Category: Press

The Untold Benefits of the Young Leaders Program

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The Untold Benefits of the Young Leaders Program

By Leah Klass, USSC Young Leaders Program Alumni, 2008 Cohort.

Note: This Article was originally published by Leah on her LinkedIn page, you can view that original post here.

View from the Castillo de Castellar de La Frontera, Photo by Leah Klass

Back in 2008 when I was awarded a coveted spot in the U.S.-Spain Council’s Young Leaders Program of these two things I was sure: Spain was a gateway to renewable energy technologies and a wine lover’s paradise. At the time I enthusiastically represented the State of Colorado as the Director of International Trade for South America and the Caribbean. On the governor’s economic development team, I helped Colorado citizens and companies connect with the world. 

I was selected to participate in the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU.’s program shortly after returning to the U.S. from graduate school. The weeklong experience promised to connect young American leaders with business and government leadership in Spain. The learning and networking that resulted from that trip would influence the international relations of the two countries for many years to come. Twelve years later, I can say without a doubt that Spain has found a permanent place in my heart. 

On a video chat with other YLP alumni, the most recent recipients of the award were eager to learn what they could expect on their trip. The agenda, as always, is packed full of high-level meetings with Spanish leadership, exhilarating cultural experiences and tours of two cities. Some of the important memories that stand out in my mind from over a decade ago include the warmth and friendliness of our hosts; the scent of oranges in the streets of Valencia; that city’s preparations for the America’s Cup; and Calatrava’s architecture built upon lifelines to the ancient city. 

I returned to my Colorado job with a new understanding of Spanish culture and history. I was able to put my new contacts to good use too. Not long after my return, Colorado hosted a Spanish trade delegation, identifying potential business partners and creating opportunities. That was in 2008 and I did not imagine how far out into my future that single trip would influence me. 

Given that the upcoming fellowship trip will be delayed due to Covid-19, I wanted to pique your interest with some examples of how that one trip has enriched my life: 

  • I kept notes of the contacts I made in Madrid and Valencia, always writing on that back of business cards who I’d met and some juicy fact about that person’s favorite pastime, a colorful memory about their employer or an opinion they had shared. I made sure to follow up with these new friends and colleagues once home in the U.S. This led to a job offer in Madrid not a year later.
  • I became friends with Consejo staff! 
  • I gained a mentor from a Spanish renewable energy company who is still a friend and now a friend of my family! 
  • In 2010 I visited Madrid on my honeymoon and was gifted tickets to an incredible flamenco show by my YLP friends. 
  • In 2016 I completed my first home exchange with my small children, spending 5 weeks near the beach in Málaga, learning about the history and food of Andalucía. 
  • Each summer for the past four years, while on house trades in Andalucía, I have sent my children to summer camps in Spain. These excellent and affordable day camps allow me and my husband to explore and relax while our children make friends and learn to speak Spanish.
  • I have advised local U.S. college students about studying abroad in Spain.
  • I have hosted a family from País Vasco during the solar eclipse when their accommodations fell through. They turned about to be friends with a Basque politician whom I had hosted for a dinner party in Denver a decade earlier!
  • I keep in touch with the business contacts from the YLP trip, including a colleague who helped us decide to move to Oregon.
  • My children have teachers who live in Spain and thanks to video conferencing, they can take virtual cajón and language lessons.
  • I have attended the local celebration of Federico García Lorca in the yearly stage performance about his life and works in the gardens of the Generalife at the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Ahhhh, The Alhambra. 
  • In our household we regularly eat Spanish cheeses and olives, drink incredible Spanish wines and make our own homemade tomato, garlic and olive oil breakfast treat: the Pitufo.
  • I have taught Spanish in a first grade classroom here in Oregon.
  • I watch Spanish television shows on Netflix and read El País online.
  • We have helped friends and neighbors plan trips to Spain.
  • I have kept up and improved my Spanish, and now act as a community advocate for Spanish-speaking migrants and refugees in Portland. 
  • Everyone in our family maintains friendships with Spaniards we have met on our trips, both while at camp and on business. 

