http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/index/ en U.S. Department of State 2012-05-21T19:01:39+00:00
This year's theme -- visionary innovators -- recognizes the unique and valuable contributions made by gifted individuals all over the world. Without innovation, civilizations remain static. The economist Robert Solow was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1987 for showing that technological innovation was responsible for over 80 percent of economic growth in the United States between 1909 and 1949. The trend continues today. Modern economies are built on innovation. According to a recent Department of Commerce study, America's knowledge-based industries accounted for 35 percent of U.S. GDP and 61 percent of total merchandise exports in 2010.

Innovation is not limited to the developed world. Increasingly, innovative ideas and products originate in emerging markets where there is a growing number of research centers, innovative scientists, and highly entrepreneurial businesses. According to Ernst & Young, "70 percent of world growth over the next few years will come from emerging markets." And, in an interesting twist of fate, emerging market innovations often are adapted for use, or influence products, in the developed world, a process known as "trickle-up" innovation. For example, the $3,000 Nano developed and manufactured by India's Tata Motors has set new global standards for low-cost vehicles.

The incentive to develop new products and invest in companies that commercialize those inventions and creative works depends on intellectual property (IP) rights. This holds true for small businesses and large multi-national corporations, in developed countries and emerging economies as well as some of the world's poorest countries, where innovation is also occurring at a rapid pace. Tata Motors filed almost 40 patents associated with the design of the Nano to protect its research and development investment. Governments must therefore protect IP rights in order to support visionary innovators from within their own borders and throughout the globe.

Research and development in the twenty-first century is expanding from individuals to groups, from single disciplines to interdisciplinary approaches, and from a national to an international scope. WIPO found that less than a tenth of international patent applications in 1990 had a foreign co-inventor; 25 percent did in 2009. The same trend holds for scientific publications. This type of multi-national collaboration is exciting, because it takes advantage of expertise that exists around the world and applies diverse approaches to solve common challenges. Countries that fail to adopt and enforce policies supportive of IP rights will find themselves isolated from the global networks that drive innovation.

The Internet, social media, and new mobile phone applications afford an opportunity to collaborate and innovate on a previously unimaginable scale. But unless governments support the open and free exchange of ideas and reward risk-taking through protection and enforcement of IP rights, innovation will be stifled before it begins. Ideas from all sources must be allowed to compete, and those that succeed must be fairly rewarded. This is the basic recipe for an innovative economy, and it is the basis for America's economic success -- and indeed that of other nations -- over the past two centuries. Emerging economies will need to emulate this formula to sustain their dynamism.

The Department of State will continue to defend values and laws which are fundamental to innovation -- open discourse, freedom of expression, and IP rights -- in both developed and developing countries. And we will work with foreign governments to demonstrate that they themselves have an interest in pursuing sound innovation policies. Looking forward, the protection and enforcement of IP rights in support of global economic growth and innovation is key to our prosperity and that of our friends and allies around the world. It is also central to our shared pursuit of better jobs, higher living standards, and upward mobility.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/visionary_innovators/ 2012-04-26T19:06:05+00:00 hosting British Prime Minister David Cameron. And all of our Ambassadors from around the world are in town for the Global Chief of Mission Conference. Following up on Secretary Clinton's very successful Global Business Conference, I took the opportunity of inviting several of our Ambassadors visiting us here in Washington to a breakfast to discuss the President's National Export Initiative (NEI) -- which featured prominently in the Global Business Conference.

Even with a 7:30 a.m. start time, 14 U.S. Ambassadors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Germany, India, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates attended, together with Fred Hochberg (Ex-Im), Francisco Sanchez (Department of Commerce), Elizabeth Littlefield (OPIC), and Geoff Johnson (USTDA).

Our goal was to help those of us working on these issues in Washington to learn from the experiences of the Ambassadors and to have them learn from the experiences of one another. The lively discussion consisted primarily of the Ambassadors' sharing best practices and exchanging views on challenges in their countries.

Several Ambassadors described their efforts to look beyond major economic centers in their countries to other large cities that are increasingly serving as drivers for business and economic growth. Many also explained the importance they attached to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A number of Ambassadors explained the methods they were using to help new-to-market or new-to-export small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gain a foothold in their countries.

Some of the suggestions focused on internal changes, such as setting up a "one team" approach at the embassy that breaks down interagency stovepipes ensuring that all economic officers at our missions are targeting our economic priorities. We also discussed how our Embassies could work more closely with business support organizations, such as local Chambers of Commerce, to further our economic objectives overseas -- including export promotion and attracting investment to the United States. One Ambassador pointed out that our coordination with these associations should go behind finalizing deals, but should also include jointly seeking policy reforms that would make it easier for U.S. companies to compete.

