San Diego is actively enhancing its global engagement to strengthen international partnerships, aiming to boost the local economy and enrich cultural exchanges. This strategic initiative reflects the city’s commitment to positioning itself as a prominent player on the global stage.
Establishing Leadership in Global Affairs
In September 2025, the City of San Diego, in collaboration with the Prebys Foundation, appointed Ben Moore as the Chief Global Affairs Officer. Moore, a seasoned diplomat with 18 years at the U.S. Department of State, is tasked with leading the city’s international strategy. His role focuses on securing foreign investment, deepening global partnerships, and promoting solutions to challenges like climate change and economic resilience. This partnership underscores San Diego’s dedication to global engagement as a core civic priority. [Source: City of San Diego Official Website]
Engaging in Subnational Diplomacy
On May 9, 2026, the San Diego World Affairs Council hosted a discussion titled “Subnational Diplomacy in this Global Moment: San Diego’s International Engagement Strategy,” featuring Ben Moore. The event highlighted how cities like San Diego are shaping global outcomes through subnational diplomacy. Moore emphasized the city’s efforts to elevate its international profile, expand economic development, and strengthen cross-border collaboration. [Source: San Diego World Affairs Council]
Hosting International Forums
In October 2025, the City of San Diego’s International Affairs Board organized a forum titled “The Power of Partnerships.” This event brought together international diplomats, regional leaders, and global experts to explore how cross-border partnerships enhance San Diego’s competitiveness and leadership on the world stage. Mayor Todd Gloria highlighted the city’s leadership in promoting pragmatic, partnership-driven global engagement aligned with American values of collaboration and innovation. [Source: City of San Diego Official Website]
Developing Trade and Investment Strategies
In April 2025, the World Trade Center San Diego, in partnership with the Center for Commerce and Diplomacy at UC San Diego, introduced the “Go Global 2025: San Diego’s Trade and Investment Strategy.” This initiative focuses on global engagement as a driver for regional recovery and resilience. The strategy aims to position San Diego as a competitive and resilient player in the global market by leveraging international trade and investment opportunities. [Source: San Diego Regional EDC]
Fostering Cultural Exchange
San Diego’s commitment to global engagement extends to cultural initiatives. Events like the annual Bazaar del Mundo market in Old Town celebrate Latin American culture and art, showcasing folk art, textiles, jewelry, and pottery from artisans across Mexico, Central, and South America. Such events provide platforms for cultural exchange and international exposure, promoting unity through cultural appreciation. [Source: Axios]
Through these concerted efforts, San Diego is not only enhancing its global presence but also creating tangible benefits for its residents by fostering economic growth, cultural enrichment, and international collaboration.