EU pushes to curb Africa migration more, still split on hosting refugees

EU chair proposed creating a new financing tool in the bloc's next multi-year budget from 2021 to 'stem illegal migration'.

FILE: Illegal migrants from Africa stand in line at a naval base in Tripoli after being rescued by Libyan coastguards in the Mediterranean Sea off the Libyan coast on 29 August 2017. Picture: AFP.

BRUSSELS - European Union leaders will discuss how to further curb immigration from across the Mediterranean over dinner on Thursday, but are as divided as ever on how to take care of refugees who still make it to Europe.

Their chairman, Donald Tusk, proposed creating a new financing tool in the bloc's next multi-year budget from 2021 to "stem illegal migration", replacing the ad hoc calls for money that EU states have seen since arrivals peaked in 2015.

Despite heavy criticism by human rights groups that it is aggravating the suffering of refugees and migrants on the southern shore of the Mediterranean, the EU is sticking to its policy of providing various kinds of assistance to the governments and UN agencies in the Middle East and Africa in order to prevent people making the trek north.

While implementing these plans in some places, notably the lawless Libya, is proving difficult, all EU states and institutions in Brussels agree on the approach.

However, the question of how to handle refugees who have made it to the EU is as divisive now as it was two years ago.

Italy, Greece and other frontline states on the Mediterranean, as well as the rich destination countries such as Germany, want all member states to be obliged to take in a set allocation of asylum-seekers.

But several eastern ex-communist EU members reject mandatory quotas, saying accepting Muslim refugees would undermine their sovereignty and security, and the homogeneous makeup of their societies.

They want to help instead with money, equipment and personnel for controlling the bloc's frontiers.

The Commission is already suing Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic for failing to take in their allotment of asylum-seekers from the peak of the EU's migrant crisis in 2015.

DIVISIONS

Recent proposals for future solutions go in opposite directions, giving little hope of a deal by the target date of June.

The bloc's current chair Estonia suggested sticking to the obligatory scheme when immigration is extremely high but adding some flexibility by legislating that the receiving and sending states must agree on any relocation.

That plan has been quickly dismissed as a non-starter by diplomats from several EU states.

The bloc's executive, the European Commission, proposed that the bloc approve compulsory and automatic relocation for times of mass immigration, but rely on voluntary help in normal circumstances. The European Parliament wants mandatory relocation at all times, regardless of migratory pressures.

But now Tusk himself has also come out against quotas, telling EU leaders in a note that they had proven "highly divisive" and "ineffective".

The Commission's migration chief, Dimitris Avramopoulos, told a news conference on Tuesday that Tusk's paper was "undermining one of the main pillars of the European project - the principle of solidarity".

For now, immigration figures remain so low compared to the peak of 2015-2016 that the public pressure on EU leaders to come up with a quick fix has eased.

That could yet change, however, with Italy's parliamentary election next spring, coinciding with the start of a new migration season.

Germany, currently consumed with trying to form a new government, has long suggested that if no consensus can be reached, an asylum reform could be passed by majority vote - something that would inevitably deepen the divisions and mistrust between member states.

Source: EU pushes to curb Africa migration more, still split on hosting refugees

Reach destination with MyCiTi and avoid traffic congestion

With reference to the letter "Traffic blunders" (December 12).

I note Mr Alistair Brown's comments. Cape Town, being Africa's most popular tourist destination, attracts thousands of tourists over the festive season.

Traffic congestion is a regular occurrence along the Atlantic Seaboard, in the Southern Peninsula, and on Kloof Nek Road during the holiday period. 

The best solution remains to avoid travelling to these areas in private vehicles, and to rather opt for public transport as far as possible.

Cape Town's MyCiTi service is the best-run BRT service in the country. The service offers a hassle-free option for those who do not want to be stuck in gridlock traffic while searching for limited on-street parking. 

The MyCiTi service has a number of routes to and from popular spots across Cape Town – in particular to and from Sea Point, Bantry Bay, Clifton, Camps Bay, Table Mountain and Hout Bay.

Visitors can park their private vehicles in the CBD or Foreshore area and use the MyCiTi bus service or any other public transport service to reach the beaches along the Atlantic Seaboard, in particular on December 26 and January 1, which are popular beach days in perfect weather conditions.

