Mayor's Office of Trade and International Affairs

Yesterday, MOTIA staff joined U.S. Global Leadership Coalition and the Asia Society Texas Center for an afternoon with the Honorable Furqat Sidikov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the United States. 

The program featured key speakers from the U.S. Government and C5 countries to speak on sports diplomacy during the world cup, and the opportunity it brings to strengthen diplomatic ties.

It was a joy having team Uzbekistan play in Houston in their first appearance at the FIFA World Cup!

We were pleased to welcome former Korean Consul General Youngho Jung and the Texas Market Entry Mission, representing Korean companies and business leaders, to Houston City Hall to explore business opportunities and learn more about the region’s economy.

Participants received presentations on Houston’s global connectivity, economic strengths, and the key industries that make Houston a leading destination for business and investment.

Houston values its strong relationship with the Republic of Korea and welcomes future opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration.

Celebrating 65 years of the Houston–Taipei sister city relationship—Houston’s first sister city!
This milestone reflects decades of cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and enduring friendship between our communities.
Special thanks to Greg Meyers, President of the Houston Taipei Society, the society members, and all those who have contributed to strengthening the Houston–Taipei partnership over the years. We look forward to many more years of collaboration and friendship. 🇺🇸🇹🇼

The City of Houston welcomed the Democratic Republic of Congo national team to our great city before their first FIFA World Cup match.

Gigi Lee, our Chief of International Affairs, joined by Chris Canetti, President of the FIFA World Cup Host Committee, was on site to welcome the team, along with H.E. Yvette Kapinga Ngandu, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Congo to the United States, and a large group of excited fans.

Honored to join the farewell reception honoring Ambassador Miloslav Stašek for his contributions to advancing ties between Houston and the Czech Republic over the past four years.

Chief of International Affairs Gigi Lee conveyed Mayor John Whitmire’s appreciation to Ambassador Stašek.

Thank you to the Czech Center Museum Houston for hosting this special evening and for preserving and promoting Czech heritage in our community. Houston values its strong partnership with the Czech Republic and the many opportunities for collaboration in trade, investment, innovation, education, and cultural exchange. Thank you, Ambassador Stašek, and best wishes in your future endeavors.

The inaugural Consular Corps Gala brought together members of the Houston Consular Corps, and business and community leaders to celebrate Houston’s international partnerships.
Special recognition to Dean of the Consular Corps of Houston and Consul General of Germany Kai Hennig for his leadership of Houston’s diplomatic community, and to President of the Houston 2026 World Cup Host Committee Chris Canetti for his keynote address sharing Houston’s preparations to welcome the world during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chief of International Affairs Gigi Lee attended on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire, reaffirming the City’s commitment to international engagement and Houston’s position as one of the most globally connected cities in the United States.