The Philippine Business Council – Abu Dhabi (PBC-Abu Dhabi) successfully marked its presence at the recently concluded Global Glass Show (GGS) 2023, where it showcased the myriad potentials of Filipino businesses, with an emphasis on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
Positioned at booth 153, the PBC-Abu Dhabi offered a vibrant display of the organization, its members, and the standout work of several Filipino businesses, promoting growth and fostering connections within the community.
Serving as a representative of the Filipino business community, Prof. Gau G. Raganit, the chairman of the PBC-Abu Dhabi, stood as a beacon of insight and experience at the GGS 2023 conference. He delivered a critical address on “Effective Interregional Collaboration: Strengthening Bilateral Relations,” offering a meticulous breakdown of the significance of bilateral ties in the current geopolitical landscape.
Drawing from a rich pool of recent economic data, Prof. Gau initiated his speech with a powerful statement: “Numbers talk.” He went on to spotlight the economic progress reflected in the trade figures between several nations, including UK-Philippines and UAE-Israel partnerships, illustrating the tangible benefits born of strong bilateral relations.
In a fervent call to nations worldwide, Prof. Gau emphasized the necessity of international cooperation in tackling the contemporary challenges that transcend borders. He articulated, “It is through these collaborations that we can create a more prosperous, vibrant, and peaceful future for all.”
Highlighting the complexities in achieving effective collaboration, he acknowledged potential hurdles such as historical conflicts, trade barriers, and cultural differences, urging for an acknowledgment and collaborative action to overcome these. He underscored the foundational role of bilateral relations in fostering broader cooperation, anchored in open dialogue, trust, and a shared commitment to common goals.
Prof. Gau delineated a strategic roadmap towards enhanced interregional collaboration, emphasizing the establishment of dialogic frameworks through bilateral agreements and joint committees, which he termed as “platform[s] for regular engagement.”
He advocated for capacity building through educational investments and cultural exchanges, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures, which he viewed as potent tools in strengthening bilateral ties.
“By removing barriers to trade, encouraging foreign direct investment, and facilitating the exchange of goods and services, nations can create a win-win situation,” Prof. Gau remarked, indicating the substantial economic growth it fosters along with closer ties.
Furthermore, Prof. Gau pointed to the salient role of business organizations and private entities in fortifying bilateral ties, identifying avenues such as technology transfer, corporate diplomacy, and Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives in fostering the well-being of local communities.
Closing his speech, he called for a commitment to shared values including respect for human rights and democracy. He fervently expressed, “By working together to promote and protect these values, nations can build a foundation of shared ideals that strengthens their bilateral relations and serves as a catalyst for broader collaboration.”
In a stirring conclusion, Prof. Gau urged for a concerted effort towards collaboration, holding a vision of a “better world for all,” birthed from understanding, trust, and cooperation forged through strengthened bilateral relations.
