Text and Photo by Philippines Norway Business Council
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As expected, the Networking Luncheon of PNBC held on 19 January 2012 was again a smashing success! See picture from event here.
50 members trooped to the event’s venue; at the I’m Angus Steak House in Yakal St., Makati City. The attendees spent the first few minutes to exchange pleasantries and enjoy the welcome drinks before PNBC President and Director of NTC-Manila, Mr. Stein Eriksen, requested everybody to find their seats. Mr. Eriksen briefly gave welcome remarks and a few updates/announcements regarding PNBC’s upcoming activities, among others the coming AGM in April 2012 and Norway’s National Day celebration on May 17.
Mr. Eriksen then proceeded to introduce Mr. Kjell Sundsli, Senior Vice President, Orkla ASA, Singapore, who gave a presentation on the challenges and opportunities for Norwegian companies doing business in Asia.
Interesting discussions followed, with the Norwegian Ambassador, H.E. Knut Solem also providing his own insights. Among others, he remarked that, “the success stories of Norwegian companies currently in the Philippines can provide enlightening lessons on how the others can likewise succeed here.”
“Finding the right partner is one key element”, Mr. Solem said.
The floor was also given to Mr. Steinar H. Korsmo, President and CEO of UK-based Seed Forum, who presented on a planned event on 05 June 2012 in Manila that would present some Norwegian SMEs and start-up companies wanting to attract Filipino capital into these new business ideas.
As it had been with the previous networking luncheons of PNBC, the relevancy of the topics discussed and the active networking of people even while they pleasurably partake of the fabulous gastronomic delight contributed greatly to the overall success of the event.
We thank all the members and guests who attended. We hope to see you again in the next PNBC event.
