Key officers of foreign service posts (Sep. 1986)

([Washington, D.C.?] :  Foreign Affairs Document and Reference Center, Pub. and Reproduction Division : For sale by the Supt. of Docs., U.S. G.P.O.  )

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KEY

OFFICERS

OF

FOREIGN

SERVICE

POSTS

Guide for Business Representatives

The Key Officers Guide lists key officers at Foreign Service posts with
whom American business representatives would most likely have con¬
tact. All embassies, missions, consulates general, and consulates are listed.

At the head of each U.S. diplomatic mission are the Chief of Mission
(with the title of Ambassador, Minister or Charge d'Affaires) and the
Deputy Chief of Mission. These officers are responsible for all components
of the U.S. Mission within a country, including consular posts.

At larger posts, Commercial Officers represent U.S. commercial in¬
terests within their country of assignment. Specializing in U.S. export
promotion, Commercial Officers assist American business through: ar¬
ranging appointments with local busmess and government officials, pro¬
viding counsel on local trade regulations, laws, and customs; identifying
importers, buyers, agents, distributors, and joint venture partners for U.S.
firms; and other business assistance.

At smaller posts, U.S. commercial interests are represented by fco-
nomiclCommercialOfficersyvho also have economic responsibilities.

Financial Attaches analyze and report on major financial develop¬
ments and their implications for U.S. policies and programs.

Political Officers analyze and report on political developments and
their potential impact on U.S. interests.

Labor Officers follow the activities of labor organizations and can
supply information on wages, nonwage costs, social security regulations,
labor attitudes toward American investments, etc.

Consular Officers extend to U.S. citizens and their property abroad the
protection of the U.S. Government. They maintain lists of local attorneys,
act as liaison with police and other officials and have the authority to
notarize documents. The Department recommends that business
representatives residing overseas register with the consular officer; in
troubled areas, even travelers are advised to register.

The Administrative Officer is responsible for the normal business op¬
erations of the post, including purchasing for the post and its commissary.
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