The Maryland Secretary of State, Susan Lee, hosted the annual “Embassy Night” at the 67th Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), on October 25, 2025, in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, where diplomats from more than 30 embassies gathered to celebrate Maryland’s ongoing international partnerships and global outreach.

“Embassy Night at WIHS is an exceptional platform for the diplomatic community to come together with the distinguished leaders of Maryland in a spirit of camaraderie, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of our respective nations against the backdrop of world-class equestrian competitions,” according to Secretary Lee’s office.

The evening brought together representatives from embassies including Mexico, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Jordan, South Africa, Switzerland, South Korea, Argentina, China, Belgium, the European Union, Germany, Jamaica, Sweden, and others.

Maryland officials and dignitaries such as Senator Clarence Lam, Delegate Harry Bhandari, Secretary of Higher Education Sanjay Rai, and Secretary of the Department of Service and Civic Innovation, Paul Monteiro joined the event, underscoring the state’s commitment to fostering international relationships.

Co-organized by Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy, the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State, the Maryland Department of Agriculture, and the Maryland Horse Industry Board, the event also featured the $340,000 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup, one of the highlights of the evening. The U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team, silver medalists at the 2024 Paris Olympics, made a special appearance, adding prestige to the night.

In a video message, Maryland’s First Lady Dawn Moore lauded the economic and cultural significance of the horse industry, stating, “The Washington International Horse Show is part of Maryland’s $3 billion horse industry, which supports more than 28,000 jobs statewide. As co-chair of the Preakness Festival, I know just how important this industry is to our community and local economy.”

Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller declared Maryland a “horse country,” noting that the state is home to more than 94,000 horses. “That’s more horses per square mile than anywhere else in the United States. And by the way, we have over 37,000 thoroughbred horses right here in Maryland, and 30,000 jobs that are powered by our equine industry,” she said.

Miller emphasized that “Maryland truly runs on horsepower,” commending the WIHS organizers for creating a “world-class event.” She also praised Secretary Lee and her team for their diplomatic efforts and event coordination.

Welcoming the assembled diplomats, Lt. Gov. Miller remarked, “Welcome to the mighty state of Maryland, where we cherish diversity, the culture and strength that people from all around the globe bring to our great state.” She also presented an official citation from the State of Maryland, congratulating the event organizers.

Secretary Lee described “Tonight’s Embassy Night is one of my favorite events of the whole year. It’s a celebration not just of world-class sport taking place here in Maryland, but of international friendship and cooperation,” underscoring riders and horses from around the world come together in the same spirit that drives Maryland’s global partnerships: excellence, respect, and collaboration.

Secretary Lee noted “we are deeply grateful to our First Lady of Maryland Dawn Moore,” adding that the First Lady is truly a “beacon of Maryland’s horse industry and recognizes the powerful culture and economic engine of this industry, and her passion continues to inspire all of us who care about growing our state’s rich equestrian heritage.”

As Secretary of State, she said she has had the privilege of helping to build those partnerships every day—through diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange. Events like this, according to her “remind us that Maryland is a state that welcomes the world. Whether through our universities, our ports, or our shared love of horses, we are connected to a global community that strengthens us all.”

County Executive Aisha Braveboy welcomed the guests and the diplomatic corps, saying, “Your presence is truly inspiring, and it’s a privilege to be with you.” She emphasized the evening’s special significance as both Prince George’s County Night and Embassy Night, coinciding with WIHS’s most anticipated competition — the World Cup event.

In its website, WIHS announced that the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission has become a Platinum-level sponsor for 2025, investing in state-of-the-art competition footing designed for optimal safety, traction, and performance. The new surface, provided by Footing First and installed by JTWG, Inc., ensures a dust-free, cushioned arena that meets international standards for equine excellence.

WIHS also confirmed a new agreement securing its home at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center through 2028, reinforcing Maryland’s commitment to nurturing one of America’s most iconic indoor horse shows.

“WIHS has evolved over 67 years and five different locations,” said WIHS President Vicki Lowell. “We have found a welcoming and supportive home through 2028 at Prince George’s Equestrian Center and with the Town of Upper Marlboro, Prince George’s County, and the State of Maryland. We have embraced this venue and know that we can continue to find ways to set new standards for the sport there. The facility is incredibly horse friendly, and we consider athlete, spectator, and all stakeholders’ feedback every year to make WIHS a superior experience. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to WIHS in 2025 and beyond.”

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