In January 2015, the German Asia-Pacific Business Association (OAV) established an Experts Group comprising representatives from the government and private sector, think tanks and academicians. The group began a study to look at how Germany could play its role as economic player in the ASEAN region more effectively. The study produced a set of recommendations, which was submitted for the consideration of the German Federal Government.
A handing over of the final paper took place at the Office of the Representation of Bavaria to the Federation in Berlin on 13 April 2016. The event was attended by representatives from the Federal Government, OAV member companies and ASEAN embassies. Mr. Timo Prekop, Executive Member of OAV’s Board, delivered a presentation outlining key findings of the Expert Group’s study. Copies of the Experts Group’s paper was handed over the the Secretary of State at the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy Mrs. Brigitte Zypries, State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Development and Cooperation Mr. Hans-Joachim Fuchtel and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the Federal Foreign Office, Ambassador Norbert Riedel.
*Photos courtesy of OAV