News

Annmarie Emmet will lead Ex-Im Bank's new task force to increase its financing of U.S. exports to sub-Saharan Africa. On March 31, 1998, Chairman James Harmon announced Emmet as Ex-Im Bank's first Coordinator/Counselor for Africa. Maria Haley will continue in her role as the lead member of the board of directors involved in Africa matters, and will also be an advisor to the task force.

Emmet's main responsibilities involve coordinating the activities of the internal task force and designing and implementing proactive efforts to ensure financial success in Africa. She brings more than 15 years of experience involving Ex-Im Bank trade activity in Africa to this position. The task force will also work closely with the new congressionally-mandated Ex-Im Bank sub-Saharan Africa Advisory Committee.

I am pleased that Annmarie has accepted the challenge to lead Ex-Im Bank's efforts to support more U.S. exports to sub-Saharan Africa, said Harmon. Her extensive experience and dedication will contribute to our success.

Emmet will accompany Harmon and other officials on an eight-day visit to Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe starting April 17. Ex-Im Bank plans to develop new business opportunities and establish business relations with government and corporate leaders in this emerging competitive market.

Emmet's Ex-Im Bank career has spanned more than 30 years. She has worked in the Office of the Financial Officer, Insurance Division, Product Finance, and the Africa and Middle East Division.In addition to her new duties, she is also a Senior Loan Officer for Business Development.

Emmet last visited Africa in December 1997 with the Presidential Mission on Economic Cooperation led by Congressman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY). The purpose of this six-country trip was to strengthen U.S. African trade and investment ties.

Emmet is a native Washingtonian and a graduate of George Washington University with a degree in International Business.

Ex-Im Bank is an independent federal agency that supports U.S. jobs by financing the sales of U.S. goods and services to foreign markets. Ex-Im Bank is active and open to consider business in 18 sub-Saharan African countries. In the last five years, Ex-Im Bank has financed $652 million in exports to nine sub-Saharan African countries. In FY 1997, $217 million in exports were supported.