Seeking solidarity: EU Ambassador Barbara Plinkert

Barbara Plinkert, the EU's Ambassador to Singapore, is a staunch European and also a sinologist whose first big trip after high school in Germany was to China. The EU, she says, is an ongoing project.

Janice Heng

Published Sat, Jul 17, 2021 · 05:50 AM

Raffles Conversation

BARBARA Plinkert's term as the European Union's Ambassador to Singapore, which comes to an end next month, has included milestones such as the signing of the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA). But there are smaller highlights, too, such as the European Union Film Festival (EUFF) this May.

"For me, the EUFF this year was of particular importance," she says. The festival was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic, but returned this year, marking its 30th edition.

The EUFF "opens a window to Europe", says the diplomat. "It shows you the various facets of what Europe is like, the different countries, glimpses of specific aspects of each country. The landmark 30th edition of this festival was truly special in this very difficult time when travel remains a challenge."