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Russian Federation - continued Global Efforts RUSSIA SNAPSHOT Russia is considered a prominent figure in Official Name: proving generous assistance to countries Russian Federation worldwide. The government has extended Land Area: debt relief to those countries who are in 6,592,800 sq. miles (17,075,400 sq. developing stages. Substantial debt relief to kilometers) the Iraqi nation has recently been provided. Population: While humanitarian aid was also provided to 143,030,106 the fleeing Serbian people in Kosovo. Russia’s commitment to the Kyoto Agreement Capital: of 1997 was extremely critical to the Moscow agreement’s survival. Russia signed the Kyoto Agreement in 2004. The country’s emissions Government: fall well below the baseline outlined in the Federal semi-presidential republic agreement. This means any unused emission credits can be sold to other countries that have President: exceeded their limits. Instead, Russia can keep Vladimir Putin the credits and ensure compliance with the Prime Minister: agreement until its expiration in 2012. In large President Dmitry Medvedev part, the reason Russia’s emissions are so low are due to a fall in industrial inactivity during Principal Language: the 1990’s after the fall of the Soviet-era. Russian Environmental concerns are at the top of Life Expectancy: Russia’s agenda as many areas could be unfit 62 Years (males); for living in years to come. Russia has the 74 Years (females) opportunity to show the world that a lack of ecological action is not a valid response and Currency: change is still not too late. Ruble GDP Per Capita (US$): $12,993 Prime Minister Medvedev will be making his RUSSIA HISTORY fourth G8 appearance. This time attending as a replacement attendee for President Putin, 1914 Joined World War I. who is staying back in Russia to organize his 1922 Creation of USSR. 1939 Joined World War II. Cabinet. 1957 USSR launches Sputnik satellite. 1961 USSR erects wall between East and West Berlin. 1971 Venera 7 sends probes to Venus. 1991 Soviet Union collapses. 2012 Vlademir Putin is reelected President G8SUMMIT2012 | 49

agenda. In the 1990’s Ms. Merkel was Germany’s Environmental Minister and strived to bring elected officials from across the globe to start serious talks about the current state of the environment and what could be done to start limiting greenhouse gas emissions. Her efforts in these talks are credited with getting officials to outline and sign the Berlin Mandate, which lead to the implementation of the Kyoto Protocol. Angela Merkel Mrs. Merkel attended the 2007 European Union Summit where a plan was commissioned Angela Merkel, Chancellor to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by of Germany since 2005, at least 20 percent by 2020 and increase has played a strong role in renewable energy’s production to 20 percent politics and has been the by 2020. Many attribute these goals and leader of several significant agreements to the hard work and convincing groups of interest since the speeches given by Mrs. Merkel at the Summit. late 1980’s. A few notable groups include the Christian Democratic Union, of which she is Germany on the the chairwoman, Grand Coalition, of which Horizon she leads with the Christian Social Union and Social Democratic Party of Germany. She is Mrs. Merkel has outlined numerous proposals a member of the Council of Women World for improving Germanys’ future. In her first Leaders and is an elected member of the address as the Chancellor of Germany, she German Parliament. proposed her goals on improving Germany’s’ economy and reducing unemployment rates. Mrs. Merkel is credited with the honor of being She wants fundamental reforms to pull the the first woman Chancellor of Germany since economy out of the doldrums, especially 1871 and the youngest person to become reducing staff costs and red tape for employers Chancellor since the Second World War. She and raising sales tax. joins Margaret Thatcher and Kim Campbell as only the third woman to serve on the G8 Angela Merkel is a key influential player in and only the second to become chair of the worldwide affairs and looks to strengthen that G8 summit. Additionally, Chancellor Merkel influence with a strong voice at the G8 Summit. was recently awarded the 2008 Charlemagne Prize for her work in uniting Europe as an EU ANGELA MERKEL HISTORY member. 1978 Graduated from University of Leipzig. Environmental Direction 1990 Doctorate from Central Institute for Physical Chemistry of the Academy of Commitment to addressing climate change Services. has long been a part of Chancellor Merkel’s 1990 Elected to Bundestag. 1994 Elected Minister of the Environment and reactor Safety. 2000 Elected Chairman of the CDU. 2005 Elected Chancellor of Germany 50 | G8SUMMIT2012



Federal Rupublic of Germany Germany is widely regarded as a very modern and cosmopolitan country largest economy in GDP. It has the largest and with a diverse and open minded most advanced national economy in Europe. society. The culture is centralized around a broad scope of fine arts. The majority of the German economy is Theater, film, museums and literature export driven. Germany’s main commodity are just a few of the celebrated industries in exports come from motor vehicles, but Germany’s history. other substantial exports machinery, chemical products, electrical devices and telecommunications technology. Germany The democratic political system of Germany currently has 37 companies that are included was founded on the ideas in their constitution, in the Fortune 500. the Basic Law. Germany was also a founding member of the European Community in 1957 Fitting for a G8 member, Germany can also which eventually became a major pillar in the pride itself as the leading producer of wind creating of the European Union. turbines and solar technology in the world. With a normally powerful and robust economy, Germany has made itself into a worldwide a high standard of living has been established. staple of high quality products. Where design In large part, due to a society that proclaims and innovation has clearly played its part, itself, the Land of Ideas. The proclamation is quality control divisions are unsung heroes more statement of fact given the creative minds that factor in the success of many of the larger at work behind widely recognizable products companies like Daimler, Bosch and BMW. that shout quality and state-of-the-art. Global Efforts Economy at a Glance Germany has strived to give humanitarian assistance nationwide. After the devastating The economy of Germany is represented Myanmar cyclone in May, Germany was front by innovation, quality and cutting-edge and center in providing aid organizations to technology. The country claims the fourth assist the people in Myanmar with shelters, 52 | G8SUMMIT2012

