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 contact. 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
dAffaires) 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
interests within their country of assignment. Specializing in U.S.
export promotion, Commercial Officers assist American business
through: arranging appointments with local business and govern¬
ment officials, providing 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
Economic/Commercial Officers who also have economic respon¬
sibilities.

Financial Attaches analyze and report on major financial devel¬
opments 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 recom¬
mends 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
operations of the post, including purchasing for the post and its
commissary.

Regional Security Officers are responsible for providing physical,
procedural, and personnel security services to U.S. diplomatic facili¬
ties and personnel; their responsibilities extend to providing in-
country security briefings and threat assessments to business
executives.
 

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