Mercedes 2002 Annual Report Download - page 11

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Chairman’s Letter |5
The constant progress made in terms of implementing our strategy is further leveraged through
close inter-divisional cooperation and integration. This integration process is driven by the
Executive Automotive Committee (EAC), which serves as a steering group for our worldwide auto-
motive business. The EAC ensures extensive Group-wide exchanges of technologies, know-how
and components. In 2002, the EAC dealt successfully with a multitude of cross-divisional projects.
We have already realized a number of significant savings. Furthermore, during 2004 the first
products of joint development programs will be on the road.
The DaimlerChrysler Share. The stock markets have not yet given tangible recognition to our
achievements, nor to our potential. Many investors appreciate the substantial strides that our
company has made. However, the current difficult conditions in the worldwide capital markets
mean that our progress is not yet fully mirrored in the share price. Nonetheless, we are confident
that in the mid-term our share price will reflect more appropriately the underlying strength of
our company.
Excellence in people. DaimlerChrysler is very well prepared for the challenges of the future.
This is also due to the fact that we can rely on the support of our extraordinary employees, over
360,000 people who combine professionalism with creativity and great compassion. They are
people whose quality, enthusiasm and confidence blend in a unique corporate culture that has
built us into one of the world’s most respected employers.
Our culture extends beyond pure business. One such area in which we feel the need for
tremendous dedication is Corporate Social Responsibility. DaimlerChrysler regards itself as a fully
active member of society. Our well-known initiative against HIV/AIDS is but one example from a
long list of social responsibility programs aimed at deserving humanitarian, environmental, social
and cultural causes. You will find an overview of our various activities in this area in a separate
chapter of this Annual Report.
Dear shareholders,
During 2002, DaimlerChrysler has made significant progress on its way to sustainable profitability.
Looking ahead, it is certain that the climate for 2003 will be a very challenging one. Nonetheless,
my colleagues on the Board of Management and I have no doubt that your company will manage
to continue on its successful path.
Sincerely yours