Press Release

Statement by U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez and EC Vice-President Commissioner for Enterprise Güunter Verheugen

U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez and EC Vice-President Commissioner Güunter Verheugen, responsible for Enterprise and Industry, met today in Brussels, Belgium to discuss how to promote economic growth and policies that keep our economies flexible and innovative. They discussed the importance of industry, entrepreneurship and the role of the Trans- Atlantic Business Dialogue (“TABD”) in strengthening U.S.-EU relations.

“I want to thank Commissioner Verheugen for hosting me on my first international trip as Secretary of Commerce. We had a constructive meeting today about how best to create a transatlantic environment that promotes innovation, competitiveness and economic growth. I was interested in hearing Commissioner Verheugen's views on the Barroso's Commission's work to advance European growth and competitiveness under the re-launch of the “Lisbon Agenda.” A strong, vibrant Europe is a necessary and essential partner for the U.S.,” said Gutierrez.

“I am looking forward to closely working with Secretary Gutierrez and the new US administration. We share the view that governments have to set the right framework so that industry can create growth and jobs," said Verheugen. He added: “By removing barriers to transatlantic trade and investment, we will facilitate for our respective business communities to do so.”

In their meeting, Gutierrez and Commissioner Verheugen discussed how to use the U.S-EU relationship to reinforce our domestic agendas to create growth and jobs. They stressed the importance of the ongoing review of the U.S.-EU economic relationship, and contributions made by various stakeholders. In particular, they applauded the work of the Trans-Aatlantic Business Dialogue in focusing governments’ attention on several key issues, and committed their strong support to ensuring that the U.S. and EU government respond to the TABD's suggestions.

“I look forward to working closely with Commissioner Verheugen on our joint efforts to advance the barrier-free transatlantic marketplace, as supported by the TABD. We hope to have recommendations for joint action to deliver to President's Bush and Barroso at the next U.S.- EU Summit this summer in Washington,” concluded Gutierrez.