Background

In conjunction with the City of Arlington’s Champion Arlington Economic Development Strategy that encourages a partnership-based approach to implementing and enhancing Arlington’s opportunity to be an active participant in the global marketplace, the City committed to developing an Office of International Protocol. Working in collaboration with the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, this office will serve to enhance the City’s ability to attract and create international business opportunities as part of Arlington’s economic develop effort and provide diplomatic guidance to the Mayor, Council, city officials, and the community on cross cultural interactions.

Development

In July 2006, the City assigned the Arlington Convention Center Business Manager, Beverly Gooch, as Interim Protocol Coordinator to work with the Arlington Chamber of Commerce Small Business Development Director, Sergio Bento, to develop an implementation plan for an Office of International Protocol.

While the plan is being developed, the interim International Protocol Coordinator will:

	Provide guidance on cultural courtesies;
	Direct foreign business, education, and tourism inquiries to the appropriate agency; and
	Assure visiting business delegates are received properly and according to established rules of protocol.

The Arlington Chamber of Commerce, through its Small Business Council, will serve as the primary point of contact for international business relations and continue to develop an International Trade program that:

	Promotes Arlington to attract new foreign direct investment;
	Builds and maintains relationships with foreign diplomatic, governmental and business communities; and
	Makes Arlington’s business climate more competitive within the region.

The City of Arlington and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce recognize and support the successful development of an Office of International Protocol that will further Arlington’s efforts to increase cultural awareness and develop a strong international trade program.

If you would like additional information or guidance on an international protocol topic, please send your request to Angie.Summers@arlingtontx.gov.