Federal Republic of Germany - continued drinking water, household goods and mosquito GERMANY SNAPSHOT nets. According to recent statistics from the Organization for Economic Cooperation, Official Name: Germany trails now only the United States in Federal Republic of Germany development assistance in aid. Through it’s commitment to several Land Area: environmental treaties, Germany has long 137,847 sq. miles (357,021 sq. kilometers) been known as advocates for environmental Population: awareness. These treaties concern everything 81,799,600 from low emission standards and recycling to Capital: renewable energy and biodiversity at a global Berlin level. Although the country as a whole believes Government: actions needs to be taken to improve the Federal Parliamentary republic status of the global environment, the country Head of State: is somewhat split on the urgency that this Jens Böhrnsen action needs to occur. Chancellor: Angela Merkel Due to country-wide efforts, pollution in the Principal Language: Baltic Sea have been reduced and Germany’s German governmental heads have announced plans Life Expectancy: to end the use of nuclear power to produce 76 Years (male); electricity. The production of electricity will be 82 Years (female) shifted towards solar technology, but primarily Currency: wind energy. Germany already has the largest Euro installed capacity for wind energy and this GDP Per Capita (US$): move will provide not only a stabilizing factor $43,741 in providing a necessary consumable, but also sets an example as a leader in a move towards alternative methods to harvest energy. GERMANY HISTORY 1929 Suffers Great Depression. 1939 Hosts Berlin Olympics. 1945 Divides into West and East Germany. 1955 West Germany joins NATO. 1970 Joins the United Nations. 1989 Fall of the Berlin Wall. 1990 Reunification of Germany. 2002 Euro replaces Duetsch Mark. G8SUMMIT2012 | 53

world in the 2010 Environmental Performance Index. In an attempt to meet Japan’s rising energy consumption, Japan is aiming to increase growth in nuclear energy. This took a bit of a hit with the recent natural disaster. Nuclear energy produces no carbon dioxide and is very safe and clean alternative to answer the country’s energy needs. Yoshihiko Noda Japan on the Horizon Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda will be making his first appearance at the Japan faces several issues such as an G8 Summit this May. In 2010, He was increasing population decline and social appointed as the Finance Minister, and security funding due to lower birth rates was designated Prime Minister by the and an aging population. Immediate action Diet and later by Emperor of Japan, resulting in drastic reform is needed that will In 2011, his country endured a devastating benefit Japan both in the present and in the earthquake an tsunami, followed by a future. international nuclear crisis. In order to revitalize the economy, the Environmental government wants to focus on core areas, Direction including “green innovation,” which it estimates will create 1.5 million jobs, and health care, which would generate 2.8 million jobs. Having recently hosted the G8 Summit in YOSHIHIKO NODA HISTORY 2009, it put Japan’s environmental policies directly in the spotlight. This event led Japan 1980 Graduated from School of Political to announce they will commit to an emissions Science and Economics, Waseda reduction goal that will be met by 2050. University 2007 Chairman of the Public Relations It was proposed by Japan that all major Committee, DPJ polluters, including Japan, set a mid-goal 2009 Chairman of the Committee on date prior to 2050 for cutting greenhouse gas Discipline, the House of emissions. A 2020 goal date is being planned Representatives for and Japan has lobbied for an optimistic 2010 Chosen to be Finance Minister 30% cut in emissions by the top polluters. 2011 Elected Prime Minister of Japan. The Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012, so it is imperative that new agreements be made early for a better chance of success. Japan is one of the world’s leaders in the development of new environment-friendly technologies, and is ranked 20th best in the 54 | G8SUMMIT2012