Visitors to Table Mountain are also strongly advised to make use of the MyCiTi service as Kloof Nek Road becomes congested during the festive season. There is also limited parking available in the vicinity of the cableway station.

The MyCiTi shuttle service to the Upper Table Mountain stop is free of charge, meaning visitors need only pay on Route 107 (Camps Bay) from the central business district to the top of Kloof Nek Road, where they can disembark at the Kloof Nek Stop situated at the Kloof Nek Road/Tafelberg Road intersection. 

From there, commuters should transfer to the Route 110 bus – the free Table Mountain shuttle service – to the Upper Tafelberg stop and disembark at the cableway station.

The same applies to passengers who are departing from the cableway station: they embark at the Upper Tafelberg stop and will transfer to MyCiTi Route 107 at the Kloof Nek Stop at the Kloof Nek Road/Tafelberg Road intersection.

The free shuttle on Route 110 runs every 10 to 15 minutes.

Commuters are reminded that they need a myconnect card to travel on the MyCiTi bus service. A myconnect card can be purchased for R35 from selected station kiosks and participating retailers across the city.

Visitors and residents are advised to visit the MyCiTi website at www.myciti.org.za for more information about the timetable changes, or to phone the Transport Information Centre on 0800 65 64 63.

Brett Herron

Mayoral Committee Member for Transport and Urban Development

Source: Reach destination with MyCiTi and avoid traffic congestion

6 out-of-the-box destinations for adventurous expats

If you're looking to move abroad, but don't want to move to one of the many 'tried and tested' expat destinations that first spring to mind, like Australia, New Zealand, England, Canada and the UAE – then here are 6 cities for you to consider that offer an adventurous lifestyle and the opportunity for you to test the limits of your comfort zone.

1. Crucita, Ecuador

If you're an adrenalin junky that loves paragliding or hang gliding then this beachside town is the perfect place for you. Featuring many businesses that cater to gliders with a great potential for investment and retirement, it is more than just a seaside village. With a population of over 12 000 and improvements in infrastructure, it's becoming a popular tourist destination with a real estate market poised to see growth potential.

2. Myanmar, Southeast Asia

With newly opened borders and a slowly developing tourist industry, Myanmar is making a name for itself as one of the up-and-coming places to teach abroad. Myanmar is one of the few countries in Southeast Asia that has not been affected by mass tourism and offers residents a wealth of traditional culture to experience including over 135 different ethnic groups.

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular as an expat destination and is now recognized as a destination that is safe for foreigners to live and work. Hanoi, its capital city is known for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese and French influences. In terms of work opportunities, there are increasing options in fields related to not-for-profit international development work and IT-related skills are also in demand along with teaching jobs available throughout the region.

4. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Found on the southern tip of Costa Rica's Nicoya peninsular, Santa Teresa has become a haven for expats looking for a less cluttered and slower pace of life. It's a popular destination for surfers and in the early 2000s its international community blossomed as foreign adventure seekers visited it to enjoy its numerous natural attractions. Expect to find a growing number of creative-industry professionals, Australian surf instructors, French café owners and Argentine hoteliers.

5. Nanjing, China

Shanghai and Beijing are well-known expat destinations, but Nanjing is also a lesser-known favourite for many expats who find it is a nice blend of everything – overflowing with cultural and historical significance combined with a thriving economy. It is also home to numerous higher-learning institutes and the ratio of university students to the total population is the highest nationwide.

6. Santiago, Chile

Santiago is the cultural, political and financial centre of Chile and home to the regional headquarters of many multinational corporations. For many expats, Chile is a first-world alternative in Latin America where one can enjoy a high standard of living with modern, well-maintained infrastructure and a reliable public transport system.

Since the inception of the Startup Chile program, many young Americans have come to Chile to take advantage of the opportunities Chile offers. As an added bonus, residency is relatively easy in Chile and includes a path to citizenship. Citizenship requires five years' residency, a simple application and no test.

