Gov. Touts Texas’ Competitiveness, Encourages Investment and Trade with Texas
Also meets with business and government leaders at Ambrosetti Speech

Cernobbio (Como), Italy - Gov. Rick Perry highlighted the importance of strengthening the culture of innovation and competition in Texas that has helped grow our economy and create jobs. The governor spoke at the 38th Annual Ambrosetti Intelligence on the World, Europe and Italy Forum: Innovation, Research and Development as Drivers for Growth.

"Whether on the cutting edge of biotech, communications, commerce or private space exploration, you will find Texas at the forefront of the movement," Gov. Perry said. "We have invested in programs that help spur and commercialize research in our state, and today, Texas' workforce, talent, universities and business climate have made us a leader in high-tech innovation, research, development and commercialization."

Gov. Perry also spoke at a session on leadership in the U.S., and attended sessions discussing economic outlook and global leadership. Senators John McCain, Lindsey Graham and Joe Lieberman, and business leaders and economic experts from around the world, will be addressing the forum, as well. The governor also met with Eli Lilly CEO John Lechleiter, who is also speaking at the forum, former Italian Ambassador to the U.S. Giovanni Castellaneta and Dilenschneider Group CEO Robert Dilenschneider.

The Ambrosetti Forum is an annual international economic development conference where heads of state, Nobel laureates, businessmen, managers and experts from around the world have come together since 1975 to discuss forecasts of economic and geo-political outlooks for the world, Europe and Italy. The forum also discusses scientific and technological developments and their impact on the future of public and private institutions, business and society.

Gov. Perry and First Lady Anita Perry are in Italy for an economic development trip that involves meetings with business and government leaders to encourage investment in and trade with Texas. Both will return to Texas on Wednesday, September 12. This trip being funded by TexasOne and the Ambrosetti Forum. No tax dollars will be used for the Perry's travel and accommodations on this trip.

To view full text of the governor's remarks, please visit http://governor.state.tx.us/news/speech/17611/.