Japan The major industries in Japan’s economy Japan, known as The Land of the Rising includes banking, insurance, real Sun, is an island country made up of over 3000 small islands. It spreads from estate, retailing, transportation and the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea in the south. Japan’s telecommunications. They are also heavily culture has become very contemporary, yet the Japanese people still hold strong to focused on industrial endeavors such as their traditional values and ideals in relation to education, arts and ceremonies. vehicle and electronic manufacturing. The government of Japan is a unitary Vehicles, electronics, and chemicals are constitutional monarchy lead by Emperor Japans main exports. Due to the lack of natural Akihito and a parliament called the National resources they also rely on exports to provide Diet of Japan consisting of a House of much of its raw materials such as fossil fuels, Representatives and the House of Councilors. food including meat and various materials for These houses are responsible for electing the their many industries. Japan’s main import Prime Minister of Japan. and export partners are the United States, the European Union and China. Economy at a Glance One issue that the Japanese economy faces is a dwindling population. The birthrate has Japan’s economy has a very competitive and dropped to an alarming rate of 1.2%. As this skillful spirit. It’s the world’s third largest social trend continues the workforce will shrink and market economy and the second largest GDP unclear results can lead to a turbulent future. economy. This strength is widely attributed to The government will either have to coax the unique Japanese characteristics such as work population to have more children or relax ethic, knowledge of cutting edge technology immigration policies to maintain a healthy and close government-industry cooperation. population growth rate. Global Efforts Since the early 1970’s, Japan has been leading the way in environmental preservation through many environmental laws introduced by the 56 | G8SUMMIT2012

Japan - continued government and the creation of the Ministry JAPAN SNAPSHOT of the Environment in 1971. In doing so, their recent history and current policies boast Official Name: a delicate but successful balance between Japan development and environmental protection. Current policy makes Japan world leaders in Land Area: creating environmentally friendly technology. 145,925 sq. miles (377,944 sq. kilometers) Japan’s government takes the climate crisis Population: and global warming very seriously and is 127,799,000 feverishly seeking out innovative efforts to Capital: comply with the promises made in the Kyoto Tokyo Protocol. They’ve made strides in vehicle Government: emissions issues with hybrid, biofuel and Parliamentary democracy and Constitutional building material technologies and they are monarchy aiming to reduce pollutants from factories and Head of State: other places of business. Emperor Akihito Prime Minister: Japan has long been a supporter for Naoto Kan humanitarian aid across the globe contributing Principal Language: their share of financial donations. From wars Japanese and other crisis plaguing countless countries to Life Expectancy: natural disasters like tsunamis and earthquakes 78 Years (male); Japan often steps in to provide emergency 85 Years (female) food, shelter materials, goods, and monetary Currency: donations where they are needed. Yen GDP Per Capita (US$): In 2006 they were first in line to contribute $45,920 funds to help launch the Central Emergency Response Fund and in 2008 pledged one million dollars to continue the program year after year. JAPAN HISTORY 1914 Joins Britain in World War I. 1937 Goes to war with China. 1947 New constitution goes into force. 1951 Signs peace treaty with U.S. and othernations. 1972 Diplomatic relations resumed with China. 1997 Economy enters recession. 2004 Deploys combat soldiers to Iraq. 2011 Earthquake hits Northern Japan. G8SUMMIT2012 | 57

Capture and Storage methods become available to thwart greenhouse gas emissions. Mario Monti In the meantime, the plant is a model of recycling, making use of all of its byproducts. Following the resignation of Silvio Ashes and gypsum will be sold to cement Berlusconi. Monti was sworn in as Prime makers, there is even use for the heated water Minister on November 16, 2011, just a created from cooling stations, which will be week after having been appointed a used to warm one of Italy’s largest fish farms. Senator for Life. This will be his first G8 Still, environmentalists around the world Summit fear that a return to coal energy may put the already dismal outlook on climate change He was seen as a favorite to replace Silvio into a worse situation. Clean nuclear energy Berlusconi to lead a new unity government is being closely looked at for future energy in Italy in order to implement reforms and needs. austerity measures. Following Berlusconi’s resignation, Napolitano invited Monti to form a Italy on the new government. Monti accepted the offer, and Horizon held talks with the leaders of the main Italian political parties, declaring that he wanted to On December 4, 2011, Monti’s government form a government that would remain in office introduced emergency austerity measures until the next scheduled general elections in intended to stem the worsening economic 2013. conditions in Italy and restore market confidence, especially after rising Italian Environmental government bond yields began to threaten Direction Italy’s financial stability. The austerity package called for increased taxes, pension reform and measures to fight tax evasion. Monti also announced that he would be giving up his own salary as part of the reforms. Monti’s government formally adopted a package of reforms targeting Italy’s labor market. The reforms are intended to open certain professions to more competition by reforming their licensing systems and abolishing minimum tariffs for their services. The price of oil and natural gas are on the rise MARIO MONTI HISTORY and energy use security is becoming a real question. Italians currently pay the highest 1943 Born in Varese, Italy electricity costs in Europe. In an attempt to 1995 Served as European Commissioner appease all sides, which include those who 2011 Minister of Economy and Finance want clean energy and those who simply want 2011 Appointed Senator for Life affordable energy, a new coal plant is being 2011 Sworn in as Prime Minister of Italy. constructed in the town of Civitavecchia. The plant will be CCS ready for use when Carbon 58 | G8SUMMIT2012



