At her first address to AmCham members, Ambassador Pettit spoke about her top priorities among which is promoting entrepreneurship and raising awareness of TTIP. She said: “Success begets success: good ideas draw attention and can catalyze even greater trade and investment. Entrepreneurs can be an important force for economic development, and they deserve our recognition and support.”

Ieva and Steve Hertel made their Kabul Best Chili a winner at the 11th Annual Chili Cook-Off. The Albert Hotel team won People’s Choice Award for their Albert’s Favorite Chili. In addition to the contest, EUR 600 were raised in the charity raffle in benefit of our three principal charities - Latvian Foster Family Association, RMHC Latvija's Care Mobile and SOS Children's Villages.

A group of Corporate Contributing, Corporate and Small Business members met to discuss their businesses and to provide feedback on AmCham activities. Human development, quality of labor, sustainable economic growth, attraction of the US investment, continuing to share best practices and inspiration were mentioned as some of the key focus areas for AmCham going forward.

Over 50 members attended the presentations about recent trends in global economy and investment sector at Nordea bank and Klavins Ellex. Afterwards members enjoyed great networking, delicious appetizers and nice atmosphere at the new premises of Klavins Ellex.

The AmCham Board held its semi-annual retreat to discuss the current strategy and the future priorities of the Chamber. The board follows closely the key priority areas set in the beginning of the year, including the enhancement of transatlantic trade and investment relationship, addressing demographic change and working to improve the business and investment climate.