MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON

Dear Members and Friends,

It is with great pride and honor that I accept the nomination and election to the position of Chairperson for the Australian Chamber of Commerce (Austcham) for the year 2021.

Austcham continues to be a sought-after and active voice in business affairs in Mongolia and it remains a key focus for Austcham to ensure full representation of our members at every opportunity.

This will be my 2^nd year serving on the board of the Austcham, and my first year as Chairperson.  The board and I look forward to meeting and talking with all our members in the coming months to update you on our 2021 business plan and get your vital input and feedback to ensure we tailor our services to fully serve our members.

Whilst Covid-19 continues to challenge our ability to commit to longer-term plans and events in person in the near term, we have structured our services and strategy to ensure we can deliver the maximum value to our members through our webinar series, our engagement on important matters of reform currently under process by the Government of Mongolia, our continued support of not for profit establishments that ensure less fortunate groups are supported during these difficult times and our ongoing dialogue with our members to strengthen the trade opportunities for Australian businesses and products in the Mongolian market, now and in the future.

I would like to reiterate the importance of listening to the advice on how to protect yourself, your family, and colleagues from the spread of this virus.

Practicing all health and hygiene initiatives will go a long way to limit the spread of the virus, and ensure the health and well-being of many at-risk persons in our community.  It will also limit the extent of the economic impact of reduced business as a result of the continued risk of the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

I would like to take this opportunity to cordially invite you all to attend one of our popular webinar series or reach out to us through our social platforms, and arrange an in-depth discussion with our board members or the Austcham management team to support your further business co-operation.

Last but not least, with almost every single member of the chamber and even though it is a difficult time for businesses, we felt your positive energy, your optimism, and your commitment to making this year a success despite all the turbulence. And we are here for you to help you in every way we can!

Thank you and stay safe!

Chairperson,

Julien Lawrence