The global economy has extended the reach of U.S. economic interests to virtually every nation on earth. Through extensive involvement abroad, American business is successfully bringing desperately needed economic benefits to the developing world. Indeed, the positive effects of trade by U.S. companies often go far beyond creating jobs and raising living standards. U.S. commercial engagement overseas is an effective method for promoting democracy, human rights, and other values that can make a positive difference in the lives of millions. Because U.S. companies are often actively involved at many levels in the countries and communities they serve, the benefits are great -- and tangible. From better schools and health care to improved infrastructure and housing -- business is making a difference. Over the next several weeks, USA*ENGAGE will provide individual company examples of the positive role of commercial engagement abroad.

Boeing is also a leading sponsor of UPLIFT International, a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian medical assistance to the people of Southeast Asia. Co-founded by a Boeing employee, UPLIFT grew from the experience of an earlier airlift that carried 46 tons of medicine and medical supplies to Vietnam. The program seeks to build a bridge of understanding and cooperation between the American people and the people of Southeast Asia. It provides basic healthcare, medical education and disaster relief. UPLIFT International’s projects also include assistance in establishing a pilot telemedicine program linking Vietnamese hospitals and medical schools with partner institutions in the United States. UPLIFT is working with the University of Vermont Medical School/Fletcher Allen Healthcare on this project. UPLIFT International has also donated medical textbooks to Hue Medical College in Vietnam and is facilitating the partnering of American medical schools with their counterparts in Vietnam. In addition, in support of Vietnam’s healthcare delivery, in 1998 UPLIFT sponsored a large American surgical team to work with Vietnamese surgeons to conduct clinics, perform surgeries and exchange techniques and information. In response to the severe economic crisis gripping Indonesia and the other parts of Asia, UPLIFT International, in conjunction with the US-ASEAN Business Council and the US-Indonesia Society, is undertaking an emergency medical airlift to bring in critically short medical supplies and medicine to the people of Indonesia. In addition to Boeing, the initiative is also being supported by AIG, Mobil, Unocal, Federal Express, Caterpillar, Goodyear, Levi Strauss, Procter & Gamble and The Ford Motor Company. The airlift is scheduled for September 1998. UPLIFT and its corporate sponsors are planning future shipments to help relieve suffering as long as possible while the crisis persists. UPLIFT is also working to establish a long-term healthcare education program in Indonesia.