GTS ‘02

German-Thai Partnership

‘JJ’ Jeremy Johanson

Thailand and Germany have maintained strong bonds of friendship and partnership for over 150 years. German economic presence is very active in Thailand, with help from the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce. Over 500 German companies have offices or production plants here.

The reality of these strong German-Thai relations can be seen at this year’s GTS exhibition, the German Technology Symposium, taking place at the Queen Sirikit Convention Center from November 12^th-16^th. 181 German organisations will be on-hand, presenting their expertise with 84 technical presentations, starting with governmental institutions, industry leaders like DaimlerChrysler, BMW & Siemens and many SME’s.

In addition, 20 educational bodies will promote German Studies at the GTS. Many of these schools offer their curriculum in English and study is even more attractive in Germany because of the absence of study-fees.

HRH Princess Sirindhorn has already confirmed her visit to the exhibition. Prime Minister Taksin is also expected.

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	Andreas von Stechow Ambassador – Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany “The Federal Republic of Germany is firmly committed to continue to develop in all fields; politics, economy and also social cultural relationships, even more intensive partnerships with the Kingdom of Thailand. This year’s highlight was the visit of our president and included political talks with the Royal family, the Prime Minister and his government. Next year we envisage in particular to sign an agreement on commerce with the Thai Government and have a bi-lateral commission in that field taking up it’s work. Also, we are very proud to announce that we now have almost 4 billion dollars in turnover, in bi-lateral business relations and they have reached the same levels as before the crisis of 1997. Therefore the German economy has just decided to have their next Asia-Pacific meeting with all the major CEO’s from Germany coming to Bangkok in 2004. This shows the confidence that Germany has in the economic development of Thailand.”
	Somphong Wanapha Secretary General – BOI “Germany and Thailand have very close relations in terms of economics, particularly in the investment area. German investors are our major investors and we would like to see more German investment in Thailand, particularly in the areas of automotives, electronics, as well as in the areas of Hi-Tech and IT.”
	Sumate Tanthuwanit President – German-Thai Chamber of Commerce “This year the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce is going to organise the GTS, as we do every 3 years. This is an occasion where Germany transfers new technology to Thai Society and it’s the best time for Thai people to learn about new technology for developing our country. One of this year’s highlights is the establishment of the Thai-German Economic Commission, to enhance further economic co-operation between our 2 countries.”
	Stefan Buerkle Chief Economic Advisor – German-Thai Chamber of Commerce “The Seventh German Technology Symposium & Exhibition (GTS02) is being held at a time when Thailand’s economy is experiencing a strong recovery. Thailand is now reaping the fruits of having used the economic crisis of the late 1990s as an incentive to modernise its society and economy. Furthermore, Thailand has taken measures to complement the traditional export orientation of its economy by an additional focus on tapping the reservoir of its big local market, which also leads to new opportunities for German investors. The pending completion of the ASEAN Free Trade Association (AFTA) will establish Thailand firmly as the hub of a vast market of over 500 million consumers. This all is a good sign for Thailand’s economy and, therefore, for the success of GTS02.”
	Dr. Katharina Von Ruckteschell-Katte Director – Goethe Institute “Without culture, without cultural exchanges between nations, you wouldn’t have peace, you wouldn’t have friendship. This is one of the only areas where there is no competition. Every nation has it’s own culture and everyone has interest in other cultures. So in the end, culture is the best way to make friends between nations and achieve peace. At the GTS this year, many Universities and educational institutions will present their programs. This includes the German Academic Exchange Service, overseeing scholarships and study information. They also promote the program “Hi potentials”, attracting students to study in Germany. There is a study information office at the Goethe-Institut. This service attracts more and more people to study in Germany, as there are more and more Universities offering programs in English and there are no fees charged for studying in Germany. In addition to this on Nov. 15th there will be a huge student party at the GTS venue (QSNCC) where the German pop Group “Unicycleman” will heat up the air and will present not only music but also “hiphop comics” on a big screen.”