Readout of Mayor Johnson’s third day of official visit to France
Mayor Johnson traveled from Dijon to Paris this morning and was transported to his first meeting at the headquarters of Air Liquide in one of their hydrogen-powered taxis. Air Liquide is a world-leading company in the gas, technology, and service sectors. The mayor met with Air Liquide’s leadership who shared the company’s long-range vision and explained the many complex facets of the company’s worldwide business operations. Air Liquide was proud to mention that they are the official hydrogen supporter of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Mayor Johnson shared the Dallas story and why companies are choosing to relocate to Dallas.
Following this meeting, Mayor Johnson met with Ambassador Denise Campbell Bauer, United States Ambassador to France. They engaged in a conversation about academic exchanges, subnational diplomacy, and the importance of meeting in person to truly solidify relationships. The ambassador also shared details about a few programs, such as the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program and Select USA. These programs are designed to assist American students and companies in expanding internationally.
Then, Mayor Johnson visited Banque Publique d’Investissement-France (Bpifrance). Bpifrance has become a major resource for entrepreneurs by providing financing options and training programs through an extensive network. Their mission is to create a decentralized environment for entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed in future markets. Their conversation highlighted the importance of identifying and creating the right opportunities for companies to succeed. In an effort to showcase Dallas – a place where major growth is occurring in the United States – Mayor Johnson extended an invitation to Bpifrance to visit Dallas and meet with leaders of the Dallas business community.
To wrap up the day, Mayor Johnson met with Minister Olivier Becht, Minister for Foreign Trade, Attractiveness, and French Nationals Abroad. Minister Becht thanked Mayor Johnson for his help in opening the French Trade Office in Dallas and also expressed appreciation for the Mayor’s International Advisory Council (MIAC), Honorary Consul of France Jeanne Phillips (Chair of MIAC), and Consul General Valérie Baraban for their support in this important effort.
Mayor Johnson and Minister Becht expanded on how to continue deepening the relationship between Dallas and France and the importance of France having a physical presence in Dallas. Minister Becht is committed to finding opportunities for Dallas and France to partner, and Mayor Johnson emphasized his great interest in taking this initial meeting to the next level by inviting Minister Becht to bring a delegation to Dallas in the very near future. The meeting concluded with a handshake and a mutual commitment to work together.
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