KSB Pumps Arabia - Mr. Ralf Kannefass Board Member KSB Germany Speech

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, my name is Ralf Kannefass and as a member of the KSB board responsible for worldwide sales and service, it is a big pleasure to be here at this very important day. First, I would like to express our appreciation to His Excellency Mr. Gajala, the German ambassador to Saudi Arabia. I also want to thank Mr. Muhammad Al Nanyang, chairman of the board, and Mr. Abdulaziz Al Abana Yong. I welcome His Excellency Mr. Huttle, as well as Mr. Saeed bin Mohammed Al Ghamdi, Mr. Ali Hisagi, Mr. Mohammed, and Mr. Naif Nasra. It is a huge pleasure to have you here, and I deeply appreciate being part of this ceremony. Finally, I thank all KSB colleagues for their hard work on this plant renovation. I am very happy that we stand together in times when it would be easier to wait and see, but we go ahead and believe in what we are doing in this great Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As a world-leading manufacturer of pumps, KSB is focused on providing excellent products and services globally. We take our aftermarket business strategy very seriously, especially in this region. Providing customers with high-quality products and satisfactory services is not just a slogan; the expansion and renovation of our plant in Riyadh proves it. Local content is essential for the kingdom's economy, and it comes from the heart of our business. I could not imagine doing service from anywhere else but locally. We are discussing multiple setups rather than relying on only one. I am pleased with our established water business in your country. As someone with an oil and gas background, I would also like to see more of our products and services in this oil-rich nation. I see you nodding in agreement, and that gives us good reason for further discussion. I was deeply touched by the story you mentioned about your father. God bless him; he was building his dream and his country's dream together with us as a technology partner. I am honored to meet you, Mr. Hood, and to be your partner. The best proof of KSB's commitment is that we invest not only when the sun is shining but also when the sandstorm is near. This plant is one of many to follow, strengthening our business in the region, especially service, which keeps assets running and customers happy. With your friendship and cooperation, we are convinced we will walk into a bright future. I am very confident, given the great people at KSB and in this joint venture with the Al Nanyang family, that we will make this a success. Thank you again to this great audience for coming on this stormy day. Let us have a great evening with fruitful discussions. Thank you very much.