Thursday, November 20, 2008
VOF TV!
Check out the official Voices of the Future for APEC, Lima 2008 YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/mtung123. All video filmed and edited by Tung.
Chines Taipei Press Conference
Lima, Peru- Today, Dr. Yin Chih-Min, Minister of Economics and Dr. Lee Sus-Der, Minister of Finance of Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) Ministry held a press conference discussing Taiwan´s role in APEC and, more broadly, in trade and investment with Pacific Rim economies. Many of the questions revolved around actual and potential Free Trade Agreements (FTA) of Taiwan, the current economic crisis and China- Taiwan relationships.
Of the 5 FTAs Taiwan has, four are with Latin American nations (El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama), highlighting the significance that Taiwan places in trans-Pacific commerce. With this in mind (as well as Taiwan´s peculiar political status) many questions from the Peruvian press where directed at the newly signed China-Peru FTA. Taiwanese reaction towards this topic was one of mild ignorance with the Ministers stating that they did not know enough details of the agreement to comment. Asked about a potential Peruvian-Taiwanese FTA, the Ministers responded by stating that one would be welcomed and indeed and win-win situation for both economies, but reiterated that there are no talks on such an agreement. They continued by commenting that Taiwan was open and willing to peruse FTAs with any economy provided one would be done under the World Trade Organization framework.
On the current economic crisis, the Ministers commented on several questions regarding Taipei´s current role. Being asked if Taiwan was give money to the IMF to help support economic stimulus (a question based on Japan´s proposed 100 billion USD for the IMF) and if Taipei was perusing other economic stimulus measures, the Ministers responded that to this point Taipei was not prepared to propose money to the IMF but would fulfill its international obligations, and on the domestic front was prepared to help ease up credit and control interest rate. Asked what suggestions they could make to help ease economies out of the current crisis, the Ministers responded that ultimately the decisions where up to government, however advised on increasing government spending - through public works projects - to combat unemployment.
On the topic of cross Straight relationships, the Ministers would not comment too broadly on political issues. Asked if the leaders of the two economies would meet, they states that no meeting was scheduled and that it would be up to the leaders and their staff. They also emphasized that China and Taiwan would both stick to the APEC agenda and they would not cross the line to specifically China-Taiwan issues.
By D.A. Roark
Of the 5 FTAs Taiwan has, four are with Latin American nations (El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama), highlighting the significance that Taiwan places in trans-Pacific commerce. With this in mind (as well as Taiwan´s peculiar political status) many questions from the Peruvian press where directed at the newly signed China-Peru FTA. Taiwanese reaction towards this topic was one of mild ignorance with the Ministers stating that they did not know enough details of the agreement to comment. Asked about a potential Peruvian-Taiwanese FTA, the Ministers responded by stating that one would be welcomed and indeed and win-win situation for both economies, but reiterated that there are no talks on such an agreement. They continued by commenting that Taiwan was open and willing to peruse FTAs with any economy provided one would be done under the World Trade Organization framework.
On the current economic crisis, the Ministers commented on several questions regarding Taipei´s current role. Being asked if Taiwan was give money to the IMF to help support economic stimulus (a question based on Japan´s proposed 100 billion USD for the IMF) and if Taipei was perusing other economic stimulus measures, the Ministers responded that to this point Taipei was not prepared to propose money to the IMF but would fulfill its international obligations, and on the domestic front was prepared to help ease up credit and control interest rate. Asked what suggestions they could make to help ease economies out of the current crisis, the Ministers responded that ultimately the decisions where up to government, however advised on increasing government spending - through public works projects - to combat unemployment.
On the topic of cross Straight relationships, the Ministers would not comment too broadly on political issues. Asked if the leaders of the two economies would meet, they states that no meeting was scheduled and that it would be up to the leaders and their staff. They also emphasized that China and Taiwan would both stick to the APEC agenda and they would not cross the line to specifically China-Taiwan issues.
