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SECRETARY CLINTON: I’m sorry I couldn’t be there in person, but I am delighted to
send best wishes to all of you as you come together to find ways to elevate the status
of women. I also want to thank the Government of Bangladesh for hosting.
Closing the gender gap is a powerful prescription for economic growth. The evidence is clear
and the debate should be over. But all over the world, women still face enormous obstacles
to starting new businesses or expanding existing ones. Many of you have faced these barriers
firsthand.
That is why the United States has been working tirelessly to develop concrete solutions to
these obstacles through our policies, programs, and diplomatic engagement. And we are not
alone. Businesses, governments, and major financial and multinational institutions are
stepping up to the plate with more inclusive policies to advance women’s entrepreneurship
and economic development.
I often say that no country can prosper if half its population is left behind – so
the work you all are doing will have a real return on investment. By sharing best practices
and brainstorming new initiatives, you are unlocking the potential of women across South
Asia – and creating a brighter future for all citizens of the region.
Thank you for your efforts. I look forward to hearing about the ideas you come up with.