MINNEAPOLIS— Representative Tom Emmer (R-MN), General Michael Hagee, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce President Doug Loon, and Land O’ Lakes CEO Chris Policinski  joined the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, to discuss how America’s engagement abroad spurs economic growth here in Minnesota and promotes our national security.

“From stopping the spread of global pandemics to countering terrorism, now is not the time for our nation to retreat. It’s critical that we continue to strengthen our nation’s investments in development and diplomacy along with our focus on a strong defense,” said U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer. “American leadership around the world is more critical now than ever for our national security and for Minnesota’s economic prosperity.”

“The recent attacks in Brussels and France remind us that today’s global threats require all our tools of national security. Alongside our robust military, American development and diplomacy programs are more crucial than ever to keep our country safe.  We must continue to build strategic partnerships with our friends and allies that counter extremist violence and ultimately create a better, safer world,” said General Michael Hagee (USMC Ret.).

Minneapolis is home to some of the largest global brands and organizations with rapidly growing international operations in emerging markets. Last year, Minnesota exported $20 billion in goods and services overseas, and trade supported more than one in five local jobs, making U.S. international engagement a strategic issue for the state.

“Here in Minnesota, the USGLC has assembled a distinguished group of leaders from around the state – made up of business executives, faith leaders, humanitarians, civic officials, and military veterans. We all believe that the U.S. must continue to be a global leader – and that America’s role in the world matters in this election – not only because it’s the smart thing to do, but also because it’s the right thing to do,” said Doug Loon, President of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.

“Today, the U.S. is providing foreign assistance in new and more effective ways by giving people a hand up, not just a hand out. At Partners in Food Solutions, we’re excited to be part of this effort,” said Jeff Dykstra, CEO of Partners in Food Solutions. “Our organization partners with USAID to link the technical and business expertise of volunteer employees from major food companies to small and growing food processors across Africa. Together we are building food businesses that are creating opportunities for millions.” 

“Our world is more interconnected than ever before – and this event shows that Minnesotans understand how vital America’s strategic investment in development and diplomacy is to keeping us safe and creating opportunity at home,” said Liz Schrayer President and CEO of the USGLC. “I am delighted that Representative Emmer has joined business, veteran, and community leaders in Minnesota to underscore the importance of strengthening America’s global leadership.”

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (www.usglc.org) is a broad-based influential network of 500 businesses and NGOs; national security and foreign policy experts; and business, faith-based, academic, military, and community leaders in all 50 states who support strategic investments to elevate development and diplomacy alongside defense in order to build a better, safer world.