By D.A. Roark
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Quotes!!
· Does anybody need to get Wonged? – Brett
· Idiot Airlines – ...
· It’s ‘biker chic’ – Jessica
· Talk about a sexy class – Alex
· Umm…I’m a go-go dancer – Hansen
· Apec United? – Josie
· Mmm bop (simultaneous head nod) – Brett
· What is this sensation I’m having? – Brett
· No you didn’t – Kandace
· Did you say white bread? – Jessica
· Cocaine’s a no go – Brett
· Hey there’s a hostel, you can kick it old school if you’d like – Ashli
· You could be so tasty, like with paprika – Kandace
· Was he searching for rare cats? – David’s Brother
· Umm…my name is David…I’m from the United States – David
· Put it on big mode…Bobby
· I have UTI, I’m not gonna lie – Sarah
· Sarah’s a poet and didn’t even know it – Kandace
· Damn, Son – Ashli
· Someone put dookie in my nose – David
· Holy shit there are nerds in my bed - Brett
· Idiot Airlines – ...
· It’s ‘biker chic’ – Jessica
· Talk about a sexy class – Alex
· Umm…I’m a go-go dancer – Hansen
· Apec United? – Josie
· Mmm bop (simultaneous head nod) – Brett
· What is this sensation I’m having? – Brett
· No you didn’t – Kandace
· Did you say white bread? – Jessica
· Cocaine’s a no go – Brett
· Hey there’s a hostel, you can kick it old school if you’d like – Ashli
· You could be so tasty, like with paprika – Kandace
· Was he searching for rare cats? – David’s Brother
· Umm…my name is David…I’m from the United States – David
· Put it on big mode…Bobby
· I have UTI, I’m not gonna lie – Sarah
· Sarah’s a poet and didn’t even know it – Kandace
· Damn, Son – Ashli
· Someone put dookie in my nose – David
· Holy shit there are nerds in my bed - Brett
To Whom Much is Given...
Intense is an understatement.
The past two days have been both physically and mentally challenging. Our days begin at 8am and end at 10pm. We are bussed across Peru for everything from meetings with government officials to trips to ancient ruins to almost impossible to attain tours of Peruvian government buildings.
I find myself complaining at times, and must remind myself that to whom much is given, much is required.
I sat with Antonio Villegas Villalobos, the Mexican Embajador (Ambassador) of Peru today in a small group interview. I asked him the following question:
Directly related to this is a statement made by Tony Nowell, New Zealand ABAC Member:
"A strong and viable economy is not built by governments alone."
If there is one thing that I will take with me back to America from the past few days, possibly fro
m the entire trip, it has got to be this. We must learn, brainstorm, participate, and execute to achieve the goals of propesperity for ALL.
To whom much is given, much is required; yet even more must be reciprocated.
You just heard my Voice (bet ya didn't even know).
It's nine in the afternoon,
Kandace aka Quotist
The past two days have been both physically and mentally challenging. Our days begin at 8am and end at 10pm. We are bussed across Peru for everything from meetings with government officials to trips to ancient ruins to almost impossible to attain tours of Peruvian government buildings.
I find myself complaining at times, and must remind myself that to whom much is given, much is required.
I sat with Antonio Villegas Villalobos, the Mexican Embajador (Ambassador) of Peru today in a small group interview. I asked him the following question:
"How do you think students who have the opportunity to attend APEC and ABAC can contribute to the goals of your country?"
His response was perfection.
In so many words he explained that youth too often regard the many meetings and international gatherings of leaders as unnecessary, a vacation of sorts. However, these meetings are essential to uniting the efforts of the APEC member economies and to carry out the ideals of peace and economic prosperity. It is imperative for students to seek knowledge regarding such areas and to be informed of the goings on in the global community. It is these students who can offer suggestions and ideas, and who can criticize intellectually as we try to attain our goals.
His response was perfection.
