Remarks by the Ambassador
Remarks at the Opening of General Motors Manufacturing Plant
John Beyrle, U.S. Ambassador to Russia
St. Petersburg, Russia
November 7, 2008
Mr. President, Madame Governor, Mr. Forster and distinguished guests.
I am very pleased and honored to be here today to celebrate with you the opening of this new General Motors Automobile Manufacturing Plant. This plant is the result of a shared vision by the leaders of GM. The Russian Federation and the Government of the City of St. Petersburg, followed by years of years of planning. cooperation, and hard work. You see the results of that work here today.
-This plant brings together American investment and the newest American automotive innovations and technologies with the best Russian engineering talent. – a powerful combination.
-It will bring new jobs, opportunities and a better future for the people of this region.
It is a long-term commitment. GM and other great American companies believe that Russia has a promising economic future, with growing prosperity ahead. Our companies can help Russia move more quickly into that future.
American investment has been growing at a rate of fifty percent a year. Two-way trade between Russia and the United States now exceeds $26 billion, and two-way investment is approaching $20 billion. We believe this investment will continue to grow, benefiting the people of this region and adding to the prosperity of both Russia and America.
In a global economy, our futures are linked together. We suffer together when the economy is down - but when we work together, our economies rise together and we prosper together.
Our countries also share a common commitment to free trade, economic stability, and economic policies which encourage investment and innovation.
Russia and America have differences, like all great countries, but we have no differences that cannot be resolved by good will and continuing dialogue.
This plant shows how much we can accomplish when we combine our talents and work together.
I would like to thank President Medvedev and Governor Matvienko for creating
the business environment which has attracted GM and many other American companies
to St. Petersburg. And congratulations and best wishes to Carl-Peter Forster and
the whole General Motors team on the launch of this new facility.