I am sure that there are more ways that one week as a Young Leader for the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU. has turned into a lifetime of connections. I’ll be writing more about my encounters with flamingoes and flamenco; my strong belief that formal Spanish language classes should be available nationwide in the U.S. and the knowledge that the friendships you make while studying abroad, even as a professional, will not only broaden your world, they will make it a better place for all of us. 

I am ever grateful to the Consejo for their continued commitment to building international ties with the United States. The Young Leaders Program is a gift to our citizens, adding music and flavor to our lives and strengthening our country’s relationship, one friendship at a time. These individual and family experiences are worth far more than the promise of an amazing summer. If I am an example, you can only guess what economic and academic growth participation in this program may lead too. 

Who knows, maybe some day soon we can try living in Spain all year round…

Massive Fire at Mission San Gabriel

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Massive Fire at Mission San Gabriel

Mission San Gabriel was established in 1771 and moved west to its present site in 1775.

An early morning fire at Mission San Gabriel destroyed the church’s roof and much of the interior, according to reports. The fire in the historic church broke out around 4 am, and fire crews were quick to respond, however the church was already overtaken by flames. The Mission, number four in the historic chain of 21 California Missions, was looking ahead to its 250th year commemoration in 2021.

You can read the full article, published by the California Missions Foundation and help donate to the fund to rebuild the Mission San Gabriel here: http://californiamissionsfoundation.org/latest_news/

The XXV United States-Spain Forum In Bilbao Postponed Until July 2021

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The XXV United States-Spain Forum In Bilbao Postponed Until July 2021


Working session during the XXIV United States-Spain Forum held on November 1 and 2, 2019 in San Antonio, Texas.

For Immediate Release:

Madrid – Washington, D.C., July 7, 2020. The United States-Spain Council and the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU., co-organizing entities of the XXV United States- Spain Forum, have agreed to postpone the celebration of the twenty-fifth edition of this annual meeting to July 2 and 3, 2021 due to the health, economic, and social crisis caused by the spread of COVID-19 worldwide. The XXV United States-Spain Forum was previously scheduled to take place on November 13 and 14, 2020, in Bilbao, Spain.

The decision was made unanimously by the members of both institutions at a joint meeting held virtually yesterday after analyzing the evolution and global impact of the pandemic and its dangerous consequences both in the United States and Spain. After debating the advisability of keeping the announced dates, it was unanimously agreed to postpone the XXV United States-Spain Forum until the ideal conditions are met to guarantee such a notable celebration.

“it will also be an excellent opportunity to celebrate the Fourth of July in Bilbao, giving continuity to the great meeting that we had in San Antonio last year,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro, the Honorary Chair of the United States-Spain Council. “We hope that by then international mobility will be fully restored, the potential outbreaks of the coronavirus under control and, hopefully, we will have an effective vaccine in circulation,” said Juan Lladó, the President of the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU., referring to the determining factors of the pandemic that have led to the decision to postpone the event. Both will co-chair another edition of this critical bilateral meeting, hosted for the first time, in the Basque Country, for whose local and regional authorities involved have already ratified their support of the new dates.

About the United States-Spain Council & the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU.

The United States-Spain Council and its Spanish counterpart, the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU., are two private, non-profit entities created in 1997 with the aim of strengthening ties between the United States and Spain in all areas of action, for the sake of better knowledge and mutual understanding between the two countries.

About the United States-Spain Forum

The United States-Spain Forum is an important meeting that annually convenes the members of the United States-Spain Council and the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU. with leaders and experts from both countries’ public and private sectors to address current issues and shared interest in the economic, technological, political, and cultural fields. Since its first edition in Seville in 1995, the Forum has become the leading platform for dialogue between American and Spanish civil societies and has demonstrated its usefulness as a tool to strengthen bilateral relations in a framework of public-private collaboration.

Press Release: 2020 United States-Spain Young Leaders Announced

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Press Release: 2020 United States-Spain Young Leaders Announced

For Immediate Release:


Washington, DC – The United States Spain Council is excited to announce ten outstanding leaders who will comprise this year’s Young Leaders Program.

These young professionals have the unique opportunity to visit Madrid and Valencia, Spain for a weeklong immersion program in Spanish culture, including meetings with Spanish government and business leaders, in- depth cultural tours, and conversations with fellow young Spanish leaders. In Madrid, they will enjoy exclusive tours of several cultural highlights, meet the European Council on Foreign Relations and the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, have an in-depth presentation at the United States Embassy in Spain, and converse directly with Spanish business leaders.


