Andreas Mindt succeeds as Bentley’s Design Director

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Andreas Mindt succeeds as Bentley’s Design Director

In the picture Bentley’s Director of Design, Andreas Mindt.

Monday, 1 March 2021, Crewe, United Kingdom:Bentley Motors announced beginning of work duties for Andreas Mindt as Director of Design. He succeeded Stefan Sielaff.  With more than 25 years of automotive design experience, all within the Volkswagen Group, Mindt was most recently Head of Exterior Design for Audi. In this six-year period, he oversaw the exterior design evolution of the breadth of the Audi model range, and the launch of the premium SUV coupé, the Audi Q8, and the e-tron, Audi’s very first full-electric production model.  

Working at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, UK, Mindt will lead a team of approximately 50 design experts with responsibility for the exterior, interior and colour and trim design for the full current and future Bentley product portfolio, concept and showcars. Commenting on his new role, Andreas Mindt, said as per full statement below: “Bentley is a jewel within the Volkswagen Group. Designing a car, and a future, is always a process based on the performance of many, not one, and so I look forward to working with my colleagues to help define the next phase for Bentley, into an electrified future.”

Bentley Motors is the most sought after luxury car brand in the world. The company’s headquarters in Crewe is home to all of its operations including design, R&D, engineering and production of the company’s three model lines. 

For further information 
https://www.bentleymedia.com/en/newsitem/1177-bentley-appoints-new-director-of-desig#images

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Image of Andreas Mindt by Bentley Second / image by Varenia Griebel 

Australian courtesy call with NRW’s Dr. Speich

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Australian courtesy call with NRW’s Dr. Speich

Picture by Landesvertretung Nordrhein-Westfalen, Michael Setzpfandt.

Tuesday, 2 March 2021, Berlin, Representation of North Rhine-Westphalia to the German Federation:NRW State Secretary for European and International Affairs, Dr. Mark Speich received the Australian Ambassador, HE Philip Green, for an inaugural visit at the ’embassy’ of Germany’s most populous federal state located in Berlin-Tiergarten.

In addition to becoming acquainted to each other personally, the talks served to deepen political and economic relations, in particularly with the focus on Australian technological know-how, hydrogen derivates, the relations of NRW to the Indo-Pacific regions, and the situation of free trade during the ongoing pandemic.  

Ambassador Green is the Australian head of diplomatic mission in the Federal Republic of Germany since Wednesday, 11 November 2020. He is likewise accredited to the Swiss Confederation since 24 November 2020, and presented credentials in the Principality of Liechtenstein virtually on 29 October 2020.  

Philip Victor Green has previously served as Australian Head of Mission (i.e. High Commissioner) in Singapore, South Africa and Kenya. He holds a Bachelor of Arts with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Sydney.  

For further information 

 
Government of NRW: https://mbei.nrw/de/australischer-botschafter-zu-gast-der-landesvertretung 

Embassy of Australia in Germany: https://germany.embassy.gov.au/beln/aboutus.html  

NRW and Serbia held talk about future in the EU

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NRW and Serbia held talk about future in the EU

Image by Landesvertretung Nordrhein-Westfalen, Michael Setzpfandt

By Henri Estramant.


Tuesday, 2 March 2021, Berlin, Representation of North Rhine-Westphalia to the German Federation:NRW State Secretary for European and International Affairs, Dr. Mark Speich received for a bilateral meeting, the Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia, HE Dr Snežana Janković. 

The topics of the working meeting were the relations between Serbia and North Rhine-Westphalia, in particularly the bilateral trade, the status of Serbian citizens living in NRW, and chiefly the accession process of Serbia into the European Union, which NRW normally supports. 

Ambassador Dr Snežana Janković (b. 21.12.1970) has been Serbia’s top diplomat in Germany since 24 October 2019. In addition to her native Serbian, she is fluent in English, German and Japanese languages. She holds a doctorate degree in Philological Sciences from Senshū University, Japan. 

