"We aim at strengthening trade and investment between Asia and Europe in both directions. And we need to reduce barriers to trade and investment," Lienhard stated. Value chains connect Asia and Europe in a much higher intensity as compared to ten years ago. This process needs to be accelerated towards further integrating Asian markets into the world economy. Today, research and development in business is international and needs to be close to the market and the customer.
"German industry is well positioned in Asia," Peter Loscher, the current APA-Chairman stated. "The guiding principles of APA -- partnership, innovation and sustainability -- fit well to the global challenges that need to be tackled jointly by the leaders from Europe and Asia-Pacific. It was a pleasure having been asked to chair APA in July 2010 and I will continue to fully engage in this task," Loescher assured. With the APA he sees a unique tool to guarantee a joint German business position towards Asia.
The share of Asia-Pacific of total German exports today amount to 14 percent, Asia's share of German foreign direct investment amounts to 10 percent. German companies experience the most remarkable growth dynamic in China, where last year more than six percent of German exports were directed to.
Hubert Lienhard, born 1951 in Southern Germany became CEO of Voith in 2008. Prior engagements include the global responsibility for the steam power plant business of ABB. Lienhard is closely associated to APA since 2003.
About APA
The Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business is the voice of German business active in Asia-Pacific. APA engages in the dialogue on economic policy with the German government and those in the Asian region. APA voices the concerns and interests of German companies' interests towards Asia-Pacific. APA strives for more intense cooperation with Asia-Pacific and helps promoting trade and investment in both directions. APA is an initiative of the industry association BDI, the German chamber network DIHK, the German Asia-Pacific Business Association, the German foreign trade association BGA and the German banking association BdB.
SOURCE Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business
Editor: PR Wire
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