Transatlantic Ties Flourish: Bavarian Engagement Highlights Enduring US Partnerships

RALEIGH, N.C. – While Bavarian State Premier Markus Söder embarked on a significant diplomatic and economic mission to the United States this week, focusing his itinerary on the strategically important states of Texas and South Carolina, the broader narrative of robust transatlantic engagement underscores Bavaria's deep and expanding connections with key American partners, including North Carolina. This visit, Söder's first official trip to the U.S. as Premier in over two decades, highlights a concerted effort by the German state to forge deeper alliances in technology, economy, and innovation across the Atlantic.

Despite Premier Söder's recent focus on the Gulf Coast and the Southeast, the ongoing high-level dialogue and substantial economic activity between Bavaria and North Carolina demonstrate a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship. North Carolina continues to be a crucial hub for German foreign direct investment, with its Governor having recently led a delegation to Germany, including Bavaria, to bolster these critical economic linkages.

Söder's Strategic Outreach: Deepening Ties with Texas and South Carolina

Bavarian State Premier Dr. Markus Söder, accompanied by State Chancellery Minister Dr. Florian Herrmann, commenced a multi-day visit to the United States from March 29 to April 1, 2026. The primary destinations for this high-profile trip were Houston, Texas, and Columbia, South Carolina. The core objective of the visit centered on strengthening regional partnerships in technology and economic sectors.

In Texas, the delegation aimed to deepen long-standing cooperation, particularly in space science. Söder's itinerary included a visit to the NASA Mission Control Center in Houston, where discussions were slated to advance a project concerning AI control in aerospace, a collaboration between the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Oberpfaffenhofen, Bavaria, and NASA. This initiative is part of Bavaria's broader Hightech Agenda, which prioritizes future technologies and the growing aerospace sector.

The South Carolina leg of the trip focused on the automotive industry, an area of traditional strength for both Bavaria and the American South. Meetings were scheduled with Governor Henry McMaster in Columbia, and the delegation planned to visit the world's largest BMW plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and the Augsburg-based mechanical engineering company Everllence. These discussions were anticipated to address issues like US tariffs and protectionism, which have impacted German and Bavarian industries. This trip marks the first time a Bavarian Minister-President has visited the U.S. in nearly 25 years, underscoring its significance for Bavaria's transatlantic strategy.

North Carolina's Robust German Connection

While Premier Söder's recent itinerary did not include North Carolina, the Tar Heel State boasts an exceptionally strong and enduring economic partnership with Germany, with Bavaria being a significant contributor to this relationship. Germany stands as the second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in North Carolina, surpassed only by Japan. This investment translates into significant job creation and economic vitality across the state. More than 271 German firms have established operations in North Carolina, collectively employing over 37,500 individuals. Since 2014, 116 German companies have either launched new facilities or expanded existing ones, generating over 8,200 new jobs and attracting more than $2.7 billion in capital investment.

Notable German companies with a substantial presence in North Carolina include Siemens Energy, SCHOTT Pharma, Daimler Truck, groninger USA, Bosch, Dehn, and Schunk. For instance, SCHOTT Pharma USA is investing $371 million in a new manufacturing facility in Wilson, expected to create 401 jobs. Siemens Energy, a long-standing employer, is expanding its operations in Mecklenburg County with a $149.8 million investment, leading to 559 new jobs. These companies benefit from North Carolina's business-friendly climate, competitive operating costs, strong infrastructure, and skilled workforce, particularly in advanced manufacturing, automotive, machinery, and life sciences sectors. The state's apprenticeship programs, which align with German workforce development standards, have been particularly attractive to German businesses like Siemens Energy, GlaxoSmith Kline, Ziehl-Abegg, and Schunk.

Reciprocal Diplomacy: Governor Cooper's 2024 Germany Trip

The depth of the Bavaria-North Carolina relationship is further evidenced by reciprocal high-level visits. In May 2024, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper led an economic development mission to Europe, which included significant engagements in Germany. During his visit, Governor Cooper met with several key German companies, including Siemens AG, and held discussions with influential Bavarian officials. These included representatives from the Bavarian Industry Association, Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs Hubert Aiwanger, and Minister for European Affairs and International Relations Eric Beißwenger.

The Governor's meetings in Germany, particularly those with Bavarian leaders and industry figures in Munich, focused on investment opportunities and job creation in North Carolina. Siemens AG, a company with a significant presence in both Bavaria and North Carolina, hosted Governor Cooper at its Perlach campus in Munich, showcasing innovations in electrification, automation, and electric vehicle solutions. This visit highlighted the symbiotic relationship, with Siemens citing its Wendell, NC, campus as a "sister campus" and a representation of technological progress and collaboration. Governor Cooper emphasized North Carolina's strategy of recruiting foreign direct investment to create high-paying jobs and diversify the state's economy.

Strengthening Transatlantic Bonds for a Shared Future

The parallel and reciprocal visits by high-ranking officials from Bavaria and North Carolina underscore a mutual commitment to strengthening transatlantic ties. Both regions share a forward-looking vision focused on innovation, advanced manufacturing, and technological leadership. Bavaria's Hightech Agenda, with its emphasis on areas like aerospace, AI, and life sciences, finds common ground with North Carolina's growing sectors and world-class research universities.

The continuous dialogue, robust investment flows, and collaborative initiatives in workforce development serve to solidify a partnership that extends beyond mere trade figures. These engagements foster a deeper understanding and cooperation on global challenges, ensuring that the economic and cultural bridges between Bavaria and North Carolina remain strong and vibrant for decades to come. The emphasis on regional alliances by leaders like Premier Söder and Governor Cooper demonstrates a strategic recognition of the subnational level's crucial role in bolstering broader international relations and economic resilience.