Dr Snežana Janković began her diplomatic career in 1997. Her previous ambassadorship was based in Bern before the Swiss Confederation (2014-2019), and non-resident head of mission to the Principality of Liechtenstein. 

For further information: 
Government of NRW: https://mbei.nrw/de/serbische-botschafterin-zu-gast-der-landesvertretung
Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in the Federal Republic of Germany: http://berlin.mfa.gov.rs/ambassador.php

Swarovski’s swan takes flight

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Swarovski’s swan takes flight

A long-standing beacon of the brand’s own self-expression, the Swarovski Swan is reimagined through the filter of the Wonderlab, Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert’s imaginary crystal world. In her own words, “The Wonderlab is where science and magic meet, where extra and elegance collide, it is a feeling of wonder that everyone should experience as we invite them into our new world at Swarovski.” 

As part of this world, the Swarovski Swan turns to face the brand’s new direction head on, poised to take flight. Evolving from its most recent iteration, it takes on a streamlined form – with an elongated neck and positioning crafted to reinforce the brand’s ever-forward momentum.

Symbolically, the Swan represents the beauty of nature and eternal love, a sentiment mirrored by Swarovski’s love of crystal. In adapting while staying true to its iconic emblem, Swarovski reinforces its pride for heritage as well as its vision for the future. 

The finishing touch of Swarovski’s new brand icon comes in the form of a candylike octagon wrapping. Representing rebirth, the octagon is an immediate nod to a faceted crystal, evoking the unrivalled craftsmanship of Swarovski’s master cutters.  

INSTANT WONDER – A FEAST FOR THE SENSES 

The Swarovski Wonderlab comes alive with the unveiling of 28 Instant Wonder stores in key global markets. Beginning with Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II held on 23 February 2021, a further 27 store openings will follow across North America, Europe and APAC— including new locations in Paris and New York. 

For further information  

https://www.swarovski.com/en-DE/

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Images Credit: Alessandro Saletta – DSL Studio 

Geopolitical Genesis Strategic Monitor 2020-2021

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Geopolitical Genesis Strategic Monitor 2020-2021
Yesterday, HCSS and the Clingendael Institute presented their Strategic Monitor, “Geopolitical Genesis: Dutch Foreign and Security Policy in a Post-COVID World”, providing insight into trends and developments in world politics.

The two Dutch think tanks stress that the time is now for Europe to adopt a more assertive geopolitical stance as a nascent world power, this being the only way to safeguard the Dutch and European interests and values.

 Download the Strategic Monitor here
The report describes six major challenges that the Netherlands and the EU will face in the post-corona world over the next ten years, and provides recommendations for Dutch foreign and security policy to meet these varied challenges.

These recommendations provide a global blueprint for future Dutch foreign and security policy, both to help strengthen the EU’s status as a burgeoning global power and to effectively tackle the complex challenges of today and the next decade. 
“This Strategic Monitor underlines our own analysis and makes the need for Dutch investments in security and therefore also in defense crystal clear,” Minister Bijleveld commented. “This cabinet has taken a good first step, but more is needed. We must not look away from the growing threats and changing relationships in the world. We must face it and act accordingly.”
Researchers Danny Pronk and Jack Thompson from the Clingendael Institute and HCSS presented the Strategic Monitor “Geopolitical Genesis: Dutch Foreign and Security Policy in a Post-COVID World” to the Minister of Defense, Ank Bijleveld, who also received it on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Hong Kong’s rebuffs exclusion from 2021 Index of Economic Freedom

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Hong Kong’s rebuffs exclusion from 2021 Index of Economic Freedom

Thursday, 4 March 2021, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR): A governmental spokesman as per statement below, expressed deep disappointment and serious dismay at the Heritage Foundation‘s decision to exclude Hong Kong from its 2021 Index of Economic Freedom.

