EVANS DELIVERS ON PRESIDENT BUSHS
COMMITMENT TO AFRICA
Pursues Opportunities In Ghana with U.S. Business
Delegation
U.S.
Secretary of Commerce Don Evans today urged American companies to
answer President Bushs call and use the power of free markets
as a tool against poverty. Against the backdrop of a hospital that
treats children infected with HIV/AIDS, Evans praised U.S. companies
that give back to the communities where they do business.
The
Princess Marie Louis Childrens Hospital here lacked basic equipment
and appropriate plumbing and heating until U.S. companies, including
the Boeing Company, stepped in with financial support.
When
American companies do business overseas, they bring the American values
of service, volunteerism and social responsibility, said Evans.
Businesses have the power to play a big part in unlocking prosperity
and providing hope for the people of Africa, and it is projects like
this that illustrate the impact of good corporate practice on the
lives of people around the world.
Also
today, Evans witnessed an $80 million signing agreement between Lemna
International Inc. of Minneapolis, Minn., a trade mission participant,
and Ghana Water Company. The contract will expand and rehabilitate
the drinking water systems of Sunyani and 16 other towns and villages,
providing clean drinking water to millions of people. Evans and business
delegation members also met with Ghanas President John Kufuor.
Evans
arrived in Ghana from Morocco, where he met with King Mohammed VI
and other senior members of the government to further trade. President
Bush announced earlier this year his desire for a free trade agreement
between the U.S. and Morocco.
On
Thursday, Evans and the business delegation will travel to South Africa,
where they will meet with senior government officials and members
of the South African business community.