On February 6, 2025, Wesleyan College hosted the Sixth Annual Global Trade and Investment Symposium, emphasizing the importance of international connections at a time of geopolitical uncertainty. Sponsored by local attorney and honorary Danish consul Christopher N. Smith, this year’s symposium invited professionals, diplomats, and students to discuss how engagement with the global economy enhances Georgia’s business and cultural landscapes.
With over 100 attendees, including diplomats from more than 10 countries, the symposium kicked off with opening remarks from Meaghan Blight, the president of Wesleyan College. She highlighted the underlying values of global trade, stating, "When I think about global trade, it’s not just an act of commerce. It’s about fostering leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and friendship, all core values..." Her words set the stage for the discussions to come.
This year's symposium featured France as the focal point of discussion, aligning with broader themes of international partnership. Blight's opening remarks paved the way for presentations by Anne-Laure Desjonquères, the Consul General of France, who brought attention to the dynamic economic relationship between Georgia and France, which supports 27,000 jobs throughout the state.
Desjonquères, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diplomatic relationships, expressed concern about potential setbacks should existing industries stop collaborating. She stated, "The worst-case possible scenario is... they hear, ‘We haven’t talked to anybody...’" This statement underlined the palpable stakes of international cooperation.
The event also recognized the contributions of Delta Air Lines to the commemoration of World War II veterans, acknowledging the airline’s role over the past three years as it has flown veterans to Normandy for D-Day anniversary ceremonies. Virginie Durr, Delta’s enterprise sales manager, highlighted the significance of their initiatives by recalling, "You have to picture this terminal... bringing our heroes home. This is your city, and this is your airport." Not only did this showcase corporate responsibility, but also the enduring friendship between the U.S. and France.
Throughout the symposium, the importance of international investment was prominently discussed. Stephen Adams, executive director of the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority, noted the community's growth due to foreign investment, which brings not only jobs but invaluable expertise. Speaking on the influence of international corporations, he remarked, "The taxable assets... go back to providing a revenue stream to our education system — those are the easy things to point to. But it’s the culture...that make us as a community, and YKK is a perfect example of this.”
YKK AP’s vice president, Raymond Shelton, shared insights on the company's commitment to sustainability and community involvement. He stated, "Sustainability is not just about being environmentally friendly. It’s about... making sure... we’re producing and being community partners over time." He highlighted YKK's longstanding history and commitment to local communities, which includes partnerships with educational institutions and medical exchanges.
The theme of sustainability echoed throughout the day as experts explored ways businesses can adapt to current economic challenges. The specter of tariffs and changing trade dynamics was discussed as participants considered how best to maintain strong international ties. Durr, from Delta, noted the airline’s strategic partnerships with companies around the world, asserting, "We owe it to future generations to continue connecting the world."
The symposium concluded with reflections on the necessity for collaborative efforts to navigate the uncertainties of global trade today. Blight’s earlier sentiments about the friendship, innovation, and entrepreneurship embedded within Georgia's values resonate deeply against the backdrop of today's complex international relations.
By focusing on the opportunities rather than the threats presented by globalization, this year's Global Trade and Investment Symposium provided attendees not only with practical takeaways but also with hope for continued growth through cross-border connections.