This conversation was just one of several we are having on how we move the President's National Export Initiative forward as a key part of Secretary Clinton's overall "Jobs Diplomacy" agenda. This was one more step in implementing a State Department and whole-of-government effort to boost exports, support high quality jobs for Americans, and broaden economic opportunities for larger and larger numbers of people throughout our country.

Related Content: White House Blog -- Celebrating Two Years of the President's National Export Initiative]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/nei_breakfast_with_visiting_ambassadors/ 2012-03-15T20:02:19+00:00
By the mid-twentieth century, largely due to unregulated and poor management of the commercial whaling industry, populations of large whales became severely depleted. In response, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) established a moratorium on commercial whaling in 1986. This action led to the recovery of many whale populations. In fact, the Eastern Pacific gray whales we saw in Mexico were de-listed from the U.S. Endangered Species list in 1994 because their population had sufficiently re-bounded. Despite some successes, many species of whales remain at risk, this is why the United States firmly supports the continued moratorium on commercial whaling. And that's why we are deeply disappointed by the actions of certain governments which have found ways to avoid the ban.

It's important to note, however, that the moratorium applies specifically to commercial whaling. The IWC grants quotas for subsistence whaling by indigenous groups (e.g., in Greenland, Russia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the United States). In the United States, subsistence whaling is primarily done by Alaskan Natives. They harvest approximately 40-50 bowhead whales per year, which provides approximately 60% of their annual protein needs. Whales and whaling are an important part of the Alaskan Native culture, going back thousands of years. The IWC's Scientific Committee has determined that these hunts, and those by other indigenous communities, are sustainable. As a result, the United States will seek renewal of our subsistence whaling catch allowance at the July IWC annual meeting in Panama.

Whale conservation is not only the right thing to do, it also stimulates economic growth. A study by the IWC estimated that 13 million people went whale watching globally in 2008. These eco-tourists spent nearly $2.1 billion and supported 13,000 jobs across hundreds of coastal regions worldwide, including in Mexico where we viewed the gray whales. I'm delighted to see an industry evolve from commercial whaling to commercial whale watching because it gives everyday citizens a stake in their natural resources, thereby strengthening support for global conservation measures.

Our whale-watching excursion was aptly timed as a side-event during the G-20 Foreign Ministers meeting because conservation efforts for whales, tigers, great apes, and numerous other animal species must be international to be successful. Animals -- marine or otherwise -- do not confine themselves to national boundaries. It's vital that all governments -- including those in the G-20 and others -- take ownership and pride in their biodiversity and ecosystems, and live up to their responsibilities both moral and legal. All of the ministerial officials who went whale-watching were grateful to Mexico for organizing the event and inspiring all of us to take a personal interest in the conservation of whales and other marine species.

Editor's Note: This entry appeared first on the Huffington Post.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/g20_mexico_ecotourism/ 2012-03-06T18:21:05+00:00 Global Business Conference February 21-22, 2012. The event was very rewarding for both the U.S. government and the over 200 private sector representatives who joined us from more than 120 countries. Last Wednesday's robust discussions focused on regional issues and how we can move forward together to seize opportunities, grow the global economy, and create American jobs.

Here's are just a few of the key themes discussed during the sessions hosted by our regional bureaus:

Western Hemisphere

A key topic was the collaboration in the western hemisphere to address shared goals of expanding economic opportunities, increasing citizen security, and improving education. I was pleased to hear that our productive regional partnerships. such as the Pathways to Prosperity and the Energy and Climate Partnership of the America (ECPA), are having a significant impact as frameworks to share best practices. An example highlighted by the regional business leaders was the recent ambassadorial road shows and export promotion tours, which have been valuable in highlighting economic opportunities in the region for U.S. companies. Participants also noted that more progress is needed to expand the benefits of trade and economic growth to people historically excluded: women, youth and minority populations.

Middle East and North Africa

Participants from the Middle East and Africa urged the U.S. government to become more aggressive in facilitating U.S. trade and investment in the region, as Chinese and European businesses are viewed as "outflanking" the United States. My interagency colleagues shared our ongoing support to promote U.S. exports and assist American companies in the MENA countries, through trade missions, feasibility studies, and corporate matchmaking. Private sector representatives emphasized the need to better exploit existing FTAs and Qualifying Industrial zones, broaden the adoption of American standards, and increase trade through vertical integration between North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, in addition to horizontal geographical integration across the region. We also received other concrete recommendations from business representatives, including easing visa procedures; obtaining better tax treatment for U.S. exports; engaging U.S. and foreign media to report on opportunities rather than on negatives; and helping small and medium size enterprises to find more financing and business opportunities. We invite companies to continue to submit ideas and help us expand our commercial presence in this important region.

