Embassy Press Release

Remarks of Ambassador Nicholas F. Taubman on the Official Handover of Automobile Craiova to Ford Motor Company

Craiova, Romania,
March 21, 2008

Ambassador Nicholas F. Taubman presenting his remarks at the official handover of Automobile Craiova to Ford Motor Company (Lucian Crusoveanu / Public Diplomacy Office). Craiova, March 21, 2008.

Mr. President, Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Mayor, Mr. Fleming, distinguished ladies and gentlemen: I cannot tell you how pleased Mrs. Taubman and I are to be here today to mark this moment with you. Ford si Craiova. I like the sound of that. It just sounds right. I tell you, this is exactly the place I wanted to be when I came to Romania over two years ago -- to celebrate one of the largest American investments ever in the history of this country!

These are heady times. Who among you would have imagined twenty years ago that Bucharest would play host to the NATO Summit or Ford Motor Company would once again produce automobiles on Romanian soil? Romania and its people suffered through long decades of deprivation, but now you're catching up for lost time with a vengeance. There's an old advertising slogan in the U.S. that says, "You've come a long way, baby!" Well, I think it applies here.

I want to congratulate you, Mr. Fleming, for selecting Romania as the site of Ford in Europe's latest and most modern manufacturing facility. I understand that Craiova will be Ford's largest new plant in 36 years! Mr. Fleming, I know that you will swiftly discover some very fundamental truths about this country, as did I. You probably know them already. Romania is a country blessed with abundant agricultural lands and rich energy and mineral resources. But Romania's true wealth is its people. Skilled, innovative, creative, Romania's human capital is turning this country into a major player in the region and beyond.

Ambassador Taubman (Left) talks to Romanian President Traian Basescu (Center) and John Fleming, CEO Ford Europe (Right). (Lucian Crusoveanu / Public Diplomacy Office). Craiova, March 21, 2008.

Mr. Fleming, I promise you this: the more you get to know your employees here at Craiova, the more you'll be glad that Ford has returned to Romania.

Ford's investment in Automobile Craiova represents a significant vote of confidence in the Romanian business environment and in Romania's place in the global economy. With this milestone, Romania continues to advance its vision of an export-driven, modern industrial sector that will create new jobs, boost productivity, and foster economic development. Ford's presence will have a broad, ripple effect on Romania's economy as a whole, spurring growth and serving as a magnet for further investments.

Ford si Craiova. It's going to be a great relationship, and I am incredibly happy to be here at the start. Thank you!

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