Republic of Italy exclusively agricultural based economy to its rank as the world’s fifth largest industrial Italy was at the forefront in founding economy. the European Union in 1957, then known as the European Community, The most significant exports include motor and is a charter member and energetic transportation like luxury vehicles, scooters supporter of the North Atlantic Treaty and motorcycles, and more famously, food Organization, NATO. and fashion. Tourism also accounts for Italy’s growing economy. With over 37 million Though relatively small in size, Italy is widely tourists flocking to Italy each year the country known for four big things; iconic fashion, ranks again as the fifth largest destination for passionate opera, decadent cuisine and travel in the world. timeless architectural landscape. From explorers like Christopher Columbus and Marco Because Italy is faced with having scarce Polo to progressive artists like Leonardo da natural resources and very little land capable Vinci and Masaccio Italy has produced some of farming, their main imports are agriculture of the most recognizable figures in history. and energy sources. However, the natural gas reserves coming from the Po Valley and Italy’s government is made up of a bicameral offshore Adriatic have flourished in recent parliament, consisting of a Chamber of years making it Italy’s most significant mineral Deputies and a Senate, a separate judiciary, resource. and an executive branch made up of a Council of Ministers (cabinet), headed by the Trade with the European Union makes up prime minister. about 59% of Italy’s total trade with their main trading partners being Germany, France and Economy at a the Netherlands. Outside of the European Glance Union, Italy’s major exporting partners are the United States and Great Britain. Italy’s economic stability rests in the hands of private family run firms that are in the business of processing and manufacturing goods. Since World War II it has morphed from an almost 60 | G8SUMMIT2012

Republic of Italy - continued Global Efforts ITALY SNAPSHOT Italy is still a generous nation when providing Official Name: poorer countries with aid. Sierra Leone, ranked Republic of Italy the least developed country after a long civil Land Area: war, received a huge financial boost from Italy. 116,346 sq. miles (301,338 sq. kilometers) This aid will help stabilize a growing agricultural Population: sector in the area and increase food security. 60,681,514 Capital: A new government has recently been Rome established headed by the familiar face Government: of Mario Monti. Mario Manti unveiled a Parliamentary republic technocratic cabinet composed entirely of Prime Minister: unelected professionals. The hope is that Silvio Berlusconi under new leadership, Italy can come together and resolve the internal issues. Principal Language: Italian Life Expectancy: 77 Years (male); 83 Years (female) Currency: Euro GDP Per Capita (US$): $36,267 ITALY HISTORY 1915 Joins allies in World War I. 1941 Declares war on USSR. 1948 New constitution formed. 1955 Joins the United Nations. 1994 Freedom Alliance wins election. 1997 Umbria earthquake damages Basilica of St. Frances. 2005 Parliament ratifies EU constitution. 2009 Earthquakes in Abruzzo region lead to relocation of G8 Summit. G8SUMMIT2012 | 61

Mr. Harper tirelessly works towards uniting leaders around the world to agree to a projected reduction of global emissions by half by the year 2050. Mr. Harper has already made aggressive strategies to reduce overall greenhouse emissions by 60-70% by 2050 and 20% by 2020. Stephen J. Harper Details were published by Canada in a regulatory framework titled “Turning the The Right Honourable, Canadian Prime Corner.” These details include federally Minister, Stephen Joseph Harper regulating of emissions reduction, targeting is committed to keeping Canada a dates to start oil sands operation to perform strong and independent nation. Mr. emissions storage and retrieval, as well as Harper is a charismatic visionary who banning the construction of coal plants that cofounded the Conservative Party of contribute to excessive pollution. Prime Canada, which was a merger of former parties Minister Harper is preparing Canada to lead the Canadian Alliance and the Progressive the way for all nations to act responsibly for a Conservative Party of Canada in 2003. cleaner, cooler planet. Mr. Harper has a long and distinguished resume Canada on the transcribing a successful political career most Horizon notably winning an election for Member of Parliament for Calgary West over his former Prime Minister Harper has Canada’s most employer. He served as MP until 1997 when pressing issues at the forefront of his agenda. he was appointed as a vice-president of the The areas of federal accountability, tax reform, National Citizens Coalition, a conservative crime, child care and health care are said to think-tank and advocacy group, and soon was be his top priorities during his time as Prime nominated their President. Minister. There has also been more attention given to military forces to improve national Environmental and worldwide security. Direction STEPHEN J. HARPER HISTORY Prime Minister Harper has pledged to a responsible approach to a safe and healthy 1978 Works in Alberta oil fields. environment for the Earth. He believes global climate change is a clear danger to all 1991 Earns MA in economics from inhabitants and a strict reduction in gashouse University of Calgary. emissions must be reached by all gross polluting countries. 1993 Won seat for Canadian House of Commons. 1997 Lead the National Citizens Coalition. 2002 Wins leadership of Canadian Alliance Party. 2004 Becomes leader of Conservative Party of Canada. 2006 Elected Prime Minister of Canada. 62 | G8SUMMIT2012



