Governor Greg Abbott met with several U.S. Ambassadors at the Governor’s Mansion to discuss ways to strengthen transatlantic security, Texas’ defense manufacturing and innovation sectors, and promote U.S. industry.
The meeting included U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands Joseph Popolo, U.S. Ambassador to Poland Tom Rose, and U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic Nicholas Merrick.
During their discussion, Governor Abbott outlined Texas’ investments in advanced manufacturing capabilities that position the state as a leader in artificial intelligence, defense innovation, semiconductor capacity, and the global aerospace and aviation industry. Ambassador Whitaker expressed appreciation for these efforts by stating: “Thank you for your work to ensure the United States and its allies stand strong against bad actors.” The Governor and Ambassadors agreed on the importance of maintaining partnerships between their countries and Texas in order to bolster national security.
The group also discussed Texas’ energy ecosystem. They noted that an all-of-the-above approach has made it stronger than ever before. Governor Abbott highlighted initiatives such as the creation of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office and the Texas Advanced Nuclear Development Fund aimed at encouraging nuclear energy development in Texas. The Ambassadors agreed on “the importance of energy generation capabilities that power manufacturing in the critical defense, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and semiconductor industries.”
The visit was part of a two-day tour during which the Ambassadors met with major manufacturers across several cities in Texas.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott leads the executive office for state government from Austin’s State Insurance Building and is focused on economic development, education enhancement, border security efforts, job growth, and fostering innovation (official website). Under his leadership since 2014 (official website), Texas has led the nation in job growth and record employment levels (official website). The governor’s office is recognized for advancing initiatives such as Operation Lone Star for border security (official website) and supporting economic expansion projects like those involving Southwest Airlines (official website). In 2024, Greg Abbott was named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People (official website).
Additional photos from this event will be provided when available.