“The decision is neither warranted nor justified. It does not do justice to the HKSAR, which topped the chart as the world’s freest economy for 25 years out of the Index’s 27-year history”. 

“The HKSAR enjoys a high degree of autonomy over its economic and trade policies as enshrined in our Basic Law”.

The spokesman said that the HKSAR Government would continue to uphold Hong Kong’s institutional strengths, including the rule of law and independence of the judiciary, a simple and low tax system, an efficient government, a free trade and investment regime and a level-playing field for all so as to create a favourable environment for business to thrive and enable the economy to prosper.

 “As a sophisticated international metropolis highly connected to the world, Hong Kong has been playing a unique role as a gateway, a springboard and an intermediary between China and the rest of the world. We will continue to leverage on the advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ to consolidate our position as an international centre for finance, commerce and trade as well as a home for corporate headquarters. We have every confidence in Hong Kong’s long-term economic development.”

The 2021 Index of Economic Freedom report was released by the Foundation on March 4, 2021, analysing the level of economic freedom of 178 economies. Hong Kong was not included in this report.

For further information:
https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202103/04/P2021030400626.htm

A World of Solidarity

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A World of Solidarity

The Corporate Sustainability Review

The CSR 2020 Edition available online

In this CSR’s edition a group of experts examine how the Caribbean is addressing the Sustainable Development Goals, and the impact of the pandemic on critical issues of food security, health care and social inequity – particularly in access to online education.

Digitisation also features in trade as manufacturers reposition for SME growth; and in Guyana Technip-FMC is contributing to skills development as the energy sector takes shape.

Hear from leaders…

  •  Lawrence Arjoon, new CEO of the Heroes Foundation
  • Ambassador Patrick Gomes speaks on the ACP States and SDGs
  • Diana Francis of IICA speaks on Food Security
  • The TTMA is leading the conversation on export growth

Corporate Stories…

  •  Atlantic’s response to Covid-19
  • ANSA McAL pulls together as family
  • bpTT’s million-dollar drive amidst the pandemic
  • NGC tackles sustainability  
  • Shell T&T transforms stakeholder relationships
  • Nestle focuses on health and well-being

Opinions & Features…

  • Integrating The SDGs into Corporate Sustainability Strategy – from Kyle Santos
  • CARPHA’s holistic response to Covid-19 – Saarah Khan
  • Human Trafficking & Sexual Exploitation – from Juanita Headley
  • Sustainable Food Business at Adam’s Bagelry – Tisha Mahraj  

And more…

ORDER PRINTED COPIES HERE > marketing@virtual-bizservcies.com

“75 Years of Friendship” Anniversary: Light Installation at the Behrensbau

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“75 Years of Friendship” Anniversary: Light Installation at the Behrensbau

Tuesday, 2 March 2021, Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia: Her Britannic Majesty’s Ambassador to Germany, Jill Gallard, paid a visit to the NRW State Chancellery which marked her inaugural visit to the most populous German federal state since assuming her ambassadorship on 11 November 2021 in Berlin.

She was accompanied by the British Consul General in Düsseldorf, Rafe Courage, and received by NRW Minister of European and International Affairs, Dr. Stephan Holthoff-Pförtner. Together the trio gave the starting signal for the anniversary celebrations between NRW and the UK by virtue of witching on the light installation with the logo “75 Years of Friendship” projected onto the Behrens Building is the prelude to a whole series of events, competitions, discussion rounds and other encounters.

The year 2021 is to be a festival of freundship – despite the ongoing pandemic. Ambassador Jill Gallard affirmed that the two countries are “closer than ever before”. She is certain: “We will further expand and strengthen the friendship: As close trading partners, in many town and school partnerships and as regular visitors to each other’s countries.” It is now a matter of working “together on a new chapter of our long friendship”. 

