It is particularly satisfying for me to know that one of the first letters bearing my signature as CEOE President is this introduction to our Confederation's website. The site has become the virtual headquarters for Spanish employers and the speediest and most direct way to become familiar with the past, present and future of the Spanish Confederation of Employers' Organizations.
But more than that, it is a vital part of the CEOE's machinery, geared to complying with the principles that govern our activities: unity, independence and teamwork. And it helps us in our ongoing defence and representation of the interests of the business community, the Confederation's primary goal.
Our successful fulfilment of this task has contributed significantly to Spain's enviable economic performance since CEOE was founded in 1977, that would later culminate in an uninterrupted growth cycle that has now lasted for fourteen years. Thanks to the efforts of Spanish business, and of society as a whole, we have converged on the European Union in terms of per capita income and employment.
The CEOE's website is also an important tool that will consolidate and enhance the organization's prestige both in Spain and abroad. Outside our borders, we are admired as much for the unity achieved as for our work. The vast majority of small, medium and large enterprises in every industry is affiliated with the CEOE, in which membership is absolutely voluntary.
I trust that by visiting Spanish enterprise's virtual forum you will gain insight about the CEOE's history and activities. We extend a cordial invitation to anyone interested to participate in and use this facility and are delighted to welcome you to our website, and yours. web.
Gerardo Diaz Ferrán
President of the CEOE