The Oklahoma Department of Commerce shall serve as the Oklahoma Chief International Protocol Office and provide a resource for information concerning proper protocol with regard to international diplomats and officials and shall cooperate with other state agencies already engaged in international relations to facilitate and coordinate government resources for optimal leveraging in achieving the common goal of advancing Oklahoma to the forefront of the global community. An associate with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce may also serve as the official representative of the Governor to ensure that the growing numbers of international officials traveling to Oklahoma are warmly received and enjoy productive visits to the state. When dealing with international visitors of foreign governments, the associate may greet chiefs of state, heads of government and other appropriate functionaries, and may provide support to coordinate, arrange and facilitate meetings and other engagements between the Governor and international leaders.
The Oklahoma Department of Commerce shall, for the encouragement of international trade opportunities for Oklahoma businesses, encourage and assist private efforts toward the development of interpersonal relationships between citizens of this state and citizens of other nations.
Added by Laws 1996, c. 286, § 1, emerg. eff. June 5, 1996. Amended by Laws 2007, c. 103, § 1, eff. July 1, 2007; Laws 2021, c. 67, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2021.