Coca-Cola renews its commitment to the Palestinian economy

The announcement was made during the 5th Anniversary celebration of the Coca-Cola's presence in the Palestinian Authority Areas at NBC facilities in Ramallah - West Bank, in the presence of H.E. Maher Al Masri, Minister for National Economy, as well as senior officials from the Coca-Cola Company.

A number of speeches were delivered on this occasion, emphasizing NBC's past, present and future commitment to the Palestinian Economy. They also highlighted NBC's contribution in developing the local community, its provision of high quality products, its transfer of international experience, and its creation of job security and career advancement for its employees. They also praised the company management for maintaining international standards in quality control.

Cem Kozlu, Group President of Central Europe, Eurasia, and Middle East at The Coca-Cola Company emphasized Coca-Cola's commitment to develop the Palestinian economy. 'We mark today five years of real progress, which we see not as a completion, but as the foundation for future progress. Our vision is of a business that continuously improves to meet the needs of Palestinian consumers for high quality non-alcoholic beverages. We believe NBC has the potential to grow in a profitable and sustainable way, creating further employment, directly and indirectly, and generating value and growth for the Palestinian economy'.

On his part, H.E. Maher Al Masri, stated: 'NBC, as a bottling partner of The Coca-Cola Company, plays an important role in developing the Palestinian economy. It is living evidence that the Palestinian market is secure and reliable. The Company also provides job opportunities at a time when the unemployment rate has exceeded 45%. The knowledge the company brings into the workforce through its international experience and presence is another valuable contribution.'

Zahi Khouri, the Chairman of NBC, then announced his company's intention to double its investments in the Palestinian territories to upgrade and expand production, leading to more job creation in Palestine. 'NBC will continue to provide high quality products despite the difficult conditions. NBC has managed to win The Coca Cola Gold Quality Award for the Middle East and North Africa in 1999, 2000 and 2001, in recognition of the company's ongoing commitment to quality during those years,' he stated.

'We are committed to developing highly skilled employees through our training programs for current and future needs. We have provided Palestinian men and women with job opportunities at a time when unemployment has exceeded all logical levels and are constantly looking for ways of providing additional job opportunities,' he added.