March is internationally recognized as the Mois de la Francophonie, a month dedicated to the French language. To honor this occasion, the Consulate General of Switzerland orchestrated a book tour from March 25 to 29, 2024, featuring the renowned Swiss Francophone author Thomas Sandoz (see here). The tour traversed Oklahoma City, OK, Tulsa, OK, and New Orleans, LA, fostering cultural exchange and engagement with diverse francophone communities in these cities.
Under the direction of Consul General Urs Broennimann and Senior Trade Commissioner of the Swiss Business Hub USA, Kimberly Shulman, the tour also included a comprehensive roadshow to meet with local authorities, legislators, Swiss businesses, Swiss clubs, and various organizations, thereby enhancing Swiss-American relations.
In Oklahoma City, the delegation was warmly received by Mayor David Holt and the President of the University of Central Oklahoma, Todd Lamb. Furthermore, an insightful meeting took place with Sarah Short, Hopper Smith, and Vince Howie of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, and productive discussions were held in Tulsa with the Board of Directors of the local Swiss Club.
A significant highlight was the visit of the Swiss company Georg Fischer, where President Bryan Lucas and Head of Human Resources, Dani Shields, provided an insightful presentation of their manufacturing facility. Georg Fischer Piping Systems, employing over 720 people in Shawnee, OK, is planning a significant expansion. The company is ranked 9th among the world’s most sustainably managed companies, showcasing Swiss companies’ commitment to sustainable development and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In New Orleans, the delegation’s visit to the Port of New Orleans facilitated productive discussions with Brandy DeVelbiss Christian, the port’s President and CEO, and Mike Durette from Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). MSC, headquartered in Switzerland, is making a substantial investment in a new container terminal, a $1.8 billion project in collaboration with the State of Louisiana and Ports America Cruise, Inc. This initiative exemplifies Swiss companies’ significant economic footprint in the U.S., particularly in critical infrastructure development.
Meetings in New Orleans extended to the Consulate General of France, the Board of Directors of the Swiss Club of New Orleans, and economic development officials, including Harrison Crabtree, Director of the World Trade Center, Ben Fontenot of Louisiana Economic Development, and Louis David of the New Orleans Business Alliance.
A heartfelt thank you to all who extended their warm hospitality, including Trish Ranson, Senator Shane Jett, Mary Blankenship Pointer of Sister Cities International, the New Orleans BioInnovation Center, the Youth Empowerment Project, and the Nous Foundation. Their support and engagement were instrumental in the success of these visits.
In conclusion, the roadshows and book tours have forged invaluable connections within the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta. These initiatives have not only reinforced cultural and economic ties but also spotlighted Switzerland’s impactful presence in the United States. Notably, the topic of apprenticeship has been a highlight in several meetings, underscoring our commitment to education and workforce development. Moving forward, such engagements will continue to enhance our presence in states and cities across the Southern United States.
