On Monday, 9 May, Susan Danger, CEO, AmCham EU signed the EMPOWER HER declaration on behalf of AmCham EU and the network of AmChams in Europe during a meeting with Diane Farrell, Deputy Under Secretary for International Trade in Washington, DC. The EMPOWER HER initiative, announced by Gina M. Raimondo, US Secretary of Commerce at AmCham EU’s Transatlantic Conference in March, aims to promote the role of women in international business and trade. It will explore ways to encourage US and European companies to support women owned and operated exporters and business interests abroad.

AmCham EU, the network of AmChams in Europe and the US Department of Commerce will work together to develop strategies and implement activities under EMPOWER HER, such as:

• Establishing a partnership agreement for the initiative to advance women’s economic empowerment and gender equality in international trade;

• Exploring ways to encourage US and European companies to engage in efforts to advance a more diverse and inclusive workplace that supports women, including women-owned and operated US exporters and US business interests abroad;

• Identifying opportunities to improve the business environment for women, including access to e-commerce tools; and

• Identifying opportunities and mechanisms to increase awareness of available trade, investment, and export related services, programs, and overseas events.

You can learn more about the initiative on the dedicated website.

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About the International Trade Administration

The International Trade Administration (ITA) at the US Department of Commerce plays a key role in promoting US exports and providing resources for American companies competing in the global marketplace. ITA has more than 2,200 employees assisting US exporters in more than 100 US cities and 75 markets worldwide. For more information on ITA visit www.trade.gov.

About the American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union

The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU (AmCham EU) speaks for its member companies committed to Europe on trade, investment and competitiveness issues. It aims to ensure a growth-orientated business and investment climate in Europe. AmCham EU facilitates the resolution of transatlantic issues that impact business and plays a role in creating better understanding of EU and U.S. positions on business matters. For more information, please visit www.amchameu.eu.