Australia ambassador pitches trade, tourism
By John Redmond
Australian Ambassador James Choi
Australian Ambassador James Choi stressed the importance of cooperation between Korean and Australia in the fields of trade and tourism Friday.
At the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AustCham) Mid-Year Sundowner at the Australia Centre in Seoul, Ambassador Choi spoke of successful talks between President Moon Jae-in and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on issues of trade and tourism at the recent G20 summit in Germany.
Attended by 100 representatives of local and international businesses, the evening saw a chance for the ambassador to welcome and congratulate the business community for its efforts in improving trade between Korea and Australia.
“We have companies taking the lead in looking at export opportunities in the Korean market,” Choi said, “enhancing the awareness of Australia here in the Korean market and building those people-to-people links that become the bridge, the foundation of a future relationship.”
Choi highlighted the 30,000 Korean students currently studying in Australian schools and universities as well as the growing tourism industry.
“We currently have over 300,000 Korean tourists visiting Australia, the highest recorded number yet,” Choi said.
Following the speech, members were invited to sample a selection of foods, beers and wines from Australia.
AustCham Korea represents Australian and Korean business interests. The organization was formed more than 20 years ago with more than 250 members. AustCham aims to promote Australian businesses in Korea by providing information, connections and representation.