The Maryland Sister States organization hosted a delegation for the Hauts-de-France region of France, including François Decoster, the vice-president of the region.

During the course of the four-day trip, the group explored Maryland universities, met industry professionals, and discussed areas of cooperation for the two regions. These areas include cybersecurity, international trade, university programs, and the equine industry.

Future steps to strengthen each of these areas were planned for the future. These include:

• Academic and research partnerships between Maryland universities and the University of Lille
• Meetings between cybersecurity specialists from both regions to improve internet security options for citizens of both regions
• An economic mission in the spring of 2022 aimed at collaboration in the field of biotechnology