Alan Larson
Under Secretary for Economic, Business, and Agricultural Affairs
Welcoming Remarks at
Partnership for Prosperity
Senior Executive Roundtable on Corporate Citizenship
San Francisco, California
June 9, 2003

(As prepared)

Welcome to the Corporate Citizenship Roundtable. We're here to discuss the important role that U.S. and Mexican enterprises and institutions play in advancing the goals of the Partnership for Prosperity -- to boost the social and economic well-being of Mexican citizens, particularly in regions where growth has lagged -- while helping U.S. firms and suppliers identify new partners and expanded markets in Mexico. But at this Roundtable we're going to go beyond bureaucracies and the traditional bottom line.

The private sector can make an enormous contribution to the development of Mexico and the well-being of its citizens. We're here to heighten awareness of the ways in which companies can contribute to the Partnership for Prosperity by integrating social values with everyday business practices. We're here to discuss the private sector's commitment to best practices and corporate responsibility.

The business partnerships we have forged between American businesses and institutions and Mexican businesses and organizations have never been more important. These partnerships make a vital economic contribution, provide a positive response to the Bush and Fox Administrations' initiative, and are also a positive force for community outreach, development and change.

The U.S. and Mexican business communities have a strong commitment to investing in the local communities in which they operate. The private sector has done a tremendous amount of good. Whether it's creating jobs and wealth, investing in education and welfare, environmental programs, philanthropy or volunteerism, we know that corporate social responsibility and corporate financial performance are positively linked. Organizations can do well by doing good.

Let's begin by hearing about some of the benefits of corporate citizenship from representatives of both Mexican and U.S. businesses. Then, we're interested in your views and your ideas for projects under the Partnership for Prosperity; we need your support as we move forward to further integrate private sector programs and activities into the Partnership framework. Finally, we'll announce a way that both the United States and the Government of Mexico hope to highlight the Partnership for Prosperity and establish a legacy of best practices.

[End]

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