Dr. Michael Sfraga Officially Sworn In as First United States Ambassador at Large for Arctic Affairs

Dr. Michael Sfraga Officially Sworn In as First United States Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs

Washington, D.C. - In a ceremony yesterday at the Harry S. Truman Federal Building, Dr. Michael Sfraga was sworn in by the U.S. Department of State and officially became the United States' first Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs. Senator Murkowski, a driving force for the creation of the position and a key advocate of Ambassador Sfraga's nomination, offered her congratulations following the ceremony.

"Congratulations to Dr. Michael Sfraga, the first United States Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs," said Senator Murkowski. "Mike will bring to the post a clear-eyed view about the strategic realities of the Arctic, and help position the United States to lead in the region while protecting our national security interests. Between his decades of experience in the region, deep policy expertise, and strong relationships with Arctic leaders, there is no one better suited to be the first person in this role. I am proud to have a fellow Alaskan representing the nation at the highest diplomatic level as ambassador and I look forward to him hitting the ground running."

"I am humbled and grateful for the trust this administration and Senator Murkowski have placed in me to represent the region that I have dedicated my professional career to," said Ambassador Sfraga. "As Ambassador, I pledge to strengthen our relationships with our Arctic allies and partners, leverage expansion of Arctic infrastructure to increase commerce and economic growth, and promote U.S. leadership while countering our adversaries' ambitions in the region."

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