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Dear Members,
The beginning of every year is the perfect
time to look back and evaluate and reflect
on our past, formulate goals for the future
and reassess objectives as we reshape our
vision. We at the Chamber have done the
exercise and as a result we have renewed our
commitment and are determined to make 2008 a
year of opportunities for all and work
incessantly for the United States-Mexico
relationship and to build upon our
historical and cultural differences and
maximize them, not in opposition to, but in
cooperation with every people in both sides
of our borders
Last year was characterized by change.
Mexico started 2007 a with a new beginning,
New Perspectives, new formulas, a brand new
message was launched, a new President,
cabinet members and administration start the
arduous journey to face the many challenges
ahead while engaging a brand new congress
and all Mexico and friends of Mexico
inviting us to contribute in the
construction of a new day in our countries
relationship.
The U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce was
privileged during 2007 to host events and
conferences with a number of those newly
elected and appointed government officials.
Amongst them, the head of Petroleos
Mexicanos (Pemex), the Mayor of Mexico City,
officials from the Ministry of Finance and
the Ministry of Economy as well as members
of Mexico’s diplomatic community. Not only
did we hear from them about their plans and
programs, but we had the opportunity to
discuss and contribute with ideas and
recommendations trying to enhance the
business environment in Mexico and
strengthen the commercial relationship with
the United States. We will continue working
in the same direction of getting involved in
the decision making processes that impacts
the investments climate, the exchange of
goods and services, as well as the social
and economic liaisons between our two
countries.
We have also taken important steps towards
the diversification and the widening of the
scope of our events in order to cover the
requirements and preferences of all our
members. Last year was characterized by the
organization of several panels of experts
and seminars that went from topics such as
the U.S. Hispanic market and the real estate
sector in Mexico, to more specialized
subjects such as alternative investments and
private equity. We also explored new areas
for the Chamber, by successfully organizing
and holding events on Information Technology
and Mining, amongst others.
2008 represents a very challenging year. The
slowdown of the U.S. economy and its
expected effects on the Mexican one will
pose important challenges to our members and
their local and cross border business and
operations. The Chamber will, more than
ever, focus its efforts in bringing,
organizing and developing initiatives,
forums and programs worthwhile for our
members in order for us together strengthen
business, cooperation and initiatives that
should have an impact in our own business
and communities. We are sure that with you
support and contribution we will be
successful in achieving this goal.
I would like to personally wish you the best
for this year and to confirm our commitment
to partner with you to reaching your
company’s goals and objectives in 2008.
Sincerely
Eduardo Ramos-Gomez
President |
