3:21:17 PM | 11/26/2020
The German Business Association (known as “GBA”) celebrated its 25-years anniversary Gala in Vietnam.
More than 300 guests, representatives of the member corporations, long-standing friends and partners celebrated together with board members from affiliated Business Associations and Chambers of Commerce Mr. Nguyen Thanh Phong, Head of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee shared meaningful words in his speech, underlining the importance of the German Business Association for strengthening and shaping the good relationships between Vietnam and Germany. The German Ambassador, H.E. Dr. Guido Hildner held a festive keynote.
GBA Co-Chairman Alexander Goetz stated “2020 is not only a special year for our GBA, but marks also 30 years of the reunification of the Federal Republic of Germany and 45 years of Vietnamese-German diplomatic relationships. Since diplomatic relations were established, the two sides have built stronger connections through trade, investment, and co-operation.”
The Anniversary Gala was originally planned for the beginning of June but had to be postponed due to the global pandemic. The event was planned by the GBA Board to give back to the members with a reflection of the 25-year journey of the association. Very popular among the guests was the backdrop formed of the logos of the 300+ members of the GBA, which invited the guests to take pictures with their team.
Besides German delicacies, also locally produced delights were highly appreciated by the guests, such as a Gin produced in Ho Chi Minh City and high-quality Vietnamese Chocolate. The program involved all guests with an engaging Quiz and awards for outstanding members of the GBA community, and a dance performance bringing German Oktoberfest vibes into the ballroom. With special German dishes such as “Sauerbraten”, a marinated and slow-cooked beef dish from central-southern Germany and the iconic Currywurst, especially the non-German guests were given a taste of Germany. Wines from the German Federal State of Rheinland-Pfalz complimented the menu perfectly.
Looking back at the Gala, Ms Do Van Anh Thu (Anlee), Vice-Chairwoman of the GBA who was deeply involved in the planning states: “The success of organizing this event comes from the commitment and a great team work of every member in the project team. The Gala reflects a good journey, many achievements and valuable lessons that the community will always remember.
The German Business Association – the GBA – founded in 1995, approved and licensed by the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City in 1998, is the voice and advocate of German businesses in Vietnam, fostering bilateral socio-economic relations between the two countries. The GBA is one of the longest established business associations and a founding member of the EuroCham Vietnam. Over the period of 25 years, the GBA has been the center point of German business life, culture and values in Vietnam. The GBA currently represents more than 300 corporations and works for the best possible market environment and conditions for German companies in the country. It acts as a competence center for its members, facilitating helpful information on business in Vietnam and establishing new contacts within the local community.
Nguyen Mai (Vietnam Business Forum)