Philadelphia, PA -(November 5, 2001) U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA) Director Thelma Askey launched the 2001 U.S.-Africa Business Summit by outlining TDA's strategy at the Opening Plenary Breakfast. In addition, TDA hosted a delegation of over twenty African officials from eleven countries and conducted four standing room only specialized infrastructure workshops, as well as serving on other panels and hosting several agribusiness project sponsors. These workshops highlighted projects of significant priority for TDA client countries in Africa in the areas of energy and power, transportation, telecommunications, the environment, and agribusiness, which hold strong export potential for U.S. firms.

"TDA's participation in the U.S.-Africa Summit provided valuable opportunities for American businesses to meet with and foster relationships with senior African officials and company directors on key projects for this emerging regional market," commented Director Askey. "The opening of our office in Johannesburg, South Africa, later this fiscal year, will continue to provide a vehicle for U.S. businesses to have a significant presence in the Africa Region. I am honored to have taken part in the Corporate Council on Africa's quality event and look forward to the increase of opportunities for our American businesses."

TDA role epitomizes the Bush Administration's high priority on Africa, and carries out a dual mission of supporting overseas development projects and promoting U.S. exports. Since the agency's first African grant was signed in Tanzania in 1981, TDA has invested over $78 million in funding for activities that encourage further economic development in the entire Africa region. This investment has translated into over $1.7 billion in exports for American companies.

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.

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