Origins and Mission
The American European Community Association (AECA) is a
dynamic TransAtlantic alliance that provides a potent forum for
discussion of key global business, economic and political affairs.
Founded in 1980 by Sir David Nicholson, Member of the European
Parliament, with the help of Roy Jenkins, President of the
European Commission, and Leo Tindemans, Member of the
European Parliament, this independent, non-profit, non-partisan
association encourages open dialogue and informed debate on a
range of issues, with a view to improving international understanding
and cooperation.
AECA unites leading North American and European business,
government, diplomatic, academic and civil representatives in a
comprehensive network, serving as a channel for constructive
exchange and interaction in pursuit of common goals. Ultimately,
it seeks to promote the interests of the TransAtlantic communities
in a globalized world economy.
AECA-Belgium, founded in 1984 by Baron Jacques Groothaert and
Lucien Le Lièvre, works in partnership with its sister associations
in Europe and North America and has strategic links with numerous
organizations around the world.
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Georges H. de Veirman
President & Chief Executive Officer
AECA-Belgium
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Baron Paul de Keersmaeker
Chairman
AECA-Belgium
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Viscount Etienne Davignon
Chairman
AECA European Advisory Patron Board
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"As the world becomes
smaller, the opportunities for open discussion between European and
American business and political leaders become more and more important.
AECA contributes significantly to this exchange, with a particular
emphasis on the development of the European Union."
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José Manuel Barroso
President
European Commission
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"The EU and US have a common past, present and
future. We share fundamental values, interests and goals. Acting together,
we can do much to spread prosperity, solidarity and security at home and,
as active partners, around the globe. Organizations such as AECA help us
to define our shared agenda and ensure we work towards a common
understanding of the challenges we face."
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Hans-Gert PÖTTERING
President
European Parliament
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" The management of globalization requires transatlantic cooperation more than ever. Hardly any of the big global
issues can be resolved by the US or by the EU alone. There is no alternative to transatlantic relations. We are the most
important economic partner for each other. I thank AECA for its valuable contribution to the improvement of this
cooperation."
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