“Despite the inevitable delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I want to congratulate this year’s exceptional class of young leaders selected to the program. Each year I am impressed by the immense talent and strong credentials exhibited by our cohort and those that apply to join. I know this year’s group will make the most of this fantastic opportunity to represent our country in Madrid and Valencia,” said United States-Spain Council Honorary Chair U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro of Texas in announcing this year’s program. “Becoming a US Spain Young Leader is the opportunity to see first-hand the strong international friendship that ties the United States and Spain together. This bond serves as the foundation on the long history of diplomatic cooperation and joint- economic prosperity between our two nations. I challenge this year’s cohort to do their part to ensure that the friendship between the United States and Spain remains strong for many years to come.”


The United States – Spain Council is proud to welcome the following young professionals into this year’s cohort:

Images of the the 2020 Young Leaders

Given the international public health situation caused by the spread of COVID-19, we will be rescheduling the summer program to take place later in 2020 or early 2021. While our dates for this program have not yet solidified, we will continue to work closely with the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU., our sister organization in Madrid, to monitor the situation and determine a time when it will be safe for our 2020 cohort to travel to and experience Spain. In the interim, we will be hosting a short program online for our 2020 Young Leaders the week June 22 through June 26th.


Launched in 2001, this annual program brings ten young American leaders to Spain to familiarize them with the social, cultural, economic, and political realities of contemporary Spain and to foster a stronger understanding between Spain and the United States. Since then the program has hosted 200 young leaders; representing federal and state government agencies, innovative businesses and corporations, and community organizations.


About the United States Spain Council: The United States-Spain Council is a unique organization in which U.S. and Spanish corporate leaders, top government officials and leaders in education and culture promote stronger ties between the two countries. The United States-Spain Council seeks to stimulate bilateral trade and investment, bringing companies together around business opportunities in both countries, conducting annual forums where business and government leaders explore the key policy and economic matters affecting commerce, and foster educational and cultural programs. Founded by former U.S. Vice President Albert Gore and former Spanish President José María Aznar in May 1996. Since its founding, the United States-Spain Council has been chaired by former United States Senators Bob Graham, Christopher Dodd, Mel Martinez, Robert Menendez, Tim Kaine and former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson. Joaquin Castro, Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, currently serves as the Council’s Honorary Chairman. The United States-Spain Council’s annual Forum, organized together with the Fundación Consejo España – EE.UU., alternates each year between the United States and Spain.

USSC Members Respond to COVID-19

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USSC Members Respond to COVID-19

Additional USSC Members Respond to COVID-19

We, both the U.S.-Spain Council and our sister organization in Spain, the Fundación Consejo España – EEUU, are hoping that you are continuing to stay safe, following the guidelines laid out by your local health officials as we work together to combat the spread of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Since the release of our Newsletter last week that shared some of the resources that our members are making available to their communities during this crisis, we’ve been lucky enough to see additional members release new COVID-19 response plans or expand on their previously announced efforts. In the interest of keeping you up to date, we wanted to make sure we shared these fantastic resources with you all. You can find these updates in the infographic below, clicking on any of the blocks below will connect you directly with these members and the resources they are providing. We’re proud to see our list of members stepping up in this time of crisis expanding as we continue to tackle this challenge together.


You should also know that Spain is now one of the nations that has been most heavily impacted by the spread of this virus, lagging only behind the United States in total confirmed cases, and we’d like to take a moment to highlight the efforts being undertaken by the Spanish government as they work to combat this global pandemic. In the face of this unprecedented crisis in his country, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez initially imposed a state of emergency on March 14, which was later followed up with a complete stay-at-home order that is expected to be extended until the end of this crisis. To mitigate the socioeconomic and health care impacts of this pandemic, the Spanish Government has passed an over $200 billion dollar relief package (equivalent of 20% of Spain’s gross domestic product) and looking forward, their legislature is now considering implementing new measures, such as a potential universal basic income, to help guide Spaniards through this time of need. The Spanish military also recently announced that they are now using their facilities to manufacture much needed personal protective equipment (PPE) and disinfecting products like hand sanitizer and much needed pharmaceuticals like paracetamol and coordinating the delivery of these supplies to the hospitals in their most affected regions. With the implementation of these efforts, health officials are finally beginning to report a decline in daily fatalities for Spain, an early sign of much needed hope for their people.We ask that you keep our partners in Spain in your thoughts as we continue to battle this crisis at home and abroad.


