Unlocking the State & Local Advantage with Governor of Alaska Mike Dunleavy

This conversation was part of the 2025 Meridian Summit: Shaping Geopolitical Futures.

Watch

Foreign direct investment is a driving force for economic renewal across the United States as states and cities harness their unique regional strengths to compete on the global stage. Alaska exemplifies this dynamic, as highlighted during a Meridian Summit fireside moderated by Edward Luce, U.S. National Security Editor for the Financial Times, with Governor Mike Dunleavy, discussing the state’s rich reserves of critical minerals and energy, alongside growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and technology. The state is actively forging international partnerships and implementing strategic initiatives essential to both national growth and security. A testament to this focus is the Trump administration’s first Executive Order, titled "Unleashing Alaska's Potential," designed to empower the state to capitalize on its vast mineral and natural resources. Historical milestones, such as Alaska’s pioneering role with the first LNG export facility in North America—celebrated by Governor Dunleavy during the 50th anniversary in Japan in 2019—underscore Alaska’s enduring strategic importance. 

Here are the Top Takeaways from the Program:

1. STRATEGIC RESOURCES WITH NATIONAL SECURITY IMPLICATIONS

The State of Alaska is actively engaging with the federal government to secure access and develop its vast deposits of critical minerals and rare earth elements essential for America and its allies, including graphite, copper, zinc, and gold. Governor Dunleavy highlighted the historic overreliance on foreign sources, noting, “[In the past] we've outsourced our national security to China when it comes to these critical minerals; [now the conversation] is how do we get more processing and refinement done here in America to safeguard our national security.” 

2. ATTRACTING TRANSFORMATIVE NEW INVESTMENT

Alaska is actively pursuing investment for both extraction and processing of critical minerals, alongside innovation in sustainable energy. The state exemplifies how U.S. governors and local leaders are key economic ambassadors, building international partnerships across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Through their international delegations and missions, diplomatic and corporate engagement, they cultivate the long-term relationships that attract critical foreign direct investment and strengthen broad economic and security goals.  

3. CROSS-BORDER COLLABORATION AND GEOGRAPHY AS A STRATEGIC ASSET

Whether at the border or in the Arctic, state and local governments can leverage geography as a source of strategic strength. With the Arctic warming and new shipping routes opening, Alaska leverages its unique geographic position to establish itself both as a commercial gateway and a defense hub of the future. As Governor Dunleavy emphasized, “Our history with the Canadians goes back a long time. We’re joined at the hip with Yukon, and get along well with Yukoners, British Columbia, and Alberta.” Developments such as the Nome deepwater Arctic port and strong bilateral cooperation with Canadian provinces reinforce Alaska’s role as a critical node in infrastructure, trade, and security networks shaping the future of the Arctic and North America. 

Next Steps:

Every state and local government across the U.S. holds a distinct card to play on the global stage. Alaska’s hand is formidable—and like others—it drives pragmatic and enduring international cooperation rooted in its strategic, geographic, and historic position. 

By telling a story of resilience, opportunity, and strategic value, Alaska is charting a course for how U.S. states can shape global economic and security outcomes. Governor Dunleavy continues to work with federal partners and international investors to advance this vision, linking local prosperity with America’s broader mission of economic renewal and global competitiveness.