THE setting up of the Belgian honorary consulate office in Penang will further strengthen bilateral ties between both sides, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
He said Malaysia and Belgium had maintained their ties based on trust and mutual respect since diplomatic relations between both countries was established in 1975.
“I am delighted to be here to commemorate the official opening of the consulate, as well as the appointment of honorary consul to Penang Michel Van Crombrugge.
“This is another addition to Penang’s growing community of foreign representatives.
“I look forward to more robust engagements between the state and the respective diplomatic missions in the future,” he said in his speech during the diplomatic reception in Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Hotel tonight.
Chow warmly welcomed the setting up of the Belgium consulate in the state. He pointed out that Penang’s future was bolstered by its position as one of the country’s key economic backbones.
“Our exports are dominated by electrical and electronic (E&E) and semiconductor products.
“We are confident there are plenty of opportunities for Penang, particularly those arising from global supply-chain reconfiguration, and the emerging industries.
“We extend our arms to welcome Belgian companies to consider Penang as their operational base and manufacturing site.
“We will scale new horizons and bring new opportunities for the benefit of our nation,” he said.
Belgium Ambassador to Malaysia Pascal Gregoire expressed his gratitude to Chow for being present.
He said the establishment of a consulate in Penang was timely for both sides.
“I am looking forward to further strengthening our ties and mutual interest,” he said.
Van Crombrugge also thanked Gregoire for the trust given to him to spearhead the consulate in Penang.
“I hope to have a fruitful relationship with all the stakeholders in Penang,” he said.
Also present were Chow’s wife Tan Lean Kee, state executive councillors, consul-general of Japan in Penang Hiroyuki Orikasa, consul-general of Thailand in Penang Raschada Jiwalai, and consul-general of Indonesia in Penang Bambang Suharto.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian