Forum’s standing is boosted by Tory leader’s backing

Nov 21 2007 By The Journal

IN a testament to its standing, The Asian Business Forum North-East (ABF) has been backed by the leader of the Conservative Party, David Cameron.

This year’s high-profile annual ABF dinner will be the biggest ever, signifying the largest ever single gathering of Asian business people in the North-East.

The event will also include a keynote speech from Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, vice chair of the Conservative Party.

Speaking at a reception event on Tyneside last week, Mr Cameron said: “The ABF North East is an excellent association for the region.

“It not only highlights the importance and achievements of Asian businesses in the North-East, but it also helps such businesses engage with the wider community and discover new opportunities.

“I am very pleased to hear that our very own Baroness Sayeeda Warsi will be present to give an informative speech at this year’s ABF dinner.”

Needless to say, we are delighted to have the backing of a high-profile figure such as David Cameron.

The ABF was set up to make a real difference to the way in which Asian business is viewed in the North-East and support from such a high profile figure is very encouraging.

The ABF helps its members in business by way of networking to help establish new and beneficial relationships. Establishing and maintaining these relationships can be vital to success.

This year’s Allied Irish Bank (GB) ABF annual dinner will be a formal black-tie event held at the Gateshead Hilton on Sunday, November 25.

I’m proud to say that the effort for the event has paid off and the tickets for the dinner were snapped up in less than two weeks.

I must say, we have only achieved this level of success because of the help of our sponsors, both past and present, and we look forward to collaborating with many of them again in the future.

With the mention of sponsors, I would like to congratulate Paul Tognarelli who was recently promoted and now heads up the Newcastle branch at Collingwood Street of Allied Irish Bank (GB) and also thank Martin Rankin whose assistance has been invaluable in organising this event.

This is an excellent opportunity for Asian businesses in the North-East of England to come together.

Additionally, the ABF committee will actively be helping at the dinner to make introductions and answer questions about membership and future events.

Yaqoob Mohammed is marketing coordinator for the Asian Business Forum.