Canada Northern Europe during the Cold War. This type of economy looks for a middle ground Canada occupies most of the upper between socialism and capitalism. portion of North America, extending from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean Over the years, Canada has maintained a and northward into the Arctic Ocean. diversified economy that is heavily reliant It is the world’s second largest country upon its abundant natural resources. Roughly by total area, and shares land borders 75% of all imports and exports occur with its with the United States. southern neighbor the United States. Canada has avoided economic recession for several The country is filled will natural wonders and years while keeping unemployment rates to its beauty. Vast forests offer solace to visitors and lowest percentages in a number of decades. a backbone to the economy with the logging industry. Mammoth rivers and lakes are born The nation’s economic identity is slowly moving from snow capped mountains providing away from agriculture, mining and factories to watering holes to unique wildlife. Canada’s a more knowledge and service-based focus. natural resources are its most invaluable Retail leads the way in Canada’s economic commodity. identity employing more than one tenth of the Canadian population and tourism will receive a The Canadian government is made up of a significant boost when Canada hosts the 2010 sovereign head of state, Queen Elizabeth II, head Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver. of government, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the legislative power of parliament. Canada The major sector of the country’s exported has maintained its own independent foreign product has always been oil and logging. Canada policies without external influence, despite its is one of the few developed nations that is a net heavy trade relationship with the United States. exporter of energy. Ranging offshore deposits of natural gas and crude oil can be found centered Economy at a in the province of Alberta. Canada touts the Glance world’s second largest reserves of crude oil behind Saudi Arabia. Canada is a mixed market, or social market economy, commonly found in Western and 64 | G8SUMMIT2012

Canada - continued Global Efforts CANADA SNAPSHOT Dedicated to aiding developing countries, Official Name: Canada was recently joined by other nations Canada in funding the creation of various vaccines for Land Area: third world countries and a call to all other 3,854,085 sq miles (9,984,670 sq.kilometers) able countries to do the same has been made. Population: Canada has also been providing aid in the form 34,796,000 of debt relief to these poorer countries. The Capital: main concern is that these countries should Ottawa not have to focus on the debts of the past, but Government: rather refocus their goals on their future. Parliamentary democracy and Constitutional monarchy The Minister of Natural Resources in Canada Head of State: has recently announced a number of initiatives Queen Elizabeth II that are directed to improving clean energy Prime Minister: technology. Funding from the 2008 budget will Stephen Harper be given to the Institute of Sustainable Energy, Principal Language: Environment and Economy at the University English, French of Calgary to drive these efforts. Greenhouse gases will be reduced through advances in technology for carbon capture and storage. This process stores carbon dioxide instead of releasing it into the atmosphere. Canada is committed to reducing global Life Expectancy: emissions by 20% by the year 2020. This goal 76 Years (male); represents a considerable challenge, however 83 Years (female) the country believes in its leader’s guidance Currency: and citizen’s willingness to face the obstacles Canadian Dollar GDP Per Capita (US$): with collective fervor. $40,541 CANADA HISTORY 1939 World War II forces active abroad. 1949 Founder of NATO. 1950 Korean War forces help UN efforts. 1965 Present Canadian Flag adopted. 1982 Gains complete freedom from UK. 1991 Forces participate on Gulf War. 2003 An outbreak of SARS hits Toronto. G8SUMMIT2012 | 65

Financial system: Back the creation of a European rating agency and the separation of lending and investment in banks. François Hollande Education: Supports the recruitment of 60,000 civil servants (new teachers), the creation of a study allowance and means- tested training, setting up a mutually beneficial contract that would allow a generation of experienced employees and craftsmen to be the guardians and teachers of younger newly- hired employees, thereby creating a total of 150,000 subsidized jobs. Recruitment of 5,000 judges, police officers and gendarmes. François Hollande was elected President Construction of 500,000 state ruled homes of France on 6 May 2012. He will per year, including 150,000 social, funded by a take office on May 15. He defeated doubling of the ceiling of the A passbook, the incumbent President Nicholas Sarkozy. region making available its local government He has served in numerous positions land within five years. in public service for France. These offices include: National Assembly Member of The provision of development funds for the National Assembly of France for Corrèze deprived suburbs. Regional Council, Mayor of Tull and the First secretary of the Socialist Party. Return to a deficit of 0% of GDP in 2017. Environmental  Direction Mr. Hollande endorses reducing the share of FRANCOIS HOLLANDE HISTORY electricity generated by nuclear power in France from 75 to 50% in favor of renewable 1997 First Secretary of the Socialist Party energy sources. 2001 Mayor of Tulle 2008 President of the Corrèze General France on the Horizon Council 2012 Elected President of France As the newly elected President of France, he has many policies that he would like to install in the French government : Foreign policy: Supports the withdrawal of French troops present in Afghanistan by the end of 2012. 66 | G8SUMMIT2012