Thank you for your attention and compassion as we continue to share these updates, If you have any questions on any of the below resources, please let us know. Additionally, we’d encourage you to share any of these resources that may have a positive impact on those in your community.


Stay safe.

The USSC Team

United States Spain Council is Excited to Announce the 2019 Young Leaders Program Cohort

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PRESS RELEASE – Thursday, August 15th 2019.

Washington, DC – After an extensive review process, the United States – Spain Council is excited to announce the 2019 Young Leaders Program Cohort.

These ten young professionals have the unique opportunity to travel to Madrid and Malaga, Spain for a weeklong immersion program in Spanish culture, including meetings with Spanish government and business leaders, in-depth cultural tours, and conversations with fellow young Spanish leaders.

In Madrid, the Cohort will enjoy exclusive tours of several cultural highlights, meet the European Council on Foreign Relations and The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, have an in-depth presentation at the United States Embassy in Spain, and converse directly with Spanish business leaders.

Launched in 2001, this annual Program brings ten young American leaders to Spain to familiarize them with the social, cultural, economic, and political realities of contemporary Spain and to foster a stronger understanding between Spain and The United States. Since then the program has hosted 160 young leaders representing federal and state government agencies, innovative businesses and corporations, and community organizations.

“The Young Leaders program is a fantastic opportunity to form the international partnerships and personal relationships that strengthen the bonds between the United States and Spain and assert our leadership in the global economy,” said United States-Spain Council Honorary Chair Joaquin Castro of Texas. “I want to congratulate this exceptional class of Young Leaders on their selection to this program and look forward to the exciting opportunity that now lies before them. I have no doubt that they will make us proud during their time in Madrid and Malaga; exploring, forging and reestablishing our connections with the Spanish people that serve as the foundation for this important relationship between our two countries.”

The United States – Spain Council is proud to welcome the following young professionals into this year’s cohort:

Stephen Cobb – Counsel, Troutman Sanders LLP; Richmond, VA 
Gabrielle Corica – Assistant City Attorney, Denver City Attorney’s Office; Denver, CO
Natasha Everheart – Director of Strategy, Pacific Council on International Policy; Los Angeles, CA
Marvin Figueroa – Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Resources,Office of Governor Ralph S. Northam; Richmond, VA
Mary Gonzalez – State Representative, Texas House of Representatives; Clint, TX
Denisse Hudock – Senior Project Architect,PSW Real Estate; Austin, TX
Eric Jacobstein – Senior Policy Advisor, House Committe on Foreign Relations; Washington, DC
Natalia Martinez-Kalinina – General Manager, CIC Miami; Miami, FL 
Rebecca Pollock – Senior Director International Programs,The University of Texas at San Antonio; San Antonio, TX
Jeremy Young – Senior Investigative Producer,Al Jazeera Media Network; Kensington, MD

The 2019 Young Leaders Program will take place September 28 – October 5. You can follow the Cohort’s journey on twitter and on the United States – Spain Council’s website.

Castro to Succeed Senator Kaine as Honorary Chair of the United States Spain Council

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For Immediate Release: 

January 28, 2019 

Press Contact: Jose R. Mercado 

JMercado@dpcreativestrategies.com

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Joaquin Castro (TX-20) will succeed U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) as the seventh Honorary Chair of the United States–Spain Council, an organization focused on stimulating bilateral trade and investment between the United States and Spain. The announcement will be made public during a ceremony at Spanish Ambassador Santiago Cabanas Ansorena’s private residence in Washington, DC. 

“I am honored that Senator Kaine has asked me to join such a prestigious group of honorary chairs.As Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I know how important and significant our relationship with Spain is,” said Chairman Castro. “I look forward to building on Senator Kaine’s success and further strengthening our country’s relationship with Spain.” 