Both sides also see the celebrations as a signal at a time when headlines about the onerous consequences of Brexit dominate the public image: Relations between the UK and North Rhine-Westphalia are bright. Two key figures: No other federal state has as many British residents as North Rhine-Westphalia – 20,700 citizens. Over 1400 British companies operate in North Rhine-Westphalia. The state government’s celebrations of North Rhine-Westphalia’s 75th birthday on 23 August will also be a highlight in the year of the friendship anniversary.

Consul General Rafe Courage, Ambassador Jill Gallard and Minister Dr. Stephan Holthoff-Pförtner, Picture by Land NRW, Ralph Sondermann.

For it was the British military government that launched North Rhine-Westphalia in 1946 under the code name “Operation Marriage” by merging the northern part of the Prussian Rhine Province and the Province of Westphalia. “We know how much we owe to the British,” emphasised Europe Minister Holthoff-Pförtner at the start of the anniversary celebrations. “After the United Kingdom’s departure from the Customs Union and the Single Market, we will make our relations even closer. I am convinced: together we will remain Europeans.” Holthoff-Pförtner also emphasises that the United Kingdom – a country with a permanent seat on the UN Security Council – will remain an important partner in shaping international policy.

For further information:

 
Ministry of European and International Affairs of NRW: https://mbei.nrw/de/pressemitteilung/europaminister-stephan-holthoff-pfoertner-und-botschafterin-jill-gallard-eroeffnen

British Consulate General in Düsseldorf – responsible for NRW, Hesse, The Saarland and Rhineland-Palatinate (Consul General Rafe Courage): https://www.gov.uk/government/people/rafe-courage.de

Courtesy call by Ambassador Kafka in NRW representation

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Courtesy call by Ambassador Kafka in NRW representation

In the picture Ministre Dr. Stephan Holthoff-Pförtner and Ambassador Tomáš Kafka – Picture by Land NRW.

Tuesday, 23 February 2021, Düsseldorf, State Chancellery of North Rhine-Westphalia to the German Federation: On behalf of the Premier of NRW, Minister of European and International Affairs, Dr. Stephan Holthoff-Pförtner received the Czech Ambassador to Germany, Tomáš Kafka.

Dr. Holthoff-Pförtner called for a constant search for unity in the growing Europe and not to let ideas of Western, Central and Eastern Europe become dividing lines. “Europe – it is like three strands that have to be braided into one plait,” said Holthoff-Pförtner following Kafka’s inaugural visit to the State Chancellery. According to Kafka’s signals during the talks in Düsseldorf, the Czech Republic sees itself as a bridge builder between East and West. The ambassador emphasised his country’s role as a mediator and suggested that the relationship between the entire region and Germany be deepened even further.

Relations between North Rhine-Westphalia and the Czech Republic are very close. Culturally and economically. During their meeting, Holthoff-Pförtner and Kafka emphasised above all the common cultural and historical roots. The Minister was impressed: Tomáš Kafka has translated literary texts by Heinrich Böll, Günter Grass as well as works by his namesake Franz Kafka (no relation to the Ambassador) into Czech. The diplomat is considered a great lover of German literature.

The economic ties are also close. The Czech Republic ranks twelfth among North Rhine-Westphalia’s trading partners. The foreign trade companies CzechTrade and CzechInvest serve the entire Federal Republic from Düsseldorf and organise regular events in cooperation with NRW.Global Business, such as a business regulars’ table and network meetings dealing with the conditions for start-ups and energy policy.

Around 5200 Czechs have found a home in North Rhine-Westphalia. In three town twinning arrangements, the grown relationships are also driven forward by personal networks: Hilden maintains close contact with Neustadt a.d. Mettau, Rheinbach with Steinschönau, Salzkotten has a partnership with Bystrice pod Hostýnem.

The Czech Republic and North Rhine-Westphalia are also united by a current political concern: they are counting on the speedy start of accession negotiations with the states of the Western Balkans. Kafka and Holthoff-Pförtner confirmed this during the ambassador’s inaugural visit.

