G8/Broader Middle East and North Africa Finance Ministers' Meeting U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow

(Archived Content)This morning, I hosted a meeting of finance and other economics ministers from the G8 and countries of the Broader Middle East and North Africa (BMENA). This meeting continues a dialogue pursued in September 2003 and April 2004 as well as provides an opportunity to further prepare for the first meeting of the Forum for the Future that leaders from the G8 and the region called for in Sea Island. I stressed that economic freedom can best harness the region's rich human and natural resources to meet the aspirations of its people for jobs and improving living standards. Redefining the role of the state in the economy and allowing people more freedom in their economic decisions will provide them the incentives and opportunities to improve their lives.Ministers welcomed the strong growth in economies in the region.