Imanol Pradales: “In this pivotal moment in history, we stand with determination and ambition, committed to seizing every opportunity the world presents us — including those in the United States.”

• The President of the Basque Country, Imanol Pradales, held a meeting in Washington with representatives of Basque aerospace companies and Basque Trade & Investment (BTI).
• The meeting served as a platform for the exchange of experiences regarding the aerospace industry in the United States, while reinforcing the Basque Country’s position within this strategic market.

Imanol Pradales, President of the Basque Country, held a meeting today in Washington with Basque aerospace industry representatives and members of Basque Trade & Investment (BTI). This meeting served as a platform for exchanging insights and knowledge regarding the aerospace sector in the United States and the Basque aeronautical ecosystem, while reinforcing the Basque Country’s presence in this key strategic market.

Prior to his official engagement in the US capital, President Pradales underscored the significance of this gathering in the current economic climate. "We are resolute and ambitious in capitalising on the opportunities available worldwide, including here in the United States. Our vision and commitment are long-term, focused on building international partnerships and networks that deliver value, enabling us to continue growing and prospering as a People," Pradales stated.

He also highlighted that the United States is the Basque Country's fourth-largest trading partner, with exports reaching 1,992 million euros in 2024. "Aviation turbojet and turboprop parts were the second most exported product. Consequently, tariff threats present a significant concern for our economy. However, beyond the challenges we may face, we must focus on the long term and do everything within our power to strengthen the economic, business, scientific, educational, and cultural connections we share with the United States," the President emphasised.

In this regard, Pradales spotlighted the strong collaboration between the Basque aerospace sector and renowned institutions and companies, such as NASA and various US research centres. "We must nurture and strengthen our relationships with key stakeholders who do not necessarily support the protectionist measures currently being discussed.  The United States is much more than the policies of Trump and his administration. We must continue seeking new avenues for cooperation, particularly in strategic sectors like the one you represent," he remarked.

A vital pillar for the Basque Country’s economic growth and development.

A crucial sector for the Basque Country’s economic development, the aeronautical and aerospace industries have been integral to the resurgence of the industry. "Our success is largely tied to our ability to grow as the Basque Country within the global context, from our European base," he noted.

The United States ranks fourth in the Basque Country's export ranking, with 5,500 exporting companies in the Basque Country, 1,001 of which maintain consistent trade relations with the US market. Key sectors of opportunity include energy, machinery and capital goods, automotive, and bio-health.

The US aerospace industry, the largest globally, benefits from a highly skilled workforce and robust supply chains. In 2023, it generated sales of USD 955 billion, accounting for 1.6% of the country’s GDP. Despite challenges such as inflation and global competition, demand for the sector continues to rise, reinforcing its strategic significance.

Meanwhile, the Basque Country has cemented its leadership in the aerospace sector, representing 15% of Spain’s aerospace industry turnover and 1% of Europe’s aerospace industry. This leadership is driven by its experience, innovation capacity, and high degree of internationalisation. Basque aerospace companies operate 56 production facilities in Spain and 30 abroad, enabling them to diversify markets and revenues.

The Basque Country boasts a complete aerospace value chain, attracting investment and strengthening its business ecosystem. Notable Basque companies and technology centres in this sector include AVS (Added Value Solutions), CFAA (Aeronautics Advanced Manufacturing Center), IDOM, Ikerlan S. Coop., Korta, Metal Estalki, Ona Electroerosion, Satlantis, Sener Aeroespacial, Fundación Tekniker, and Trimek - Innovalia Metrology.

This meeting in Washington marks the beginning of an enhanced internationalisation and cooperation strategy for the Basque Country in key sectors essential to its development, with the aerospace industry as a central pillar.