French Republic goods and fuel are presenting the government with difficult challenges. France is a country rich in cultural heritage. Paris’s monument laden Unemployment has been an issue since grounds alone make France the most the 1970’s and has been addressed by the popular choice of destination for government in the past. The thirty-five hour tourists. Landmarks such as the Eiffel work week was introduced to promote a need Tower, The Louvre Museum, and the for employers to hire more workers to fill these Alps to the shores of the Mediterranean draw available hours. However, this has not led to simple conclusion as to why the number the desired increase in workers hired as was of yearly visitors outnumber the countries originally hoped. Other attempts to lower population itself. unemployment rates have been tax relief to younger workers entering the workforce, France lends itself to a unitary semi-presidential financial incentives to both workers and republic. This means there are two key figures employers and a relaxation to overtime who lead the country; the elected President, penalties. Nicolas Sarkozy and his appointment of Prime Minister, Francois Fillon. Economy at a Global Efforts Glance France has the second largest network of Now that the initial impact that the global diplomatic missions in the world, second only financial crisis has settled, a time for renewed to the USA. commitment to energizing the economy is here. Ranked as high as 5th largest in the world A few of the major topics already of interest by GDP, the French economy has crawled to a to the French government are climate change, slower growth in recent years. Clear indicators energy security and the Common Agricultural of problems are apparent where inflation rates Policy (CAP). have soared to new heights in nearly 17 years. High unemployment rates and rising prices for Proposals by the government for greater security for the supply of energy include plans 68 | G8SUMMIT2012

to guarantee needed energy savings, secure FRANCE SNAPSHOT contingency plans for lapses in supply, discuss investments needed to improve infrastructures OfficialName: and rekindle relations with energy supplying French Republic nations. In regard to CAP, the first step noted by the Land Area: French Prime Minister, Francois Fillon, will be 260,558 sq. miles (674,843 sq. kilometers) to make a health check on CAP’s current state. Population: From there, discussions can be had to decide 65,350,000 what issues can be addressed that will appeal Capital: to all involved parties. Paris Government: France was presented with an opportunity to Unitary semi-presidential constitutional shine as a leader and founding member of the republic European Union. France’s recent opportunities President: have been met with high ambitions and clear President Nicolas Sarkozy goals set for the greater prosperity not only for President-Elect: France, but Europe as a whole. François Hollande Prime Minister: France is the second largest donor of François Fillon development aid in the world, behind the US, Principal Language: and ahead of Germany, Japan and the UK. French This represents 0.5 % of its GDP, in this regard Life Expectancy: rating as more generous than most other 77 Years (male); developed countries. The main goals of this 84 Years (female) help are “developing infrastructure, access to Currency: health care and education, the implementation Euro of appropriate economic policies and the consolidation of the rule of law and democracy.  GDP Per Capita (US$): $44,008 FRANCE HISTORY 1914 Enters World War I. 1936 Enters World War II. 1944 Women gain right to vote. 1954 Enters Algerian War. 1974 Oil Crisis causes recession. 1981 Abolition of the death penalty. 1997 Signing of the Amsterdam Treaty. 2001 Presidential election time changed in the constitution. G8SUMMIT2012 | 69

through fostering their uptake by enterprises, especially SMEs, and designing the appropriate regulatory environment. An industrial base which is modernised to use and produce environmental-friendly technologies and which exploits the potential for energy efficiency is the key to sustainable growth in Europe. José Manuel Barroso The next Commission needs to maintain the momentum towards a low emission economy, As President of the European and in particular towards decarbonising our Commission, José Manuel Barroso electricity supply and the transport sector – has worked hard to revitalize the all transport, including maritime transport and public’s confidence in the European aviation, as well as the development of clean Commission. Through his vigorous and electric cars. strategies on climate change, European and African economy growth and European Union renewable energy sources, he has helped to on the Horizon sustain a public support around the Globe. Nearly twenty years into his political career President José Manuel Barroso has set his he was elected president of the European recent attention regarding the continued Commission and re-elected twice. growth of Europe to issues such as debating nuclear energy, addressing rising agricultural Environmental prices and introducing the Treaty of Lisbon. Direction The shared concern for lowering greenhouse gas emissions has brought new discussion on the pros and cons of looking to nuclear energy as an alternative energy source for European countries. Concentrating on both short and long-term solutions to stabilize food security. President Barroso has stated that the JOSE BARROSO HISTORY economic and financial crisis and the scientific evidence of climate change have shown us 1958 Born in Lisbon, Portugal that we need to invest more in sustainability. 1999 But this is not just about doing the right thing Name President of the Social for the future of the planet – Europe stands 2002 Democratic Party and reelected 3 to benefit enormously from investing in new 2004 times low carbon technologies for future jobs and growth. Fighting climate change and the move Appointed Prime Minister of Portugal towards a low carbon economy provide huge opportunities for business and people and will Elected by the European Parliament to enhance our energy security. the post of President of the European Commission First-mover advantages can be gained by exploiting the potential of EU environmentally- friendly industries, services and technology 70 | G8SUMMIT2012

