PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS doo - American Chamber of ...

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American Chamber of Commerce in Croatia YEARBOOK 2010
Dear AmCham Members and Friends,
I am honored to have the opportunity of addressing the AmCham membership in the annual yearbook.
I consider the AmCham to be one of the U.S. Embassy’s strongest partners in tackling the economic
and commercial issues that affect U.S. and other foreign investment and trade in Croatia. So it is with gratitude
and encouragement that I recall what we have accomplished together in the past year and point to what
remains to be achieved.
It has been an eventful year in Croatia. With a new Prime Minister and a new President, the country
has taken important steps in the fight against corruption and toward the economic reform that is necessary
to achieve the competitiveness and attractiveness to investment that will provide growth and prosperity as
Croatia approaches European Union accession. As I said in my first major address after my arrival last year
delivered at the AmCham, EU membership is not a panacea to the economic problems that Croatia faces,
but simply an important step on the path toward successful participation in the global marketplace.
AmCham can and should continue its efforts to impact and inform the implementation of meaningful
economic reforms. As we all know, a sound regulatory and legal framework is the foundation on which
firms must rely when deciding to invest. I and my commercial and economic staff will also continue to
advocate for an improved business environment, fairness and openness in commercial transactions, and
expanding the American business presence in Croatia. Together we can help create and nurture a growing
and vibrant economy to match the great potential of Croatia and its people.
I look forward to continuing the U.S. Embassy’s partnership with AmCham and to the contributions
we will make in the coming years to Croatia’s growth and success.
With best regards and high hopes,
James B. Foley