20 -year-old just at your leisure to look through for the most part focused on the lyrics. But the current took him Denis Ten: bronze the first volume of the collected private and personal. Nevertheless, further to the side of publicism. for Kazakhstan in works of Yevtushenko, from the Yevtushenko was similar to all Two poems, which brought the the men’s figure very first pages. And, one would his contemporaries, whose youth greatest success with readers, that With her three gold skating. For the medals Belarusian time being... think that from poem to poem the coincided with the era of change. built worldwide reputation, “Babi biathlete Darya reader might immediately catch He thinks, feels like they do, he Yar” and “The Heirs of Stalin,” Domracheva just the growing sensation of seemingly does not separate himself from were brought to life by lofty made history at the Ivica Kostelic (Croatia) confirmed his worldwide fame, taking silver in slalom inexhaustible talent, powerful them, the greedy for life and sentiments and met the needs of strength, courage, originality and wanting a big change, and seriously the era. But one must admit that freshness... It would seem that thinking about the past and the in essence they do not belong to SWITZERLAND. For the coun- BELARUS. One of the biggest Elena Pidgrushnaya. Russian girls in all this is far gone and several future: “... Into a large steaming the realm of poetry. Time when try of Alps, Sochi, by the number surprises was Belarus athletes. Never this race came second. In addition, generations of people who put foam a lad comes out the gate. He poems were avidly consumed by of acquired gold medals is the most at Winter Olympics had they per- biathlete Vita Semerenko won the a price on the poet’s word, now, wears a cap dripping wet from the three hundred thousand readers successful Winter Olympics in his- formed so powerfully: as much as five bronze medal in sprint. having lost touch with the new drop and walks on the loud streets. in gatherings at the Luzhniki tory. The most outstanding champion gold medals on their belt! Just three of shoots, grew old, as the author And nearby - with pain and joy stadium entrusted poets with - 27-year-old Dario Cologna: two gold them were won at biathlon by Darya CROATIA was represented by himself. What freshness are we they think the same, they are sad, unusual poetry features. So in that medals in ski racing. Other gold in Domracheva, which, by the way, was 11 athletes. The outcome is more talking about! But the early poetry they crunch the same vernal ice, sense I understand Yevtushenko’s snowboarding brought former Rus- granted on this occasion the title of modest than, for example, at the of Yevgeny Yevtushenko did not they want the same.” notorious dictum “A poet in sian Yuri Podladchikov nicknamed Hero of Belarus. Freestyle Olympic Olympics in Salt Lake City, where age. Holding the spirit of an era, Yevtushenko, who wrote some Russia is more than a poet.” But, in IPod. And traditional Swiss ski glory champions became Alla Tsuper and she had three golds. But in Sochi it is still juvenile, young: “In a wonderful poems and published my humble opinion, there cannot was carried on by Dominique Gisin Anton Kushnir. remained true to himself the famous coat for winter not, red cap on the his first book “Scouts of the future” be anything more! A poet is a - gold in downhill racing. The finish- downhill skier, 2002 world champion head, the lad goes out the gate. A under Stalin, is marked in the poet.... With all the breakdowns, ing touch was given by hockey girls. UKRAINE. 20 years after the first Ivica Kostelic - he was second in roof flavored icicle he grabs with history of literature as a “thaw errors, failures Yevtushenko Beating Russia in quarterfinals, at Olympic “gold” for the independent the Super Combined Slalom (Swiss cold teeth…” poet”. The lead poet of the stream, always remained a poet. Once, the match for the bronze medal they Ukraine (Oksana Baiul, figure skat- Sandro Villette took gold). Yevtushenko, who cried at of course. It was his poems, and I wrote a very critical article for dethroned team, too. Success ing) at 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, the dawn of his misty youth: songs of Bulat Okudzhava that The Moscow News weekly about is explained primarily because of the biathletes of this country won the gold KAZAKHSTAN. The national “There are no uninteresting gave the era of hope, expectations, one of his failed poems (later my fact that in Sochi Swiss probably felt medal in relay race. Ukrainian quartet team was comprised of 58 athletes people in the world!” and in frustration, and at the same time, fervent harsh words were forgiven like being on one of their mountain was represented by Vita Semerenko, from 11 sports. Out of them, Denis Ten fact he always showed a burning the era of awakening forces and by easily appeased Yevtushenko, cantons... Juliya Dzhyma, Valj Semerenko and took bronze in figure skating. interest in human destinies. maturing young likelihood its who understood I do not write

44 45 The”New Silk Road” poetic anthology The”New Silk Road” poetic anthology

