Dynamic Discussion on Geopolitical Developments and Global Trade at IBFA Lunch

Maggie Feng Attends IBFA Lunch in Amsterdam 

On 14 February,  Maggie Feng, CEO of Wittenborg, attended the International Business Foundation Amsterdam (IBFA) lunch meeting hosted at the Amsterdam Conference Centre Beurs van Berlage. The event gathered together over 60 senior executives from various industries, including representatives from IN Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum and others, for a discussion on the geopolitical challenges reshaping global trade.

Throughout the event, attendees had the privilege of hearing from Ed Kronenburg, a seasoned diplomat and expert in international relations, who provided expert analysis of the current geopolitical developments and their implications for global trade. Vincent Knoops, Chairman of IBFA, echoed Kronenburg's sentiments, emphasising the importance of adapting business strategies to thrive amidst geopolitical uncertainty.

Feng expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to engage in vibrant discussions and exchange ideas with fellow industry leaders. "The IBFA lunch is a tradition, a moment that promises inspiration, a table full of interspersed guests is assured, and a hardworking team behind the scenes is a must."

She congratulated Kronenburg, the former Dutch ambassador who lived in Paris and Beijing, on his work, stating further: "Let’s focus on what we have in common, let’s collaborate internationally to battle with challenges facing the entire human race: climate change is one among the challenges… Focusing on the common ground & mutual benefit can help us to gain peace, happiness, and prosperity."

The Managing Director of Continental Europe, Denelise l'Ecluse, accompanied Feng and later added, "We need to continue to look for connections and synergies in the reality of today."

Senior Manager of Corporate Partnerships at the Van Gogh Museum, Urita Mual also attended the event, saying that her key takeaway was "to focus on common ground and how we should all work together in tackling global issues such as climate change".  

About IBFA

IBFA, the International Business Foundation Amsterdam, was founded in 2001 by a group of business people and local government representatives to bring together senior executives of international corporations with offices in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area.

Since then, through its interactive meetings, IBFA has established itself as a leading platform for the region’s international business community.

Its aims are to provide its members with an attractive and informal meeting venue and to help communicate the views of international business to local and central government. 

WUP 23/02/2024

by Erene Roux

©WUAS Press