Remarks of Ambassador Charles L. Glazer
Municipality of Chalatenango Grant Signing
April 28, 2008

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, it is an honor and a pleasure to be back here in Chalatenango.  Mr. Mayor, thank you for your kind hospitality.

I am  pleased to be with you on this pleasant occasion with another example of the commitment of the United States of America to the economic development and growth of El Salvador.

As you know, the Millennium Challenge Corporation is in the process of implementing an important compact for the Northern Zone.

Today’s event illustrates how the MCC’s efforts work in concert with the programs that other U.S. government agencies such as the Overseas Private Investment Corporation and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, can provide, to create even stronger incentives for trade and investment here in the Northern Zone.

Today,  a representative of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency is here to sign a grant with the Mayor, which I am very pleased to be here to witness. 

This grant builds upon and complements the MCC’s investments in El Salvador to improve local infrastructure, in the form of highways, electricity, water, communications, and business support services.

In the long run, this grant will also help to create jobs,  attract trade and investment, and ensure the longevity of the MCC’s investments.

Mr. Mayor, congratulations for your diligent work of addressing the needs of your constituency, and more broadly, the Northern Zone.

U.S. continues its dedicated partnership in promoting sustainable economic development and poverty reduction programs in El Salvador.

It is now my pleasure to introduce to you Mr. Larry Walther, Director of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency.  Mr. Walther was appointed as head of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency by the President of the United States.  He assumed his position in March of this year and brings a wealth of private sector experience to the agency.