On Monday, 1 March 2010, U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney held a press conference at the recently expanded APS fabrication facility and announced that he will lead an economic trade mission of Connecticut companies to Israel. This is the second international trade mission the Connecticut lawmaker has spearheaded to create new economic opportunities and jobs in the state.

Rep. Courtney was joined for the announcement by Anne Evans, District Director of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Export Assistance Center in Middletown, who is working with him to coordinate the trade mission. The business and economic development mission will officially begin on April 7.

“Like the visit to the European Union last year, this mission to Israel is about creating long-term economic opportunities and jobs for a more sustainable and robust Connecticut economy,” stated Courtney. “I want to help open doors for Connecticut companies who otherwise have no global reach or resources to bridge the international divide. Last year’s trade mission was a great success, and I am confident that this venture will bring additional positive news.”

Applied Physical Sciences in Groton, CT will join Courtney and Evans on the trade mission. APS participated in the Connecticut lawmaker’s 2009 trade mission to Brussels and met with European Union and NATO officials, as well as potential business partners.

Congressman Courtney believes that the best way to promote long-term economic growth and job creation is by growing export opportunities for small and mid-sized companies by developing mutually beneficial relationships with overseas partners.