A high-level delegation from Michigan recently concluded a successful tour of the Gulf region, forging deeper economic ties and exploring new opportunities for investment and collaboration. The delegation, led by Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, Jose W. Fernandez, alongside the American Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and the Michigan Municipal League (MML) Foundation, traveled to Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from December 6-14, 2024.
The trip aimed to enhance Michigan’s global standing, promote economic cooperation, and strengthen subnational diplomacy with key leaders in the Gulf region. It also emphasized Michigan’s role as a hub for innovation, economic growth, and international partnerships. The delegation included representatives from Michigan’s local, county, and state governments, as well as business leaders from the state’s thriving technology, cybersecurity, and automotive industries.
Advancing Global Partnerships and Investment
Throughout the visit, the delegation engaged in strategic dialogues with top government officials, industry leaders, and potential investors. The trip provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss collaboration in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
In Qatar, discussions centered around opportunities for direct investment in Michigan’s growing technology and cybersecurity sectors, areas where the state has become a global leader. Meanwhile, in the UAE, the delegation focused on the automotive industry, exploring the expansion of Michigan-based companies in the Gulf’s robust infrastructure and tech-driven markets.
“We are fostering stronger connections that will create job opportunities, advance technological innovations, and improve global competitiveness,” said Under Secretary Fernandez. “This trip underscores the importance of the partnerships between Michigan and the Gulf region in achieving our shared goals of economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement.”
The Michigan delegation also worked closely with officials to support the broader Michigan City and State Diplomacy Initiative, which was launched earlier this year. This initiative, championed by Fernandez and MML President Helen Johnson, seeks to facilitate global engagement between local leaders, private-sector partners, and international communities, positioning Michigan as a leader in subnational diplomacy.
Empowering Michigan’s Arab American Business Communities
A significant part of the trip’s agenda focused on enhancing commercial advocacy for Michigan’s Arab American business communities. The AACC played a key role in facilitating discussions that would benefit both Michigan’s private sector and the broader U.S.-Arab business community.
“We are excited to support the continued growth of Michigan’s Arab American businesses and foster greater cross-border collaboration,” said AACC President and CEO, Dr. Khaled Fadly. “The opportunities that lie ahead will not only benefit Michigan but will help strengthen the broader economic and cultural ties between the United States and the Gulf region.”
The delegation’s efforts were aimed at boosting foreign direct investment (FDI) in Michigan, particularly in high-tech industries. Michigan has long been a leader in the automotive sector, but its innovation in cybersecurity, tech startups, and renewable energy is drawing increasing interest from Gulf investors.
“Building partnerships and showcasing the strengths of Michigan’s diverse economy helps us attract the investments needed to keep our state at the cutting edge of global competitiveness,” said Phil Pavlov, Executive Director of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
Strengthening Subnational Diplomacy
One of the trip’s key themes was strengthening the relationship between U.S. subnational governments and the Gulf region. The delegation’s focus on subnational diplomacy aligns with the United States’ broader strategy to foster international collaboration at all levels of government.
In Oman and the UAE, Michigan’s local leaders engaged with counterparts in city and regional governments to explore partnerships that could expand commercial, cultural, and educational exchanges. These relationships are crucial to expanding Michigan’s global footprint and creating sustainable partnerships that benefit local economies.
“This trip has helped elevate Michigan’s profile as a leader in both innovation and diplomacy,” said Helen Johnson, President of the Michigan Municipal League. “Through these discussions, we’re not just opening doors for Michigan’s businesses; we’re also creating long-term partnerships with governments, institutions, and business leaders that will ensure our state thrives on the global stage.”
Looking to the Future
The trip to the Gulf marks a significant milestone in Michigan’s ongoing global diplomacy efforts. Building on the success of this mission, the Michigan delegation will continue to work to strengthen the state’s international partnerships, particularly in the sectors of innovation, technology, education, and manufacturing. The collaboration between Michigan and the Gulf region is poised to grow, creating new avenues for job creation, economic development, and cultural exchange.
As the delegation departs the Gulf region, there is a renewed sense of optimism about Michigan’s role in driving economic growth and forging new international relationships. This trip serves as a blueprint for future diplomatic missions designed to advance Michigan’s global business opportunities, promote economic cooperation, and solidify its standing as a global leader in innovation.