Apple CEO Tim Cook met U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Monday, his first government meeting since announcing the CEO transition. The Commerce Department posted Lutnick’s praise for Cook’s “leadership and contributions to technology,” and added that he wished Cook well. This also signaled Apple’s intent to stay engaged with policymakers amid regulatory debates.

Hardware engineering chief John Ternus will take over as CEO, allowing Cook to become executive chairman focused on global policy. In a staff letter, Cook said he is healthy, will remain at Apple long term, and will make the company his top priority. The shift frees Ternus to drive product pipelines while Cook’s lobbying role tackles regulatory hurdles worldwide.

Cook reminded staff that his diplomatic network, built during two Trump presidencies, secured tariff exemptions and a pledged $600 billion U.S. investment. He attended the state arrival ceremony for King Charles III and Queen Camilla and will join their state dinner, keeping Apple visible in Washington. This reinforces the company's effort to sustain strong ties with U.S. officials and global leaders.