Sub-Saharan Africa

The U.S. business associations representatives noted that they are ideally positioned to engage diaspora communities in the United States to "spread the good word" about the tremendous opportunities in this dynamic region and advocate for African economic engagement. These important outside partnerships are valuable in bringing technology, training, expertise, and equipment needed for sustainable economic growth. Many business leaders also pointed out that American companies succeed in Africa by "following the customers" and cultivating long-term investment relationships that can be sustained beyond political transitions and economic cycles. It was exciting to hear that the World Bank's "Doing Business" report found that 80 percent of African countries have made progress on reforms, a significant increase from a decade ago.

East Asia and the Pacific

Regional business leaders advice that we should look at ways for American businesses to provide goods and services like information and communication technology, health products, and educational services to support connectivity in Asia and U.S. economic growth at home was well received. As ties between the United States and Asia deepen, participants pointed out that connectivity in the region's developing countries must be viewed more broadly than just roads and bridges. Increased and sustainable energy supplies in East Asia have pointed to a vital area for future growth. Initiatives in APEC on good governance, transparency, and regulatory harmonization were seen as providing the opportunity for companies from Asia and America the opportunity to innovate, to collaborate, and to contribute to economic growth throughout the region -- and in the United States as well.

South and Central Asia

Some participants noted that South and Central Asia have challenging markets, so facilitating trade and investment may require more "heavy lifting." They pointed to the need to do more with financing and government-to-government dialogue to highlight the resources available to companies of all sizes. The group also discussed how competition from state-owned enterprises creates an unfair advantage for companies with state subsidies. Despite having superior products and technologies, U.S. firms felt they often could not compete since state-owned enterprises often do not "play fair." Secretary Clinton was quite clear during her remarks at the conference that the U.S. government will continue to fight for a level playing field. Also, U.S. officials noted that the U.S. government and businesses view the "New Silk Road" vision for regional economic integration as an important factor in promoting growth and development in the region as well as an opportunity for increased U.S. trade and investment in South and Central Asia.

Europe

Our discussions with our European colleagues encompassed trade, investment, energy, and overall economic cooperation. One interesting point was how the private sector can help to stimulate growth and innovation alongside governmental efforts to reduce trade barriers that can inhibit our competiveness. On energy, U.S. government representatives emphasized our commitment to efficiency and conservation and a clear, science-based regulatory environment, while continuing to promote a dialogue with Europe on diversified strategies for energy security. It was clear that U.S. leadership is vital in promoting appropriate international regulatory regimes for diversified energy sources (natural gas, nuclear energy) as well as creating incentives for private sector innovation and new green technologies.

A Successful Conference Concludes

We were thrilled to have this opportunity for a rich and substantive dialogue with the private sector. I wish to thank all participants and assure all participants that we will be following up on the ideas and recommendations. This conference marks the beginning of even stronger collaboration between the Department of State and the U.S. domestic and international business community.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/sgbc_diplomacy_business/ 2012-03-05T00:30:34+00:00 Global Business Conference. This was a great opportunity for over 200 leaders of companies and business support organizations, such as the American Chambers of Commerce, from around the world to come together with senior U.S. government leaders. We discussed issues ranging from American competitiveness to ways the U.S. government and the private sector can work together to help find new export opportunities, boost inward investment and in so doing, accelerate America's economic renewal, and put more Americans back to work. As Secretary Clinton explained in a speech to conference attendees, our focus is 'Jobs Diplomacy': using our network of embassies and consulates around the world and our extremely capable cadre of economic officers to work with, and on behalf of, American businesses to create American jobs and make the U.S. more competitive.

Attendees noted that the U.S. government could help business by focusing on several important economic goals including: increased support for small-and-medium enterprise trade and investment efforts, an internationally competitive U.S. tax code, and better incentives for green and clean technology. We also received a strong message that it is important to increase the resources of the U.S. Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im) and continue to develop close relations with Ex-Im and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), as well as the Trade and Development Agency (TDA). Several participants suggested that Congressional reauthorization for Ex-Im is vital for supporting U.S. jobs and exports. Similarly, several agreed that export controls need to be streamlined and made more efficient to balance security and business goals.

We also heard that, while U.S. government efforts to streamline the visa application process for business and tourist travelers are welcomed, more needs to be done. Further, in the area of intellectual property (IP) protection, members of the group welcomed the strong U.S. government efforts but urged greater emphasis on international collaboration, capacity building, and enhanced outreach on the benefits of respect for IP. There was widespread agreement that these are essential to help our knowledge industries compete.