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Source: 6 out-of-the-box destinations for adventurous expats

These 10 Countries Are the Most Increasingly Searched Destinations in the World

When in doubt, turn to Google. That's what the British travel agency True Luxury Travel did to compile its Global Travel Search Index, using Google Trends to chart the search trends for destinations across the world from 2004 to 2016. The index ranks holiday destinations based on search interest over this 12-year period, and it has some rather interesting results. Here is a look at the top 10 countries in the world that had the highest increase in search interest. ALSO READ: Top Romantic Places in India to Visit During Winter 2017

1. Cape Verde

Cape Verde

Located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde is a series of islands and part of the Macaronesia region. With few natural resources, ruinous famines in the past, rugged mountainous terrain in all except three of its islands, and isolation from most countries, Cape Verde doesn't seem like it would top any travel list. But it does; search interest has risen a whopping 3,000 percent in 12 years, and for good reason. The standard of living here is among the highest in the continent, and Cape Verde boasts of a liberal, stable government. The rugged peaks, green valleys, peaceful villages and pristine beaches add to its charm.

2. UAE

Dubai skyline with Burj Khalifa

Coming in at number two is a country you would've seen in countless other lists: the United Arab Emirates. The federation of seven emirates make up a small but important portion in the east of the Arabian peninsula, right at the entrance of the Persian Gulf. Most of its cities have, quite literally, risen from the sands. Dubai is a mind-bending mix of skyscrapers, malls, ski slopes, beach resorts and world records. And that's just one of the emirates. Each emirate is nearly independent and has its own character and culture to explore.

3. Philippines

El Nido Palawan Philippines, Photograph courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Third-ranked Philippines is a southeast Asian country with more than 7,000 islands, stretching from the Philippine Sea to the South China Sea. Naturally, beaches are the most popular aspect of this country. There are plenty of islands for every kind of beach bum, from volcanic ones to long stretches of soft sand to hidden lagoons and the rare pink sand beaches. This is also the largest Catholic country in the world, but on the streets you'll find a smorgasbord of cultures and foreign influences, impacting everything from the food to the arts. CHECK OUT: Cheap International Holidays: Best Countries to Visit in Winter 2017 Without Spending a Bomb

4. Pakistan

Pakistan

Surprisingly, our next-door neighbor, Pakistan, comes in at number four. The country enjoys a geographic position right at the crossroads of South, East and Central Asia, surrounded by Afghanistan, Iran, China and yours truly, India. Historically and strategically, it lies along the ancient Bolan and Khyber pass trade routes between Southern and South-Central Asia. It has its political difficulties, to put it mildly, but it is still pretty welcoming to explorers and adventurers from around the world. Its Karakoram mountains are a big draw, arguably its biggest, as is it history that runs in tandem with that of India.

5. Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria

Next up in this unlikely list of most searched destinations is Nigeria, the West African nation that is the most populous in the continent. It is also the largest economy and oil producer in Africa. It is an economical and political powerhouse, and its capital city of Lagos is increasingly on par with other international centers when it comes to arts, leisure and luxury. The rest of Nigeria still has plenty of unpolished edges. Ethnic tension, terrorist activities and lawlessness in Central and Northern Nigeria make the country a dangerous prospect for travelers today.

6. Yemen

Dragon Tree in Yemen

Right at the southern end of the Arabian peninsula, Yemen has an incredible history. It was the home of the Queen of Sheba, a state that flourished for a thousand years. But despite its rich history and heritage, it has long been the poorest Middle Eastern country. Recent years have seen significant unrest, and even now a civil war rages on. For this reason, Yemen shouldn't be in your list of travel destinations for the time being. ALSO READ: This Video Documents Efforts to Save the Sumatran Tiger

7. Qatar

The skyline of Doha in Qatar

The peninsular country of Qatar penetrates into the Persian Gulf, surrounded by Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the Emirates. Another Middle East miracle nation, Qatar like UAE has risen from the desert thanks to the oil boom. The small country has grown tremendously, and today it offers a nice blend of desert charm and modern-day luxuries. You can go dune-bashing, practice some falconry, relax in a dhow with the Doha skyline on the horizon, or head to the posh clubs and restaurants and hotels of the capital city.