against him, but for him, the Don’t promise her heaven -- suggest half an acre; he walks with the bread through Valparaiso. way he should be, the way nature * * * Yevgeny When suddenly I saw you rise not “unto death,” but at least to next year. He says: intended him). But in this review, over my miserable living “ Eugenio, look! along with reproaches and attacks, Yevtushenko at first I came to realize And don’t keep declaring, “I love you, I love you.” You see-- there was a phrase saying that (b.in 1933) that all I had was void of meaning. That little phrase leads a durable life -- over there, among the puddles and garbage, on a scale of authenticity and when remembered again in some loveless standing up under the red lamps quality of the talented “Wedding” Your face, however, like the sun, hereafter, stands Bilbao-with the soul Weddings it can sting like a hornet or stab like a knife. bard and author of a poem Weddings in days of war, lit up the forests, seas and boroughs of a poet -- in bronze. about a professor whose wife and let me uninitiated man Bilbao was a tramp and a rebel. false cheating comfort, So -- our little dog in all his confusion left, is superior to Nobel laureate those hollow phrases: into the world of magic colors. Originally turns and returns from door to door. they set up the monument, fenced off Brodsky. I still believe so. I do ‘He won’t get killed...’ I won’t say “forgive me” because I have left you; not know, maybe the problem On a snowbound winter road, I’m scared that there may be by a chain, with due pomp, right in the center, the end of sudden revelation, I ask pardon for one thing: I loved you before. lies in the relation to the subject slashed by a cruel wind, although the poet had lived in the slums. and tears and joys and admiration, of poetry. For me, as a reader of I speed to a hasty wedding Then there was some minor overthrow or other, but I don’t struggle with my fear. in a neighboring village. Memento and the poet was thrown out, beyond the gates. poetry more valuable than the Like a reminder of this life Gingerly I enter Sweating, exquisite rhymed essayistics must This fear is nothing else but love. of trams, sun, sparrows, a buzzing cottage, they removed be some alive and living text I foster it thought I can’t do it, and the flighty uncontrolledness I, a folk dancer of repute, the pedestal detail. Just like young twenty- and, putting up with fears I have, of streams leaping like thermometers, with a forelock dangling to a filthy little red-light district. two year old Yevtushenko said: I guard my love from being ruined. and because ducks are quacking somewhere from my forehead. And the poet stood, above the crackling of the last, paper-thin ice, “I drink brown kvass in dusty All spruced up, disturbed, as the sailor’s adopted brother, I`m bound down by this fear. and because children are crying bitterly Kuntsevo town, with my back among relatives and friends against a background The colours won’t last long, you bet; (remember children’s lives are so sweet!) to the heated kvass tank. The the bridegroom sits, just mobilized, you might call native to him. for me they all will disappear and because in the drunken, shimmering saleswoman hands over distraught. In the history of literature Yevgeny Yevtushenko if, like the sun, your face should set. starlight Our Bilbao loved cracking jokes. wet coins.“ Sits with Vera-his bride- is known as the lead “thaw” poet Translated by Alec Vagapov the new moon whoops it up, He would say: Yevtushenko brought into but in a day or two and a stocking crackles a bit at the knee, ‘On this best of possible planets he’ll pull on a gray soldier’s coat new Russian poetry not only its and I dance again... And that one- gold in itself and tinged by the sun, there are prostitutes and politutes -- and, wearing it, leave for the front. If someone lived an unobtrusive life, Breaking up own themes, but its rhythms and Back home, my ankles tell me for God’s sake, I fell out of love: that’s our story’s dull ending, like a reminder of life, as I’m a poet, Then with a rifle he will go, And unobtrusiveness was in his line, its rhyme. My teacher in poetry, feel as stiff as wood; on whose shoulders does she put her as flat as life is, as dull as the grave. and because there is resin on tree trunks, I prefer the former.’” tramping over alien soil; People took interest in him because “Russian Leconte de Lisle” last but from yet another wedding hands? Excuse me - I’ll break off the string of this love song and because I was madly mistaken And Neruda comments, with a hint of slyness: a German bullet, perhaps, Such an uninteresting man he was. Acmeist Mikhail Zenkevich once drunken guests and smash the guitar. We have nothing to save. in thinking that my life was over, “A poet is will lay him low... That one told me, “Yevtushenko — bravo! come knocking at the door once more. like a reminder of my life - beyond the rise and fall of values. A glass of foaming home brew from whom I was stolen Each human has his own inmost world We spoke with Gumilev and Soon as mother lets me go, The puppy is puzzled. Our furry small monster you entered into me on stockinged feet. It’s not hard to remove us from the center, he’s not able yet to drink. in vengeance also will begin to steal. With the happiest moment to be recalled, Mandelstam even before the I’m off to weddings once again, With the most frightful moment to shake off; can’t decide why we complicate simple things so - You entered - neither too late nor too early - but the spot where they set us down Their first night together She won’t respond immediately this way, at exactly the right time, as my very own, and round the tablecloth anew But those are things that we know nothing of. he whines at your door and I let him enter, becomes the