European Union last year, Sweden had the biggest GDP growth from all the states in EU (5,7%). The The European Union (EU) is an current map of EU growth is one of huge economic and political union or regional variation, with the larger economies confederation of 27 member states suffering from stagnant growth and the which are located primarily in Europe. new nations enjoying sustained, robust Important institutions of the EU include economic growth. Although EU27 GDP is on the European Commission, the Council the increase, the percentage of gross world of the European Union, the European Council, product is decreasing due to the emergence the Court of Justice of the European Union, of economic powers such as China, India and and the European Central Bank. The European Brazil. In the medium to long term, the EU will Parliament is elected every five years by EU be looking forward to increase GDP growth in citizens. Italy and the UK in order to stabilise growth in European Union states. This is to ensure Economy at a sustained economic prosperity. Glance Global EffortsThe EU’s share of gross world product (GWP) is stable at around one fifth. The twelve new member states of the In 2007, member states agreed that the EU European Union have enjoyed a higher is to use 20% renewable energy in the future average percentage growth rate than their and that it has to reduce carbon dioxide elder members of the EU. Notably the emissions in 2020 by at least 20% compared Baltic States have achieved massive GDP to 1990 levels. This includes measures that in growth, with Latvia topping 11%, close to 2020, 10% of the overall fuel quantity used by China, the world leader at 9% on average for cars and trucks in EU 27 should be running the past 25 years. Reasons for this massive on renewable energy such as biofuels. This is growth include government commitments considered to be one of the most ambitious to stable monetary policy, export-oriented moves of an important industrialised region trade policies, low flat-tax rates and the to fight global warming. utilisation of relatively cheap labor. For the G8SUMMIT2012 | 71

EAGLEWOOD UTAH ONLY 10 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN SALT LAKE CITY



OLUetlyagmhac’psyic 10 years later by The Utah Sports Commission of all, in the intervening ten years Utah has been able to take that incredibly successful It may be hard to believe for those who host- world-class event and turn it into a platform ed, visited or participated in the XIX Olympic for branding our state as a tremendous place Winter Games in the Salt Lake City region, to hold other events of all sizes, types and but a decade has passed. And apart from the seasons. immediate impact the Winter Games had on Salt Lake City and the state, the legacy of that “When you look at what we have hosted in Olympiad can be seen and felt today across the past decade, you get a real sense of that Utah. reality and the Winter Games’ true impact,” Robbins added. Since the Winter Games, Utah has adopted “The State of Sport” as its calling card — the There is little doubt about Robbins’ perception perfect description of where Utah stands of what the Winter Games have meant to Utah. today. Since 2002, when Utah hosted both the XIX Olympics Winter Games and the VIII Paralym- “It seems just yesterday, but we’re celebrating pic Winter Games, Salt Lake County between the tenth anniversary of the Winter Olympics,” the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountains has said Jeff Robbins, president and CEO of the continued to grow as a site for a wide range of Utah Sports Commission (utahsportscommis- sporting events. From July 2010 to June 2011 sion.com). “The legacy that the Winter Games alone, for example, the Utah Sports Commis- have created is, in a word, amazing. And best sion assisted acquiring more than 30 events in 74 | G8SUMMIT2012

Salt Lake and Tooele counties. In 2011, the area USA Fencing Junior Olympic Championship, hosted baseball’s Triple-A All-Star Game, the the 2014 USA Fencing Summer Nationals, Nationwide Tour’s Utah Championship, Sum- and the 2013 Golden Gloves Boxing National mer Dew Tour, AMA Monster Energy Super- Championships. cross, FIM World Superbike, Tour of Utah, the U.S. Adult and Junior Figure Skating Champi- Finally, Utah today serves as home to three onships and the USA Team Handball Champi- National Governing Bodies: the United States onships. Ski & Snowboarding Association (U.S.S.A.); United States Speedskating (U.S.S.); and USA “That is just a sample of the events that Utah Team Handball (USATH). has hosted recently,” Robbins said. “The Win- ter Games helped Utah create its worldclass Of course, apart from leaving a tremendous stamp of approval, you might say.” sports legacy, the 2002 Winter Games had a very positive effect on the State of Utah Again, Robbins is not overstating the case. in general. A record 250,000 visitors from Since 2002, there have been more than 70 around the world were able to experience World Cups or Championships hosted (or to Utah while attending the Games (both Olym- be hosted) in Utah, as well as 90 Olympic pic and Paralympic Games), and another 2.1 (USOC/USA-sanctioned) events that have tak- billion were exposed to the state through the en place in the state. Looking ahead, there are specific global media coverage of the XIX 11 Olympic- related events on the calendar for Olympic Winter Games. Utah experienced 2012-2014, and the original 14 Winter Olympic significant economic growth as a result of the Games’ venues continue to be used for events, Games, including an $76 million endowment elite training and recreational purposes on an to help fund operations for the Olympic Park ongoing basis. and Olympic Oval. The Utah Athletic Founda- tion (www.utaholympiclegacy.com), Robbins Other future competitions on the docket noted, today manages the endowment and in Utah include the 2012 USA Hockey High utilizes those two major venues for hosting School National Championships, USA Volley- sporting and training events. ball’s 2012 U.S. Open Championships, the 2012 G8SUMMIT2012 | 75

