Put things in perspective
By: Bryna Stankiewicz
4/7/2010
As I was reading this morning’s Advertiser online, I was surprised to see a poll that had over 40% of people responding that they believed it was not worth having the 2011 “Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation” (APEC) Forum due to its expense and that there was need to focus on other priorities.
While we face some great economic challenges as a state and must continue to find solutions, I question the choice to put aside such a valuable opportunity that could transform Hawaii’s future.
The APEC forum is held throughout the Asia Pacific region and the last and only other time it was held in the U.S., was in Seattle in 1993. Now Honolulu has been chosen.
Attending this forum will be government and business leaders from twenty one member nations including Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, the Philippines, Russia, Vietnam and China, a country that represents a key market for the future of business and tourism in Hawaii.
I understand that the conference itself may not provide an immediate major increase in tourism spending. I also understand that security along with the costs to produce such a unique conference, are factors to be considered. However, I believe the long term benefits make this one of the most important events Hawaii has had the opportunity to host.
Unlike any other conference, the APEC forum will place a worldwide focus on Hawaii and provide visibility for all our islands. That visibility can help promote tourism, create awareness of our growing industries, and allow the world to discover why we choose Hawaii as our home and place of business. Along with tourism, Hawaii’s economic future success lies in diversification and global business. This forum will provide an opportunity to position Hawaii as the crossroads of the pacific where the East meets the West.
I have lived in Hawaii for over two decades and have seen many opportunities pass by. The occasion of hosting the APEC Forum is rare and unique. It is an opportunity to showcase Hawaii as a place not only for tourists but a place for business. Once we produce a successful conference, it will be a catalyst for future global or pacific centered conferences attended by government and business leaders from around the world.
I encourage everyone to put things in perspective and support this once in a lifetime opportunity.
For Governor's message Click here
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