In so many words he explained that youth too often regard the many meetings and international gatherings of leaders as unnecessary, a vacation of sorts. However, these meetings are essential to uniting the efforts of the APEC member economies and to carry out the ideals of peace and economic prosperity. It is imperative for students to seek knowledge regarding such areas and to be informed of the goings on in the global community. It is these students who can offer suggestions and ideas, and who can criticize intellectually as we try to attain our goals.
Directly related to this is a statement made by Tony Nowell, New Zealand ABAC Member:
"A strong and viable economy is not built by governments alone."
If there is one thing that I will take with me back to America from the past few days, possibly fro
m the entire trip, it has got to be this. We must learn, brainstorm, participate, and execute to achieve the goals of propesperity for ALL.To whom much is given, much is required; yet even more must be reciprocated.
You just heard my Voice (bet ya didn't even know).
It's nine in the afternoon,
Kandace aka Quotist
Ma's Girls
Brett Stanley once said (and I quote), "The following days are to be filled with nothing but eye opening, knowledge-filled and culturally exchanging opportunities." Well, I can tell you today that the past 48 hours have exceeded those expectations more than I (Brett, yup I quoted myself) could imagine. Highlights of the 2 first official APEC Summit days include:The opening ceremonies of the Voices of the Future 2008 program. The agenda included several speeches, finger sandwiches and Peruvian folk dancers.
I have now been in the presence of the Peruvian President, Alan García, a total of 2 times, twice, one plus one.
Part of the amazingness that is APEC are the last minute opportunities that arise; for example, an exclusive invitation to the II APEC Business Advisory Council SME Summit. To combat the awkwardness of having 90 students cram into 4 rooms of media space, the directors of the Voices program have initiated a lottery system to select a small group of delegates to attend select meetings.
Yesterday I was randomly lotteried to attend the SME Summit. Upon entering the venue (Nancy you will be happy to know) I ran into Henderson, another former Peruvian delegate that was in Dallas not far in the past. We then feasted on a 3 course Peruvian meal and later headed to the media balcony to do what media does best. We sat and listened to 4 panelists speak of the spirit of entrepreneurship, how today's market demands innovation, and the importance of export. President Alan García arrived towards the end to close the ceremonies.In the evening we dined on aji de gallina and I was officially dubbed "educator" instead of "student". Our 90 students are divided into 21 teams (for the 21 APEC member economies) and I am now the head of Team Brunei. My responsibilities include educating...and nothing more.
The next morning (which brings me to current day) Team Brunei started at the ABAC meetings at the Los Delfines hotel (called the Dolphin hotel because of the tank of dolphins they have). We sat with 5 other teams and interviewed various ABAC officials. I was completely blown away by one specific interview with Mr. Jack Ma, founder and chief operating officer of Alibaba Group. I think we all left the meeting feeling inspired and refreshed. His optimism included, "We have to make our customers survive" (referring to SME's); "The financial crisis is not a crisis, it's a growing pain and it's opportunity" "Crisis for yesterday and opportunity for tomorrow". He really emphasized the importance of the youth generation and ending by saying, "It's our time...we are coming!"
At lunchtime Annalee, Alejandro and I were selected to attend the ABAC officials lunch and then returned for more interviews. An hour later we headed to the media center to sit in on a press conference and meet with Eurovision. And after an exhausting incredible day of being sponges we ate typical Peruvian food, drank a pisco sour, and topped it all off by the ritual everyone hangs out in Brett and Kandace's room laughing and watching ridiculous You Tube videos.
Hydrating and ready for tomorrow. Over and out. -Brett Stanley "the novelist"
Sunday, November 16, 2008
So I Fell Off a Cliff...
Okay I really didn't fall off a cliff, however I was very close. I was nodding off..there was dust and nausea involved...guess you had to be there.