For further information:


Ministry of European and International Affairs of NRW: https://mbei.nrw/de/pressemitteilung/tschechischer-botschafter-zum-antrittsbesuch-der-staatskanzlei-des-landes-nordrhein

Ambassador Kafka: https://diplomatmagazine.eu/?s=Tomas+Kafka
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75 years of Freundship between NRW and the UK

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75 years of Freundship between NRW and the UK

Wednesday, 24 February 2021, NRW-UK: Premier of North Rhine-Westphalia, Armin Laschet exchanged views with the Foreign Minister of the United Kingdom, The Rt Hon Dominic Raab via video link.

In addition to the decades of intensive bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and North Rhine-Westphalia, the talks also dealt with perspectives for cooperation with the United Kingdom in the field of foreign and security policy at national and EU level. Other topics of discussion included the Corona pandemic, the UN Climate Change Conference COP26 and the upcoming start of the anniversary year in which North Rhine-Westphalia and the United Kingdom celebrate 75 years of friendship. Both have agreed to deepen the close cooperation between the two countries. 

Premier Armin Laschet as per statement below: “North Rhine-Westphalia’s founding history is fundamentally linked to the United Kingdom. This year we look back on 75 years of relations – from the founding of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia to the present day. The citizens here still share a close bond with our British friends today. Now that the United Kingdom has left the European Union, it is important to build on this friendship and continue to fill joint projects, partnerships and perspectives with life.

Especially in times of the Corona pandemic, the exchange with our international partners is important in order to learn from each other’s experiences in coping with the pandemic. Beyond the challenges of this pandemic, it is indispensable that North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany and the European Union work closely with the United Kingdom to also address future challenges that affect the entire continent.

In this context, dealing with China and Russia is also of key importance.” Dominic Raab has been Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom since July 2019 and, as First Secretary of State, is de facto deputy to Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Previously, Raab was Minister for Exiting the European Union, so-called Brexit Minister.

In addition to the bilateral exchange between Premier Laschet and Foreign Minister Raab, virtual talks have taken place this month with the Ambassador of the United Kingdom Jill Gallard, with State Secretary for Federal and European Affairs and International Affairs Dr. Mark Speich, and the Head of the State Chancellery, State Secretary Nathanael Liminski. 

Cooperation between North Rhine-Westphalia and the United Kingdom

Close, friendly relations have existed between North Rhine-Westphalia and the United Kingdom for almost 75 years. More than 20,000 Britons live in North Rhine-Westphalia. There are currently more than 130 twinning arrangements. Around 129,000 employees in North Rhine-Westphalia work for British companies. Close economic ties are maintained by around 1,500 British companies in North Rhine-Westphalia and over 400 North Rhine-Westphalian companies in the UK.

The economic contacts are actively supported by the British Chamber of Commerce Germany, which has a headquarters in Düsseldorf with the North-Rhine Westphalia Chapter, and NRW.INVEST, which is based in the UK. The year 2021 is a special year for the friendship between North Rhine-Westphalia and the United Kingdom. Together with the citizens of the state, the government of North Rhine-Westphalia and the Consulate General of the United Kingdom in Düsseldorf will celebrate this 75th anniversary of North Rhine-Westphalia with various formats and events.

For further information 
Ministry of European and International Affairs of NRW: https://mbei.nrw/de/pressemitteilung/bilaterales-gespraech-von-ministerpraesident-armin-laschet-mit-dem-britischen

Her Britannic Majesty’s Embassy to the Federal Republic of Germany (HE Ambassador Jill Gallard): https://www.gov.uk/government/people/jill-gallard.de

British Consulate General in Düsseldorf – responsible for NRW, Hesse, The Saarland and Rhineland-Palatinate (Consul General Rafe Courage): https://www.gov.uk/government/people/rafe-courage.de

Main image: Design by Land NRW and Britische Botschaft Berlin.

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