The Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics and Public Policy of the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University presented Ambassador Carla Hills, former US trade representative for President George H.W. Bush, with its annual Good Governance Award on January 28 to a standing-room-only audience. The Good Governance award recognizes exemplary public service and raises the visibility of advanced analysis in policymaking.
As part of the ConocoPhillips White House Lecture Series, Hills spoke at the George Bush Presidential Library. Dean Andrew Card provided welcoming remarks and Dr. James Griffin, director of the Mosbacher Institute, introduced Hills by providing background information on international trade. The event was well attended by graduate and undergraduate students from Texas A&M University, supporters of the Bush Library and Foundation, local elected officials such as Congressman Bill Flores, and members of the local community.
Hills discussed her role as the president’s principal advisor on international trade as well as her experience as the chief negotiator for the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Hills worked closely with Robert Mosbacher, the Institute’s namesake, while in President Bush’s cabinet and said she was pleased to receive the award named in his honor. Hills also participated in a Q&A session led by Dr. Kishore Gawande, a professor in the Master’s Program in International Affairs at the Bush School of Government and Public Service.
During the Q&A session, Hills also provided several suggestions on moving the Doha Development Round, the current trade negotiation round of the World Trade Organization, forward and increasing the United States’ international trade. These suggestions included participation in various trade alliances, including a potential partnership between NAFTA and the European Union. Finally, Hills offered advice for students interested in pursuing careers in trade and economics abroad, noting the many opportunities available.
