PH Envoy Cites Accomplishments of PH ASEAN Chairmanship and Pitches “Build Build Build” to Austrian Business Community

14 December 2017 VIENNA – Philippine Ambassador to Austria Maria Zeneida Angara Collinson delivered an opening speech at “ASEAN/China: The New Global Economic Power”, a forum for businessmen organized by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber on December 05. Dr. Christoph Leitl, President of the Chamber, Mr. Michael Otter, Director of Advantage Austria, and Chinese Ambassador to Austria Li Xiaosi delivered opening speeches as well.

In her speech, Ambassador Collinson highlighted the focus of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship on connectivity and micro, small, and medium enterprises. She also noted that ASEAN is currently the “center of gravity” in terms of economic growth. She also encouraged Austrian companies to take part in the Philippine government’s “Build Build Build” flagship infrastructure development project, citing the advantage of Austrian companies in this particular area.

Rustan’s Supercenters Incorporated CEO Mr. Bienvenido “Donnie” Tantoco III was also present at the event as a keynote speaker on doing business in ASEAN. During his presentation, he cited the experience of the Rustan’s group as a luxury brand in an emerging economy, while at the same time presenting Philippine economic fundamentals.

Several panel discussions and a networking reception with the ASEAN Embassies followed the event. END

For more information, visit www.viennape.dfa.gov.ph/ www.philippine-embassy.at.