Congressman Castro will share the title of honorary chair once held by former Governor Bill Richardson (D-NM), former and current Senators Bob Graham (D-FL); Christopher Dodd (D-CT); Mel Martinez (R-FL); Bob Menendez (D-NJ); and Tim Kaine (D-VA), who began his tenure as Honorary Chair of the United States–Spain Council in 2013. 

“I am thrilled that Joaquin Castro will take the helm of the United States–Spain Council,” said Senator Kaine. “As a citizen from San Antonio, Joaquin is familiar with the strong cultural and historic relationship between our nations. He will bring passion, experience and drive to help the Council further this relationship and bolster our two countries’ economic, diplomatic, and defense ties. He is the right leader at the right time.” 

The United States–Spain Council is a non-profit organization created by former U.S. Vice President Albert Gore and former Spanish President José María Aznar in 1996 to build stronger relationships between the public and private sectors in both countries. 

Each year since its creation, the Council has worked in tandem with the Fundación Consejo España–Estados Unidos, its Spanish counterpart, to organize an annual forum where prominent government officials, corporate executives, and nonprofit leaders from both countries gather to discuss current affairs and topics of mutual interest. 

This year’s United States–Spain Forum will be held in San Antonio, Texas, which is also the hometown of Honorary Chair, Joaquin Castro.

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Honorary Chairman Senator tim Kaine Receives Knights Grand Cross of the Order of Isabel la Católica

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Tuesday, February 27, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Washington, DC: United States – Spain Council Honorary Chairman Senator Tim Kaine received the Knights Grand Cross of the Order of Isabel la Católica on Tuesday, February 27th at a reception at the Spanish Ambassador’s Residence in Washington, DC. Bestowed by Spanish Ambassador Pedro Morenés, the Order recognizes Senator Kaine’s unique contribution to the Spanish nation and the people of Spain. 

Founded by King Ferdinand VII in 1815, the Order recognizes extraordinary behavior of civil character which contributes to strengthening the relations between Spain and the International Community. Senator Kaine received the Grand Cross, the highest possible grade given to non-heads of state. 

“Much of the excellent shape in which the US-Spain relations are is due to the leadership, work, and boundless energy of Senator Kaine and his team,” said Ambassador Pedro Morenés.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this award,” said Senator Kaine. “Throughout my tenure as Honorary Chairman of the United States – Spain Council, I have strived to enhance the relationship between the United States and Spain. This honor is a testament to the strength of the bilateral relationship and the continued friendship between our two countries.”

Founded in 1996, the United States Spain Council is a unique organization in which U.S. and Spanish business leaders, top government officials, and leaders in education and culture promote stronger ties between the two countries. 

The United States – Spain Council remains committed to enhancing the bilateral ties between the United States and Spain. Under Senator Kaine’s leadership, the United States – Spain Council has strengthened the organization’s stature, presence, and membership.

Microsoft, Facebook and Telxius Complete the Highest-capacity Subsea Cable to Cross the Atlantic

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Those systems enable tasks both simple and complex, from uploading photos and searching webpages to conducting banking transactions and managing air-travel logistics. Most people are aware of their daily dependency on the internet, but few understand the critical role played by the subsea networks spanning the planet in providing that connectivity.

The importance of those networks was underscored when Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast of the U.S. in October 2012. The superstorm devastated coastal communities, caused billions of dollars in damage and shut down wireless, internet and home phone service for days. Flooding knocked out servers, shut down websites and disrupted connectivity across sectors, from electronic trading to online media, affecting transatlantic communications connecting some of the world’s largest economies.

“It was a major disruption,” says Frank Rey, director of global network strategy for Microsoft’s Cloud Infrastructure and Operations division. “The entire network between North America and Europe was isolated for a number of hours. For us, the storm brought to light a potential challenge in the consolidation of transatlantic cables that all landed in New York and New Jersey.”

https://news.microsoft.com/features/microsoft-facebook-telxius-complete-highest-capacity-subsea-cable-cross-atlantic/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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MEDIA CONTACT
Jose Parra, (202) 660-1433
media@prosperolatino.com

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, Honorary Chair United States-Spain Council, and Hon. José Manuel Entrecanales, Chairman of Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos Hosted XXII U.S.-Spain Forum in Williamsburg, Virginia

WILLIAMSBURG, VA — The United States-Spain Council and its Spanish counterpart, Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos, celebrated this weekend the XXII U.S.-Spain in the colonial city of Williamsburg, Virginia. The weekend forum brought together leaders and officials from both countries such as U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis; Spain’s Defense Minister María Dolores de Cospedal García; Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Alfonso María Dastis, and dozens of business leaders from both nations to address economic issues, including infrastructure investments, tourism and national security, among others. 

