Secretary of State Nandita Berry leading economic development trip to Republic of Ireland, Spain
Contact: Alicia Pierce or Jeff Hillery
512/ 463-5770
AUSTIN, TX – Texas Secretary of State Nandita Berry will travel to Ireland on Sunday, March 30, 2014 and Madrid, Spain, on Wednesday, April 2 for an economic development mission on behalf of the Texas Economic Development Corporation.
“Foreign direct investment is an important part of Texas’ growth,” said Secretary Berry. “These companies see a stable, business friendly environment and they want to be a part of it. They want the greatest opportunity for success, and they know that’s in Texas.”
Secretary Berry will meet with business leaders looking to expand or relocate in Texas, hold an Invest in Texas Forum and participate in meetings with site consultants from across the region.
“We’re bringing the good news of Texas to Ireland and Spain to spread the word about the Texas commitment to low taxes, high quality of life and excellent business climate,” said Secretary Berry.
Texas and Ireland maintain a healthy and growing trade relationship. Between 2003 and 2013, Irish companies recorded 10 Texas investment projects, $849.60 million in foreign direct investment and created 1,482 jobs. In January 2014, Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister announced that Ireland will be opening a consulate in Austin. Ireland currently has a presence in Texas through Enterprise Ireland, the government agency aimed at boosting exports and job creation.
While in Spain, Secretary Berry will meet with Secretary of State for Trade, Jaime García Legaz to discuss Texas’ strategic partnership. From 2008 to 2012, 24 Spanish projects were recorded in Texas, creating 3,500 jobs and making Spain a top-five country for foreign direct investment in Texas. In 2013, Texas exports to Spain valued $1.23 billion. Texas top exports to Spain were petroleum and coal products, chemicals, computers and electronics, machinery, and transportation equipment.
The Secretary’s trip is supported by Texas Economic Development Corporation. No tax dollars will be used for Berry’s travel or accommodations on this trip.
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