Interestingly, the Utah Sports Commission was tremendous volunteer database, and a com- created in 1999 to assist with the legacy of munications culture - all critical attributes that the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, and so far, grew out of the 2002 Winter Games experi- so good based on Utah’s growth as a state ence. Without hosting the Winter Games, there where sport continues to thrive. The Commis- may have been an organic growth within Utah, sion partners with venues and numerous other Robbins noted, but the Winter Games pro- organizations throughout the state to attract vided the perfect platform to accelerate that Olympic related and other major sporting pace. events. “We believe no other state has as much of “The 2002 Winter Games still holds the dis- a sports brand as Utah,” Robbins said, not- tinction of being the last Olympiad to take ing that since 2002, more than 400 sporting place in the United States,” Robbins noted, events have taken place across Utah. “The adding that the Salt Lake Games were the Winter Games were a great opportunity and largest Winter Olympiad ever held up to that we were honored to host the world. In the past date, and also set records in broadcasting and decade, we’ve been the ‘keeper of the flame’ marketing revenues. by taking that experience and building on that success. Looking back, Utah was the right Robbins explained that while Utah’s winter place for the Games, and that legacy is stron- event schedule has grown since 2002, there ger than ever.” are several legacy-related, non-winter events that have blossomed as well. “You can focus on downhill skiing but there are only so many cups and championships, so it’s limited,” he said. “Instead, we have been focused on the idea of creating a broader legacy, bringing all types of sports to Utah. On that front, we have succeeded in broadening our legacy.” He explained that for a post-Olympic Games scenario, certainly in the U.S., what the state has been able to do is broaden the appeal of Utah using a public-private partnership. “We are now commemorating the tenth anni- Today, the downtown is more developed, there versary, but we also have an eye on the future. is now light rail to the airport, a major train The 2002 Winter Games served as an incred- service from Ogden to Provo is being put in ible platform to position Utah and establish place, and many other infrastructure improve- the state as a real player in the global sports ments have been made since the Games. community,” Robbins added. “The right word for the Winter Games is catalyst.” As part of its Olympic legacy, today Utah is “From a hosting point of view, Utah is prob- viewed not only as a location to host major ably in a better position to host a Games now sporting events, but also as an entity that than it was in 2002,” Robbins said. has created a major sports infrastructure, a  76 | G8SUMMIT2012

PLANNING FOR THE GOLDEN YEARS: Is your nest egg global enough? by Carl R. Gustaveson, Attorney at Law, Utah MEDICAL CARE PLANNING As the population of the industrialized nations contin- Many states, including Utah, have developed a statu- ues to age, and various nations around the globe are tory advanced directive for health care. These forms looking at the sustainability of their social safety nets, generally include directions to a physician as to your more and more aging individuals are going to need to healthcare wishes when you are not able to commu- plan for their golden years. Individuals, to feel secure nicate your wishes yourself, similar to a “Living Will.” and comfortable in their retirement years will need to The advanced directive also allows an individual to plan their finances, including their estate plans, their designate someone to communicate with healthcare medical care, and even make arrangements for their providers and make decisions for them. final funeral expenses. PLANNING FOR THE INEVITABLE FINANCIAL PLANNING While Americans tend to avoid the reality of death Many have looked to the promises of government to and discuss it as little as possible, the best deaths are take care of them in their old age. Americans have when families can come together and remember their looked to the programs of Social Security and Medi- loved ones, telling stories and crying together without care as their retirement plan. Today, these programs the stresses of planning and paying for a funeral when look more and more tenuous as the average age of they are emotionally vulnerable and when the expense Americans increases. This puts more strain on the is not planned. system. It’s hard to prepare for the end of life and to look at all Individuals should look to plan for their own retire- the issues involved. It’s hard to prepare for your own ments, and the earlier a person begins, the better. end of life and for that of a loved one. However, there With the help of a good Financial Planner, or based are costs associated with every decision at life’s end. on one’s own knowledge, one can live by the principal But, the emotional and financial hardship can be eased of spending less than what you earn and put away for considerably through proper planning. one’s retirement. This is a simple principal, but one few live by consistently. “Today, there are preneed financial products that can be purchased as a type of insurance plan with monthly ESTATE PLANNING payments that can cover funeral expenses. These contracts are regulated by the state and kept at the In considering an estate plan, one must consider their funeral home for the consumer’s protection, so that an goals. One must consider if tax planning is needed, if individual’s wishes are known and so that funds can be one is planning for the care of minor children or other immediately available for a funeral’s expenses.” Valerie individuals, if one is trying to avoid the expenses and Gustaveson, PreNeed Counselor. complexities of probate, plan for a potential incapacity, or any other legitimate considerations in planning. CONCLUSION In considering an estate plan, a question that is inevita- As the demographics of the industrialized world are bly asked is “What’s better, a will or a trust?” Either shifting to an older population and there are fewer one is better than nothing. For the vast majority of workers supporting a greater number or retirees, clients that I have had, I have recommended to have inevitably, government benefits to the elderly will be both. Even though I prefer, as an estate planner, to use reduced. It is up to the individual, for their sake, and a trust to pass property, a will is still needed in Utah for for the sake of their families to plan for the later years a deceased parent to indicate to a Court their prefer- and for end of life. ences for a guardian for their children. Also, a will allows property that was not placed in trust, to be dis- Through planning, a person can reduce the stress and tributed by the terms of the trust after being probated. burden often associated with caring for an aging par- ent or other relative or friend. One can bring peace into their lives and the lives of their loved ones by proper planning.

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