Secretary's Speech

U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez Remarks to U.S.-Poland Energy Roundtable
Washington, D.C.

Thank you. It is a privilege to welcome you all to the Commerce Department for this important energy roundtable. This meeting is a continuation of our ongoing Economic and Commercial Dialogue, and I'm pleased to host you here in the U.S. capital.

A Great Friend and Ally of the United States
The United States enjoys a broad, historic relationship with Poland. We share core values of freedom and democracy, and we have long partnered with the Polish people in efforts to bring security and prosperity to our world. And Polish-Americans have made lasting contributions to our country.

In recent years, that friendship has increasingly extended into an economic relationship. Consider these facts:

• In 2005, U.S. foreign direct investment in Poland totaled $666 million.
• U.S. exports to Poland last year totaled $1.2 billion.
• Total imports from Poland equaled nearly $1.9 billion.

I visited Poland in January of this year, and had a thoroughly productive and enjoyable visit. In September it was a privilege to meet with your Prime Minister here in Washington.

The level of exchange, dialogue and respect between our nations on issues of commerce, security and freedom is unparalleled, and truly sets an example for international bilateral relations.

Poland has been an important ally in the War on Terror, placing soldiers on the ground in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Recently, Poland committed an additional 1,000 troops to help combat the Taliban resurgence in Afghanistan.

The fight for freedom from oppression is one I personally share with the Polish people. My Cuban heritage has placed me in a unique position to speak out about the hardships placed on the Cuban people by Castro's regime.

I have used the experience of the Solidarity Trade Union in Poland as one of many examples, which the Cuban people might employ to achieve a democratic state. We hope Cuba has the opportunity to learn from Poland's example.

Creating a Foundation for Greater Economic Growth
Since the revolution, Poland has steadily moved toward a freer society and a more open economy that embraces the free market, and allows industry to innovate and prosper.

To continue competing on the global playing field, Poland must build greater transparency, predictability and continuity into its markets and government practices. These values are crucial to attracting international investment.

Companies must know that their commercial agreements will be upheld and that if not, the rule of law will protect them.

Additionally, the courts must react with precise and swift justice in dealing with corporate malfeasance. Without this certainty, Poland runs the risk of discouraging international investors and preventing its economy from realizing its full potential.

Diversifying Energy Sources
Today we are here to specifically discuss energy, an issue of tremendous economic and national security.

When global energy markets are volatile and regional stability is in flux, it is essential to begin pursuing options which will diversify sources and create a more stable and sustainable energy supply.

Coal has long been the most important source of energy in Poland, accounting for 66 percent of the country's overall energy supply. The coal industry is one of the nation's largest industries and employers.

However, the challenge of reducing emissions of carbon and sulfur dioxide to meet EU emissions abatement objectives has put Poland in a position to pursue diverse sources of energy.

But Poland has had to look outside its borders for diverse energy sources. 90% of the oil used in Poland is imported. 70% of the natural gas is imported.

Today's roundtable provides an opportunity to discuss diverse sources of energy in Poland and provides a networking forum to move forward with partnerships and plans for the future.

Poland's 20-year energy policy strategy, passed last year, is an important step in the overall pursuit of energy diversification. The advancement of nuclear energy, clean coal technologies and biofuels, and the further exploration of oil and gas will help Poland augment its current energy resources well into the 21st Century.

This is not an issue Poland faces alone. The United States is in a similar pursuit of diversity and self reliance, and we are pleased to work alongside you in this important endeavor.

Today's roundtable brings together leaders in the energy sector from Poland and the United States. We hope this meeting sparks important dialogues on issues of sustainability and energy diversification.

We in the U.S. hope to learn from the experiences of our Polish friends. We also hope it creates profitable commercial partnerships which will benefit both nations.

Now it is time for government to step out of the way, and industry leaders to meet directly and do what they do best: Create jobs, create wealth and innovate.

Thank you and best wishes for a productive day.