"Speed and simplicity" was another major theme of the discussions. While U.S. government advocacy is immensely helpful, it would deliver better results if we could bring the resources of the U.S. government to bear in some cases more quickly on behalf of American companies. Businesses want U.S. officials to be creative in finding ways to help them win procurements, especially in the face of stiff competition for overseas markets from other countries.

Secretary Clinton emphasized that we must think "bigger and broader" to create a level-playing field for all and to advance a bold trade and investment agenda as well as measures that support a global economic system that is open, free, transparent, and fair. To help further these goals, State Department officials overseas are finding new ways to deliver results and to be effective champions of competitive markets that are conducive to expanding business and trade opportunities. We are also leveraging the local knowledge of our overseas economic officers for the benefit of U.S. businesses. Moreover, we are helping our contacts overseas understand the significant benefits American firms can offer in terms of assets, skills, and resources. We need to continue to demonstrate how we can apply American business ideas and innovation to solve problems overseas.

The U.S. government can help create an environment in which international commerce can thrive and flourish. Commercial diplomacy efforts are vital to U.S. businesses overseas. This event helped generate ideas to further enhance and refine our efforts. We received a wide range of valuable suggestions and we are grateful that so many distinguished and entrepreneurial people came from so many countries -- traveling truly great distances -- to participate in the event. We are looking forward to our second day of the conference, and continuing to find ways to make progress together on these issues and hearing additional feedback.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/sgbc_jobs_diplomacy/ 2012-02-22T13:20:00+00:00
Hence, it's vital that we create opportunities to enable older persons to contribute to their economies and communities in increasingly effective and productive ways. This will require new policies and innovations that promote healthy aging, including advances in medicine, continued learning, and cultural norms regarding aging. As population aging is elevated to the global agenda, the countries that capitalize on the increasing percentage of older adults, and are able to increasingly facilitate their meaningful contributions, will secure a strategic and competitive advantage in the years to come.

Consider the demographic facts: In the United States, 77 million Baby Boomers -- born from 1946 through 1964 -- are beginning to transition into retirement. In addition to increasing the strain on government-sponsored programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, the retirement of this large group of Americans could also create significant losses in productivity as well as specialized skills upon which many of our companies depend.

The United States is not alone in the challenge and opportunity of population aging. By 2050, more than two billion people worldwide will be over the age of 60. By then, for the first time in human history, more people will be over the age of 60 than under 15. Life-spans have increased an incredible three decades in the past one hundred years and disability rates have been declining. The science of health promotion and risk factor reduction, coupled with advancements in medicine, have made it possible for a large percentage of the population to live out their lives in functional and productive ways. Longevity and health, however, are only part of the equation. As more people worldwide enter their traditional retirement years, the dependency ratio (i.e., the number of retirees per worker) will skyrocket requiring prudent review of twentieth century retirement models.

Providing opportunities for continued contribution by an aging population is an economic imperative in a growing number of countries, both developing and developed nations. This is a new challenge for developing country governments, especially in Latin America and Asia, which over the past few decades have experienced a significant drop in fertility and death rates. That's why the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has declared economic success to be a function of the health and productivity of APEC's Member Economies' aging populations. This declaration is supported by other global organizations also working to turn aging into an opportunity. Indeed, the European Union has launched 2012 as its year of Active and Healthy Aging. And the World Health Organization (WHO) has begun an Age-Friendly Cities Program and is dedicating 2012 World Health Day to aging populations.

Equally significant is the global health community's new focus on age-related health challenges, called non communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer and diabetes. A WHO Resolution calling on governments to "strengthen NCD policies to promote active aging" will be at the center of this year's World Health Assembly in May. This work is an important sign that aging is now beginning to occupy a critical and rightful place on the international agenda.

We need a focused, society-wide effort to transform our vision of aging from a time of dependency to a time of continued growth, contribution, and social and economic participation. Older adults have a wealth of experience and much to contribute. We need a sea-change not just in policies, but in attitudes about what it means to grow old. We must break the stereotype that to be old is to be inactive or dependent, and in so doing turn "population aging" into the century's greatest achievement.

Collaborating with our private sector and global partners is a path to sharing strategies and solutions to the truly global phenomenon of population aging. On the government side, an important step will be to broaden the base of collaboration on aging populations to include not only health, but also economic, finance and trade portfolios. Working together, we can turn the longevity bequeathed us from the twentieth century into a positive driver of growth, contribution and economic activity in the twenty-first. ]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/aging_population/ 2012-02-14T01:02:06+00:00