Back to Amsterdam

My first impression of South Africa was a limited but very positive one. The people are extremely friendly, the food is amazing, the climate ideal and the country developed (albeit still very much unequally so). I have also come to experience the sporting madness the South Africans have. Currently the FIFA Confederation Cup is being held as well as a rugby tour of the British and Irish Lions. The love for both the Springboks rugby team and the Bafana Bafana football team is enormous!! Next year the party will really explode as the football World Cup will descend on the country. Stadiums, hotels and infrastructure are being prepared, of which the shiny new O.R. Tambo International Airport is but one example.

Networking

The second day of the IBLF consisted of several government and business presentations, among others one by our associate Rutger Koopmans in his capacity as member of the Dutch Trade board, as well as one on one meetings between delegates. During the last two days we have spoken with Russian, South African, Swiss, Korean and Indian delegates. South Africa certainly seems like a dynamic country with a lot of opportunities.

International Business Linkage Forum

The International Business Linkage Forum has been organised for the sixth year, this time in cooperation with the South African Department of Trade & Industry. The forum aims to bring businessmen together from around the world in order to stimulate partnerships and trade. The first day consisted of panel discussions and presentations about this year's core sectors: Mining, Hospitality & Tourism and Energy. The day ended with a gala dinner with delicious food, great wine and a swinging local band.

Ek es in Johannesburg

I've arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa where I will be attending the International Business Linkage Forum that is organised by our Indian business partners. It's my first trip to South Africa and indeed the continent of Africa itself. Unfortunately I'll not have time to see much of the city or the country, so hopefully it won't be the last visit!

Isn't he cute???