President George W. Bush will be the closing keynote speaker for the International Operating and Trade Show held by the International Liquid Terminals Association in Houston next May.

“President Bush's vast experience and leadership in national and international affairs make him a highly sought-after speaker, and we are honored to showcase him as the centerpiece of our event,” said ILTA President Kathryn Clay. “With his unique background and perspectives, including his own experience in the oil and gas business, President Bush is sure to provide valuable insights on current issues and future trends that will benefit all attendees at the conference.”

President Bush served two terms in the White House and became a wartime President in the aftermath of the airborne terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Bush formed a new cabinet-level Department of Homeland Security and sent American forces into Afghanistan to break up the Taliban. Before becoming president, President Bush enjoyed a long career as a successful businessman, first starting his own oil and gas company, and then serving as a partner in the ownership group of the Texas Rangers baseball team. He also served two terms as Governor of Texas.

Today, President Bush remains actively involved in issues of national and global concern through the George W. Bush Institute, which is operated by the George W. Bush Foundation. He continues to emphasize education, global health, human freedom, and support of the military.

The ILTA conference and trade show is the largest industry gathering of the liquid terminals industry hosting more than 4,500 professionals on an annual basis. Participants gain a greater awareness of issues impacting terminal facilities, discover new approaches to improve operations, build relationships with colleagues and suppliers from around the world, and this year, hear from a former president of the United States during a critical moment in our nation’s history.