On to a lighter subject..I am having a ball. My Roomie is awesome...shout out!... and Kinky's here. Don't judge me that's my buddy Sarah. We will be stuck to each other for life, or until May 2009: poTAYto - poTAHto.
But seriously, it is an absolute honor to be here. A horrible picture of me is gracing all kinds of badges that get me into all kinds of places to meet with all kinds of people. I am told that I will have my Olympic sprint (i.e. nine seconds or so of awesome interview) and I plan to milk it for all it's worth. I had some delectable gelado yesterday, DON'T EAT THE CEVICHE, and some Starbucks, (I know, I know...but it's Starbucks!)
I now know people from multiple countries, some cool students from California who love to hear me say "ya'll," and our Vietnames group members who I also ADORE.
Yes, this is going to be amazing. I am sure my future blogs will prove this.
Que sabor? (So I'm also learning Spanish...)
One more thing, had to do it. If you're looking at this - HEY BABE!!!!
Okay I'm done.
Adios!!!
Kandace - aka Quotist
On to a lighter subject..I am having a ball. My Roomie is awesome...shout out!... and Kinky's here. Don't judge me that's my buddy Sarah. We will be stuck to each other for life, or until May 2009: poTAYto - poTAHto.
But seriously, it is an absolute honor to be here. A horrible picture of me is gracing all kinds of badges that get me into all kinds of places to meet with all kinds of people. I am told that I will have my Olympic sprint (i.e. nine seconds or so of awesome interview) and I plan to milk it for all it's worth. I had some delectable gelado yesterday, DON'T EAT THE CEVICHE, and some Starbucks, (I know, I know...but it's Starbucks!)
I now know people from multiple countries, some cool students from California who love to hear me say "ya'll," and our Vietnames group members who I also ADORE.
Yes, this is going to be amazing. I am sure my future blogs will prove this.
Que sabor? (So I'm also learning Spanish...)
One more thing, had to do it. If you're looking at this - HEY BABE!!!!
Okay I'm done.
Adios!!!
Kandace - aka Quotist
Southpark Peruvian Flute Bands
Almost forgot: Got into the shuttle from the airport to the hotel and what's playing over the radio? Hotel California and the theme from Titanic played by a Peruvian flute band.
Sun Choked
So in case you're wondering about Brett's sunkissed post it's because we spent all day yesterday outside and Brett and I (Jessica), the palest of the bunch, got sunburned. Actually Brett's arms look like she got a soft hug from the sun whereas I look as if the sun choked me. Rule number one: sunscreen on cloudy days.
I haven't figured out yet if Peruvian drivers ignore traffic laws or if Peru simply doesn't have any. There are roundabouts everywhere and it is to truly take your life into your own hands to venture into one.
Couple things to leave you with before I post some pictures: 1) Our Starbucks offers valet parking, 2) the hotel the ABAC reps are staying at has a porpoise pool (!), and 3) I absolutely love our delegation - Dallas, Vietnam and L.A. I could never have anticipated such a dynamic group to travel with and after spending the past 36 hours with them with only 4 hours of sleep, I think they'll be a large part of making this a great experience for me.
Couple things to leave you with before I post some pictures: 1) Our Starbucks offers valet parking, 2) the hotel the ABAC reps are staying at has a porpoise pool (!), and 3) I absolutely love our delegation - Dallas, Vietnam and L.A. I could never have anticipated such a dynamic group to travel with and after spending the past 36 hours with them with only 4 hours of sleep, I think they'll be a large part of making this a great experience for me.
Sun Kissed
Well...right now I am sitting on my bed in the Grand Hotel Besty (it's so grand) in Miraflores, Peru with my roomie, and a headache and a potato stick sandwich. Trust me...I'm just as confused as ya'll right now. I mean who puts potato sticks in a sandwich??
