Deputy Chief of Mission Kathleen Hanson gave remarks at the July 24 launch of the Tunisia E-Business Network. The U.S. government awarded the Tunis Chamber of Commerce a grant of $250,000 to create and launch this digital web-based platform for Tunisian exporters to facilitate international trade transactions in Mediterranean and global markets.
The Tunisia e-Business Network platform creates a new communication channel between exporting companies, Chambers of Commerce, and financial institutions (banks and others) that provide credit and overdraft facility to finance export activities and investment in these companies.
E-Business Platform link: www.tunisia-ebusinessnetwork.com
Tunisia e-Business Network Platform Press Conference
Deputy Chief of Mission Draft Remarks
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Tunis (CCIT)
July 24, 2015
AS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY
Good morning. I want to thank the President of the Tunis Chamber of Commerce Mr. Mounir Mouakhar, and all of you for taking the time to join us here today.
Tunisia has joined the family of democratic nations and has moved from a period of transition to a period of consolidation of its democracy. Tunisia continues to shine as a bright example, not just to the region, but to the world, of what can be accomplished through dedication to democracy, consensus, and an inclusive political process.
For this democratic transition to be successful requires a set of strong democratic institutions as well as economic growth. This journey has not been without its setbacks. Tunisia has suffered through two horrific attacks this year. But when sad and tragic events like these occur, I have been so impressed by the way Tunisians pull together and unite as a nation against terrorism.
As Tunisia continues its journey, The United States is committed to helping Tunisia – and the Tunisian people – secure a peaceful and prosperous future. You have many friends. On this occasion, I want to acknowledge the commitment of each and every one of you. Thanks to your individual and collective efforts.
I offer my special thanks and appreciation to the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Tunis (CCIT), Mr. Mounir Mouakhar, and all the members of his team for their tireless hard work, creativity, and extraordinary efforts to bring the Tunisia e-Business network Platform alive.
The United States is proud to partner with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Tunis (CCIT) in creating this pioneering virtual marketplace in Tunisia which aims to connect Tunisian companies with their foreign counterparts, the various chambers of commerce and financial institutions.
The U.S. government awarded the Tunis Chamber of Commerce a grant of $250,000 to create and launch a digital web-based platform for Tunisian exporters to facilitate international trade transactions in Mediterranean and global markets. The platform aims to strengthen the opportunities of Tunisian companies and boost Tunisia’s economic growth. Economic growth will in turn help create jobs and pull the country forward -and help ensure a bright future for Tunisia’s youth. The Tunisia e-Business Network platform creates a new communication channel between exporting companies, Chambers of Commerce, and financial institutions (banks and others) that provide credit and overdraft facility to finance export activities and investment in these companies.
The Tunisia e-Business Platform also provides its members with access to web-based videoconferencing technologies, online banking systems and business management tools. These services will be made available to approximately 5,000 Tunisian exporting companies.
This platform will be an opportunity for businessmen to meet, exchange experiences, and develop their activities. It will also serve as a vehicle for international tenders, partnership announcements, business events and opportunities and other useful information to promote business growth As President Obama said, “I want the President and the people of Tunisia to know that the United States believes in Tunisia, is invested in its success, and will work as a steady partner for years to come.” The U.S Government is committed to working with the Tunisian Government and different Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Tunis to stimulate economic development and create jobs both on the short and long terms.
It is my pleasure to be here today on this very special occasion as you launch this platform. Congratulations again and thank you.