center!” Revolution that Russian rhyme will likely be their last. but will live in a struggle with herself and with a smile, uprooted me I stamp my feet and bend my knees. when he scratches at my door, you always go. I remember that noon, should be changed ... “. Chagrined, the bridegroom stares, and unaware will select from memories, as from a grave. The bride sheds bitter tears, And when a person draws his final breath Pablo, Incredible, but forever young, and with all his soul in anguish someone superfluous for her. And I, once again whirling among friends are tearful too. Everything goes the way of all the earth Dog, sentimental dog, you’ll surely go crazy, as I tune my transistor at night, ny the window, heroically, tragically, as a hero cries to me across the table: Oh, how many nervous the painted horses, gladly exchange, I’m afraid for everyone. For with the death he takes along with him running from one to the other like this -- now, described with Nekrasov force ‘Well, go on, why don’t you dance! ‘ and unhealthy, First snow, first kiss, first battle -- everything. for one reminder of life, I’ve no desire to dance, too young to conceive of an ancient idea: when a wicked war with the people of Chile in “Weddings”, who danced his They all forget their drinking, unnecessary involvements, all its memories. but you can’t not dance. it’s ended, done with, over, kaput. Finis. brings back the smell of Spain. way “with hair on his forehead,” all fix me with goggling eyes, unnecessary friendships! It’s true that bridges, paintings, books, machines 1974 1955 Playing about at a new overthrow, and I slide and writhe, Remain, along with other things, Translated by Arthur Boyars Yevtushenko reached his eighties. The Something rabidly desperate in me! Get sentimental and we end up by playing politutes in generals’ uniforms beating a rhythm with my hooves. Translated by George Reavey It’s true that many things are here to stay, and Simon Franklin beloved anxiously followed the news Oh, somebody, the old melodrama, “Salvation of Love.” wanted, whichever way they could, Now I drum a tattoo, come, But something is to perish anyway. “Forgiveness,” we whisper, and hope for an echo; of his serious illness and surgery. to hustle your poetry out of sight. now drag my toes Here Is What... break up but nothing returns from the silence above. And all were relieved to learn that Such is the rule of game, in other words, Epistle to Neruda But today I see Neruda-- across the floor. Here is what is happening to me: Superb, Yevgeny was out of the hospital. the conjunction It’s people that decease, not their worlds. he’s always right in the center Whistling shrilly, my old friend doesn’t come to visit, Better save love at the very beginning, Like a seasoned lion, Unfortunately, he could not attend of people alien to one another We have remembrances of people, well, then and, not faltering, I clap my hands, and in idle vanity avoiding all passionate “nevers,” “forevers;” Neruda buys bread in the shop. and the estrangement What did we actually know about them? he carries his poetry to the people the event of him being awarded leap up near the ceiling. come various folk, not those who should. we ought to have heard what the train wheels He asks for it to be wrapped in paper of souls that are kindred. “The Poet” (you might have different Slogans on the wall fly past, And he were shouting, And solemly puts it under his arm: as simply and calmly 1957 What do we know of our brothers, friends, approaches about the award itself, but ‘Hitler will be kaput! ‘ goes about somewhere not with those as a loaf of bread. Of our only one, whom heaven sends? “Do not make promises!” Promises are levers. “Let someone at least think he should Translated by Albert C. Todd Many poets follow false paths, I think Yevtushenko had to get it first, But the bride And, knowing our own father on the whole, that at some time but if the poet is with the people to the bitter end, if his intention was to accept one… scalds and he understands that too, We don’t know anything about him at all. We should have made note of the broken branches, I bought a book…” But the issue dragged on for years). her face and our dischord is not cleared up, Human being we should have looked up at the smokey sky, Waving his hand in farewell, like a conscience- His voice was heard on TV. And with tears. and both of us suffer from this. To S. Preobrazhensky Thus people pass away, and they will not return. warning the witless pretensions of lovers -- like a Roman then nothing this long-familiar voice, loud, pushy, I’m already a wet rag, Here is what is happening to me: All humans are noteworthy. Their lives Their inmost worlds will never be reborn. the greater the hope is, the greater the lie. rather dreamily royal, can possibly overthrow poetry. Resemble those of planets in the skies. not one of an octogenarian, recited barely catch my breath... Not the right girl at all comes to visit, And every time my heart just screams in the air scented with mollusks, 1973 she puts her hands on my shoulders Each is specific and unique indeed, Translated by Arthur Boyars new poems. Good poetry, which is ‘Dance! ‘- About this irretrievable course of things. True kindness in love means staying quite sober, oysters, they shout in desperation, and steals me from another. No planet is identical to it. Translated by Alec Vagapov weighing each link of the chain you must bear. rice, and Simon Franklin comforting.