Ok, for those of ya'll not in the know I am currently a member of the APEC Voices of the Future along with 90 other student delegates from China, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, USA, and Vietnam. One of my favorite questions I have been repeatedly asked in my 24 hours of existence here has been: So, Brett what year are you in school? To which I respond: 2 years post senior or yeah, I am not. Thus arises the follow-up...why are you here?If ya'll are asking yourselves the same questions...3 months ago I fell in love at first event with the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. Fast forward a few weeks of working with said council and I applied for a position on the UNT delegation for the 2008 Asia Pacific Economic Corporation Summit. Let's do the time warp again and...I am sitting on my bed in the Grand Hotel Betsy...and we don't need to go through that again.
Let's debrief shall we?? The starting line-up of the UNT and Hanoi University delegation:
Alex Roark (opinion columnist): Tall, dark and handsome with a strange latin accent. Ok, this is not a personal ad. Alex is the only male delegate from UNT. Lucky him. He is currently living and working in Manzanillo, Mexico and is a former intern at the WAC.
Jessica Moulden (photographer): Jessica is studying international development at UNT and is applying to law school. I would say she is the model of the group...check the pics if you don't believe me. We had a not so pleasant occurrence with the Peruvian sun. See follow up posting.
Ashli White (tell it realist): Majoring in merchandising at UNT. She is a senior and will graduate in May. Ashli rocks...and likes to say, "Yeah man!" She would also love to dedicate her life to learning Spanish (and Brett will help her) and to that she says, "Thanks man!" Ashli had a brief, strong obsession with Pete Wentz from Fall Out Boy (just fyi).
Sarah Chincarini (the kinkster): Sarah is in her final stretch at UNT, graduating in May with a degree in Operation and Supply Chain Management. She will be taking an amazing position at TI upon completion. Sarah is super cool and enjoys country music and dancing and skittles.
Kandace Sheperd (the quotist): My ROOMIE! She currently interns for Mary Kay and graduates from UNT in May (ha, poet...didn't even know it). Kandace almost fell off of the pyramid we visited yesterday. We were very tired....Also, she is famous for being "holla'd at" by old Latin men.
Chi: Is a member of our delegation, representing Hanoi University and Vietnam. Chi is the cutest person I've ever met and I kinda want to make her in doll version to keep in my pocket. She is currently studying International Relations and her favorite actor is Adam Sandler.
Tung: Also representing Hanoi University and Vietnam. Tung is our media guru and is helping with the Voices video blog (posted on You Tube every night). His English is amazing and is a hell of a singer.
Tam: 3rd Hanoi University member and representing Vietnam. Tam is very sweet and is on the verge of being fluent in English. She has a knack for learning Spanish and doesn't leave home without her Spanish notes notebook.
Cliff's Notes of our first APEC days: Arrived 5 am on Saturday, November 16th. Waiting on Tung's lost bag. Bag not found...we shuttled to the Grand Hotel Betsy where we dumped our belongings and bee-lined for the first coffee joint in sight (which happened to be Starbucks). Later we met up with the delegation from Loyola Merrymount in Los Angeles. From there we grouped to the Huaca Pullana ruins. Learned some disturbing facts about past human sacrifices and made friends with the famous Peruvian hairless dogs (with red afros). Lunched. Explored. Felt like zombies after not having slept for a long period of time. Met and befriended various other APEC student delegates. And finally literally fell into bed.
The next morning I woke up with a migraine! Sweet. Breakfasted. In the afternoon Kandace, Ashli and I met up with Rocio (a Peruvian chica who was a WAC delegate not too long ago).
At 4:00pm we cozied into a very cozy bus and headed to the venue of the APEC Summit. There had a tour of the media center and the location of the ABAC Leader's Summit while feeling throughly honored to be a part of this experience. I mean seriously...we have more clearance than the Associate Press. Beginning tomorrow we will be meeting, interviewing and shmoozing with officials from the 21 APEC economies. 
I end today's blog with no doubt that the following days are to be filled with nothing but eye opening, knowledge-filled and culturally exchanging opportunities.
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