Diplomatic Network (Asia)’s diplomatic and private sector guests discussed the art of storytelling in business at Thursday’s May DNA networking lunch.
This month’s DNA lunch was held at Chikuyotei, the renowned Japanese restaurant located on the ground floor of the Intercontinental Singapore.
During the lunch, Andreas Kraemer, the general manager of Intercontinental Singapore, sparked an engaging discussion on the art of business as storytelling. Kraemer shared his vision of business as more than just transactions, but rather as a storytelling opportunity to be shared with others.
DNA networking lunch attendees
Among the distinguished guests of honor at the event were the Japanese ambassador, His Excellency Hiroshi Ishikawa; the Panamanian head of mission, HE Enrique Villegas Gonzalez; and the Portuguese ambassador to Singapore, HE Excellency Mario Duarte.
When asked about his most memorable experience during his four years serving as Portugal’s main diplomat in Singapore, Ambassador Duarte responded, “Last night at the swearing-in of Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister, His Excellency Lawrence Wong. I was witnessing history in the making and felt extremely honored.”
The transition of power in this Southeast Asian country must be seen as a unique opportunity and a model for modern democracies in the 21st century.
In addition to Kraemer, other attendees of May’s lunch included DNA members such as Han, a director at tour company EU Holidays; Sasha Kalil Jabbar, a sales manager at hotel Four Seasons; and Dainial Lim from Xignam, a company specializing in the processing of immigration applications for executives interested in moving to Singapore.
Wine and dined
Guests toasted with sake provided by Chikuyotei’s chef-owner, Nakakita Yoshihiko, who is also a DNA member. The soothing drink was paired with a specially prepared menu of Japanese delicacies, which received high praise from the attendees. South African wines were also served by South African Wine Cellar.
The occasion was not only an opportunity to exchange business cards but also to strengthen relations between participants and diplomatic guests.
For the ambassadors present, this kind of interaction with the Singaporean business community has become an important tool for fulfilling their official duties in the country, and they expressed their gratitude to DNA for facilitating such opportunities.
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