- John A. Gale
An area of emphasis for my administration has been international relations. We are finding that globalization plays an important role in our everyday lives.
I became secretary of state in December 2000. In my early days of office, I was informed that I was chief protocol officer, which entailed serving as a goodwill ambassador for Nebraska in regard to international relations. I discovered that this function was merely a custom and tradition of the office, with no statutory authorization.
Sensing that international matters and contacts were going to be increasingly important for Nebraska, I went to the Legislature and sought to formalize my international role. In 2003, the Legislature responded and passed legislation that does three things:
First, it formally establishes that the secretary of state will serve as chief protocol officer. Second, it provides that the secretary of state shall promote commerce, cultural exchange and educational studies between foreign nations and Nebraska. Third, it provides that the secretary of state shall coordinate with federal, state and local officials in the international arena.
My international activities include meeting with foreign dignitaries and visitors, attending foreign-related events, acting as a liaison with consular offices, developing ties with international programs operated by Nebraska universities and maintaining regular contacts with the U.S. Department of State.
My office receives a steady stream of foreign visitors each year. If you have a foreign visitor who would like to visit the State Capitol, please contact Shelley Harrold at (402) 471-1833 or chiefofstaff@sos.ne.gov.
To expand international ties, I believe it is important to hold conferences to educate foreign representatives about Nebraska and to educate Nebraskans about the international community. The Secretary of State’s Diplomatic Conference, held in Omaha in 2004 and 2006, brought foreign diplomats to Nebraska to showcase what the state can offer the world. The Secretary of State’s Foreign Affairs Symposium, held in Lincoln in 2005, focused on how Nebraska is benefiting from global connections and ways to strengthen the state’s international efforts.
We have learned a key lesson that Nebraska’s economy is closely linked to the international economy. We as a state have to seek new opportunities to attract foreign investment to our state and market our products abroad.
In our troubled world, we cannot forget the importance of cultural and educational exchanges. These exchanges can go a long ways towards increasing awareness and easing tensions.
Formal international agreements are made between governments. But friendships are formed person to person, and these personal relationships will prove more and more important in the years ahead in our global community.
Through my international efforts, Nebraska is creating friends all over the world. This will open doors to business, cultural and educational opportunities.
My office will continue to play an active role in international relations. Please feel free to contact us with any suggestions or questions.
John A. Gale
Nebraska Secretary of State
