As the Blue Economy expands, MTS leadership continues to seek opportunities to open doors for members. Beyond large gatherings like this month’s successful OCEANS 2022 Hampton Roads conference, targeted opportunities are used to highlight the value MTS and its members deliver. 

Portugal’s Ambassador to the U.S. Francisco Duarte Lopes recently contacted MTS VP for Government and Public Affairs Jerry Miller regarding an October 7 Blue Economy Roundtable with Bernardo Ivo Cruz, Portugal’s Secretary of State for International Trade and Foreign Investment. The ambassador expressed particular interest in U.S. startups, so Miller turned to some of MTS’ newest members and organizational partners.

An energetic group of fifteen Blue Economy champions spent more than the allotted 90 minutes productively exchanging views on how to collaboratively grow maritime business and discussed dimensions from the highest levels of government to boots-on-the-ground issues around domestic and international trade. 

In addition to MTS President Zdenka Willis, attendees included Yi Chao of SeaTrec, Kevin Decker of Ocean Aero, and Matt Classen of TMA BlueTech. WIth Miller’s encouragement, Ambassador Duarte Lopes also included former MTS President and current NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, as well as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Monica Medina. In collaboration with Portuguese Embassy staff, Miller also arranged for representatives from Portuguese startups and organizations to participate. 

MTS leadership looks forward to continued engagement between key government officials and MTS members in Portugal, the United States, and beyond.