Text 1204, 65 rader
Skriven 2005-07-19 23:33:16 av Whitehouse Press (1:3634/12.0)
Ärende: Press Release (0507195) for Tue, 2005 Jul 19
====================================================
===========================================================================
Video Remarks by the President: 2005 African Growth and Opportunity Act
Forum
===========================================================================

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 19, 2005

2005 African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum
Dakar, Senegal
Video Remarks by the President


˙˙˙˙˙Fact Sheet

July 18, 2005

On behalf of America, I send greetings to the people of all the African
nations represented at the AGOA Forum. I am grateful to all of you who have
traveled far to discuss our shared vision for an Africa that is home to
democracy, prosperity, and opportunity.

This is a hopeful moment in the history of Africa. The governments of many
African nations are being transformed. Many African economies are vibrant
and growing. In Sub-Saharan Africa as a whole, economic growth is now at
its highest level in eight years.

An important part of Africa's rising prosperity is the African Growth and
Opportunity Act, or AGOA. This wise legislation is reducing barriers to
trade, increasing exports, creating jobs, and expanding opportunity for
Africans and Americans alike.

AGOA is getting results. Political reforms in Africa have inspired
confidence among American investors. Last year, U.S. exports to Sub-Saharan
Africa increased 25 percent - and America's imports from AGOA countries
rose 88 percent. The success of AGOA is proving that open trade and
international investment are the surest and fastest ways for Africa to make
progress. So last year, I was proud to sign a law extending the benefits of
this vital program.

Over the next several days, you will discuss further ways to expand and
diversify trade, so we can sustain economic growth. I am confident that
your efforts will lead to greater interest and investment in AGOA nations.
You will also be offered practical information about meeting U.S. export
requirements and entering U.S. markets. As part of America's long-term
commitment to increased trade with Africa, I intend to launch the African
Global Competitiveness Initiative, which will give a record number of
entrepreneurs access to the information and advice they need to succeed in
business and foreign trade.

I appreciate the good work you are doing, and I look forward to our
continued partnership on AGOA. Africa is a continent of promise and talent,
and opportunity - and together we will help the people of Africa realize
the bright future they deserve.

Thank you very much.

###

===========================================================================
Return to this article at:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2005/07/20050719-5.html

 * Origin: (1:3634/12)