Reception with Governor Martin O’Malley

On June 10 the American Chamber of Commerce was honored to host a briefing by the Governor of Maryland, Martin O’Malley, who explained his office’s priorities and the many things the state of Maryland and Sweden have in common.

O’Malley expressed his recognition for Sweden’s global leadership in renewable energy sources. He sees great potential for growing and expanding the partnerships between Sweden and Maryland, which is why he was particularly glad to announce that Maryland will be opening a Scandinavian office here in Stockholm.

Photos by Rob Nelson

Governor Martin O'Malley of Maryland.

The Governor described Maryland’s green economy, its numerous bioscience companies and the state’s large aerospace industry. His office has set up some of the most ambitious goals in America for reducing energy consumption, reducing its carbon footprint and increasing its renewable portfolio standard.

 
Audience.

Last summer the Governor launched the Bio 2020 initiative, the largest investment any U.S. state has ever made in the life sciences field. This year the Maryland Biotechnology Center will open as a part of Bio 2020, offering a one-stop shop to support companies that want to do business in Maryland.

More than 20 business incubators located throughout the state help companies who want to establish there. Earlier this year Maryland’s International Growth Strategy established the State’s first International Advisory board and created Maryland’s first international incubator to attract foreign-owned companies.

 
Christian S. Johansson, Secretary Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED).

Earlier during his stay in Sweden, the Governor met with Deputy Prime Minister Maud Olofsson along with key industrial leaders. One of the points they discussed was the emerging partnership between Sweden’s Energy Agency, the US Department of Energy and Volvo. This nearly $50 million partnership will advance hybrid technology and produce drive lines that maximize alternative fuels. Most of the research and development will take place in Volvo’s facility in Hagerstown, Maryland.

The Governor emphasized the importance of looking beyond our borders and concluded by saying ”that for those not yet doing business in Maryland we hope that you will visit and give us some consideration. To those of you already part of our vibrant business community we thank you for your partnership.”

 
Governor Martin O'Malley of Maryland and Governor Per Unckel of Stockholm County.

From left: Christian Johansson, Secretary DBED, Catharina Kronström, Senior Commercial Specialist U.S Embassy, Governor Martin O'Malley, Governor Per Unckel and Frank Carrico, Regional Senior Commercial Officer U.S Embassy.

With special thanks to our sponsors: