MIAMI-DADE ( February 07, 2025 )– The Miami-Dade County International Trade Consortium (ITC) hosted a productive business roundtable with the Croatian delegation led by His Excellency Gordan Grlić Radman, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Republic of Croatia. Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in technology, increased connectivity, trade, tourism, and building on the existing ties between Croatia and Miami-Dade County.
ITC Board Member Lynare Robbins, and ITC’s Nusly Barahona-Alea and Sudeshna Chatterjee, presented a comprehensive briefing that detailed Miami’s role as a critical hub connecting North America, Latin America, and Europe. ITC Board Member Jimmy Nares, Section Chief of Aviation Marketing, Miami-Dade Aviation Department, presented compelling data about Miami International Airport’s increasing traffic, particularly from European destinations. Fernanda Figueiredo, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, SelectFlorida, highlighted the region’s key advantages, including competitive tax rates, a skilled labor pool, and its attractive cost of living. Christina Sleszynska, Executive Director, European-American Chamber of Commerce Florida, emphasized the value of Miami’s diverse workforce, particularly the influx of Latin American professionals, which enhances the city’s status as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurial activity. Ilona Vega Jaramillo, Vice President of International Economic Development, Miami-Dade Beacon Council, closed the discussion by highlighting Miami’s remarkable growth trajectory over the last six years, particularly in sectors like sustainability and emerging technology.
Minister Grlić Radman concluded the roundtable by reaffirming Croatia’s commitment to expanding its relationship with Miami-Dade County, expressing enthusiasm for exploring new avenues for collaboration.
ITC also facilitated meetings with PortMiami and Vice Mayor of North Bay Village, Goran Cuk. In the evening, ITC joined the delegation and other members of the local Croatian community for a welcome reception hosted by the Croatian-American Cultural Center in Deerfield Beach, Florida.
