ARLINGTON, VA - (December 11, 2001) U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA) Director Thelma J. Askey announces the selection of Morocco as the 2001 Country of the Year.

Director Askey made her first visit to Morocco and the Middle East from December 4 - 10, and met with senior officials of the government of Morocco and the private sector. During her visit, Director Askey presented the award to Mr. Fathallah Oualalou, Minister of Economy, Finance and Tourism in a ceremony at the Ministry. U.S. Ambassador to Morocco Margaret Tutwiler attended the ceremony.

This year, Morocco received 18 grants from TDA totaling over $2.5 million, and was a worldwide leader in the number, effectiveness, and diversity of projects in five key sectors: environment (especially water supply and wastewater treatment), transportation, oil and gas, electric power, and information technology.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency promotes American private sector participation by helping U.S. companies pursue business opportunities in developing and middle income countries. Through the funding of feasibility studies, orientation visits, specialized training grants, business workshops, and various forms of technical assistance, TDA helps American businesses compete for infrastructure projects in emerging markets. In addition, the agency promotes capacity building initiatives and supports U.S. government trade, economic policy and development objectives around the world.

Back to Press Releases