On September 30th, 2011, ECCIL celebrated its Grand Opening in the premises of the German embassy. The event attracted some 250 guests, among them representatives from the Lao government, ambassadors and European trade counselors, EU representatives, and leading members of the European and Lao business community.
The reception started with short speeches from the designated German ambassador, Mr. Robert von Rimscha, the French ambassador, Mr. François Sénémaud, and Mr. David Lipman, ambassador of the European Union. These were followed by speeches from Dr. Nam Vinyakhet, minister of industry and commerce, Mr. Kissana Vongsay, president of LNCCI, and Guy Apovy, president of ECCIL.
The formal part ended with the granting of honorary ECCIL membership to the French and German embassies as well as to the EU representation.
The more informal part of the evening saw in a very pleasant atmosphere networking, making acquaintances, as well as reviving old friendships among the guests.
The event was sponsored by the EU, the German and French embassy as well as by Nam Theun 2 Power Company Ltd. and Pernod-Ricard.