The gathering of American Chambers of Commerce in Europe for the exchange of best practices, held in Athens, proved to be an exceptional experience for the leaders of these chambers. The event culminated in the celebration of the organization’s 60th anniversary. The impeccable organization by AmCham Greece combined sessions where the best practices were shared, networking opportunities, and exclusive visits to innovative projects. The highlight was a grand gala evening commemorating the organization’s six decades of existence. Representing one of the 35 organizations in this extensive network was AmCham Albania, led by President Mr.Enio Jaço and Executive Director Mr. Neritan Mullaj.
The sessions conducted over the first and second days of the conference delved into crucial topics. These included improving organizational performance, engaging members effectively, ensuring the financial sustainability of the organization, and most importantly, addressing economic challenges and enhancing collaboration with the United States. Special attention was devoted during these sessions to matters of ethics, transparency, and integrity, which are essential values for these organizations. Political developments in Europe and transatlantic relations also formed an intriguing part of the discussions throughout the three-day conference.
A significant moment during the event was the Presidents and Executive Directors Morning Breakfast, bringing together industry and investment leaders alongside heads of AmChams. They convened to discuss the future of their respective sectors and regions. President Enio Jaço of AmCham Albania was a distinguished participant in this panel. “At the meeting with ACE in Athens, we shared the best practices from all regions and countries” – said Mr. Jaço.
The Best Practices Conference also featured presentations by four American Chambers of Commerce, each showcasing their innovative projects. Ultimately, the winning project was selected from AmCham Ukraine for its remarkable work on “Continuity Amid Crisis.” This project illustrated how the American Chamber in Ukraine continues to operate amidst the challenges of conflict, demonstrating resilience and unwavering commitment. “This year’s conference was notably special as it marked the 60th anniversary of ACE and served as an exceptional amalgamation of our organization’s shared experience, our accomplishments through our projects, and the network we’ve cultivated under the ACE umbrella”- said Executive Director Mr. Neritan Mullaj.
However, the exchange of information and best practices extended beyond topics directly related to organizational matters. Dimitris Fragakis, the Secretary General of the Greek National Tourism Organization, provided a comprehensive overview of the Greek tourism sector. Executive directors and senior representatives of the American Chambers in Europe embarked on an exclusive tour of the Ellinikon Experience Center. Here, they were introduced to an innovative urban development project set in the historic location of the former Athens airport.
A warm reception was extended to the representatives of the American Chambers by the U.S. Ambassador to Athens, Mr. George J. Tsunis. He elaborated on the future of transatlantic relations and emphasized the vital role that organizations like the American Chambers play in fostering cooperation between the United States and Europe.
The activity culminated with the Gala Evening in honour of the ACE’s 60th anniversary, providing guests not only with networking opportunities but also the chance to meet distinguished speakers.
During the breakout sessions at the ACE conference, were presented two reports.
GMF Transatlantic Trends report which shows how public opinion currently stands in the ‘’shifting global order”.
https://www.gmfus.org/news/transatlantic-trends-2023
ECIPE report which shows how Europe and European countries individually are faring with regard to GDP and in comparison, to individual US states.
https://ecipe.org/publications/comparing-economic-growth-between-eu-and-us-states/
