BBVA's executive director José Manuel González-Páramo is the new Europe chair of the TransAtlantic Business Dialogue (TABD). The TABD, of which BBVA is a longstanding member, gathers more than 60 major U.S. and European companies. The organization's goal is to support a barrier-free transatlantic marketplace that contributes to growth, innovation, employment and the sustainability of the global economy.

TABD is the official business advisory group to the European Commission and U.S. administration and was established in 1995. It is co-chaired by one American and one European business leader. José Manuel González-Páramo who succeeeds Hans Stråberg, Chairman of Atlas Copco AB, said "It is an honor to become Europe Chair of this distinguished organization. It is an excellent opportunity to build on Hans Stråberg's hard work to advance the negotiations for an ambitious Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) that helps to deliver growth and jobs for European and American citizens in an increasingly globalized world."

The TABD expects a wide-ranging and ambitious TTIP agreement that will facilitate trade in goods and services on both sides of the Atlantic. At the same time the deal is envisaged to provide a model for international trading rules. "Mr. González-Páramo will continue to promote this major trade deal, which will benefit small and large companies in the EU and the U.S. at a time when economic stimulus is much needed," a TABD press release states.

The group's meetings provide an opportunity for dialogue between business executives and senior government officials.  José Manuel González-Páramo's appointment as Europe chair further adds to BBVA's visibility in the transatlantic business community and vis-à-vis EU and U.S. authorities.

The TABD is part of the Trans-Atlantic Business Council (TABC), a cross-sectorial business association representing global companies headquartered in the U.S. and EU. It stands out as the only transatlantic business organization uniquely placed to provide one voice for European and American companies in the TTIP.

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