Michigan Delegation Advances Economic Cooperation in the Gulf

From December 6-14, a delegation led by Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and the American Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC), in collaboration with the Michigan Municipal League (MML) Foundation, traveled to Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. The delegation engaged with key leaders to promote strategic global partnerships, enhance subnational diplomacy, create opportunities for foreign direct investment, expand global networks and support cultural, educational and workforce exchanges. Participants in the delegation included representatives from Michigan’s city, state, county and local governments and government agencies:  Oakland County, Washtenaw County, Wayne County, the Village of Cassopolis and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The delegation also featured business leaders from Michigan’s technology, cyber security, and automotive industries.

By engaging in high-level discussions with government and industry leaders, the delegation explored opportunities for collaboration, fostered international partnerships in strategic sectors, and and bolstered Michigan’s role as a leader in global innovation and economic development. Under the leadership of the AACC, the delegation worked to strengthen foreign commercial advocacy, benefiting Michigan’s private sector and Arab American business communities across the United States. Additionally, it aimed to promote job creation by fostering continued economic cooperation between the U.S., Arab American diaspora, and the Gulf region.

This trip provided a significant opportunity to forge new partnerships, enhance Michigan’s global standing, and scale of subnational diplomacy efforts. It built on the momentum established over the past year between the Subnational Diplomacy Unit and the state of Michigan, focusing on strengthening ties between local and international communities, promoting global business and economic engagement, and positioning Michigan as a hub for innovation and commerce. The delegation also supported the broader Michigan City and State Diplomacy Initiative, launched in May 2024 by Under Secretary Fernandez and MML President Helen Johnson to promote global engagement between local leaders and private sector and advance economic opportunities for investment and partnerships.

To stay up to date, follow Under Secretary Fernandez on X: @State_E, LinkedIn: @State-E, and Facebook: @StateDeptE. For further media information, please contact E_Communications@state.gov.