46 47 EVENTSAND PEOPLE / newsfrom the region

Research topic: Romania and South Caucasus Last December, at the Department of Geography within the State University of Bucharest, Tabriz Garayev , attaché of Azerbaijani Embassy in Bucharest, successfully defended his doctoral thesis on “Romania and South Caucasus relations: geographic, geo- economic and geopolitical aspects.” ccording to the dissertation The research adviser, a known A separate chapter is devoted to committee, T.Garayev’s work Romanian scientist - university pro- the analysis of prospects of Europe’s has a interdisciplinary nature, fessor, Dr. Silviu Neguţ, while noting oil and gas, as well as various projects Ait is “original and valuable from a sci- the advantages of T.Garayev’s research for transportation of hydrocarbons entific point of view.” Moreover, being stressed that it analyzes the region in from the region to Western Europe - one of the first studies relating to this all the complexity of its historical her- Nabucco, AGRI, TAP, South Stream ... perspective, it offers “a new vision of all itage, which crossed the path of three The professor had an interest- mutations that occurred in the region empires - Ottoman, Russian, and ing view on the security issues in the over the past two decades.” T.Garayev’s Persian, and in reference to modern Caspian region. From this perspective, dissertation “may be an example of times, the thesis reveals interlacing Russia, in his opinion, plays a big role, deep and comprehensive analysis of conflicting interests and influences, but it would be necessary to create a the evolution of the South Caucasus and, above all, the ones of Russia, Tur- certain institution, a mechanism to en- region.” According to the unanimous key and Iran, not to mention the for- sure regional security by the formula: 3 opinion of the committee members, eign players - the U.S., the EU, China. +3 +2 (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan the work received an “excellent”. According to Dr. S.Neguţ the disser- + Russia, Turkey, Iran, + the United tation revealed the importance that the States and the EU). Romania, stressed Caspian basin plays for Romania, which the Professor, supports the territorial has a Strategic Partnership with Azer- integrity of Azerbaijan and Georgia. baijan. The author presents unresolved Tabriz Garayev studied in Baku, regional problems that hinder the more defended his Master’s in geopolitics at successful development of countries the Bucharest Academy of Economic located there - „frozen” conflicts on the Studies. „Ambitious, very capable, territory of Azerbaijan and Georgia, legal serious” - as described by his research status of the Caspian Sea, and others. supervisor.

Deep-water port in Crimea SOCAR’s experience kraine and China signed a memo­ran­ dum of cooperation on construction of for “Rosneft” Ua deep-water port in Crimea, as well as he largest Russian oil company reconstruction of fishing port in Sevastopol “Rosneft” has a special interest in at total cost of at least $3 billion. Tworking with the State Oil Company The construction site of the new Crimea port of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), which in terms of is set to be located at Bogayly Lake and its technology is a leader in the post-Soviet surrounding areas. The harborage area of ​​ space for the development of offshore the port and port infrastructure will be built fields.T his experience has been acquired directly on dry land, and then filled with sea by SOCAR through long-term cooperation water and connected to the sea by breaking with BP and its own work. In the coming spit that separates the lake from Bogayly tons per year), bulk cargo terminal and years, “Rosneft” will develop resources marine waters. The depth of port water and general cargo terminal. of the Arctic Region, but currently the berths will be 25 m. For the passage of large According to the authors of the project, company has no independent capacity ships, a 9 km-long navigation canal is being this is the only deep-water port on the and independent technology for the built. The port with an overall cargo turnover Black Sea, capable of having HUB functions development of resources on the shelf. of at least 140 million tons/year will include a (redistribution of goods) and providing Therefore, cooperation with SOCAR will container terminal (4.5 million TEU capacity), services for the largest ships, which execute focus specifically in the field of underwater Ro-Ro terminal, grain terminal (10 million intercontinental transportation. ( “Ukrinform”) drilling and development of subsea fields. news from the region the news from

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