KALAMAZOO (WKZO AM/FM) — Over 125 local political, business, and community leaders gathered at Western Michigan University on Thursday to discuss economic opportunities between the state and foreign countries.
The panel consisted of Congressman Fred Upton, retired Lieutenant General John Campbell of the U.S. Air Force, and Bill Lane the Executive Director of Trade for America.
The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition put the forum together in response to the Administration’s latest budget proposal, which called for a 24% cut to the international affairs budget.
Research shows that over 1 million jobs in Michigan are tied to intentional trade and the state’s exports to foreign markets total more than $59.8 billion a year.
Upton says it’s time to open more doors with other countries and step up to the plate as a country.
The panel covered topics ranging from international trade and military affairs to Michigan’s Great Lakes, clean water, and health research.
President of Western Michigan University Dr. Edward Montgomery stressed the importance of international students and study abroad programs for the diversity and innovation at WMU.
Upton adds that in order for Michigan to succeed, America must invest in its role as a global leader, and that starts with American diplomacy and development programs.
