To explore a plan that will bring jobs and revenue to Guam based on the economic surge in the Asia Pacific region, Senator Frank Blas, Jr. joined business executives in a meeting, October 13.
With Blas were Guam Chamber of Commerce Chairman Jeffrey B. Jones, Chamber Special Executive Committee Member Joe Arnett, David J. John Vice Chairman of the Guam Economic Development Authority Board of Directors, former Senator Chris Duenas and GEDA representatives former Senator Mana Silva-Taijeron, Ed Camacho and Tina Garcia.
“Our meeting focused on the shift in the global economy from Europe to Asia as well as President Obama’s Pacific Pivot initiative that addresses the need for military and economic buildup in Asia-Pacific region,” Blas said.
Blas added that the changing world economy as well as the recently signed Trans-Pacific Partnership presents an amazing opportunity for Guam since our island is the closest American soil to Asia. This gives Guam the potential to be at the forefront of expansion for companies wanting to do business in our region.
The lawmaker has been working closely with the Guam Chamber of Commerce as well as the Guam Economic Development Authority on ways Guam can benefit from this movement.
Blas said that they “discussed how Guam can benefit from current world economic activity to create a third economic source for our island. We need to partner with all our stakeholders to create Guam as a hub for business activity between the U.S. and the Asia-Pacific region.” The Senator added that this plan to create Guam as a business hub will bring new jobs and opportunities to our community.
As a result of the meeting, GEDA officials will prepare a point paper on this plan to discuss at their next board meeting and the Executive Branch of the government will begin senior cabinet discussions on this matter and how to ensure our island fully benefits from the plan.
Meanwhile, Senator Blas is researching current laws to determine what changes need to be made to further entice global businesses to establish their regional offices on Guam.
