The stars seemed to align last week for the 90th conference hosted by the American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI) in New York. Not only did all of the keynote speakers show up (no stand ins), but the conference closed just as the second heat wave for 2011 started to close its grip on the city. The panels, presentations and speakers at this year’s conference all seemed to be walking to the beat of the same drum: providing the greatest security for travel and trade in an efficient and streamlined manner that facilitates economic growth.
Secretary Janet Napolitano reiterated Commissioner Bersin’s message to partner with trade while improving security. Overall, it was a great conference. It was great to catch up with old friends and the panels and speakers were informative.
