At a time of shifting geopolitical realities, accelerating digital transformation, and mounting pressure on global trade, transatlantic cooperation remains a cornerstone of stability, innovation, and shared prosperity. Against this backdrop, the ACE US Delegation 2026 – organized by AmChams in Europe, a network of 49 AmChams across 47 countries throughout Europe and Eurasia – reaffirmed the strength and relevance of this partnership during an intensive week of high-level engagement.
The delegation brought together 37 senior leaders from 30 AmChams for a series of high-level exchanges examining the future of U.S.–European economic ties, global leadership, and the role of innovation in tackling shared challenges. Through a dynamic mix of policy roundtables and industry visits, the program underscored the enduring values and common priorities anchoring the transatlantic partnership.
“AmChams have long stood on the front line of advocating for the transatlantic economy — not out of nostalgia, but out of necessity. The transatlantic economy is the world’s largest economic relationship, worth $9.8 trillion, and it powers trade, investment, and jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.” – Ajša Vodnik, Chair of AmChams in Europe and CEO of AmCham Slovenia.
A Partnership of Impact: Key Figures
The scale and significance of the U.S. – EU economic relationship underscore the stakes of this partnership:
- $9.8 trillion – the estimated value of the transatlantic economy
- 56% – share of foreign investment in the U.S. originating from Europe
- 56% – share of U.S. foreign investment flowing to Europe
- 16 million – jobs supported across both continents
These figures do not just represent an economic exchange, what they underscore is the tangible benefits of a partnership rooted in shared values and long-term collaboration.
Strategic Dialogue in Washington, D.C.
The delegation’s first stop was Washington, D.C., where delegates engaged with senior representatives from across the U.S. government and business community. Discussions spanned key priorities such as trade policy, digital governance, artificial intelligence, energy security, and the vital role of the private sector in promoting global stability.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Senior leaders at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce provided in-depth insights on the current political landscape, the evolving global trade environment, energy cooperation, and EU–U.S. security partnerships. The session, moderated by Marjorie Chorlins, featured contributions from John Murphy, Christopher Guith, and other top experts in their fields.
U.S. Department of Commerce
An open discussion with David L. Fogel, Assistant Secretary of Commerce, highlighted the value of the U.S.– EU relationship and the future of transatlantic cooperation. As each other’s top trade and investment partners, the U.S. and Europe create substantial opportunities for both large companies and SMEs, while ongoing regulatory developments continue to shape the bilateral trade landscape.
U.S. Department of State
Delegates exchanged views on European affairs, trade, security, and defense, highlighting the breadth of the transatlantic agenda in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. The discussions underscored the importance of strong EU–U.S. coordination and a forward-looking partnership to advance shared priorities.
Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC)
Discussions with DDTC emphasized a key principle: protectionism does not enhance security – it fragments markets and weakens resilience. Lasting stability is built through openness, cooperation, and strong partnerships, principles that should guide all transatlantic relationships.
Legislative Office of Congressman Keith Self
Joshua Adams, Senior Legislative Assistant to Congressman Keith Self, discussed the U.S.– EU trade and investment relationship and the importance of transatlantic cooperation in addressing global challenges. Points of discussion covered trade, energy cooperation, security partnerships, and the evolving global economic landscape.
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
A dynamic and wide-ranging exchange on economic security, technological innovation, and energy emphasized their growing strategic importance and their central role in shaping a resilient and forward-looking transatlantic partnership. The session featured contributions from leading experts including Navin Girishankar, Sujai Shivakumar, Max Bergmann, Joseph Majkut, and Kate Koren.
Accenture
At Accenture, the delegation engaged in an exchange on the evolving role of corporate leadership in government affairs and how businesses navigate an increasingly complex global and regulatory environment. Participants gained key insights into opportunities in AI, digital transformation, and the importance of engagement and collaboration in driving future growth.
Politico
At Politico, the delegation gained a behind-the-scenes perspective on how policy, politics, and international trade are covered and communicated in real time. The discussion highlighted the media’s critical role in shaping informed public debate on transatlantic relations and global economic developments.
Innovation at Scale: Austin, Texas
The delegation’s journey continued to Austin, Texas – a city where technology, talent, and entrepreneurial energy converge. The Austin leg of the program offered a first-hand look at advanced manufacturing, world-class education, and the dynamism of one of the United States’ most vibrant business hubs.
Tesla Gigafactory
At Tesla’s first Gigafactory, leaders experienced firsthand the scale and sophistication of a highly integrated operation spanning approximately one mile (1.6 km) and employing over 12,000 people. The facility – set on 28,000 acres – exemplifies efficiency, advanced manufacturing, and precision from design through to execution, offering a compelling vision of the future of clean energy and automotive innovation.
University of Texas at Austin
At one of the world’s leading public research institutions – home to nearly 54,000 students and more than $1 billion in annual research expenditure – delegates explored the critical role academia plays in driving innovation. The delegation engaged with Dr. Sonia Feigenbaum, Senior Vice Provost for Global Engagement and Chief International Officer, discussing UT Austin’s contributions to health, discovery, and global innovation, and the importance of international collaboration in building long-term global partnerships.
U.S. Trade Consult & Austin Business Community
Practical insights into market entry strategies and Austin’s investment appeal were provided by Sean Herrity, Founder & CEO of US Trade Consult, alongside Angelos Angelou of AngelouEconomics and Brandon Schneider of Q-Branch. Their perspectives on trade strategy and international business underscored the importance of agile thinking in today’s complex global trade environment. Factors highlighted included streamlined permitting, a competitive tax environment, strong business networks, and a distinctly pro-growth mindset.
Austin Chamber of Commerce & Texas Economic Development
Engagement with the Austin Chamber of Commerce further highlighted the region’s value proposition for investment, particularly in technology and advanced manufacturing. The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office offered a broader perspective on statewide strategies for economic expansion, business attraction, and international engagement – reinforcing Texas’ growing role in the global economy.
“We often take certain things for granted. However, this is not always the case. Developments and circumstances evolve, and therefore constant vigilance — not complacency — is required. This also applies to transatlantic relations and to the role of the American Chambers of Commerce in Europe: to continuously engage in dialogue and highlight their value and potential, as well as their importance for economies and workers on both continents.” – Elias Spirtounias, Vice Chair of AmChams in Europe and Executive Director of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce.
A Blueprint for the Future
The ACE US Delegation 2026 stands as a compelling example of what can be achieved when business, policy, and shared values align. As a trusted bridge between Europe and the United States, AmChams in Europe continues to strengthen transatlantic ties, amplify business voices, and help shape a more connected, resilient, and forward-looking global economy.