Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, joined lawmakers from across the country this week to officially launch the American German State Legislators Caucus during the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit in Chicago.

Pae is a founding member of the bipartisan organization, which brings together state legislators interested in improving trade, investment, education, workforce development and cultural exchange between U.S. state legislatures and Germany.

The kickoff event welcomed U.S. state legislators, a delegation of members of German state parliaments, representatives of German businesses and professional organizations, and members of the caucus's inaugural Board of Directors.

"Oklahoma has benefited tremendously from strong international partnerships, and Germany has long been one of our most important economic partners," Pae said. "I'm honored to be a founding member of the American German State Legislators Caucus and look forward to working with colleagues across the country to strengthen the relationships that create jobs and encourage innovation between our communities." 

Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, attended the launch as well.

"It was good to meet with Angela Freimuth at the NCLS conference in Chicago," Rader said. "We discussed some possible ways for strengthening and increasing business opportunities between Germany and Oklahoma. Thank you, Rep. Pae, for arranging the meeting."

In 2025, Germany was Oklahoma's fourth largest export market, exporting $485 million in goods to the country. The new caucus will provide opportunities for state legislators to share best practices, engage with German leaders and businesses, and promote policies that strengthen transatlantic cooperation.