Speeches, Remarks & Statements in 2009

 

Opening of McDonald’s in Tetovo

Remarks by Ambassador Philip T. Reeker

May 30, 2009

As Prepared

 

Thank you Vlado Jenevski, Sveto Janevski, Zoran, Zoteri Etemi, Karen Bishop from McDonald’s, and other distinguished invitees, staff and future guests.  I want to say that I truly appreciate the invitation to join you on this occasion.
I remember well the opening of the first McDonald’s in Macedonia, in 1997 in Skopje.

As you all know, I am fond of saying that Macedonia has no better friend than the United States.  It’s a pleasure for me to do so, and it’s true – the United States and the Republic of Macedonia have been partners in promoting education, infrastructure development, stabilization, and economic prosperity for the people of Macedonia. 

I often speak of the investment that the people of the United States have made in Macedonia – including nearly one billion dollars in assistance from the people and government of the United States since this country’s independence. 

Moreover, the American commitment to Macedonia is enshrined in the Joint Declaration of Strategic Partnership, which we entered into just over a year ago, and which remains a key component in our country’s relationship.

It is a commitment also symbolized in the opening of our new embassy just down the road in Skopje.

You have heard me talk about these things because these connections and commitments are important to our countries.  They strengthen the already strong ties between us, and have the very real benefit of encouraging economic development here in Macedonia, and among the people of the region.

It is such an honor to be the Ambassador of the United States; in fact, McDonald’s slogan sums it up well:  “I’m lovin’ it!”

This event today in Tetovo is fun because the opening and expansion of such an iconic American brand as McDonald’s reminds us all what we are working for:   Our greatest success is when people get together and share aspects of their culture, their economies, and the very fabric of their lives.

McDonald’s has been an innovator in American business and culture, with consistent growth and expansion overseas; new products and approaches with a focus on quality for its employees and guests alike. I wish to congratulate McDonald’s and its franchising team here in Macedonia for their decision to showcase an American icon here in Tetovo. 
Faleminderit për vëmendjen! Urime për MekDonalldsin!

Blagodaram za vaseto vnimanie!  Cestitki za MekDonalds! Congratulations to McDonald’s!