Following are excerpts from the inaugural addresses by U.S. Senator and United States-Spain Council Honorary Chair Tim Kaine and Chairman of Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos, Hon. José Manuel Entrecanales.

Excerpts from Sen. Kaine’s remarks:

“The world has many a challenge…and yet we come together as Spaniards and Americans to take a relationship that is strong to make it stronger. I’m so glad to welcome so many old friends and new friends as well. I think you’re going to find this to be a marvelous weekend.”

Sen. Kaine provided information on the historical relevance of Williamsburg, Virginia and highlighted how Spanish cooperation dates back to the Revolutionary War.

“[We are in Virginia’s] historic triangle. Jamestown, [the] European, English-speaking settling of the United States began in 1607, 32 years after [the] Spanish permanent settlement in St. Augustine, Florida. So Jamestown is critically important. Williamsburg was the colonial capital of Virginia and also the home of the College of William and Mary, the second oldest college in our country. And we’re very close to Yorktown where America won the Revolutionary War with the support and help of many Spaniards, including General Bernardo de Galvez.”

Referencing the XXII U.S.-Spain Forum’s main topics, he talked about the important cultural ties that unite both countries around tourism, food, and wine. Sen. Kaine also highlighted the importance of both nations’ participation in NATO and their long-standing history of cooperation on matters of national security.

“Today’s world alliances are becoming more important. And just as we have grappled with our security needs, whether they be abroad or domestic terrorist attacks, Spain is living the same reality. Our hearts hurt over the Barcelona attacks just a few weeks ago. We have suffered in Virginia too, in Charlottesville. Terrorism and the challenges that terrorism presents can only be defeated through stronger alliances. So, at a time when there’s been controversy in our country and possibly in Spanish and other European countries about the future of NATO, we [will] hear from key leaders about the U.S.-Spain relationship in th[is] context.” 

Sen. Kaine also touched on another key topic, infrastructure, which was prominently celebrated with the inauguration of an underwater telecommunications cable that connects Bilbao, Spain with Virginia Beach.

“Telxius, a subsidiary of Telefonica; Microsoft and Facebook have a joint project that is now complete: the most advanced underwater cable in the world a telecommunications cable called Marea, the Spanish word for tide. It is done, they’re testing it, it’ll go live soon and we gathered a few miles from here today to announce this great deepening and quickening of the connection between the United States and Spain.

“We’re really in awe of the Spanish expertise in infrastructure. And, in Virginia we consider ourselves leaders in infrastructure— whether it’s public-private partnership[s] to [achieve] things that couldn’t otherwise be done, or wisely using the proceeds of a tobacco lawsuit to build out broadband in the most rural parts of [the state]. This is an area [of] natural connection between the United States and Spain and the expertise of our private sectors,” Sen. Kaine added. 

Excerpts from Hon. Entrecanales’ remarks:

“President Trump’s infrastructure plan, in light of recent events, appears more urgent and necessary than ever, and Spanish infrastructure groups– which manage one third of the world’s transport infrastructure concessions– are standing by and ready to offer their expertise.

”It is my belief that infrastructure will continue to be the cornerstone of all economies. Climate change and its repercussions means that ‘what’ and ‘how we build’ will be vital to the well-being, and perhaps even survival, of our societies.

Hon. Entrecanales also referenced security, another key topic of this year’s forum stating that “both our nations can work closer together to reinforce the institutions that protect our citizens and cooperate to fight the common scourge of terrorism.”

In regards to tourism, another main topic for the XXII U.S.-Spain Forum, Hon. Entrecanales said “few sectors are more relevant to the economic prosperity, the cultural exchange and the enhancement of social bonds between our two nations. In summary, few sectors are more relevant to maintaining alive and healthy our traditional values of welcoming, hospitable and multicultural societies.”


