The U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council hosted a breakfast conversation on Monday, October 16, 2023, with Thomas Debass, Managing Director of the U.S. Office of Global Partnerships within the U.S. Department of State. Thomas Debass is leading a U.S. government delegation to GITEX 2023, a regional technology trade show taking place in Dubai from October 16 – 20, 2023. Mr. Debass spoke about the Office of Global Partnerships’ priorities and highlighted current partnership initiatives, including their Coalition for Climate Entrepreneurship (CCE) Partnership, the launch of their climate hubs under the CCE, and their Women’s Climate Entrepreneur Pitch Competition at COP28.

He mentioned his office’s key initiatives for partnering with the private sector to promote economic growth, global finance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Moreover, he shared some stories of successful public-private partnerships, which included STEM education, women’s entrepreneurship programs and disaster relief efforts. He noted that market fit is the best indicator of a successful public-private partnership.  

Thomas Debass highlighted the Office’s Coalition for Climate Entrepreneurship (CCE), a public-private partnership that aims to address the climate crisis and contribute to economic empowerment in developing countries by nurturing entrepreneurship focused on climate solutions. Sandra Helayel, Executive Director at General Electric, shared the benefits and opportunities GE has derived from being a part of the Coalition for Climate Entrepreneurship, as well as the hubs under the CCE. She mentioned that having this ecosystem brings companies together and ensures access to startups. 

In preparation of COP28, he and his team provided insights into ways technology and innovation can help address climate change and promote sustainability. Technology is a key part of this engagement and he outlined future engagements related to artificial intelligence. He shared the value that businesses can provide and gain from partnering with the Office of Global Partnerships, particularly in the area of sustainability.

For more information about this event, please contact Amira Siddiqi at asiddiqi@usuaebusiness.org and Ashwood Heffern at heffernja1@state.gov.