8. Bangladesh

man riding boat in a foggy winter morning infront of a beautiful mountain in lake in Bangladesh

Number eight is Bangladesh, our eastern neighbor that borders the Bay of Bengal and Myanmar. With verdant deltas and rivers running through the country, Bangladesh has a blessed geography. And its culture is equally rich, with warm-hearted folks welcoming travelers around the world. But it is a country where you would come to escape the luxuries rather than bask in them, with a largely unorganized tourist industry. The capital city of Dhaka is busy and full of life, and the Sundarbans down south are an ecological gem. And if you find yourself seeking some solace, take a boat and float down the river.

9. Kuwait

Kuwait City, Kuwait, Photograph courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

We move back to the Middle East once more, this time to the country of Kuwait right at the start of Persian Gulf. As such, it has been the home of some of the most ancient civilizations in the world. It hasn't risen to the limelight as much as other Gulf countries mentioned here, but that just makes it stand out from the rest. The souks and narrow alleyways remain largely authentic, untouched by the need to align to global tastes. You'll also find fewer travelers here, making it easier to blend in and discover the culture on your own. Plus, there are the usual tourist attractions: bustling restaurants, sandy beaches and some great museums. NOW READ: Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2018, According to Lonely Planet

10. Oman

Oman

Finally, at number ten, we have the Sultanate of Oman right at the southeast tip of the Arabian peninsula. Like Kuwait, Oman too offers travelers the chance to experience Arab culture without the coating of commercialization and opulence found in, say, Dubai or Doha or Abu Dhabi. It is what it is over here, with all of Oman's rich heritage and ancient cultures open for all to see. Its towns, spread far and low, offer a taste of a culture evolved gradually from the time of the Bedouins. Its people are warm, and Oman is blessed with incredible natural beauty, with a long coastline, expansive deserts and curving, twisting mountains.

Source: These 10 Countries Are the Most Increasingly Searched Destinations in the World

Egypt's investments in Africa amount to dlrs 7.9 billion

Director of COMESA Regional Investment Agency Heba Salama said that Egypt's investments in nearly 62 projects in Africa amounted to dlrs 7.9 billion, while African investments in Egypt reached dlrs 2.8 billion.

 

In statements to MENA on Thursday, Salama said that Egypt's investments in Africa started in 1970 in the construction sector, chemicals, mining, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, communications, electronic components and financial services.

 

While African countries invest in Egypt in the fields of agriculture, industry, services, tourism, construction and IT and communications, she added.

 

There are 35 Egyptian companies investing in Africa since 1970, she said. Between 2003 and 2015, Egypt invested nearly dlrs 2.4 billion in the construction sector in Africa, she added.

 

She further noted that the largest investors in Africa are Egypt's Orascom Construction, ASEC Cement, NCB Capital, Reyada Construction Industries, ASCOM Geology and Mining, Elsewedy Electric (Elsewedy Cables), Egyptian International Pharmaceuticals Industries Co SAE (EIPICO), MobiServe Holding, the National Bank of Egypt and Acrow Misr Company for metal scaffolding and scaffolding.

 

Egypt's top destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Africa are Algeria, Sudan, Libya, Nigeria, Morocco, Ethiopia, Swaziland, Tanzania, Kenya and Cote d'Ivoire, Salama added.

MENA

Source: Egypt's investments in Africa amount to dlrs 7.9 billion

Singapore top destination for Chinese investment, India 37th

India has slipped six notches to 37th position among 60 major economies in the world in terms of their attractiveness to Chinese firms, while Singapore topped the list compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

According to the latest EIU's China Going Global Investment Index, Singapore overtook the US as the most attractive destination for Chinese overseas direct investment.

Hong Kong, Malaysia and Australia rounded the top five.

Among BRIC economies, Russia's index rank moved up by six places to 11th, with its economic prospects having improved owing to higher commodity prices, while South Africa's rank has risen by six places to 44th.

However, Brazil dropped by 19 places to 53rd place and India is down by six positions to 37th amid "tenser political relations with China", it said.

"Despite challenges for Chinese investors in India, the country's growth prospects are the brightest across major economies and several Chinese companies, such as Huawei (a te lecommunications firm) and Xiaomi (a consumer electronics company), have built successful businesses there," the EIU report said.

