Speeches 2004

June 14, 2004

Panama Day in Atlanta Business Luncheon Remarks by Ambassador Linda E. Watt

I am very pleased to participate in Panama Day in Atlanta, an event that provides visible evidence of the strong ties between Panama and Atlanta. I wish to repeat my earlier thanks for the important work of the U.S. Panama Business Council (USPA), the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and many other organizations both in Panama and Atlanta that played a key role in making this event such a success.

Panama Day is a great opportunity to broaden commercial and cultural relations between Panama and Atlanta, and by extension to the entire Southeast. It will also spread the good news about Panama as a business partner, tourism destination, and scientific and education center. It is my strong hope that through this conference, Georgians will build bridges of friendship and understanding with the dynamic country and warm people of Panama. I hope they will come to feel the same affection I have for that country.

Atlanta and the State of Georgia are rising stars in international business and continue to gain momentum as a leading destination for trade, investment and tourism. Atlanta offers a strong business, transportation, and hospitality infrastructure and has established itself as the leading commercial center in the Southeast. Atlanta’s diverse industry base, wealth of Fortune 500 company headquarters and world-class universities provide the corporate and educational strength to be a catalyst for international trade.

Over the last few years, the governments of the United States and Panama , recognizing common interest in the region, have moved forward on a dynamic agenda that strengthens our commercial and cultural ties. I am confident that this process will continue under the leadership of Panama’s President-elect Martin Torrijos.

Panama’s importance has increased as a global maritime nation, with the world’s largest flag registry, the Panama Canal, the busiest ports and the world’s second largest free trade

zone. U.S- Panama relations have been characterized by excellent regional cooperation in security and law enforcement to protect the global trade, logistics, and finance activities on which Panama’s and the world economy is based.

During President Mireya Moscoso’s meeting with President Bush in June 2003, the leaders of our two countries began the process that will lead to a Free Trade Agreement. Just last week the United States and Panama completed the second round of negotiations in Los Angeles and I am confident that with the strong commitment of both sides the Free Trade Agreement we will conclude negotiations and reach an agreement that strengthens both our nations.

The trade and investment opportunities fostered by Panama Day in Atlanta will bring increased prosperity to both the State of Georgia and Panama and will strengthen the historic links between the United States and Panama.

Thank you all for being here today. I hope you enjoy the program.