As his counterpart, Hon. Entrecanales concluded by emphasizing the importance of this forum and its goal of strengthening bilateral relationships: “I cannot underscore enough how important this Forum is in shaping the Transatlantic dialogue between our two nations. By coming together to discuss issues of common economic concern, we help build trust, understanding, and a shared view of the world.”

For high resolution photos of the Forum, please email Jose Parra at media@prosperlatino.com. 

ABOUT UNITED STATES-SPAIN COUNCIL

The United States-Spain Council is a unique organization in which U.S. and Spanish corporate leaders, top government officials and leaders in education and culture promote stronger ties between the two countries. For more information about the United States-Spain Council please visit https://www.usspaincouncil.org/about.

ABOUT FUNDACIÓN CONSEJO-ESPAÑA-ESTADOS UNIDOS

The Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos, and the US-Spain Council, organize an annual forum which is held alternatively between Spain and the United States. Prominent representatives from both countries, as well as board members of both Councils, convene to discuss current affairs and topics of mutual interest. Past issues discussed include economic development and the analysis of economic sectors such as infrastructure, energy or technology. The triangular relation between Spain, the United States and Latin American is also discussed every year.

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PARA DIFUSIÓN INMEDIATA
23 de septiembre de 2017
CONTACTO PARA LOS MEDIOS
José Parra, (202) 660-1433
media@prosperolatino.com

Senador Tim Kaine y Presidente Honorario del United States-Spain Council y el Hon. José Manuel Entrecanales, Presidente de la Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos Auspiciaron el XXII Foro España-Estados Unidos en Williamsburg, Virginia

WILLIAMSBURG, VA — El United States-Spain Council y su homólogo español, Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos, celebraron este fin de semana el XXII Foro España-Estados Unidos en la ciudad colonial de Williamsburg, Virginia. El foro de dos días convocó a líderes y funcionarios de ambas naciones tales como la Ministra de Defensa de España, María Dolores de Cospedal García; el Ministro Español de Asuntos Exteriores y Cooperación, Alfonso María Dastis; y el Secretario de Defensa de Estados Unidos, el General James Mattis; además de docenas de líderes corporativos para avanzar en temas económicos, incluyendo inversiones en infraestructura, el turismo y la seguridad, entre otros.

A continuación apartes de las palabras de apertura del Senador Estadounidense y Presidente Honorario del United States-Spain Council, Tim Kaine; y el Presidente de la Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos, Hon. José Manuel Entrecanales.

Apartes del discurso del Sen. Kaine:

“El mundo enfrenta muchos retos…y aún así nos reunimos, españoles y estadounidenses, para fortalecer una relación que es robusta. Me alegra recibir a tantos viejos amigos, y amistades nuevas también. Creo que la van a pasar muy bien este fin de semana”.

El Sen. Kaine habló de la importancia histórica de Williamsburg, Virginia, destacando que la cooperación española con el país data desde la Guerra Revolucionaria estadounidense. 

“[Estamos en el] triángulo histórico [de Virginia]. Jamestown, [el] asentamiento europeo de habla inglesa en Estados Unidos se fundó en 1607, 32 años después asentamiento español permanente en St. Augustín, Florida. Por lo tanto, Jamestown es de gran importancia. Williamsburg era la capital colonial de Virginia y también es la sede del College of William and Mary, la segunda institución de educación superior más antigua del país. Además estamos muy cerca de Yorktown, donde Estados Unidos ganó la Guerra Revolucionaria con el apoyo y la ayuda de muchos españoles, incluyendo el General Bernardo de Gálvez”.

Haciendo alusión a los temas principales del XXII Foro España-Estados Unidos, Kaine habló de los importantes nexos culturales que ambos países comparten con relación al turismo, gastronomía y vino. El Sen. Kaine también destacó la importancia de ambas naciones en la OTAN y su larga historia de cooperación en materia de seguridad nacional. 

“Las alianzas del mundo actual son cada vez más importantes. Y de la misma manera que debemos responder a nuestras necesidades en materia de seguridad, ya sean ataques terroristas domésticos e internacionales, España vive la misma realidad. Nos duele de corazón los ataque que Barcelona sufrió hace unas pocas semanas. También hemos sufrido en Virginia, en Charlottesville. El terrorismo y los retos que presenta sólo pueden ser enfrentados a través de alianzas fortalecidas. Así que en momentos de controversia en nuestro país, y posiblemente en España y otros países europeos, sobre el futuro de la OTAN, escucharemos de líderes clave sobre las relaciones entre los Estados Unidos y España en [este] contexto”.

