City of Dallas, TX

05/06/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/06/2024 13:27

Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson opens Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce in the Dallas International District

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Alheli Garza
Chief of Staff
[email protected] | (972) 626-3549

Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson opens Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce in the Dallas International District

DALLAS - Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson announced Monday that the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce has officially opened in the city's International District.

The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce in Dallas will serve as a base to promote trade and tourism between Tanzania and the United States of America.

Mayor Johnson developed the vision for opening international trade offices in Dallas as part of his international strategy. These offices serve as an integral part of the city's efforts to improve foreign relations by increasing trade, cultural exchanges, and foreign direct-investment.

The establishment of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce in Dallas is the culmination of a three-year relationship that began with a virtual meeting between Mayor Johnson and the Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Liberata Mulamula, in August of 2021. A few months later, Mayor Johnson met in person with Her Excellency, Ambassador of Tanzania to the United States, Elsie Kanza. Together, they laid out a plan to establish a Tanzanian presence in Dallas, and in April 2022, Ambassador Kanza and Mayor Johnson signed a Memorandum of Understanding intending to make this plan a reality.

"The opening of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce in Dallas is the realization of Dallas and Tanzania's shared vision for collaboration," said Mayor Johnson. "This new trade office is another major win for our city and a testament to Dallas' commitment to increasing its global presence and strengthening relationships with our international allies.

Dallas is truly the place to be right now, and we will continue to build new relationships and take actions that aim to place Dallas on the world stage."

"The establishment of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce and the operationalization of the Tanzania Trade office in Dallas marks a significant milestone in our quest for deepening commercial partnership between Tanzania and the United States of America," said Ambassador Kanza. "This strategic partnership aims not only to facilitate trade flows and investments between the two countries but also to serve as a commitment to fostering sustainable growth and mutual prosperity. I am delighted that this monumental event is taking place in the great city of Dallas as this friendly city has welcomed Tanzania with open arms, especially under the leadership of Mayor Eric L. Johnson."

Dallas has enjoyed a close relationship with Tanzania for several decades, with many Dallas leaders traveling to Tanzania for business and leisure, in addition to supporting charity work in the country. Tanzanian dignitaries have also frequented Dallas, and this city has a unique opportunity for enhanced economic and cultural exchange with Tanzania."

Throughout the last few years as mayor, Mayor Johnson has remained steadfast in his commitment to reinforcing Dallas' international relationships. As part of his international strategy, Mayor Johnson developed the vision for hosting new foreign trade offices in Dallas and made opening these offices a top priority of his administration.

The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce is the third trade office to be opened in the Dallas International District. These trade offices are an integral part of the city's foreign relations strategy, as they foster economic trade, foreign direct investment, and cultural exchange.

Former Ambassador Jeanne Phillips, chair of the Mayor's International Advisory Council, has worked diligently alongside Mayor Johnson to bolster Dallas' international presence.

"Having an in-person location in the city strengthens our relations with Tanzania, and it will grow our international business ties with this important strategic partner, " Phillips said. "We welcome Tanzania to our city and are hopeful that we will expand our ties in the years to come."

The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce will be based in City Council District 11, represented by Council Member Jaynie Schultz, who spearheaded the effort to designate the International District in North Dallas.

"The national headquarters of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce is an important addition to the international business community we are building at the Prism Center in the Dallas International District. There are boundless opportunities for economic growth between Dallas and Tanzania. We are thrilled to work together toward the success of both," said Council Member Shultz.

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