E-commerce could be a particular strength for Chinese firms in the global consumer sector in future, the report said and added that Alibaba, is amplifying its e-commerce footprint in South-east Asia and India through investments in Lazada and Paytm, respectively.

Although developed economies still dominate the upper ranks of the index, emerging markets have improved their positions and notable climbers include Malaysia (4th) and Kazakhstan (13th). Several developed economies have tumbled down the index: the UK slipped the most, by 29 places to 41st, owing to the worsened outlook for economic growth following its decision to leave the EU. Countries that rank consistently highly across the six industry indices include the US, Japan, India and Iran. "While the US and Japan owe their positions mainly to the opportunities they offer Chinese firms to obtain technology and brands through mergers and acquisitions (M&A), India and Iran are fast-growing markets in which companies from China are likely to be competitive," the report noted.

The index ranks 60 major economies in terms of their attractiveness to Chinese firms, drawing on 57 indicators spread across opportunity and risk pillars.

Source: Singapore top destination for Chinese investment, India 37th

Nine great holiday destinations in every South African provice

Image Credits: Pixabay.com

Whether you want to keep it local or travel further for the holiday, this article is relevant to you. Every province in South Africa has something unique and magnificent to offer. From luxury resorts to homely lodges and everything in between, SA has it all. Here a few noteworthy holiday destinations to consider this Christmas.

Northern Cape, Gorah Elephant Camp

Immerse yourself in the nature and wildlife of the Kalahari. The lodge offers a throwback to authentic safaris. Giving a great sense of nostalgia, it's home away from home. From simply relaxing on the veranda to riding along game drives, there is plenty to do. This is the true African experience.

Visit: Gorah Elephant Camp website

Eastern Cape, Kwantu Private Game Reserve

While the game reserve gives the full safari experience, it still has a 5 star rating for luxury accommodation. Kwantu offers a variety of lodging styles therefore everyone is catered for. Furthermore, it's deep within nature and offers great Afro-Hasian cuisine. Everything about this reserve is astounding.

Visit: Kwantu Private Game Reserve website

Free State, Castle in Clarens

This destination is a true opposite to the typical South African experience. Castle in Clarens gives a glimpse of the royal experience. The towers of the self catering guesthouse are inspired by Rapunzel and look out to the view of a mountain range. This is the perfect option if you want a change of scenery.

Visit: Castle in Clarens website

Western Cape, The Cheviots

If you're looking for a sleek and modern destination, Cheviots Villas are the perfect choice for you. Located in Camps Bay of Cape Town, this holiday accommodation looks over the beach and is a short drive away from the mountains. In addition, Cheviots Villas offers exclusivity and privacy, perfect for a break from a busy life.

Visit: The Cheviots website

Limpopo, Hoogland Spa

A spa for all your troubles and stress. Everyone deserves to relax after the long year. This spa has a five star rating for its great service and facilities. Most noteworthy is its proximity to amazing attractions including lion interactions and game drives.

Visit: Hoogland Spa website

North West, Sun City

This world renowned spot is famous because it offers variety for guests. Sun City can be both a romantic getaway and a family-friendly resort. For that reason, its rating is one of the highest in Africa. It serves as a surf-and-safari destination in the midst of a landlocked area.

Visit: Sun City website

KwaZulu-Natal, Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs & Leisure Resort

Built above a breathtaking view of Bavane River is another beautiful nature resort. Gooderson is built amongst Cambrian granite boulders that are millions of years old! Probably the perfect choice to get rid of a year's worth of stress.

Visit: Gooderson website

Mpumalanga, Dagama Lake Self-Catering Lodges

30 km from Phabani Gate, Kruger National park is the cosy and homely lodge. If you want the safari experience this is the holiday destination for you. You will be amidst nature and wildlife because the lodge is built right by Da Gama Lake.

Visit: Dagama website

Gauteng, Riverside Sun Resort

This is a subsidiary of the famous Tsogo Sun. Riverside Sun Resort offers the true luxury hotel experience. Built by the Vaal River in Johannesburg, Riverside is famous for its tranquil landscapes. The resort deems itself a "country hotel escape". Are you ready to escape?

Visit: Riverside Sun website

Also read:These are the 12 places you can see the 'Big Five' in South Africa

Source: Nine great holiday destinations in every South African provice