El Sen. Kaine también se refirió a otro tema de importancia– infraestructura– que fue el foco de celebración en la inauguración de un cable de telecomunicaciones submarino que conecta a Bilbao con Virginia Beach, Virginia.

“Telxius, una subsidiaria de Telefónica; Microsoft y Facebook tienen un proyecto compartido que se ha completado: el cable submarino más avanzado en el mundo, un cable de telecomunicaciones llamado MAREA. Ya está instalado, lo están probando y pronto se comenzará entrará en servicio. Estamos a pocas millas de donde anunciamos la inauguración de esta conexión entre Estados Unidos y España, la cual está fortaleciendo la relación bilateral”. 

“Nos impresiona la pericia española en el tema de infraestructura. En Virginia nos consideramos líderes en este sector— ya sean alianza[s] público-privadas para [lograr] cosas que de otra manera no se pudieran realizar o utilizando responsablemente los fondos procedentes de una demanda tabacalera para interconectar a los áreas rurales [del estado] con conexión broadband. Esta es un área [de] natural para forjar vínculos entre Estados Unidos y España y la experiencia de nuestros sectores privados”, dijo Kaine.

Apartes del discurso del Hon. Entrecanales:

“A raíz de recientes eventos, el plan de infraestructura del Presidente Trump es cada más urgente e importante que nunca. Y, los grupos españoles de infraestructura— que gestionan un tercio de las concesiones en material de transporte de infraestructura a nivel mundial— están a la espera y listos para ofrecer sus conocimientos. 

“Es mi opinión que la infraestructura seguirá siendo la piedra angular de todas las economías. El cambio climático y sus efectos significan que el ‘qué’ y ‘cómo construir’ será crítico para nuestro bienestar y tal vez hasta para la supervivencia de nuestras sociedades. 

Entrecanales también hizo alusión a la seguridad, un tema central para el foro de este año, afirmando que “ambas naciones pueden trabajar de manera conjunta para reforzar las instituciones que protegen a nuestros ciudadanos y cooperan en la lucha común para derrotar el terrorismo”. 

Con relación al turismo, Entrecanales recalcó que “pocos sectores son más relevantes para la prosperidad económica, el intercambio cultural y el mejoramiento de los lazos sociales entre ambos países. En cuentas resumidas, pocos sectores son tan importantes a la hora de mantener vivas nuestros valores tradicionales de sociedades abiertas, y multiculturales”. 

Como su homólogo, el Hon. Entrecanales cerró enfatizando la importancia del foro y su meta de mejorar relaciones bilaterales: “no puedo recalcar cuan importante este foro es a la hora de avanzar el diálogo transatlántico entre ambas naciones. Al reunirnos para discutir temas de interés económico común, ayudamos a promover la confianza, el entendimiento y una visión global”.

Para imágenes de alta resolución del Foro, favor de mandar un correo a José Parra: media@prosperlatino.com.

ACERCA DE UNITED STATES-SPAIN COUNCIL

El United States-Spain Council es una organización única a través del cual líderes corporativos, oficiales gubernamentales y gestores académicos y culturales de Estados Unidos y España fomentan vínculos de interés común. Para más información sobre el United States-Spain Council visite la página web https://www.usspaincouncil.org/about.

ACERCA DE FUNDACIÓN CONSEJO ESPAÑA-ESTADOS UNIDOS

La Fundación Consejo España-Estados Unidos es una iniciativa de la sociedad civil con participación de grandes empresas, instituciones culturales y académicas y miembros de la administración, creada con el propósito de fomentar los vínculos ya existentes en diversos campos de actividad- económico, financiero, cultural, educativo, político, profesional- entre la sociedad y las instituciones españolas y estadounidenses, que permita un mejor entendimiento mutuo y genere nuevos proyectos provechosos en todos esos ámbitos. Constituida en 1997, fue registrada en el Protectorado de Fundaciones del Ministerio de Cultura con el número 327